Questions Regarding Kitchen Sinks
How Many Bowls Do You Need?
The crucial thing about kitchen sinks is its bowl. Or two bowls, if you like. Chances are, one of these variants is installed on your kitchen right now. But if you’re looking for a new one, you definitely think about which one is better. Here is our own opinion on the topic – you have to choose the type of the sink depending on your lifestyle.
- Single Bowl – is great for washing large pots, or many dishes, or any other big amounts of stuff. If it’s your case, opt for a large single-bowl sink. The smaller one can be bought for a tiny kitchen where are not much space to install a big sink.
- Double Bowl – helps with multitasking. You can use one bowl for dishes, and the other one – for cooking needs. Very convenient! The only con may be the size of the bowls; if they’re not large, you will have hard times washing big pots.That’s where the 40/60 and 30/70 double bowls step into the game. The larger bowl plus smaller one is the salvation in many cases.
- Then, there is a dividing wall. It can be full-height or shortened. We would choose the latter one because we find it handy. The downside, though, is that short divider won’t allow you to fill the sink with water to dip dishes before washing.
- Triple Bowl – is further development of the double-bowl sink idea. All the same: look for the bowls sizes ratio, the divider, and the size of your kitchen cabinet. There are not very many cabinets to fit this really big sink.
What Is Apron Front Sink?
You may have heard about the apron front sink which is also called the farmhouse sink. This is very impressive aesthetically unit with its traditional look and front “apron” that gave it the name. The main concern about this type of sinks is installation. Your kitchen furniture has to fit it, so check the sizes match carefully.
Kitchen Sink Material Matters
Stainless Steel
The most popular material for the kitchen sink is stainless steel. And we all know why. It’s sturdy, long-lasting, hard-to-damage, and keeps its look after hard use and aggressive cleaning (some of us ladies likes to rub them really hard). You can’t go wrong with stainless steel sinks for your kitchen no matter what its design like. There is plenty of finishes that will match any intricate decor.The substantial downside of this material is the sound of running water which can be really loud and annoying, especially in the cheaper sinks made of thin metal. In the premium models, there is insulation used additionally to minimize the noise. Still, think about alternatives you have an open planning in your house; this is really the case when all the benefits won’t buy out this one failure.
Cast Iron
The metal alloy that is highly durable against scratches is cast iron. It is not such corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, so there are sinks made of enameled cast iron. Enameling adds beneficial features to the alloy; it better withstands corrosion, abrasion, and grimes. You won’t find a wide range of cast iron sinks on the market due to their rarity. If you want to try it, look for Kohler products because the brand is the cast iron sinks ambassador.
Copper
It is trending in home design currently, that’s why copper sinks are back despite the widespread yet misleading opinion that copper is toxic. All in all, kitchen sink is not a cookware, so you can rest assure that they’re safe. Copper sinks have those fantastic tint that many love. This material tends to change its color during use which is not a downside though. Copper sink is great if it matches the style of the kitchen and decor details and fixtures.
Composite Granite
This material is modern and versatile substitute for metals when it comes to kitchen sinks. Composite granite is very sturdy, it also has great look reminding of real granite. Simultaneously, it’s the contemporary material enriched with artificially added qualities. Many manufacturers have patented their own formulas of composite granite with unique features. Its real downside may be the weight which is compared to the natural stone sink. Your cabinet must be very sturdy if you decide to opt for such product.
Fireclay
The fireclay sinks are usual in the bathrooms but there are models for kitchen too. So, the material is made of clay processed with high temperature. This gives the product nice ceramic-like look and resistance against dirt and heat. Unfortunately, fireclay is not very sturdy against hitting, so you’ll have to avoid strokes or cookware falling into the sink. These fixtures are quite heavy also.
The Best Kitchen Sink Brands to Choose
Blanco
Blanco is the company that exists for 85 years in Germany. The brand is well-known in the U.S. for 25 years by now. Its best sellers are kitchen faucets and sinks. We like their outstanding quality and innovative design, and so do the customers. Moreover, Blanco has won all the hearts involved; as the company recently stated, half of their employees have been working for them for 10 years and more!
Blanco has fireclay, stainless steel, and artificial granite sinks for kitchen in its latest collection. Plus, there are online design tools and advice available.
Kraus USA Inc
Kraus is the company that had earned its good fame in the shortest term. It was started in 2007, which is not so long ago in the world of kitchen and bathroom fixtures manufacturing. Nonetheless, it is now one of the leaders on the market offering nice and trendy products by affordable prices.
You can find a range of faucets and sinks in the Kraus portfolio, to comply with any bold design. There are even color glass sinks! We like the fresh breath this company brings with its beyond traditional products.
Ruvati
Ruvati has that Italian-like chic in its products reminiscent of hi-end life style. The brand was founded in Austin, TX a bit more than 10 years ago and now is the decent option for customers seeking classy European look and craftsmanship with domestic convenience. The company does all to build a flawless reputation not only by the products but by service too.
As for kitchen sinks, Ruvati has impressive modern designs in various materials. We fell in love with its apron sinks particularly. They are all you can dream about on your large new kitchen, so don’t hesitate to check them right now!
Zuhne
Zuhneis the last brand on the list but you shouldn’t skip it if you’re looking for good quality for the money. The company is on the market for about five years; it does not offer kitchen fixtures in posh designs. Although, Zuhne holds its place as manufacturer of solid stainless steel sinks and faucets for kitchen.
There you won’t find “steel finish” products or other tricky spoofs in Zuhne catalog even for the lowest price. The company provides both economy fixtures of high quality and exclusive models made of premium materials. Even though Zuhne is less famous than trusted brands like Moen, you can’t go wrong with this products! Highly recommended if you’re tight on a budget.
Summary
The stainless steel sinks reviews you’ve read above reflect our personal opinion regarding the topic. In any case, you should make a decision due to your particular aims. Every household is different and so do people’s needs.
We recommend the most versatile options on the market considering quality and price tag. Thus, if you’re not limited in funds, your best choice would be the stainless steel Kore Workstation or KHU100-30 single bowl sink by KRAUS for large kitchens or TORVA compact sink for smaller spaces. They are topnotch variants you won’t regret.
For those who is tight on money, our top choice is the ZUHNE Drop-In Single Bowl sink which is also available in the single bowl variant. Finally, if you’re looking for a decent compact sink for your wet bar, meet the gem of our search, the Houzer Glowtone sink. It has the advanced features of hi-end brands for quite affordable price.