Types of kitchen sinks material. Stainless steel sinks. Metal kitchen sink

Setting up a dishwashing area in the kitchen

You can't do without a sink in the kitchen. Whatever we cook, we will definitely need to either pour water into the pan, or wash the food, and after cooking, wash the dirty dishes. Therefore, the sink is one of the most important units in the kitchen.

When answering the question of which sink to choose for your kitchen, you should consider three main aspects:

  • sink size and shape
  • the material from which it is made
  • installation method

But the most important thing is that the kitchen sink is comfortable, practical and does not cause special troubles in care. Let's look at these three points in more detail.

Step one: decide on the shape and size of the sink

The shape and size of the sink is selected based on the size of the kitchen, its layout and design.

1. Square or rectangular

Considered a classic for kitchen sinks. They fit perfectly into any kitchen set, especially if they are installed not in the corner of the kitchen, but in the middle of the wall. Square sinks are convenient for washing dishes, they are spacious, and are often equipped with additional sections and wings.

2. Round or oval

The round kitchen sink looks very stylish. This type of sink is easy to clean - they have no corners and are slightly larger than square ones. Minus - there are not always additional sections; most often it is just a large oval or round bowl built into the tabletop.

3. Corner

They are made in the shape of a triangle or a beveled trapezoid. They are ideal for small spaces. Corner kitchen sink - not the best convenient option for washing dishes, but saves space.

4. Pentagonal or hexagonal

Pentagonal and hexagonal sinks are a modern shape that is obtained through additional wings and sections. These sinks are very spacious and can be mounted in corners or along the wall. Ideal for large kitchens.

5. Size and depth

How to choose the optimal sink size? There are a few rules to remember.

  • choose dimensions such that the distance from its sides to the wall, edge of the table top or sides of the cabinet in which it is built is at least 5 cm
  • the depth of the bowl should be 15 - 20 cm. This optimal size: Water may splash from bowls that are too shallow. If the sink is too deep, you will have to bend over a lot while washing dishes.


A deeper sink makes sense if you plan to wash baking sheets and large pots frequently.

  • standard square sinks are available in sizes 50x50 or 60x60 cm, rectangular sinks are 50 cm wide, and 55, 80, 100, 125 cm in length and more
  • round sinks are most often produced in sizes from 45 to 55 cm

Tip: For a very small kitchen, get a smaller sink and compensate for the size with the depth of the bowl.

6. Number of bowls


In addition to simple single-bowl sinks, there are sinks with two or three bowls. The sections in them can be either equal in volume or significantly different. Double bowl sink same sizefunctional solution. For example, you can wash dishes in one, and soak a frying pan or pot in the other. Save time and space.


Double kitchen sink with sections different sizes will also make your life easier. The large one can be used for washing dishes, the small one can be used for vegetables and fruits. A sink with three compartments (usually two standard and one smaller) takes up a lot of space and looks harmonious only in a spacious kitchen. Suitable for passionate cooks or large families.

7. Sinks with or without drainage

“Wings” are another important part of the sink. This special surface with gutters through which water flows back into the sink. In smooth models, water does not stagnate due to the tilt towards the sink. Options without wings or with narrow surfaces are suitable for people who spend little time in the kitchen.


If you cook a lot and often, such additional space next to the sink will come in handy. This is a convenient place to place clean dishes for drying, unwashed fruits and vegetables, or spatulas and other ladle dishes during cooking.

Step two: choose the sink material

1. Stainless steel

The best-selling and most common sinks are from of stainless steel. They are not afraid of acids and other aggressive detergents, temperature changes and mechanical influences. The metal sink is durable and environmentally friendly.

There are also several disadvantages. The first is a strong noise from a stream of water falling to the bottom of the bowl. In order to eliminate this drawback, a special noise-absorbing gasket is glued under the bottom of the sink (usually it is included with the sink and is already glued). The second drawback is that over time, the glossy or matte surface of the sink becomes covered with small scratches.

How to choose a stainless steel sink?

  • When going to the store, take a magnet with you. If the magnet is attracted to the sink, it is not stainless steel, or low quality stainless steel (not food grade)
  • The optimal steel thickness for washing is 2 – 3 mm. Thinner sinks will “walk” and bend, and dents will appear on them. In addition, it is impossible to install a heavy faucet well on a thin sink.
  • the sink can be seamless, i.e. stamped from one whole sheet of metal, or welded: from two or more parts with welded seams. The first, solid option is naturally preferable

I must say a few words about enameled metal sinks: they do not look as impressive, they are afraid of mechanical damage and chips of the enamel, they are also noisy and weigh more. This option is suitable for country house, but not for a modern kitchen.

2. Ceramics

Ceramic sinks are made of earthenware or porcelain and coated with a special protective enamel. These are very stylish sinks that will fit well not only into Provence or country style interiors, but also into classic ones. They withstand temperature changes well and do not make noise.

The enamel on ceramic sinks does not oxidize, does not scratch, and is easy and simple to care for. The disadvantage of ceramic sinks is their fragility; they can crack even due to a slight impact. In addition, they are heavy and installation requires the participation of professionals.

3. Natural stone


Washing from natural stone(granite, onyx, marble) for the kitchen looks amazing, but is expensive. As a rule, stone sinks are made individually, according to individual orders. They are practically silent, strong and durable, do not scratch or break. Disadvantages: high price, heavy weight, and the need for special care products.

4. Artificial stone

Kitchen sink made of artificial stone much more practical and cheaper. Most often they are made of granite and marble chips, held together with a special acrylic composition. There are also models made of quartz sand.

Pros: durability, impact resistance, ability to completely absorb water noise. They tolerate temperature changes well and do not require special care. Separately worth noting a large number of colors and shades of artificial stone, which allows you to choose a sink to match the kitchen countertop. Disadvantages - they are heavy, and their installation requires the participation of professionals.

5. Acrylic

In addition to the above materials, you can find acrylic composite kitchen sinks on sale. They, like sinks made of artificial stone, perfectly absorb noise, are easy to clean, and are available in different colors. But at the same time, acrylic sinks are less durable and do not withstand high temperatures.

Step three: how to install a sink in the kitchen?

The method of installing the sink also varies.

1. Invoice method

The simplest and most common installation method is an invoice. An overhead kitchen sink sits on top of a special cabinet. There is nothing complicated here - if the dimensions of the sink and the cabinet match, you can install it yourself. By the way, modular kitchen sets usually include a cabinet with an overhead sink by default.

2. Mortise method

The second most popular is mortise. Built-in sink for the kitchen it is built into the countertop and protrudes slightly above its surface. To do this, before installation, a hole is pre-sawed in the countertop to the size and shape of the sink. Ideal for mounting round, oval and polygonal bowls.

3. Under-desk method

The third method is under-table, when the sink is below the level of the countertop. It is convenient, hygienic, but requires the work of professional installers.

4. Integrated sink

The most beautiful and effective (and most expensive) way is sinks integrated into the countertop. In fact, the countertop and sink are a single structure, usually made of natural and artificial stone or plastic.

Step four: buy accessories for the kitchen sink

The standard equipment of the sink is the bowl itself and a set of plumbing fixtures: drain, elbow and pipes. But for different models sinks may be provided with additional accessories:

  • additional taps, for example, a tap for filtered drinking water. If you plan to install it, buy a sink with an additional hole
  • mesh on the bottom of the bowl to protect it from scratches and chips. They can be supplied as a set, or they can be purchased separately
  • strainers and drain grates to collect small food debris. Usually they are included in the kit, but if not, they are sold at any household plumbing store
  • removable dish drainers to fit the size of the sink. As a rule, they are not sold complete with a sink, but it will not be difficult to buy this convenient thing that fits the size.
  • disposer, or waste shredder. It is installed before the drain and crushes all food waste and cleaning materials, after which they are washed into the sewer without clogging it. The disposer operates on mains power and requires a separate outlet for connection.

Popular manufacturers


On the left is a Blanco sink; right - Shock

The German company Blanco is a world leader in the manufacture of sanitary ware for the kitchen. Other German manufacturers also deserve attention, for example Schock.



Top left - LONGRAN sink, top right - Elleci; next wa below - Franke; bottom right - Alveus

Decent sinks made from composite materials are made by Italian companies LONGRAN and Elleci. You definitely won’t go wrong with your choice if you buy a sink from the Swiss manufacturer Franke or the Slovenian company Alveus.

How to choose a kitchen sink: a useful checklist

  1. Determine the dimensions of the sink
  2. Find the right shape
  3. Select the material from which the sink is made
  4. Consider what additional accessories you will need
  5. Decide how the sink will be installed

As you can see, choosing a sink for your kitchen is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. Do everything slowly, in order, and you will have a comfortable and beautiful sink, and washing dishes and cooking will become a pleasure. Live easy!

When planning a kitchen, you need to start from three key positions: stove, refrigerator and sink. Ideally, they should form an equilateral triangle, but in reality this is not always achievable, so when answering the question of how to choose a kitchen sink, you should start by assessing the importance of this element.

It is believed that the housewife spends most of her time at the stove, but basic observations show that she has to wash dishes after eating and during cooking more often than cooking. Even a properly selected small kitchen sink can turn a routine process into a comfortable experience, thanks to the opportunities for this modern manufacturers provide plenty. The main thing is not to sacrifice consumer properties for the sake of appearance when choosing.

It is impossible to overestimate the style-forming factor of this element. A spectacular black anthracite kitchen sink will be a continuation of the precise, strict design. But color factor should not take precedence over the practicality of the kitchen. Here are the properties you should pay attention to.

  • Wear resistance - the outer layer must be resistant to mechanical stress and constant friction with small objects.
  • Durability, because it is impossible to avoid large objects falling into the sink; The first place in terms of strength is occupied by artificial stone, the last by ceramics.
  • The depth of the sink is an equally important quality, because in a shallow sink you will not be able to place a lot of dishes, and it will be inconvenient to wash them close to the tap. Therefore, it is recommended to install the mixer higher and choose a greater depth.
  • Chemical resistance; Continuous exposure to detergents over time leads to corrosion of the protective layer (fiberglass, mineral casting and most ceramics perform best here).
  • Antibacterial properties (acrylic resins are good in this regard, since their smooth surface does not allow microorganisms to accumulate).
  • The ability to restore a damaged surface (in this parameter, artificial stone is ahead of other materials, but chips on ordinary enamel are difficult to restore).
  • Moisture resistance; Do not forget that ceramics without a protective layer can absorb liquids and will change the original color over time.
  • From the point of view of performance characteristics, we can highlight such points as the recommended service life (indicated by the manufacturer), geometry and tactile sensations. Now let's look at the basic materials and types of kitchen sinks.

    Stainless steel kitchen sink

    Heart-shaped metal sink - for true romantics This material is not losing popularity and, most likely, will hold its position for a long time. Stainless steel kitchen sinks are made from special steel containing a certain percentage of chromium and nickel. The classic ratio is 1/10 nickel and 2/10 chromium. This combination allows the material to effectively resist chemicals (especially acids) and prevent rust. The material is harmless to the body, since it practically does not react in any way with most active substances found in everyday life.

    Advice! It’s very easy to check the quality of the sink’s metal with your own hands - to do this, attach a magnet to it. Real stainless steel will not attract it. Requirements for product quality and technical specifications specified in GOST R 50851-96 Stainless steel sinks.

    Also keep in mind that stainless steel is easily scratched, so do not scrub it with harsh powders or abrasives - the surface may become dull. Use a sponge dampened warm water and soap. To make stainless steel shine, wash the surface with a 20% vinegar solution.

    Interesting offers in this direction can be found in the Ikea store, famous for its prices; stainless steel kitchen sinks are presented here in many shapes and colors. The main disadvantage of such a sink is noise and the frequent appearance of stains on the walls. However, light weight, ease of installation and affordable price fully compensate for these shortcomings.

    Enameled kitchen sinks

    Metal kitchen sinks with a protective layer of enamel solve two issues at once:

    • enamel can significantly increase resistance to corrosion and aggressive chemicals;
    • The steel base increases the overall strength of the product.

    This is a classic kitchen sink, the enamel surface can be used for decades. The only drawback is the occurrence of chips on the enamel coating. Despite abrasion resistance and a pleasant appearance, the mechanical strength of the enamel layer is low. Due to sudden temperature changes, cracks and chips can also occur.

    Steel is not the only basis for enamel. Porcelain sinks are also very popular. Ceramic enamel is more suitable for the bathroom due to its low strength: it can crack completely if hit. In addition, this option is noticeably more expensive.

    Advice! You can restore the whiteness of an earthenware sink using bleach. Plug the hole and fill the sink hot water with bleach dissolved in it. The sink should sit for 30 minutes to an hour.

    Fake diamond

    If we are not talking about price, then artificial stone is the best answer to the question of which kitchen sink is best. The material consists of granite chips bonded with acrylic resins. Sometimes granite is replaced with quartz sand or marble. Acrylic also has competitors among polymer binders, but the principle is the same - a natural material and a chemical-resistant “binder”. Advantages of composites:

    • high environmental friendliness and safety for humans;
    • antibacterial properties due to the smooth surface of acrylic;
    • impact resistance and resistance to temperature changes;
    • noise absorption;
    • durability and wear resistance;
    • lack of reaction to aggressive substances.

    Durable porcelain stoneware sink
    In addition to the two main components, paint is added to the artificial stone sink material. On average, each manufacturer offers approximately 15-20 types of colors for composite sinks, so there are no problems with selecting a sink to match the interior. The main disadvantage is the high price. The complexity of installation may also be a small obstacle.

    To make it easier for you to choose which sink is better, we recommend watching a video with expert comments:

    Form

    A round kitchen sink is easier to clean, since there are no corners where dirt can accumulate, and one that tends toward right angles looks stricter and fits more easily into the interior. Much here depends on general design kitchen and the volume of dishes. If you have a dishwasher, washing is not so demanding in terms of practicality, but a wing for drying dishes will make life much easier in any case.

    Round kitchen sink with convenient cutting board
    Important pointbowl depth. From a shallow wash, more splashes fall on surrounding objects, but if the volume of dishes is small, then you can save on this characteristic. Don’t forget that with a deep sink you will have to bend over more.

    The size of the kitchen can also affect the shape of the sink. If in small room looks better corner sink with one sink, then in big room A double sink can be installed. This option is also available in a corner version. Today, combined sinks with bowls of different sizes installed at an angle are popular. Typically, double sinks are installed in catering establishments, cafes, and canteens.

    Practical corner sink with removable tap

    Installation method

    A double kitchen sink is more difficult to install, not to mention the fact that it is more difficult to fit into the interior; classification is carried out primarily according to the installation method.

    • Mounting the sink on brackets is the least expensive method in which the sink is simply secured to the wall using dowels and brackets. This is suitable for those who have not yet decided which sink to choose for the kitchen, and have temporarily settled on a stainless steel sink. The height is taken either from the top point of the floor furniture or the standard 80-90 cm. After preliminary marking (the width is calculated at the edges of the sink), holes are punched in the wall and the brackets are strengthened.
    • A mortise sink has the same level as the countertop because it is recessed into it. Looks great as part of a furniture set or in an option where several sections are united by one tabletop. Composite sinks work well.
    • The overhead sink is not so demanding to assemble and rises slightly above the countertop, covering part of the canvas with its edges. If we are talking about separate sections that are not connected to each other, it is better to opt for this option.
    • Integrated sinks are a new word in this direction. The installation process is labor-intensive and expensive. Integration occurs with the countertop, i.e. the sink and countertop become one.

    Photo of an integrated sink in the countertop
    The sink is attached to the countertop using self-tapping screws from below, and the connection process is shown in the video:

    If you have not yet decided how to choose a kitchen sink, try to build on the overall design of the room. The interior will tell you the shape, and the organization of space will tell you the position of the sink. All you have to do is look for an option that suits your budget and operational characteristics. The selected mixer can also play an important role. For example, removable faucets are very practical, making it convenient to wash dishes at any angle. Modern stores are overwhelming with a huge selection, but if you make a decision in advance and decide on a budget, then everything will fall into place at the point of purchase.

Which kitchen sink is better - stainless steel or artificial stone, round or square, mortise or overhead, matte or glossy? How not to make a mistake with the material, size and shape? Every person faces these questions sooner or later. You will find the answers to them in this article.

Why is it important to choose the right sink?

If you make a choice taking into account all the features of your kitchen and its technical characteristics, then you can at least significantly simplify the process itself and save time spent daily on washing dirty dishes. As a maximum, start to truly enjoy the sight of sparkling clean kitchen utensils.

Dishwasher or sink?

What if you just buy a dishwasher and save yourself the hassle of dealing with dirty dishes? This option, of course, also exists. But does the layout of the room always allow for the installation of this miracle of technology? Even if you buy a car, will you only use it? What if you just need to wash a couple of cups? This is where the good old sink comes to the rescue.

So, you decided to go searching. What unforeseen circumstances might you encounter along the way? Oddly enough, the huge assortment will be the first obstacle for the inexperienced layman. There are so many different models offered by stores, it’s easy to see the range of colors and materials. So that you don't get confused and choose correct option, we suggest that you first familiarize yourself with the most popular materials.

Stainless steel sinks

Many adherents of the Hi-Tech style (a style that successfully combines high functionality and laconic design) have already acquired such models. But this does not mean that they cannot become a decoration for a classic set. The chromium-nickel steel used in production will certainly add shine to any kitchen.

The significant advantage of this important element kitchen set is an affordable price. In addition, the following advantages can be noted:

  1. Plastic and flexible material. Unlike ceramics, if a cup falls into such a sink, the likelihood that it will survive is much higher.
  2. Resistance to metal corrosion and impact resistance. These properties will allow the sink to serve you faithfully for a long time, without losing its original appearance, and will also eliminate the causes of cracks and splits.
  3. Wide variety of sizes and shapes. You can choose a model of any size.
  4. Easy to care for. You don’t have to bother yourself with thoughts about which cleaning product is best for daily care. Steel has a non-porous surface, which makes it easy to remove dirt of any complexity. You can use any means, even harsh ones, and appearance it will not suffer at all.

In contrast to all the positive qualities, let us draw your attention to one small minus - noise in operation. However, in the age of inventions and modern technologies this is unlikely to be a serious hindrance.

What else to consider when choosing a stainless steel sink?

According to the manufacturing method, they can be stamped or welded. The second option is more expensive and different high quality and a large number of shapes and sizes.

When stamping, one single sheet of steel is used, when welding, several sheets are used to form the bowl and wing.

Stamped stainless steel sink

The advantage of the first option is the cast seamless surface. If the depth of the bowl is important to you, then it is better to choose the second option. It is worth paying attention to the quality of welding; if it is poor, then there is a possibility of water leakage.


Welded stainless steel sink

There are glossy and matte surface sinks


Artificial stone sinks

This type of sink is a favorite among kitchens in classic style. Composite materials, imitating natural stone, consist of quartz to which granite chips have been added.

A stone sink will look most harmonious when combined with facades made of solid wood or imitation wood. Country style lovers will also like it.

Advantages

  1. Strength. To damage it in any way, you will have to work hard, the only exception being hard metal brushes, which can leave scratches on the surface.
  2. Complete freedom of use chemicals care
  3. Lack of sensitivity to temperature changes.
  4. Wide range of color solutions.
  5. Sophistication. A wide range of models and elegant design will add luxury and charm.
  6. Silence.
  7. Long-lasting color that does not fade over time.

Flaws

  • They easily absorb liquids, odors and food colorings due to their porous texture. And sometimes carelessly poured tea can become dark spot on the reputation of your sink.
  • The cost of even the simplest stone sink starts at 11 - 13 thousand rubles, and design work and may even cost you a vacation in warm countries.

Artificial stone sinks: photo





Ceramic sinks

Mostly faience is used in their production. You can also find products made of porcelain; this material is denser and an order of magnitude more expensive than earthenware.

Among the advantages: high resistance to chemical attack, elegant design.

Disadvantages include fragility and impracticality.




Enameled sink

Thanks to the latest technologies there is something to be said about this forgotten option. It is made of cast iron, steel or ceramics, after which enamel is applied to it.

Many manufacturers, taking care of the health and hygiene of their customers, produce products with additional antibacterial coating.




Optimal sizes and shapes of sinks

There are three main types of sinks - overhead, mortise and mounted under the countertop, but in everyday life the first two options are most often used.

Invoices

The name speaks for itself. The sink seems to be placed on top of the table. It is widely used in sets, the tables of which stand separately from each other and do not have a single solid tabletop.

One of the main advantages is the ease of installation. Even an inexperienced technician will be able to install it.

However, if you decide to place it next to your work table, keep in mind that water will get into the holes between the tables when washing dishes, as this model is not guaranteed to be sealed.





Mortise

They cut right into the tabletop and fit well into any interior. The fastening element to the tabletop is a sealant that protects the furniture from water entering through the cutout circumference. Installation is also easy.

An important point is to determine the shape of the future sink. What will it be like? How much space is allocated for it in your headset? What size is most appropriate? All this is so individual that it is difficult to answer unequivocally.






Square and rectangular

This is a classic of the genre. Perfect for conservative people who prefer simple shapes. It has been proven over the centuries that they are very functional.






Round (oval)

Suitable for corner options, in which the corner table set is presented in the form of a trapezoid. But don’t neglect this form even if your goal is to increase the space. work surface. After all, as a rule, the volume of such sinks goes deep.






Double bowl sinks

Experts recommend paying attention to the option with two bowls. You can safely combine two things at the same time, which is very convenient. Isn't it wonderful? You can wash dirty dishes and peel vegetables without dirtying the countertop or taking up extra space.

When choosing a sink, its size matters. The most optimal depth is approximately 18 cm.

It is worth paying attention to models with so-called wings, maybe one or two wings. They will come in handy when you need to defrost meat, fish, vegetables or will be useful as a stand for hot food.





Which sink manufacturer is better to choose?

It is not recommended to make purchases in markets and cheap small stores. As a rule, low-quality and uncertified goods are sold in such places. Should you give preference to a cheap and little-known manufacturer? It’s not for nothing that they say that a stingy man pays twice.

In order not to buy a pig in a poke, it is better to look in large networks, and not from small entrepreneurs.

For a modest budget, products from HAMA and Alveus are suitable. A little more expensive, but higher in quality - Blanco. By the way, the latter option can also be purchased by people who are not experiencing financial difficulties, since this brand produces products with a fairly wide price range.


When choosing, you need to clearly understand what you expect. If you are choosing an option for a specific interior, for example a classic one, then you should pay attention to models made of granite or ceramics.

If the kitchen is in a modern minimalist style, then stainless steel products are perfect. Perhaps they are the most reliable and practical, and are also quite affordable for any budget. Most manufacturers equip them with a special sticker that makes them less noisy.

A perforated sink with a pattern on the surface will be more unpretentious in maintenance. All you need to do is wipe it with a mild cleaner after use and it will serve you for a long time.

If you decide to acquire glossy stainless steel, be prepared to take good care of it, because... water will remain on it white coating and divorces. You should not use rough iron brushes, they leave scratches on the surface.

Lovers of elegance and originality will be interested in designer creations from Omoikiri, Blanco, Alveus.

If you doubt the quality of the goods offered by the seller, then take a closer look at well-known manufacturers that have proven themselves in the market, such as Franke, Florentina, Schock.

Kitchen sinks come in round, square, rectangular and non-standard shape.

Number of bowls

Depending on the number of bowls, sinks are divided into single, double and with an additional bowl.

It’s not hard to imagine a sink with one or two bowls. But why do you need an additional bowl, and what are the advantages of such a sink? The additional bowl is a recess next to the main bowl, smaller in size and having a drain hole. It is used mainly for defrosting, so that food during thawing does not take up space in the compartment intended for washing dishes, and melt water can go down the drain. Many housewives use an additional bowl for temporary storage of freshly washed vegetables and fruits.

Materials

Sinks are made of natural and artificial stone, metal, ceramics and plastic.

Kitchen sinks made of natural stone (marble, granite, basalt, onyx) harmonize well with wooden countertops and other kitchen elements made of natural materials, forming a unified style. Natural materials durable, easy to care for, does not stain or fade, but is sensitive to aggressive chemicals and abrasive materials. When installing, remember that a stone sink is very heavy and requires additional fastenings.

Sinks made of artificial stone (a composite mixture of mineral filler and polymer resin) are much lighter and cheaper than those made from natural materials. They fit well into any interior, thanks to the variety of shapes. Unlike sinks made of natural stone, they are more durable and resistant to aggressive liquids. Sinks made of artificial stone require regular maintenance, since stains are easily visible on such material.

Ceramic sinks are lighter than products made from natural stone, but are more fragile and susceptible to temperature changes. However, ceramic sinks have recently gained great popularity - mainly due to the variety of colors and patterns. Ceramic has a unique shine, but to maintain this shine, the sink must be cleaned quite often by special means.

Stainless steel sinks are most widespread. They are light and thin, but at the same time have sufficient strength. The cost of metal sinks is significantly lower than ceramic ones, as well as those made from natural and artificial materials, and the choice of shapes and designs is very wide. Chrome is the only one color scheme for stainless steel products, lovers of other colors can purchase painted metal sinks.

Sinks made of brass and copper are used in rooms with an antique style. They have the same advantages as steel, but their cost is much higher. You will also have to spend money on plumbing fixtures and accessories (holders for soap, toothbrushes, etc.), which must also match the design and be made of copper or brass.

Optional equipment

When purchasing a kitchen sink, you should think about additional equipment for it: food waste grinders, mixers, drinking water taps, siphons, colanders and grates, filters for mechanical contaminants, cutting boards and trays. Food waste grinders and filters greatly facilitate the operation of the kitchen sink and prevent blockages in the pipes and their damage. Siphons with an automatic valve mechanism make it possible to close and open the drain hole using a special handle. Colanders, boards and trays, selected according to the size of the sink, facilitate the organized collection of water from defrosted products.

Help article based on expert opinion author.

Even at the stage of ordering a kitchen set, you need to think about what material and what shape the sink will be made of, since everyone needs a sink in the kitchen, regardless of whether you cook often and a lot, or rarely and little, or don’t cook at all. But everyone has to wash dishes, vegetables and fruits. And no matter what anyone says, the main thing is workplace in any kitchen - after all, not at the stove, but at the sink.

Even if there is in the house dishwasher The load at the kitchen sink still remains high. After all, you can’t wash vegetables in a machine, you can’t defrost meat, and, by the way, it doesn’t “favor” all dishes. And therefore good wash in the kitchen - an irreplaceable thing.

Types of kitchen sinks

By design, home kitchen sinks come in the following types: single-bowl, one-and-a-half-bowl (with large and small bowls) and two-bowl, as well as with or without “wings”. Wings are additional work surfaces to the right or left of the sink.

If the fender is located between the sink and hob, it can also be used as a stand for hot pots and pans. When choosing a “single-wing” design, it is important to clearly understand on which side it is possible to install the wing on your countertop. There are reversible models, with the possibility of installation on both the right and left. These models do not have a hole for installing a faucet; you will have to make it yourself or mount the faucet into the countertop.

The sink can be installed in different ways, depending on the geometric shape of the kitchen unit.

If a built-in kitchen set with a single worktop has L-shape, it makes sense to install the sink in a corner. Conventional single-bowl (round or square) sinks can also be easily built into the corner. But special corner structures allow you to make the most efficient use of space.

These can be one-and-a-half or two-bowl sinks, where the angle between the bowls is 45 degrees; one or one and a half bowl sinks with beveled or triangular wings; two-bowl sinks with one wing, where the bowls are arranged in a row and the wing is at a right angle to them.