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The Best Kitchen Sinks

From farmhouse rustic to modern stainless, our guide lists the best kitchen sinks to suit anyone’s special sense of kitchen style.

Best Overall

The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Ruvati Urbana 32-Inch-Wide Stainless Steel Sink

Ruvati Urbana 32-Inch-Wide Stainless Steel Sink

Best Bang for the Buck

The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Kore Workstation Farmhouse Kitchen Sink

Kraus Kore Workstation Farmhouse Kitchen Sink

Best Granite-Composite

The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Forteza 33-Inch-Wide Single-Bowl Granite Sink

Kraus Forteza 33-Inch-Wide Single-Bowl Granite Sink

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Although fancy stoves, towering refrigerators, and gleaming racks full of shiny cookware are the elements most people drool over when designing a kitchen, they soon realize they spend way more time at the sink than virtually anyplace else in the kitchen.

The kitchen sink is one of the most multifunctional fixtures in a home and can be a stylish, functional, and sophisticated addition to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for contemporary chic or traditional trendy, this guide showcases the best kitchen sinks available as well as a handy selection of tips to help you pick your next kitchen sink.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Ruvati Urbana 32-Inch-Wide Stainless Steel Sink
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Kraus Kore Workstation Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
  3. BEST GRANITE-COMPOSITE: Kraus Forteza 33-Inch-Wide Single-Bowl Granite Sink
  4. BEST CAST-IRON: Kohler Brookfield 33-Inch-Wide Cast Iron Sink
  5. BEST COPPER: Sinkology Adams 33-Inch-Wide Copper Farmhouse Sink
  6. BEST FIRECLAY: Bocchi Classico 30-Inch-Wide Apron Front Sink
  7. BEST DOUBLE-BOWL: Kraus Standart Pro Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
  8. BEST UNDERMOUNT: Zuhne Modena 10 Undermount Bar and RV Sink
  9. BEST STAINLESS STEEL: Kraus Standart Pro 23-Inch-Wide Kitchen Sink
The Best Kitchen Sinks Options
Photo: homedepot.com

How We Chose the Best Kitchen Sinks

We researched the most sought-after kitchen sinks in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their style, materials, mounting type, size, and other special features included by select brands.

While researching the best kitchen sink options, farmhouse or apron front-style models are among the most popular for their ergonomic design and durability. Though not as popular, the single and double basin sinks are also viable for their ample working space and they are easy to clean. Our top picks also vary between stainless steel and 16-gauge stainless steel, fireclay, granite quartz, and cast iron to accommodate your personal preference.

Also featured is a selection of either top-mounted or undermount sinks with undermounts being more popular for their ease of installation. As for compatibility with your kitchen, most of the above picks have the perfect dimensions to fit into the average kitchen. Finally, in the interest of including the best options available, we selected picks that include additional cutting boards, soundproof capability, grids, drying racks, drain covers, and basket strainer sets.

Our Top Picks

There are kitchen sinks to fit virtually every style and budget, and it can be hard to settle on the best one. The following selections are from well-respected, reputable brands and offer a combination of style, durability, form, and function at a range of price points.

Best Overall

Ruvati Urbana 32-Inch-Wide Stainless Steel Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Ruvati Urbana 32-Inch-Wide Stainless Steel Sink
Photo: amazon.com

This 32-inch-wide undermount double-bowl kitchen sink from Ruvati’s Urbana series offers the convenience of a single-bowl configuration and the functionality of a double bowl. This sink is 19 inches long from front to back and 10 inches deep. Its low-center divide is 4 inches lower than the rim, and therefore will accommodate larger pieces for easy cleanup.

The sink is constructed of a premium 16-gauge stainless steel with a commercial brushed finish that is easy to clean, durable, and resistant to scratches and dents. The 18/10 nickel/chromium construction ensures that the sink completely resists rust.

The sink comes with stainless steel rinse sink grids that protect the bottom surface from scratches and can serve as drying racks. The sink also is constructed with heavy-duty padding and undercoating to minimize noise and provide thermal insulation.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Double basin
  • Material: 16-gauge stainless steel
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 19 inches long by 32 inches wide by 10 inches deep

Pros

  • Low-center divide provides more room for large dishes and cookware
  • Commercial brush finish is attractive and provides ample scratch resistance
  • Rust-resistant design ensures long-lasting use as well as ample durability
  • Stainless steel rinse grids included; helps prevent scratches and can be used as drying racks

Cons

  • Some users report easily made scratch marks that are tricky to buff out

Get the Ruvati kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Overstock.

Best Bang for the Buck

Kraus Kore Workstation Farmhouse Kitchen Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Kore Workstation Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
Photo: amazon.com

The Kraus Kore Workstation is a stylish stainless steel kitchen sinkthat comes with a wealth of accessories to maximize versatility and free up valuable countertop real estate. The accessories include a roll-up dish drying rack, bamboo cutting board, dish grid, strainer, and drain cover. This model is 20.25 inches long by 32.88 inches wide from front to back by 10.5 inches deep, but it comes in several sizes.

This spacious sink features an attractive apron front design and a spacious single bowl to accommodate large pots, pans, and platters, or an entire dinner party’s worth of dirty dishes. The sturdy sink is made of 16-gauge stainless steel with a rust-resistant finish, and a bottom grid protects the sink surface from scratches. Soundproofing and protective undercoating lessen noise.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Farmhouse/apron front
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 20.25 inches long by 32.88 inches wide by 10.5 inches deep

Pros

  • Comes with roll-up dish drying rack, bamboo cutting board, dish grid, strainer, and drain cover
  • Spacious design with bottom grid; suitable for drying large dishes and cookware
  • Rust-resistant finish makes this sink durable and perfect for long-term use
  • Comes in multiple sizes to match most kitchens’ current sink cutout

Cons

  • Comes in a single colorway; may not match some kitchens’ fixtures and decor
  • Some users report defects with the stainless steel construction; may scratch easily

Get the Kraus Kore kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Overstock.

Best Granite-Composite

Kraus Forteza 33-Inch-Wide Single-Bowl Granite Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Forteza 33-Inch-Wide Single-Bowl Granite Sink
Photo: amazon.com

Those who need a reliable kitchen sink may want to consider choosing granite composite—virtually the most scratch-resistant sink material on the market. Our favorite long-lasting option for a sink in this category is the Kraus Forteza 33-inch granite kitchen sink.

The thick, stone-like surface of this sink is highly resistant against dirt, grime, and scratches and wipes clean easily after use. This thick and durable sink also limits vibration and reduces noise while washing and cleaning. As for its design, the Forteza comes in a non-fading, UV-resistant black finish for a sleek look and the off-center faucet hole increases the workspace in the sink for food prep and washing. It’s also available in a gray finish.

This granite composite kitchen sink comes with drain assembly, a silicone mit and trivet, mounting hardware, as well as a handy cutout template for ease of installation. Finally, this dual mount design can be installed as an undermount or with drop-in installation with the help of the predrilled hole and four knock-out holes.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Single basin
  • Material: Granite composite
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Top-mount or undermount options
  • Size: 22 inches long by 33 inches wide by 9.56 inches deep

Pros

  • Available in a black or gray finish; stonelike surface provides ample durability; abrasion- and scratch-resistant
  • Limited vibration and noise; thick construction reduces noise and banging while cleaning
  • Nonfading UV-resistant black finish provides a sleek look that matches most kitchen spaces
  • Comes with drain assembly, a silicone mit and trivet, mounting hardware, and a cutout template
  • Can be installed as an undermount kitchen sink or with drop-in installation for top-mounted use

Cons

  • Some users have reported poor fit and difficulty while installing

Get the Kraus Forteza kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Overstock.

Best Cast-Iron

Kohler Brookfield 33-Inch-Wide Cast Iron Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kohler Brookfield 33-Inch-Wide Cast Iron Sink
Photo: amazon.com

Kohler’s time-honored classic Brookfield drop-in cast-iron double-bowl sink has been updated with a new slim divider and larger bowls that offer nearly 20 percent more workspace. The two deep, equally sized basins can accommodate a wide variety of dishes and cookware, and the tough enamel finish resists scratches, chips, burns, and stains. The 33-inch-widetop-mount sink is 22 inches long from front to back and 9.625 inches deep.

Constructed of 80 percent recycled content, this drop-indouble sink is also environmentally friendly and features a self-rimming installation. The durable material is easy to clean and designed to last a lifetime. The Kohler Brookfield comes in several colors to match your kitchen renovation style.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Double basin
  • Material: Enameled cast iron and 80 percent recycled content
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Top-mount
  • Size: 22 inches long by 33 inches wide by 9.625 inches deep

Pros

  • Slim divider and large bowls are suitable for keeping small and large dishes separate
  • Scratch-, chip-, burn-, and stain-resistant for long-term use and durability
  • Self-rimming installation is suitable for DIYers; easier to install than other kitchen sinks
  • Comes in multiple colorways to match any kitchen’s current fixtures and decor

Cons

  • Heavyweight design; may be tricky for users install on their own

Get the Kohler kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Best Copper

Sinkology Adams 33-Inch-Wide Copper Farmhouse Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Sinkology Adams 33-Inch-Wide Copper Farmhouse Sink
Photo: amazon.com

The Adams farmhouse kitchen sink from Sinkology is handmade from textured 16-gauge pure solid copper to create a beautiful focal point in a kitchen. Copper’s natural antimicrobial properties help keep the inside clean, and the hammered copper front has a natural but elegant look. This 33-inch-wide sink has a length of 22 inches from front to back and is 9 inches deep.

The large, single-bowl design on this undermount kitchen sink accommodates large cookware and serving dishes. The apron wraps 2.5 inches on each side, which allows for an undermount, built-up, or flush installation. The hand-applied finish is easy to maintain with soap and water and will not oxidize under normal use.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Farmhouse/apron front
  • Material: Copper
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 22 inches long by 33 inches wide by 9 inches deep

Pros

  • This sink’s handmade, antimicrobial, nonoxidizing design stays clean with little maintenance
  • Large working area is perfect for heavy-duty cleaning tasks, large cookware and dishes, and more
  • Multiple installation types make this pick suitable for DIYers and professionals
  • Low-maintenance design; only needs soap and water to keep clean

Cons

  • Only 1 colorway offered; may not suit some users’ current kitchen fixtures
  • Bottom grid sold separately; may be costly depending upon the retailer

Get the Sinkology kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Fireclay

Bocchi Classico 30-Inch-Wide Apron Front Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Bocchi Classico 30-Inch-Wide Apron Front Sink
Photo: amazon.com

The Bocchi Classico apron-front single-bowl fireclay kitchen sink is made using environmentally friendly methods and materials. The company aims to use 100 percent organic and ethically sourced materials. The large, single bowl accommodates large items and busy kitchens, and the bottom grid protects the surface.

Bocchi’s glazing technology creates a durable, smooth, and nonporous surface to prevent staining from food or mineral deposits. This 30-inch-wide undermount kitchen sink is 18 inches long from front to back and 10 inches deep. The fireclay material resists scratches, cracking, chipping, or discoloration and is heat safe. Cleaning is easier with the smooth and long-lasting fireclay surface.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Farmhouse/apron front
  • Material: Fireclay
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 18 inches long by 30 inches wide by 10 inches deep

Pros

  • 100 percent organic and ethically sourced materials used; perfect for the eco-conscious consumer
  • Bottom grid included to prevent damage; also works as a drying rack
  • Durable fireclay material resists scratches, chipping, mineral deposits, and stains
  • Available in various colorways that suit most kitchens’ current fixtures and decor

Cons

  • Heavyweight construction; may be tricky to install for some users
  • Some users say this sink damages easily, having found stains, scratches, and cracks over time

Get the Bocchi kitchen sink at Amazonor The Home Depot.

Best Double-Bowl

Kraus Standard PRO Undermount Stainless Steel

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Standard PRO Undermount Stainless Steel
Photo: amazon.com

This Kraus Standart Pro undermount stainless steel double-bowl sink is a sturdy multitasker in the kitchen. It gives users plenty of room to soak and clean large cookware and serving pieces. This 32.75-inch-wide sink is 19 inches long from front to back and 10.38 inches deep and is constructed of dent-resistant, 16-gauge stainless steel, offering superior strength and durability. A commercial-grade satin finish resists rust and corrosion and is easy to clean.

The double sink comes with several useful accessories, including multifunctional dish grids to protect the bottom, a three-piece basket strainer set, a drain assembly, and a premium Kraus kitchen towel. The sink is constructed with a nontoxic undercoating and utilizes soundproofing technology, with extra-thick pads covering more than 80 percent of the sink to minimize noise and vibration while in use.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Double basin
  • Material: 16-gauge stainless steel
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 19 inches long by 32.75 inches wide by 10.38 inches deep

Pros

  • Commercial-grade satin finish; rust- and corrosion-resistant for durability and long-term use
  • 3-piecebasket strainerset, dish grids, drain assembly, and towel included
  • Nontoxic undercoating and soundproof technology make this option safe and reliable
  • Extra-thick padding limits noise and vibration; limits loud banging sounds while hand-washing

Cons

  • Some users report rust spotting after regular use; may need more maintenance than other options

Get the Kraus Standart Pro stainless steel kitchen sink at Amazon, Lowe’s, orThe Home Depot.

Best Undermount

Zuhne Modena 10 Undermount Bar and RV Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Zuhne Modena 10 Undermount Bar and RV Sink
Photo: amazon.com

Zuhne’s Modena 10 undermount sink is designed to blend with today’s popular kitchen styling, featuring a silky matte finish on heavy-duty stainless steel.

This 16-gauge, 18/10 stainless steel kitchen sink features 40 percent more steel than average stainless steel sinks, so you won’t have to worry about dents, dings, rust, or corrosion. The single basin and tight radius curved corners provide maximum space for large cleaning jobs. The sink also comes with special noise and thermal insulation.

This 18-inch-wide sink is 10 inches long from front to back, 8 inches deep, and is available in several widths. A sloped base ensures water drains quickly when the job is done. The sink comes with a variety of food-safe accessories, including a two-piece colander set, sponge caddy, scratch protector grate, and drain strainer.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Single basin
  • Material: 16-gauge stainless steel
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 10 inches long by 18 inches wide by 8 inches deep

Pros

  • Comes with 40 percent more steel than other sinks; provides noise dampening while washing
  • Dent-, ding-, rust-, and corrosion-resistant construction is perfect for long-term use
  • Comes with a 2-piece colander set, sponge caddy, scratch-protector grate, and drain strainer

Cons

  • Some users report rust appearing over time; may need more maintenance than other kitchen sinks
  • Much smaller than other kitchen sink options on the market

Get the Zuhne kitchen sink at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Zuhne.

Best Stainless Steel

Kraus Standart Pro 23-Inch-Wide Kitchen Sink

 The Best Kitchen Sinks Option: Kraus Standart Pro 23-Inch-Wide Kitchen Sink
Photo: amazon.com

Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials chosen for kitchen sinks due to the durability and reliability offered. That’s why our pick for the best stainless steel sink is the Kraus StandartPro kitchen sink.

Available in six styles and 13 size options, the Kraus Standart Pro is made with T304 stainless steel in TRU16 16-gauge, which provides dent, corrosion, rust, and scratch resistance for long-term use. The thickness of the stainless steel also comes with NoiseDefend soundproofing technology and nontoxic SoundGuard undercoating on 80 percent of the surface to limit the amount of noise made during washing.

For added user-friendliness, this sink also comes with many bells and whistles, including a dish grid, a three-piece basket strainer set, a Kraus kitchen towel, mounting hardware, and a handy cutout template.

Product Specs 

  • Style: Single basin
  • Material: T304 stainless steel in TRU16 16-gauge
  • Top-mount vs. undermount: Undermount
  • Size: 16 inches long by 23 inches wide by 10.25 inches deep

Pros

  • Durable construction; dent-, corrosion-, rust-, and scratch-resistant for long-term use
  • Thick stainless steel materials come with NoiseDefend soundproofing technology and nontoxic SoundGuard undercoating
  • Includes a dish grid, a 3-piece basket strainer set, a Kraus kitchen towel, and mounting hardware
  • Comes in 6 different styles and over 13 size options

Cons

  • Smaller than most kitchen sinks on the market; may not provide ample food prepwork space
  • Some users report rust spots growing after regular use and wear and tear

Get the Kraus Standart Pro 23-inch-wide kitchen sink at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Kitchen Sink 

Unless a kitchen’s being designed and built from scratch, the sink should remain in the same place during a remodel to avoid costly relocation of plumbing and drains. Even within the same basic space, numerous considerations come into play when replacing a sink, such as how it mounts and the best material, color, and style for a renovated kitchen.

Top-mount vs. Undermount

There are several different mounting styles to consider when replacing your kitchen sink. The two most common are “top-mount” sinks, also known as drop-in sinks, and undermount sinks. Which you choose depends on the type of countertop material you have and the type of sink material you choose.

  • A top-mount sink is generally the most popular configuration, mainly because it is the easiest to install and can go with virtually any type of countertop material. The name is fairly self-explanatory; the sink drops into a precut hole in the countertop with the edge or rim holding it in place on the counter. These are also known as “self-rimming” sinks. Some top-mount sinks also come with clips or screws for extra stability. Because installation is easier, top-mount sinks are generally less expensive than undermount varieties.
  • An undermount sink is also a descriptive term, with this type of sink being installed from underneath the counter. This eliminates the lip or rim on the top of the sink and is typically used with solid-surface countertops, such as granite. The undermount sinks have a sleeker look and can make cleanup easier, since countertop debris can be brushed easily into the sink.

Style

There are many different styles and configuration combinations of kitchen sinks and each has its own benefits, although there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some of the most common kitchen sink styles include:

  • Double basin/bowl. Many families prefer a sink with two bowls: one for hot sudsy water and the other for rinsing, or one for soaking tough, encrusted pots and pans and the other for doing a regular washup. One of the most interesting new developments in double-basin sinks is the double-bowl, low-divide sink, which offers the benefit of two basins but can also accommodate pots with long handles.
  • Single basin/bowl. Single-basin sinks are the most common and least expensive configuration and offer the advantage of accommodating large pots, pans, and platters, all of which might require soaking prior to scrubbing.
  • Farmhouse/apron front. An old traditional style has made a comeback in recent years—the farmhouse or apron-front sink. These typically feature a large and deep single bowl and exposed front and are often paired with a wall-mounted faucet. This style is particularly good for soaking and cleaning very large pots, pans, and platters. The size and construction of this sink can lead to higher costs than for other sink types, largely because it requires special cabinetry. The deep sink basin requires a dedicated special base or modified cabinetry, which can add to the expense.
  • Drainboard. Another old-time classic that’s becoming trendy again are sinks with built-in drainboards, which allow you to prep vegetables and let them drain without messing up the counter. The drainboard also provides space to drain pots, pans, and utensils. The only downside is that the drainboard takes up valuable counter space, and therefore what you gain in versatility you lose in real estate.
  • Island/bar/prep. A bar, prep, or island sink is typically a small, auxiliary sink that you can use for making cocktails, preparing food, or to prevent cross-contamination of different types of foods. These small accessory sinks are usually made of premium stainless steel and located in a separate area of the kitchen or sometimes in a different room.
  • Corner. If your kitchen can accommodate a corner sink, you might want to consider either an L-shaped or rectangular design. Corner sinks create a more flexible counter configuration and provide more under-sink storage.
  • Workstation. The term “workstation sink” often refers to sinks that come with a variety of accessories that allow you to convert the sink area into food preparation and serving space. These accessories can include cutting boards, colanders, drying trays, warming racks, and similar items that enhance the versatility of the sink area without using additional counter space.

Size

The shape and style of a kitchen sink are often determined by the size. If you are renovating the kitchen, you might be limited in the existing footprint. The three dimensions you will need to consider are the length, also known as the side-to-side dimension; the width, also called the front-to-back measurement; and the depth.

Standard kitchen sinks typically range in size from 22 inches long for a single bowl to 48 inches long for a double bowl or farmhouse style. They generally range in width from 24 to 32 inches, depending on the width of the supporting cabinetry. Smaller bar or prep sinks are designed to fit into a corner or on a kitchen island, and usually run anywhere from 10 to 22 inches long and 8 to 10 inches wide.

A standard kitchen sink depth is 8 to 10 inches, although more cavernous sinks, running between 12 and 15 inches deep, are available if you are willing to sacrifice under-sink storage space.

Material 

Modern materials have made their mark on kitchen sinks, and shoppers can find a wide variety of choices available at an equally wide range of price points. Choices encompass metals, stone, ceramics, and various man-made materials. Here are some of the most popular materials used in kitchen sinks:

  • Stainless steel is the single most popular material used in kitchen sinks. Stainless steel is lightweight, inexpensive, durable, low-maintenance, and can fit into both traditional and contemporary decorating environments. The thickness of stainless steel is known as the gauge; higher gauges are thinner and lower-gauge sinks are thicker and more expensive. There are also different finishes available, including shiny mirror finishes and satin lustrous looks. Steel is easy to clean, although over time the finish might become scratched and dull. Mirror finishes also can show water spots.
  • Granite, quartz, and granite composite are extremely popular choices, although natural granite sinks are among some of the most expensive. Granite and quartz are natural stones and feature a pleasing, varied appearance due to the different minerals that make up the stone. Granite and quartz are often found together in nature and are also often combined in kitchen sinks and countertops. The two stones are extremely durable but can chip, crack, or scratch if mistreated. Granite composite combines the beauty of natural stone with a percentage of resin, typically 95 percent stone to 5 percent resin. The added resin makes the sink harder and more durable so it can resist chips, scratches, and cracks. Both granite and granite composite sinks are heavier than many other choices and might require special installation, which adds to the expense.
  • Cast iron covered in a thick enamel coating was formerly the de rigueur construction of choice for kitchen sinks, but has slipped a bit in popularity as other materials have become trendy. Cast iron coated with enamel is heavy, durable, easy to clean, and can last a lifetime. The enamel can be tinted in virtually any color to match your personal decor. Lighter colored enamels might stain, but they can typically be cleaned with nonabrasive commercial stain remover.
  • Fireclay and vitreous china are both different types of ceramics, made from clay and “fired” at high temperatures. These materials typically have a more rustic appearance. They are durable and easy to clean; however, they can be prone to chipping and also may be fairly heavy. Vitreous china was once used primarily in bathroom sinks but is now being used for kitchen sinks as well.
  • Copper is a beautiful metal that can be hammered or molded with a variety of designs, making it a lovely addition to many decorating styles. Copper also is naturally antimicrobial, so it is becoming a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Copper sinks are a pricey alternative as this metal is more often used for smaller accessory sinks such as a bar or island location. Copper sinks require some extra TLC to keep looking good. The material will oxidize over time, and therefore, it needs special cleansers and waxes to maintain its shine.
  • Man-made materials, including acrylic, polyester, and fiberglass, are typically grouped under the term “solid surface.” These sinks are typically made from resins or epoxy to emulate the look of natural stone. Solid-surface sinks are extremely durable and resistant to scratches and chipping; if the surface does become marred, it can often be buffed to remove the scratch. The materials are prone to staining, however, and can be damaged from high heat.
  • Concrete is an up-and-coming material for kitchen sinks and combines many of the attributes of granite without the high price tag. Contractors can pour concrete on site, so the sink can be a custom size and shape. Consumers also can find precast varieties. Concrete is very heavy, however, and might require special cabinetry. It is also prone to staining.

Color

The most popular material also dictates the most popular color in kitchen sinks: stainless steel. Stainless steel fixtures and appliances continue to reign supreme in kitchen design, although natural stone finishes, such as granite and quartz in darker shades, have been trending upward in recent years.

White, off-white, beige, and sand remain the most popular shades in enamel-coated cast iron and fireclay or china sinks, since these versatile neutrals blend in well with many decorating schemes. In recent years, choices of deeper shades such as black and navy blue are surging.

Installation

Choosing a kitchen sink can be a fun but somewhat daunting task, since shoppers must keep in mind some important installation considerations. The first is size. You will need to carefully measure your existing opening if you are replacing the sink in the same location. If you are relocating the sink or designing the kitchen from scratch, you will also need to consider the size, especially as it relates to the cabinetry and countertops you select.

Another installation consideration in a kitchen sink is the type of mounting holes for fixtures. Most kitchen sinks come with four holes for mounting faucets, sprayers, and soap dispensers. Some also have a separate hole for a drinking water faucet. Other sinks have no mounting holes, in which case the faucets must be mounted on the wall.

FAQs 

Whether you are planning an entire gut rehab project, building new from scratch, or simply looking to spruce up your existing kitchen a bit, one small change—a new kitchen sink—can make a big difference. The best kitchen sinks typically are easy and affordable fixtures to replace, especially when you keep these facts in mind.

Q. What is the most scratch-resistant kitchen sink?

Cast iron is the strongest material for kitchen sinks, making it the most sought-after sink material for busy households. But, this material is often very expensive and heavy, so welcome alternatives that provide the same excellent durability are stainless steel, fireclay, and granite composite.

Q. What is the easiest kitchen sink to maintain?

Nonporous and high-gloss finishes are stain-resistant and easy to maintain, which is why we recommend porcelain, ceramic, stainless steel, and fireclay for sinks. Each of these options is easy to maintain with soap and water and will not require too much scrubbing or maintenance.

Q. What are the best materials for kitchen sinks?

Kitchen sinks typically come in stainless steel, granite, cast iron coated with enamel, fireclay, or man-made composites. Stainless steel sinks are the most popular because of their contemporary look and durability, but the best material for your kitchen depends on style, budget, and personal preferences.

Q. How do I choose a kitchen sink?

The first place to start is with the location and careful measurements. Next, address the configuration (double-bowl or single-bowl), style, material, and color to best fit your personal tastes.

Q. What is the easiest kitchen sink to keep clean?

Stainless steel is by far the easiest to clean and the most durable material. Stainless steel resists staining, chips, rust, and mineral deposits and can be wiped down with a damp cloth or cleaned with a commercial stainless steel cleanser.

Q. What is the most durable kitchen sink material?

Stainless steel is probably the most durable material, followed by natural granite, quartz, and cast iron.

Q. Do granite sinks scratch easily?

Natural stones, such as granite and quartz, are extremely hard and durable; therefore, they do not scratch easily.

Q. How long does a kitchen sink last?

With today’s modern materials and construction methods, most kitchen sinks will last roughly 20 to 30 years under normal use and care.

 
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Donna Boyle Schwartz Avatar

Donna Boyle Schwartz

Contributing Writer

Donna Boyle Schwartz is an avid writer with years of experience covering the home and garden beat in addition to out-of-home topics such as sports and local events. These days, she researches and writes editorial and advertising features on a vast range of home-related topics, including housewares, furniture, home fashions, flooring, remodeling, construction, antiques, art, garden, collectibles, and color/design trends.

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