Few people like to wash dishes, but you can make this job easier if you choose the right sink. The choice of this product will depend on various factors: the style of the kitchen interior, the size of the room, the number of people living in the house, and so on.
A good sink should not only be attractive in appearance, but also comfortable and functional. The comfort of the housewife during cooking will depend on the convenience of such a product. In addition, a high-quality sink will serve faithfully for a long time.
Modern manufacturers offer a huge selection of kitchen sinks: round, square, oval, with one or more bowls, made from a variety of materials. To choose the most suitable model, it is necessary to take into account such product characteristics as shape, size, material, type. It is also worth listening to some expert advice.
Which sink to choose for the kitchen
There are these basic types of kitchen sinks.
A single-bowl sink is the simplest and most compact model, which is suitable for kitchens with a small work surface. Most often made in a rectangular shape, it is quite roomy and comfortable. However, a round single-bowl kitchen sink will be even more spacious.
Double kitchen sink (with two or more bowls) - such models are installed in one line, or at an angle to the tap.
Corner sink - it is used if a corner set is installed in the room. This model consists of two small bowls in the shape of a rectangle. The space between them serves as a working surface.
One and a half sink - this design includes two bowls of different sizes. The larger bowl is used to wash dishes, and the smaller bowl is used to defrost and wash food. An ideal option for a small kitchen where it is impossible to install a massive sink.
Sink with wing(s) - this model is like a continuation of the work surface. Washed dishes, hot pots and pans, and other containers are stored on the wing. Excess water flows from them through a special hole directly into the sink.
Kitchen sinks also differ from each other in the type of installation.
A built-in sink is a well-deserved option. This model can be installed with your own hands, without the help of a specialist. It is suitable for countertops made of any materials, is quite high quality and durable.
Overhead sink - to install it, you need a separate kitchen cabinet; such a sink will replace the countertop. You can install it yourself, but during operation, splashes of water may get into the space between the washbasin itself and the cabinet.
Integrated sink - the side of this model is located at the same level as the countertop, or slightly higher. You will have to call a specialist to install it. This type of sink fits harmoniously into different kitchen interiors.
Undermount sink - the sink is installed slightly below the level of the countertop (most often the countertop itself is made of natural stone). This model is very easy to care for, it does not hide the attractiveness of the countertop and is very hygienic to use.
Types of sinks due to material of manufacture
Kitchen sinks are made from a variety of materials, and while they may look great at first glance, they are not as durable or strong. When deciding to purchase a specific sink model, we must check what materials it is made of.
The price does not always reflect the quality of the product. So, let's see what materials kitchen sinks are made of and what their specific features are.
Advantages and disadvantages of sinks made from different materials
When choosing a model, it is necessary to take into account not only the size of the kitchen sink, but also its material. The most popular materials used in the production of modern sinks: artificial stone, stainless steel, ceramics. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Stainless steel sinks - perhaps this material is the most common in the manufacture of sinks. Manufacturers offer comfortable sinks with a matte surface, or glossy, and even with various images on them.
The advantages of the product are the following: beautiful and neat appearance, low price, resistance to corrosion, the ability to install it yourself. Unfortunately, this model also has some disadvantages - for example, when water gets on its surface, a lot of noise is produced. The most common choice is stainless steel corner sinks.
Advice! To make sure that the sink is really made of high-quality material that will last a long time, you should check it with a regular magnet - if the surface is of high quality, the magnet will slide over it easily.
Ceramic sinks are attractive products that will decorate any kitchen. They can be snow-white or colored, with or without patterns. They go well with classic interior styles, look elegant and expensive. The advantages of such models are their resistance to household chemicals and hot water. They are not afraid of scratches and do not require special care.
The disadvantages of a kitchen sink include its considerable weight, some difficulties during installation, increased fragility, and the possibility of cracks and chips.
A sink made of stone - such a product will look luxurious and respectable in any interior. This is a very high-quality sink that can last for many years without losing its visual appeal. Its main advantages: no need for special care, resistance to sunlight, noiselessness. This material is not afraid of hot water and detergents.
The range of stone sinks is very wide. Perhaps the only drawback of such a sink is its high cost. However, this price is quite justified.
The sink is made of a composite material - it consists of approximately 80% stone chips, the remaining 20% is a special polymer composition that binds the material. A sink made of composite material perfectly absorbs water noise, it is made in a variety of colors, and can last for several decades.
This sink is not afraid of high temperatures and does not require special care. The disadvantages include the high cost of the product and its considerable weight.
How to choose a kitchen sink in 5 simple steps
Choosing the shape and size of the sink - you need to take into account the size of the kitchen, its layout, as well as the style of the interior. A round stainless steel kitchen sink is good because it is easier to clean, since it has no corners. In addition, this model is more spacious compared to the rectangular one, but it is rarely made with additional sections.
There are also sinks of non-standard shapes: triangular (great for saving space), pentagonal and hexagonal (mounted along the walls or in the corner, they are very spacious). It is important to choose the size of the sink so that the distance from the wall to its side is about 5 cm. As for the depth of the bowl, the best option is from 16 to 20 cm.
It is necessary to compare all types of materials (ceramics, stainless steel, artificial stone, composite material). Each of them has its own characteristics and unique characteristics. For example, the most affordable and easy to install is a stainless steel sink. The most bulky and expensive model is made of stone or ceramics. When choosing a sink, you should immediately decide on the number of sections. If the work area in the kitchen is small, then you should avoid a sink with two or more bowls. A round bowl mounted in the corner of the work surface is much better suited.
The method of installing the sink is also important. For modular furniture, overhead sinks are ideal because they are easy to install. When arranging a kitchen in an exclusive design, you can choose a built-in model that is mounted flush with the countertop - this work should be entrusted to a professional craftsman.
When the choice of sink is completed and the final decision is made, it is necessary to select all the accessories for this model. These include: a filter for water purification, an additional tap, a food scraper (disposer), a dryer, colanders for washing, board buckets, and so on.
Tip: When choosing a sink, you should give preference to a model with a rough surface, as scratches will be less noticeable on it.
What types of sink installation are there?
When choosing an installation method, pay attention to its complexity, as well as the design features of the kitchen unit and the general style of the room. The choice of option depends on the personal preferences of the owner, the size of the kitchen, and the furniture model.
Get to know the existing types of installations:
- The overhead sink is mounted on a free-standing module in the form of a cabinet, without entering the common work area. It is advisable that all furniture be the same height. Convenient type for corner kitchen layout. It is easy to do it yourself. The downside is the gaps between the cabinets, which can allow water to get in.
- The mortise type can be mounted instead of a tabletop. The one-piece product is distinguished by its quality, protection from damage and the penetration of contaminants. Installed with standard furniture fasteners.
- The under-table option is mounted under the countertop, diversifying the design, allowing you to observe the beauty of the material, often made of natural stone, in cross-section. This sink is easy to use and maintains hygiene at a high level.
- The integrated type of sink is mounted at the level of the countertop, thereby creating a single surface with the work area. It is difficult to install and requires the services of an experienced technician. But the interior is created chic, incredibly attractive, taking into account fashionable design trends.
Choosing a kitchen sink by manufacturer
The leaders in the production of kitchen sinks are currently Italian, Dutch, Spanish and German companies. They have gained popularity due to the high quality of the products they offer. They produce both traditional and original sink models. The most popular brands: Villeroy&Boch, Florentina, Smeg, TEKA, Foster, Longran, Blanco, Ukinox, Schock, Polygran, Alveus, Reginox.
Consumers have the opportunity to purchase from the smallest sinks to large sinks with one or more bowls. The choice of materials is also large, and the cost of products ranges from the lowest to the highest price.
When choosing a sink, it is recommended to carefully examine it from all sides in daylight, looking for small scratches, chips or other defects. Slowly run your hand over the entire surface of the sink to make sure it is smooth. You also need to make sure that the product fits the existing parameters of the working surface. The sink should be attractive in appearance and of high quality.
A competent approach to choosing a design solution for a sink
There are sink models equipped with more than one bowl. There may be two, three or more. Of course, this is very convenient, because you can wash vegetables in one, dishes in another, and defrost food in a third. The question is whether such a structure will fit in your space. Therefore, base your choice on the area of the room.
Choosing a sink for a small kitchen
A small kitchen goes very well with a corner sink. Thanks to the ergonomics of the corner set, there is a good opportunity to arrange the most convenient and familiar work triangle for every housewife, consisting of a stove, sink and refrigerator, providing quick access to household appliances, work surfaces and other equipment.
A rectangular sink for a small kitchen is also suitable - the main thing is to choose a model with one bowl that will not take up much space. Manufacturers offer special narrow sinks for small kitchens.
Based on the color scheme, it is recommended to choose light shades - this could be a white sink for a compact kitchen, or a metallic color model. A black sink for a kitchen of this size is also suitable, but the countertop of the work surface must be light.
What should the color of the sink go with?
- Tabletop. The shade of the sink can be matched to the color of the countertop or several shades lighter or darker. It can also act as a bright accent, standing out noticeably against the background of the work surface. Consider pairing a white countertop with a red sink, or a black stone countertop with a contrasting white sink.
- Kitchen set. White cabinet fronts will harmonize with the snow-white finish of the sink against the background of a brown or black countertop. Blue facades and sink will be combined with a white work surface. White and green drawer doors in a checkerboard pattern allow you to install both green and light green. It is also worth considering the shades of the eating area.
- General color scheme of the kitchen. The main rule that most designers use is the concept of three colors. A larger number will already create an atmosphere of clutter and disorder. Determine 3 main shades in a 60:30:10 combination. For example, if the kitchen walls are painted white, select similar appliances and plumbing accessories, arrange brown facades and the dining area and dilute everything by 10 percent with bright light green textiles. The color of the sink should be in harmony with all interior details: fabric surfaces, kitchen units (facades and countertops), decor, wall, ceiling, and floor finishes.
- Technique. Selecting kitchen appliances and sinks in the same color creates a complete, unobtrusive picture. The most common option is a metal or white surface. A light-colored refrigerator, a light-colored mixer, a similar kettle and a food processor will breathe cleanliness and freshness into the kitchen. A gray metallic tone can create a full-fledged high-tech, loft, minimalism or modern style. Although, appliances and sinks in blue, plum, and yellow colors will also create an unusual atmosphere, but choosing the same tone for all components is not an easy task.
Choosing a kitchen sink by color
White sinks are the most popular among consumers. This product fits perfectly into any interior; it goes well with all types of countertops - a white sink looks especially advantageous against a black countertop.
The advantage of a white sink is that it does not require special care, since handprints and splash marks are almost invisible on the surface of the product, unlike a dark-colored sink. A white kitchen sink is an enamel or ceramic product that never goes out of style.
However, light-colored sinks also have some disadvantages - they are susceptible to impacts and mechanical damage such as scratches. However, with careful use, the product will last a long time without losing its visual appeal.
A black kitchen sink looks original, elegant and expensive. The dark shade is universal, so it can be successfully combined with different interior styles - both modern and classic. On the surface of a black sink, scratches and other mechanical damage are less visible, but fingerprints and splash marks are more visible.
As a rule, only the highest quality and most expensive materials are used for the manufacture of such products - natural stone, composite material. Unlike metal sinks, they never rust, do not develop plaque, and can last for a very long time.
For such a sink, you should choose the appropriate frame - it could be a countertop made of expensive tiles, solid wood, or stone. Faucets and steel accessories must also be of high quality and expensive.
What shade should I choose for my countertop?
Black is a color that goes with any shade and finish. However, when choosing a tabletop, we advise you to resort to a beautiful and very relevant technique - in the same shade as the set.
Design: Snaidero
Design: Snaidero
Design: Fisher & Paykel
Design: Fisher & Paykel
White, gray and other shades of kitchens with a black countertop (photo) or apron are a good alternative to total-black spaces if a black set seems too bold a solution, but you want to complement the interior with several dominant dark spots.
Design: Albert Baghdasaryan
Design: Albert Baghdasaryan
