How to Choose a Kitchen Sink

Your kitchen sink is the glue that holds everything together in your kitchen, but is often overlooked as an integral part of the form and function of the busiest room in your home.

If you’re like many consumers, your kitchen sink may be one of the last things on your kitchen remodeling priority list, but its value should not be underestimated. Here’s a quick primer on the shapes, sizes and materials you can expect to find on the market today.

Shapes and Sizes

Although it’s often assumed that kitchen sinks come in standard shapes and sizes, you’ll likely be surprised by the multitude of options available today. Eight inches is the standard depth, but ten inches may work better for you if you often wash large pots.

Here are the shapes you may come across as you begin your search:

Single, large rectangular basin – the most basic

Double-bowled sink – can have the sinks the same size for hand-washing; or have one side smaller

Three-bowl sinks – two larger bowls with a smaller center bowl that contains the garbage disposal and may be topped with a removable cutting board

Material Matters

No matter how big or small you want your sink to be, you need to consider how the material your sink is made of will impact your work in the kitchen.

Stainless Steel

The perennial favorite is stainless steel. Not only does it add a sleek look to your kitchen, but it also resists stains. Remember, if you want the thickest and most durable type, look at 18-gauge rather than the thinner 20- or 22-gauge steel, which is more prone to scratches, dents and punctures.

Looking to take a step up from stainless steel? Try a solid surface sink, which is a sink fused to the surrounding counter. Depending on the type, this option can be easy to clean and available in an array of color options.

Quartz

If you want to give your kitchen natural appeal, quartz is the perfect solution. The second-most abundant mineral on the planet (second to water), quartz gives you a look similar to granite. Although most consumers haven’t learned about the benefits of quartz yet, it’s actually the most stain- and scratch-resistant option.

Enamel

For something more on the traditional side, enamel-on-cast-iron sinks offer a classic look with unexpected style. You can choose from many colors, but white remains the most popular. The surface is shiny and easy to clean, but be careful of chipping the enamel, which will reveal the black cast-iron. Remember, you’ll need a heavier counter for this material.

Regardless of the color and style you prefer, you can find fantastic options to choose just the right kitchen sinks to complete your design and become the highlight of food preparation in your kitchen.