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Carry out your due diligence on sink materials

Ceramic

A ceramic kitchen sink is seen as a traditional choice, as many of us immediately think of large, practical ceramic Butler sinks. These ceramic sinks really cover all bases. Originating in 17th century Europe, the large, thick ceramic sinks are still popular today for their versatility — in school art classrooms, playgroups, country cottages and modern, urban kitchens.

Ceramic is easy to wipe clean with soapy water — but avoid setting mugs or glasses down into the sink too heavily or you risk chipping them on the hard and unforgiving surface.

Steel

Think of a steel sink and you might think of a school kitchen or a professional restaurant kitchen. This is because a steel sink is as practical as it’s easy to clean (unlike a white sink, you don’t have to regularly bleach it; it remains stain free) and the steel is long-lasting. It’s also affordable and good-looking (top tip: buy some from Halfords to maintain the high shine!).

Stainless steel sinks are made using different thicknesses, or gauges of sheet metal. The lower the number, the thicker the metal. For a kitchen sink you need at least an 18 (some luxury sinks will be a 16). You know that the number is too low if the sink is thin and tinny-sounding.

Composite

Composite sinks are a mix of natural stone and man-made stone. A composite sink has a number of benefits, including:

Resistant to high temperatures (up to 280°C)
Antibacterial properties
Repel stains and resistant to scratches
Low-maintenance

Review whether you want an inset or undermount kitchen sink

There are so many decisions to make when remodelling your kitchen. At least you can narrow it down to two types of kitchen sink: inset or undermount.

Inset sinks have a top lip which sits on top of the worktop, which adds a style feature. Undermount sinks are fitted under the worktop with a cutout in the worktop which perfectly fits the bowl. This leaves a smooth, seamless surface which creates a sleek and sophisticated visual and allows you to wipe any countertop mess straight into the sink.

Improve your sink design

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Sink depth

Don’t forget to think about the depth of the sink when you’re choosing. A deep bowl will hide the dirty dishes as you put off emptying the dishwasher. It’s also useful to have depth if you wash large pots and pans. But if you like to fill your sink with soapy water to wash the dishes, you might want to choose something smaller which takes less time to fill.

Make sure the tap hole/s fit with your tap design

Inset sinks come with holes for taps which have been pre-drilled into the sink, so make sure that the holes will fit your choice of tap to avoid frustration and disappointment — or you can buy an inset sink and tap package.

Undermounted sinks need the tap hole to be drilled into the worktop — make sure there is enough space behind the sink for the tap you've chosen.

Single bowl vs double bowl

A double bowl sink is so practical; choosing a single bowl is often due to lack of space. Double bowl sinks are especially useful for large households, with additional draining boards or a half-bowl in between the double bowl. Whether you opt for a single or a double bowl, installing a waste disposal unit will mean you don’t have a smelly food caddy taking up space.

FAQ:

What is the best type of sink for your kitchen?

Take time to choose a new kitchen sink because it’s something you don’t want to regret. Consider the material, whether inset or undermount, the cost, how to clean it and the size. Take a look at photos of your dream kitchen and note what sink has been fitted.

Which is the easiest sink to keep clean?

Stainless steel sinks are non-porous and so they’re the easiest to keep clean. That’s why you will see them in professional kitchens and hospitals, where cleanliness is vital.

Which is the most durable kitchen sink?

Granite composite is considered to be the most durable of all, with a price tag to match. Stainless steel is also long lasting and antique ceramic sinks have stood the test of time.

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How to choose the right kitchen sink for your home