All You Need To Know About Kitchen Sinks - Kitchen Sink

The kitchen, though often undervalued, is in fact one of the most important parts of the home. That’s primarily because one spends a considerable amount of time in the kitchen, even if they’re cooking and doing dishes for one. And that’s when we talk of the kitchen sink. If you don’t go for the right sink, a terrible backache will be your durable companion.

You don't just need a sink to clean dishes; you rinse vegetables and wash hands too.

The sink area is one of the most utilized spaces in your kitchen. It’s something that you use almost every single day. And a place that experiences so much use can wear out easily. But you can’t keep replacing it. It is a cumbersome affair. So, make sure you invest in the right sink that lasts for the years to come.

At Kralsu, we help you make a great choice. From types to radius and material used, Kralsu offers a variety of quality kitchen sinks. You are spoiled for choice not only in functionality but also when it comes to boosting the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.

What is Kitchen Sink?

It is a bowl-shaped, heavy-duty plumbing fixture that is generally used for washing utensils, cleaning hands, and other purposes.

It can have single or multiple faucets that supply water (cold/hot) for washing. A faucet may or may not come with a spray attachment for quick rinsing.

Parts of Sinks

Basin

Basin is the most crucial part of a kitchen sink.

Holds water from the faucet.
Outfitted with a drain that allows water to flows away.
Comes in a variety of materials, sizes, shapes, and styles.

Drain

Every sink has drain at the bottom.

Allows the water to flow out of the basin.
Usually connected to the various plumbing connections under the sink and within the walls.
Includes strainer basket, strainer flange, rubber gasket, strainer nut, and friction gasket.

Faucet

A faucet supplies water to the kitchen sink.

Usually mounted at least one inch above the level of the sink.
Includes controls, flanges, water spout, gaskets, aerators, and an assortment of washers and screws.
Available in a variety of types—pulldown, pull-out, single/dual handle, pot filler, motion detection, and the like.

Type of Kitchen Sinks

There are a variety of kitchen sink styles available in the market. Let’s breeze through a few most popular ones.

Bar Kitchen Sink

Also known as an island sink, an entertainment sink, or an prep sink, it is smaller in size than a standard sink. It has a small basin ranging between 10–18 inches wide.

It is usually installed in the island kitchen as a supplementary sink for food preparation.

Due to its small size, a modern bar sink is a perfect option for limited kitchen counter space. It is typically a single-bowl design used for:

Making drink
Preparing snacks
Washing cocktail glasses

Pros

Smaller than a traditional sin
Applicable for outdoor and indoor use
Easier for multiple people to work at the same time
Offers easy access while preparing a meal

Cons

Tend to be small and shallow
Smaller than your average sink
Require more counter space (as a secondary sink)

Allora USA - KSN-2016 - 20 " x 16" x 9" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$108.75 USD

Allora USA - KH-1518 - 15" x 18" x 8.5" Handmade Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Bar Sink

$150.48 USD

Allora USA - KSN-1518 - 15" x 18" x 8" Stainless Steel Sink

$144.00 USD

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Undermount Kitchen Sink

It is mounted directly under the counter. The edge of the counter drops off right into the sink basin.

There is no visible rim or lip. Also, it doesn’t have crevices and grooves where food can accumulate. It is easy to clean as the food debris can be wiped straight into the sink.

It is versatile and works with most kitchen layouts. It is best to install an undermount sink with a drainer under solid kitchen countertop materials such as:

Marble
Granite
Concrete

Pros

Does not have grooves or crevices where food can accumulate
Allows you to sweep food crumbs straight into the sink
Attractive, smooth look

Cons

More complicated to instal
Not so well-suited for laminate and tile counters
Requires an internal support system during installation
No place for faucets and attachments (you need to cut holes in the countertop)

Allora USA - ADA-2318 - 23'' x 18" x 5 1/2" Undermount Single Bowl 18 gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$199.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-2718 - 27" x 18" x 5 1/2" Undermount Single Bowl 18 gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$149.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-KH-2718-R15 - 27" x 18" x 5" Handmade Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$185.99 USD

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Farmhouse Kitchen Sink

Also known as an apron sink, it is recognized by an exposed front wall or apron. It is mostly preferred for traditional-looking or country-style kitchen design. The farmhouse kitchen sink comes in both single and double basin varieties.

It was originally designed to prevent water from landing on and damaging cabinets below the sink. Its unique design allows excess water to flow down directly onto the floor.

It is available in a variety of materials:

Stainless steel
Cast iron
Copper
Porcelain

Pros

Additional width makes it easier to wash large dishes and hard-to-clean items
Easy on your back as there is a little space between the counter and the sink
Alluring appearance
Easy to clean

Cons

Prone to dripping due to a narrow barrier between the sink and the floor
Needs more space than other kinds of sinks
More expensive than its counterparts

Allora USA - KH-2721F - 27" x 21" x 10" Single Large Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$179.99 USD

Allora USA - KH-3021F - 30" x 21" Farmhouse Single Large Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$227.25 USD

Allora USA - KH-3321F-R15 - 33" x 21" x 10" Farmhouse Undermount Single Large Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$257.96 USD

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Top Mount Kitchen Sink

Also known as a drop-in/self-rimming sink, it is the most common type of kitchen sink. As the name suggests, it just needs to be dropped into the cavity in the countertop. A hole is cut into the countertop and the top mount kitchen sink is inserted from above.

The space between the rim and the countertop is filled with silicone to prevent water seepage. The weight of the sink is carried by its rim resting on the counter.

It is compatible with all kinds of kitchen countertops such as:

Granite
Composite granite
Laminate
Porcelain
Marble
Tile

Pros

No special skills are needed for installation
Less expensive than other kitchen sinks
No need for an internal support system

Cons

Makes cleaning the countertop a bit tedious
Rim prevents you from sweeping debris and water directly into the sink
The area between the rim and the counter can accumulate scum

Allora USA - ADA-TOP-1515-S Top Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

$69.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-TOP-2522-S Top Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

$115.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-TOP-3322-D Top Mount Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

$159.99 USD

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Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

Also known as double basin sinks, these sinks are rectangular in shape with two side-by-side basins/bowls.

The dual bowl feature allows you to wash dishes on one side and rinse on the other side. The majority of modern kitchen sinks feature two bowls.

Double bowl kitchen sinks come in a wide array of configurations:

Equal size bowls of different depths
Equal size bowls of the same depth
Unequal size bowls of the same depth
Unequal size bowls of different depth

Pros

Multi-purpose and highly flexible
Allows you to separate heavy dishes from delicate items
Useful in households without dishwashers

Cons

Takes up more counter space than a single bowl sink
Not suitable for large pots, baking pans, and casseroles

Allora USA - KSN-2918-7 - 29" x 18" x 7" Undermount 50/50 Double Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$147.00 USD

Allora USA - ADA-KH-3118-R15 - 31" x 17 7/8" x 5" Handmade Undermount Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

$189.99 USD

Allora USA - KSN-3118-16 - 31" x 18" x 9" Undermount 50/50 Double Bowl 16 gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$130.70 USD

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Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

It has one, usually large, basin with no divider. It comes in a variety of sizes, making it perfect for all kinds of kitchens.

It is available in a variety of styles:

Top mount sink
Farmhouse sink
Bar sink
Undermount sink

Pros

Ideal for small kitchens with limited counter space
Large enough to clean large cookware
Easier and less expensive to install than double bowl sinks
Easy to clean and maintain
Comes in a variety of sizes

Cons

Not great for multitasking
Difficult to separate clean and dirty dishes
No drying area

Allora USA - KSN-3018-7 - 30" x 18" x 7" Undermount Single Large Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$142.99 USD

Allora USA - KSN-2318-7 - 23" x 18" x 7" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$155.00 USD

Allora USA - KSN-1917-R25 - 19" x 17" x 9" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen/Bar Sink

$109.50 USD

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ADA Kitchen Sink

It is designed to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. It allows people with disabilities or mobility issues to use a kitchen sink without discomfort.

Here are ADA compliant kitchen sink specifications:

The maximum height for the sink should not exceed 34-inches off the floor
There must be 11 to 25 inches of knee depth under the sink
There must be 27 x 30 inches of knee clearance under the sink
The pipes below the sink must be covered
The floor space under the sink must be unobstructed

Pros

Easy to install
Available in multiple shapes and sizes

Cons

Not suitable for all people

Allora USA - ADA-3018- 30" x 18" x 6" Undermount Single Bowl 18 gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$139.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-KH-2016 - 20" x 16" x 5" Handmade Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$169.99 USD

Allora USA - ADA-KH-2718-R15 - 27" x 18" x 5" Handmade Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$185.99 USD

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Materials Used To Build Kitchen Sinks

Along with the shape of your kitchen sink, its material is also important to consider. The material impacts the cost, installation style, and durability of your sink. With so many material choices available on the market, you can have ample options to match with your kitchen's decor.

Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

It is one of the most common and cost-effective materials for kitchen sinks. It offers a sleek and contemporary look when combined with wood, granite, stone, or marble countertops.

Commercial kitchens always opt for stainless steel sinks as steel can tolerate quite a bit of rough handling. Also, it offers great resistance for heat and stains.

Stainless steel is categorized in terms of gauge/sheeting thickness ranging from 15–24 gauge. Low gauge steel means a heavier and thicker sink, making it more resistant to denting.

Pros

Inexpensive
Easy to install and clean
Crack & rust resistant
Low maintenance
Lightweight
No support required

Cons

Requires sound insulation pads to reduce the noise from dishes and water
Shows watermarks
Prone to scratch and dent
Higher gauge stainless steel (above 20) is more vulnerable to damage and noise

Allora USA - KSN-3018-7 - 30" x 18" x 7" Undermount Single Large Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$142.99 USD

Allora USA - KSN-2318-7 - 23" x 18" x 7" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

$155.00 USD

Allora USA - KSN-1917-R25 - 19" x 17" x 9" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen/Bar Sink

$109.50 USD

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Fireclay Kitchen Sink

A fireclay sink is timeless, elegant, and charming. It has a deep bowl that provides you with plenty of room for pans, pots, dishes, and utensils.

Fireclay is a type of ceramic-coated refractory clay. It is formed by fusing clay and glaze at extremely high temperatures (1600o F). This process creates an extremely durable material that is resistant to scratches, chipping, and cracks.

The fireclay kitchen sink can withstand daily wear and tear and requires low maintenance.

Pros

Handcrafted
Resistant to acids alkalis
High durable and non-porous
Easy to maintain
Doesn't take up a significant amount of space

Cons

Needs additional support for installation
Extensive fabrication process
Prone to chipping and water stains
More expensive than cast iron sink

NEW! Allora USA FC-3220-S Farmhouse Fireclay Kitchen Sink

$400.00 USD

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Cast Iron Kitchen Sink

It is made by casting iron followed by a heavy porcelain enamel coating. This process protects the sink from rusting and gives it a bright, glossy finish.

It is extremely robust and does an excellent job resisting scratches and stains. Cast iron kitchen sink can withstand daily wear and tear for decades.

Pros

Affordable
Easy to clean
Chip-resistant
Available in a wide range of colors

Cons

Extremely heavy
Needs extra reinforcement
Enamel can discolor over the time
Vulnerable to chip

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Bamboo Kitchen Sink

Bamboo is naturally waterproof making it an ideal material for a busy kitchen. The undeniable strength of a bamboo kitchen sink is an added bonus.

Bamboo has greater compression strength than steel. It is more durable than Red Oak and Maple wood and can easily withstand rigorous daily use.

Pros

Sustainable and eco-friendl
Economical
Unique appearance

Cons

Requires regular maintenance
Limited color options
More prone to damage and leaking than other sink materials

Granite/Quartz Composite Kitchen Sink

A composite kitchen sink is usually made of quartz or granite, along with acrylic material. It is constructed by gluing crushed granite/quartz with a resin filler.

This incredibly durable sink is chip & stain-resistant and offers a modern aesthetic look.

Pros

Resistant to bacteria and odors
Will not fade or discolor
Less noisy than stainless steel sinks
Can withstand temperatures of up to 535o F

Cons

Heavier than stainless steel sinks
Requires structural support to withstand the extra weight
Mostly available in matte finish

NEW! Allora USA GC-3118-S Black Granite Composite Kitchen Sink

$211.50 USD

Mont Blanc Bridgeport Dual Mount Composite Granite 33 in. 4-Hole Double Bowl Kitchen Sink in White

$299.00 USD

KRAUS Forteza Undermount Granite 32 in. Single Bowl Kitchen Sink in Black

$499.95 USD

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Sink Configurations

The shape, size, and number of bowls you select depend on how you intend to use your sink. Let’s discuss it in detail.

Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

If you cook often, you understand the frustration of dealing with a pile of oversized pans, pots, and serving plates. The single bowl kitchen sink is the perfect solution for this issue.

Has one single compartment, making it ideal for stacking big utensils
Cheaper and easier to install than double bowl sinks
Helps conserve space for other counter installations
Available in a variety of styles, sizes, depth, radius, mounting style, and color

Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

It has two basins in one unit, generally separated by a divider. There are different types of double bowl kitchen sinks such as:

Offset Bowl Sinks

Has two bowl with different sizes
Available in many configurations
Separate space for washing and rinsing

Double-Equal Sinks

Full range of depths including extra-deep bowls
Separate equal bowls offer a versatile workspace in the sink

Smart Divide Sinks

Has both qualities of offset and double-equal bowl kitchen sink
Features dividers that are half the height of conventional double-bowl sinks
Allows you to easily transfer utensils from one bowl to another
Accommodates large pans and pots
Offers the function of a double bowl with the open feel of a single bowl

Kitchen Sink Sizes

There are a variety of kitchen sink sizes available on the market. Finding your ideal size sink depends on various factors:

Your height
Your built
Counter size
Cabinet sizes
Overall kitchen size
Design preferences

Experts recommend that the kitchen sink should be at least 22–27-inches in length. Also, it should be at least 7 to 7.25 inches deep.

27-Inch Kitchen Sink

Ideal for small kitchens, the 27-inch kitchen sink is the most common sink size. This single bowl sink is available in a variety of edges, depths, gauges, and styles:

Undermount sink
Top mount/Drop-in sink
Apron style sink

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30-Inch kitchen Sink

A 30-inch kitchen sink is a great choice to have in your kitchen. It is both practical and stylish. It is available in a variety of edges, depths, gauges, and styles:

Undermount sink
Single/double bowl sink
Top mount/Drop-in sink
Apron style sink

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7-Inch Deep Kitchen Sink

Be it farmhouse or undermount, a 7-inch deep sink is an ideal depth recommended by industry experts. It is available in both single and double-size bowls.

Sinks that are more than 9 inches deep can be too deep. Adding 1–2 inches of depth can help you put more dishes in the sink. But, it can make it difficult to reach into the sink.

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How to Take Care of your Kitchen Sink

Like every other thing in your house, your kitchen sinks also need regular care and maintenance.

Your sink gets a lot of nasty stuff—from dirty dishes to raw foods and more. It is essential to make sure your sink remains tidy and clean.

Every sink material is unique and requires special cleaning techniques.

Here's how to go about cleaning and maintaining your sink.

Fireclay Kitchen Sink

Always use a non-abrasive mild cleaner
Wipe the surface with a soft cloth to maintain its shine
Avoid scouring powder or liquid and concentrated drain cleaners
Use a sink grid to prevent cracks and scratches from heavy pans and pots

Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

Use mild cleaners and soft sponges for daily cleaning
Wipe down the sink with a soft cloth after everyday use to prevent watermarks
Avoid using steel wool pads to prevent scratches
Avoid leaving cast iron cookware in your sink

Cast Iron Kitchen Sink

Use non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth to wipe it dry after every use
Apply a paste of baking soda and water on water stains
Use a plastic basin rack to prevent scratches
Avoid using abrasive sponge pads, wire brushes, and steel wool
Avoid leaving dirty dishes, food, coffee grounds, tea bags, or staining materials in the sink

Bamboo Kitchen Sink

Wipe it down with a soft cloth after every use
Do not soak dishes in the sink
Apply wood sealer at least once a year
Avoid soap buildup and water spots
Avoid using ammonia, bleach, and abrasive cleaning chemicals

Granite/Quartz Composite Kitchen Sink

Use non-abrasive cleaners for daily standard cleanin
Use 50% bleach and 50% water solution for stubborn stains
Avoid using commercial alkalis—ammonia and caustic solutions
Apply mineral oil at least once in six month

Cost of Kitchen Sinks

The cost of kitchen sinks depends on various factors:

Depth
Gauge
Style
Installation
Radius
Number of bowls
Cabinet size
Brand

The cost of a kitchen sink varies, ranging from $90–$260 or higher. A few luxury kitchen sink models can cost as high as $1000.

However, on average the most homeowners spend around $150 for a standard stainless steel kitchen sink.