Sink is one of the most common and essential components in the kitchen. It is where you clean dirty dishes, wash vegetables and hands. Now-a-days, kitchen sinks are available in different shapes, sizes and finishes.
An ideal kitchen sink is not only attractive but also functional and easy to clean or maintain. Choosing the right one among them can be an overwhelming process. So, we have rounded up the ultimate guide for kitchen sinks that has all the information to make an informed choice.
5 factors you need to know to make a perfect buying decision
Factor 1. choose the Installation type for your kitchen
This first thing while purchasing kitchen sinks is to understand which type of mount is suitable for your kitchen. We have mentioned some of the common kitchen sink mounts available in Indian market.
Factor 2. Choose The Number Of Sinks Bowls Best For You
Previously, kitchen sinks had only a single bowl. However, the latest models come in two and three bowl versions as well. Choosing among them completely depends on usage and counter space availability. Below, we have provided a brief description of each type for your reference.
Factor 3. Choose Your Material Type
This factor provides insights on the durability of the kitchen sink. It also determines the ease of maintenance and cleaning. Different types of materials are used for making kitchen sinks. We have mentioned a clear description of each material below. It helps you choose the right option for your preference.
- Very Easy to clean and maintain
- Affordable price
- Can be noisy
- shows water spots
- adds value to your kitchen & home
- Heat-resistant & very durable
- proper sealing required
- Very heavy, extra reinforcement needed
- Highly durable & long lifespan
- easy to clean
- heavy and expensive
- Limited colors & professional installation required
- wide range of styles and more affordable than granite
- no sealing required
- More expensive than steel
- can be damaged by extreme heat
- softer, quieter look and feel than stainless steel
- long lifespan
- Heavy
- requires special cleaning & care
- Becomes focul point of your kitchen with stunning style
- Anti-rust & Anti-bacterial
- Very High Maintenance
- Most expensive material
Factor 4. Shape of the Sink
Kitchen sinks are available in different shapes that include circular, rectangle and others. While making the purchase, you have to consider countertop space and placement.
Factor 5. Other factors to consider
This factor determines the durability of the kitchen sink. It also ascertains the ease you will have while cleaning the surface. Solid materials like cast-iron, fireclay, and high-quality stainless steel are considered to be the best for kitchen sinks. Have a look at various types of kitchen sink materials and their characteristics to have a better understanding which material will suit you best.
a) Coating
Most of the kitchen sinks that include metal, stone and other materials come with extra coating that will make cleaning and maintenance easier. However, this coating can wear off or chip-off with time. You may have to spend some time and money to get it recoated or maintain it.
b) Number of Holes
Mostly, standard kitchen sinks come with one to five holes for installing faucets, spraying nozzles, and dispensers. For large kitchen sinks, a single faucet is not adequate enough. In that case, you have to check out for sinks with additional provision for a second faucet and other accessories.
c) Depth of Bowl
Last but not least factor to consider before making the purchase is depth of a bowl. Standard kitchen sinks have 8 to 10 inches of depth. Kitchen sink with more depth can accommodate more items and reduces the water splashing. However, a deeper sink will put more strain on the back. Shallow sinks can accommodate only a few utensils so they are suitable for bachelors or small families.