Washing dishes can not be called a pleasant activity. However, by making the right choice of a kitchen sink, you can minimize the number of negative emotions. Currently, the modern market offers such a huge assortment of diverse models that even such an uncomplicated item, if correctly selected, will be able to decorate the interior and will surely delight you every day!
Sinks for the kitchen
The presence in the kitchen of a convenient and high-quality sink is the key to successful preparation of delicious dishes and perfect cleanliness. It is so important that the cooking process proceeds in the most comfortable conditions. Which sink for the kitchen to choose? Product models that are presented on modern markets vary significantly:
- the method of incorporation into kitchen furniture;
- number of washing bowls;
- material of manufacture;
- the shape of the bowls, their depth;
- color.
Key selection criteria
There is a huge assortment on sale, how to deal with such a variety and get the most suitable result? What kind of sink for the kitchen should you choose so that quality, cost, functionality and beauty are perfectly combined in it, and it can please its owner for a long time?
First of all, you need to consider the following factors when buying:
- Wear resistance. The outer layer of the sink should be sufficiently resistant to mechanical stress, constant friction with small objects.
- The depth of the sink. This quality is no less important, since a large amount of dishes cannot be put in a shallow sink, and washing it close to the tap is quite inconvenient. Therefore, it is recommended to choose more depth, and install the mixer higher.
- Strength. No one can insure against any large objects falling into the sink that could damage it. In the first place in terms of strength is an artificial stone, and the latter belongs to ceramics.
- Antibacterial properties. Acrylic resins are good here, since due to their smooth surface microorganisms do not accumulate on them.
- Resistance to chemistry. As a rule, constant exposure to various detergents after some time leads to erosion of the surface protective layer. The best in this regard are fiberglass, mineral casting and most ceramics.
- The ability to repair a damaged surface. In this regard, artificial stone is in the lead, but chips on ordinary enamel are quite difficult to restore.
- Moisture resistance. It should be remembered that ceramic products without a protective layer can absorb liquid and after a certain time change their original color.
- Operational characteristics. The manufacturer indicates the recommended service life.
Sink for the kitchen, which one to choose? Size and shape
Modern sinks can not only have a classic shape, but can also be made with the most bizarre bends and geometry, which can fit into bold technical solutions. They are equipped with one, two or even three bowls. In addition, they are made with one or two wings, an automatic valve, the sinks are equipped with holes for overflowing water, a waste grinder, an additional tap for filtered water and much more are installed on them. For comfortable use, it is recommended to choose sinks with a depth of approximately 18 cm.
To decide which sink for the kitchen to choose, you should first choose its shape.
Classic rectangular or square sink
Such forms have remained popular for more than a dozen years. Classic sinks do not necessarily look boring. The use of a variety of materials and techniques for their manufacture give them a fairly respectable and modern look. Typically, such sinks have the following dimensions: 50 × 60 cm, 60 × 60 cm, 80 × 60 cm, 100 x 60 cm, 120 × 60 cm.
Round or oval sinks
The oval shape of the sinks is now increasingly in demand. They look very beautiful, are perfectly placed in the corner ends, have good roominess, are very convenient to care for, since they do not have corners in which dirt accumulates.
Which sink for the kitchen to choose - round or square, depends on the taste and preferences of the hostess.
Two, three bowl sinks
These are very popular and functional sinks. For example, dishes can be washed in one of the bowls, and vegetables and fruits in the second. In some cases, sinks are made with one large full bowl and a second, smaller in size and depth. Also, their triple versions are popular, consisting of two large bowls and a small one, located in the middle. The appearance of these sinks is quite presentable. There is also a combined form of bowls. For example, the main sink for the kitchen is made square, and the additional - round, semicircular, triangular, etc. However, this option has one drawback - a rather high price, which, however, is justified, and it’s not a pity to pay for such a wonderful kitchen “helper” .
Often the question arises as to which sink to choose for the kitchen - with or without a wing. Wings - an additional work surface to the right or left of the sink. If the wing is between the hob and the sink, it can also be used as a stand for hot pots and pans. If the choice is “one-winged”, you need to clearly know which side you can install the wing on your worktop. Reversible models are produced, the installation of which is performed both on the right and on the left. These models do not have openings for installing the mixer, it must be done independently or the mixer should be fixed to the tabletop.
Other forms of sinks
These sinks are not common and use them either in the presence of limited space, or their unusual shape becomes an adornment of a non-standard room. For example, a triangular sink can ideally fit into the corner of the cabinet and not take up too much space in a small kitchen, and the installation of a huge sink in the shape of the moon is a unique element of a bold design decision.
So, we examined what forms a sink for a kitchen can have. Which one to choose from is a personal matter for everyone.
Material for sinks
If you have decided on the shape, you should choose the material for the sink, consider what its qualities are more important to you: beauty, grace, increased wear resistance, etc. We suggest that you consider all the advantages and disadvantages of modern materials in order to finally determine which sink is better for the kitchen which one to choose from the most popular and common options.
Stainless steel sinks
This is the most popular option to date. Most often, stainless steel sinks are bought in the kitchen by families who prefer a modern style. The main advantage of this type of plumbing is reasonable cost. In addition, the additional advantages of washing stainless steel:
- Good ductility. If suddenly a plate or other household item accidentally falls into such a sink, it may well remain intact.
- Resistant to shock and corrosion. These qualities of a stainless steel sink allow her to preserve her beauty for many years.
- Various shapes and sizes. You can choose the right option for any size of the kitchen.
- Easy to care. Cleaning such plumbing can be done by any harsh means. Since the surface structure is non-porous, the dirt in it does not linger. This makes it possible to maintain the aesthetics of the sink for a long period of time.
This type of sinks has only one drawback - it is noise. But at present, you can buy a fairly quiet stainless steel sink, which has a layer of sound absorber.
Sinks are stamped and welded, the latter are more expensive, but differ in their strength. Welded stainless steel sinks come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Stainless sinks can have the following surface types:
- Glossy. A sink decorated with a relief pattern looks especially effective. However, such models need careful maintenance. After each use, the polished surface must be wiped dry.
- Matte. Such sinks also have a different texture. But caring for them is simpler.
When buying a stainless steel sink, you need to remember that a magnet will not be attracted to real stainless steel.
Sinks made of artificial stone
For those who prefer the classic style in the interior, the best option is a stone sink for the kitchen. Natural stone sinks cannot be purchased at the store. Stone sinks are mainly made of quartz sand and marble chips to order.
Artificial stone sinks have a number of advantages:
- They are highly durable. In order to scratch such a sink, to prick or break, it will take a lot of effort.
- Sinks are resistant to chemicals and resistant to very low and high temperatures.
- Sinks have an aesthetic appearance. They can be made of any color. The design of the sink made of artificial stone can emphasize the sophistication of the kitchen and become its real decoration.
The disadvantages of this option:
- The high cost of sinks.
- Granite has a porous structure, so it absorbs odors and dirt.
- These sinks are made of agglomerate and acrylic stone, which is rather capricious and is capable of being damaged under the influence of high temperature.
Ceramic sinks
Ordinary ceramics is not the best material for the production of kitchen sinks, for this reason they are made from porcelain stoneware, which has high strength and resistance to temperature and mechanical influences.
One of the main advantages of ceramic sinks is their noiselessness. In addition, they have a rather stylish design, due to which sinks can harmoniously fit into the classic kitchen.
Those who decide to opt for a ceramic sink for the kitchen, it is recommended that you ask for help when installing it, since these sinks are heavy, which greatly complicates their installation. Another drawback of these sinks is their price, which exceeds the cost of stainless steel five or more times.
So, we examined what material the kitchen sink is made of, which one to choose (photo examples are designed to help with this) - you decide.
Sink installation
Which sink for the kitchen to choose: invoice, mortise or integrated?
- Laid on sink. They put it on a separate kitchen cabinet with no top, replacing it with a countertop.
- The sink for the mortise kitchen is mounted in a specially cut hole for it in the countertop, and it rests with the sides on its surface. The kit includes a special rubber seal. Mortise sink for the kitchen can be installed in any surface, and on their own.
- Integrated sinks are installed either on a level with a countertop or below it. Such a “recessed” sink is almost invisible, and its depth is slightly increased.
Which sink for the kitchen to choose: reviews
A sink is an indispensable attribute in every kitchen. Their assortment is huge. Which sink for the kitchen to choose? Reviews are very different, depending on the preferences of the owners. But the most important thing is that it harmoniously coexists in shape and color with the surrounding kitchen items, such as furniture, technical appliances. In addition, it should be moderately roomy and easy to use.