In the kitchen, there are many different kitchen sink types available for purchase. These include both kitchen sinks that are under the counter and sinks that are not. Here, we will go over some of the most popular sink types and their benefits and drawbacks. Then, let’s take a closer look at some other common types of sinks and see which might be best for your home.
Kitchen Sink Types
Some of the kitchen’s most popular types of sinks are under-counter-mounted sinks, recessed sink designs, pedestal sinks, and drop-in or farmhouse sinks.
Single Bowl Sinks
Single-bowl sinks can be found in two different styles, one is a single basin sink with the drain coming out the front, and another is a single bowl kitchen sink with the drain coming out the back. The benefits of this type of design are that it has simple lines and it looks sleek.
However, there are some disadvantages to this design. For example, dishes will not fit well inside or wash properly because there is only one basin.
The other disadvantage to this type of sink is that it does not offer much functional space since there is no division between the basin. As such, dishes may block each other during washing.
Double basin Sinks
Double basin kitchen sinks are a popular choice for many homeowners because they offer a lot of space and allow dishes to fit comfortably. This type of sink has two basins, one on either side with a divider in between for more practical use.
The main advantage of double bowl sinks is that it offers much more room than any other kind meaning that dishes will not be blocking each other. However, these double bowl sinks do come with some disadvantages as well.
One disadvantage is that there are two bowls which means you will need to be extra careful when washing dishes not to overflow into the other basin. Another disadvantage is that while this type of sink looks sleek, it can be challenging to fit into small spaces.
Triple Basin Sinks
A triple basin sink is an excellent option for larger kitchens. It has three basins, two main ones on either side and a third in the middle, which can be used as an additional prep bowl for garbage or to fill with extra water for washing dishes.
The main benefit of this type of sink is that it allows for more room when working with dishes, and it also comes in handy when cleaning more oversized items like pots and pans.
However, if you are looking for a sink primarily used for washing dishes, this might not be the best option because it takes up quite a bit of space.
Recessed sinks
Another popular style is the recessed sink which comes in a few different designs. The main difference between this and other types of sinks is that they are installed below the countertop for an elegant look.
Recessed sinks are designed to be built into the countertop, making it more challenging to install them; they are not recommended for DIY projects. They usually come with one large basin and no dividers, like under-counter-mounted sinks, but they are less expensive because recessed sinks require significantly less work to install.
Pedestal sinks
Pedestal sinks are commonly used in public bathrooms but can also be found in the kitchen. These types of sinks have one sizeable central basin and do not require a countertop to install them, making them popular choices for homeowners who want their sink installed as high as possible, so they don’t have to bend over as far.
Top Mount Sinks
Top mount sinks are a good choice for homeowners who want their sink to be low and away from the wall. However, these types of sinks require a hole in the countertop and then an additional hole drilled into the bottom of the countertop for plumbing access. This type of design is also not recommended for DIY projects because it is difficult to install and requires more work than other types of sinks.
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks are a popular choice for homeowners because they are installed under the countertop and can be placed in small spaces. In addition, these types of sinks often come with one basin and no dividers, which is one of the main benefits of this design.
A disadvantage to this type of kitchen sink is that it needs to be screwed onto the countertop, meaning that it is not easily removed or replaced like other types of kitchen sinks. This is a significant disadvantage if you want to replace your countertops in the future because it would require much more work than any other type of sink.
Some under-counter-mounted sinks come with a predrilled hole and can be attached to the countertop during installation, eliminating the need to drill a hole yourself. However, to keep this design as simple as possible, there is usually only one basin and no division between them; not all dishes will fit comfortably in the kitchen sink.
Self-rimming Sinks
Self-rimming sinks are easy to install because there is no need for any extra drilling on the countertop. This type of sink has one large basin with an overflow drain which helps prevent flooding, but it does mean that there will be some water on the countertop.
Self-rimming sinks are a great choice because they do not require extra installation and can be easily removed and replaced if the homeowner decides to switch models. However, a disadvantage of this type of kitchen sink is that water can spill out onto the countertop, so you will need to wipe up spills as soon as they happen.
Farmhouse Apron Sinks
Farmhouse apron sinks are almost identical to drop-in sinks, except they sit much lower and offer much less space underneath them for storage because the bottom of the sink is closer to surface level. A farmhouse sink allows homeowners to create a more open feel in their kitchen and often comes with a backsplash so that water doesn’t splatter onto walls behind it.
Related: Apron Sink vs Farmhouse Sink
Island Sinks
An island sink is another kitchen sink option that allows homeowners to add more storage and countertop space to their kitchen. The sink sits low, and there is usually no backsplash, so it doesn’t block the view of cabinets behind it. Many homeowners choose this type of sink because they need extra countertop space, and an island gives them the option to add additional seating, like stools or a bar.
Prep Sink
Prep sinks are similar to island sinks, but they are usually larger and sit higher off of the ground with a backsplash for added protection. These sinks are great because they provide an extra workstation in the kitchen that requires minimal installation. It is worth noting that these types of sinks usually come with two basins instead of one.
Kitchen Sink Material
There are several kitchen sink materials when it comes to choosing a kitchen sink. Ceramic and natural stone are two trendy materials that can add a touch of elegance to any kitchen. But there are so many others.
Natural Stone
There are many types of material in the natural stone family, but perhaps the most popular kitchen sinks made from this material are marble or solid granite. Kitchen sinks made with natural stone are durable and come in many different colors, patterns, and styles. Unfortunately, natural stone is one of the most expensive kitchen sink materials; it is also not very resilient to scratches or stains.
Other types of natural stones that can make a great addition to any kitchen include marble, limestone, travertine, soapstone, slate, and onyx.
Ceramic
Another popular material for sinks is ceramic because it is inexpensive, easy to clean, and comes in a wide variety of styles and colors. The main disadvantage of this type of sink is that it is highly likely to be damaged by impact, so heavy pots can chip or break the surface if they are dropped.
Many other types of materials can be used to make a kitchen sink, but some of these options are not as durable and may require extra installation.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel is an excellent material for kitchen sinks. This is because the sound of running water won’t be muffled by the stainless steel, unlike in braiser-style sinks.
Stainless steel sinks are also resistant to scratches, meaning that they will retain their look for years. The only downside to stainless steel sinks is that the surface needs to be wiped off or rinsed regularly, or it can develop food stains.
Stainless sinks come in different gauges, meaning that some stainless steel sinks will be thicker and more durable while others will be thinner. Thinner sinks may not be as stable as a kitchen sink made from a higher gauge metal.
Benefits of Stainless Sinks
As previously mentioned, stainless steel holds up well against scratches. Stainless steel is also easy to maintain- wipe it down after use, and you won’t have to worry about food sticking to the surface. They are often a double bowl sink top mount sink.
Disadvantages of stainless sinks
Some people don’t like stainless steel because they find that the sound of water running through it is too loud and distracting. Stainless steel also tends not to be as comfortable for washing dishes; some people prefer a kitchen sink with a raised edge to prevent water from spilling over the side.
Pros and cons of stainless steel kitchen sinks
Pros: Stainless steel is resistant to scratches, easy to clean, doesn’t absorb odors, won’t scratch dishes
Cons: Stainless steel can show water stains when not wiped down often enough
Pure Granite Sinks
Pure granite sinks are another trending kitchen sink style that is becoming much more popular. Granite has antimicrobial properties that make it resistant to stains and bacteria, so it doesn’t need much maintenance. Food particles won’t stick to the surface either, making it easier for homeowners to clean up after meals in the kitchen sink.
The only downside of pure granite sinks is that they tend to be more expensive than other kitchen sink options. Som
Pros and cons of granite kitchen sinks
Pros: Stain-resistant, easy to clean, doesn’t absorb odors, antimicrobial
Cons: Granite sink bowls are pricier than other options
Granite composite kitchen sinks
Granite sinks are made up of natural stone and resin. The kitchen sink is molded using pressure and heat to form the composite material. They are not cheap, but they provide a beautiful appearance that will last for years.
The sink’s surface looks like natural granite but won’t scratch or crack as easily as other stone materials. In addition, these sinks come in a large variety of colors to choose from and don’t require as much maintenance as traditional granite.
Benefits of Granite kitchen sinks
Granite composite kitchen sinks are very durable. They can withstand any cooking utensil without scratching the surface. The color remains rich without fading, so it will look great for years to come. The sleek design of this kitchen sink is also attractive.
Disadvantages of Granite composite kitchen sinks
One of the main disadvantages of granite composite kitchen sinks is that they are heavy, making them difficult to install. This can be a problem when it comes to remodeling because they may need expensive modifications to work in the designated area.
Pros and cons of Granite composite kitchen sinks
Pros: Durable, water-resistant, easy to clean
Cons: May be difficult to find a matching color
Quartz Sinks
Quartz is a highly durable material that will never scratch, and it is resistant to bacteria and stains. There is also an extensive range of designs and colors. In addition, quartz sinks will never need to be replaced because they won’t ever scratch off. It’s also easy to clean, which means there’s less of a chance for bacteria or food particles to cling to the surface.
The only downside of quartz kitchen sinks is that they are expensive. They also take longer than most other materials to heat up when in use, so it may take a while for the kitchen sink to cool down before you can wash dishes.
Pros and cons of Quartz kitchen sinks
Pros: Durable, water-resistant, easy to clean, doesn’t absorb odors
Cons: Expensive, takes longer to heat up than other materials
Soapstone Sinks
Soapstone sinks are natural stones that come in different colors. Their durability is comparable to granite composite sinks, but they are lighter in weight. They do not scratch, stain, or absorb odors; they also require little maintenance for care.
Pros of Soapstone kitchen sinks
Soapstone is one of the most durable materials on the market. It resists staining and will never scratch no matter what you put it through. Although soapstone kitchen sinks have a few disadvantages, they have a lot more to offer than other materials on the market because this material stands up to wear and tear.
Cons of Soapstone kitchen sinks
Although soapstone sink has a lot to offer from a beauty perspective, it does have a few disadvantages. First, they are expensive and take longer to heat up before use. This means that if you’re in a rush, it may be difficult to wash dishes without waiting for the kitchen sink to cool down first.
Corian Kitchen Sinks
The surface of this type of kitchen sink is made out of Corian, which is a type of acrylic polymer that resists scratches and stains. Corian has a hard surface that makes it difficult for small objects to stick to the surface. This is an excellent material for families with little children or for people who don’t want to deal with scrubbing stuck-on food from their sink.
Benefits of Corian kitchen sinks
The most attractive thing about Corian is that it resists scratches and stains, so you won’t have to worry about scrubbing the sink every day. In addition, they give a modern look to a kitchen island or countertop surface.
One downside to Corian sinks is that they are very hard and can be challenging to clean with some materials. Some people also dislike the sound of running water through a Corian sink-the water may be too loud and distracting for some people.
Pros and cons of Corian sinks
Pros: Water-resistant, looks like natural stone, doesn’t scratch easily, long-lasting
Cons: May show watermarks if not wiped down, prone to water stains, not very comfortable for washing dishes
Copper Kitchen Sinks
Copper sinks have a very high quality since they are made out of a material that is naturally antimicrobial. Antimicrobial surfaces will resist the growth of bacteria and other microbes, which means this type of sink is better for preventing infection and illness. The copper also provides for a luxurious look that will make your kitchen stand out. There are some truly beautiful copper farmhouse style sinks.
Benefits of Copper kitchen sinks
Copper sinks typically come with a huge variety of colors to choose from, which helps you match the kitchen design to your character and lifestyle. These types of sinks also tend to cost less than stainless steel or granite composite materials and can be easier to clean.
Disadvantages of Copper Kitchen Sinks
The downside to copper kitchens is that it scratches more easily than other types of sink materials. The stains and scratches will not affect the antimicrobial properties of the sink but may decrease its value and appearance.
Pros and cons of copper sink kitchen
Pros: Resists stains, antibacterial surface, comes in a large variety of colors to choose from
Cons: Scratches easily, not as durable as other materials such as stainless steel
Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks
Cast iron kitchen sinks are heavy and durable with a natural, beautiful texture thanks to the enamel finish. They don’t scratch easily and are very easy to clean. The only downside is that they may require a little more maintenance than other types of sinks since water is absorbed into the material, causing it to rust. These can be cleaned by simply re-oiling the surface.
Benefits of Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks
Cast iron kitchen sinks have a natural beauty and texture that looks great in any home. They also resist scratches and stains well–it’s unlikely that you’ll see any junk stuck to these sinks or visible scratches just from normal cooking use.
Disadvantages of Cast Iron Kitchen Sinks
The most obvious disadvantage of cast iron sinks is that they rust if the enamel ever gets scratched. The other downside is that these types of sinks are very heavy, which can make installation more difficult. They are also more expensive, sometimes costing triple of other sinks in this list.
Pros and cons of cast iron kitchen sinks
Pros: Resists stains well, looks beautiful, easy to clean
Cons: Heavy, more expensive
Porcelain Kitchen Sinks
Porcelain kitchen sinks are made of high-quality ceramic and are usually white or cream-colored. Because porcelain is colorfast and durable, these sinks remain flawless for years. They do not scratch like stainless steel, but they are more expensive than all the other types.
Porcelain sinks are the choice of professionals and homeowners alike that want a sink that will last forever without compromising on looks or functionality.
Benefits of porcelain kitchen sinks
Porcelain is one of the best materials for kitchen sinks because it’s incredibly durable and resists scratches, chips, stains, and corrosion thanks to the porcelain enamel finish. These sinks will look beautiful without any scratches or stains for years and years, and they are very resistant to the chemicals in cleaning products. Porcelain is a great choice if you like white-colored kitchen appliances because it’s more durable than plastic or stainless steel.
Disadvantages of Porcelain Kitchen Sinks
You will definitely pay more for porcelain kitchen sinks compared to most other sink materials. While they are durable, they are also naturally porous and require extra maintenance with special cleaners.
Pros and cons of porcelain kitchen sink
Pros: Gorgeous appearance, will not scratch or corrode, easy to clean, very durable
Cons: Expensive, requires more maintenance
Glass Kitchen Sinks
Glass kitchen sinks are another type of material that is nearly indestructible. This is because it’s made from tempered-glass and anti-corrosive coatings, which protect the sink from chemicals, scratches, and even exploding pots. Glass sinks can absorb less heat than other types of sinks so they’re a good choice for people who prefer cooler water.
Benefits of glass kitchen sinks
You will have a hard time finding a more durable kitchen sink than a tempered glass one. These sinks are almost indestructible and will not scratch or corrode if you use them with heavy-duty cleaning materials weekly. They also look very clean and modern, making them popular in contemporary homes.
Disadvantages of glass kitchen sinks
Glass is very heavy, so it’s not ideal for people who need to move their sink or countertop regularly. It can also be expensive and difficult to clean because water will quickly get trapped in the material. While this won’t cause any problems with your sink itself, it will eventually grow mold and mildew if you don’t wipe up the water after use.
Pros and Cons of Glass Kitchen Sinks
Pros: Clean appearance, extremely durable material
Cons: Expensive, heavy, difficult to clean properly
Fire Clay Sinks
Fireclay sinks are unique because they are made of baked fireclay chunks, then cut with a diamond blade. The beautiful colors of these materials range from black to brown to blue, so you have plenty of options. These sinks ridges can help prevent scratches on the surface for this very reason. They don’t need any special care and can be cleaned like any other kitchen sink.
Benefits of Fire Clay Kitchen Sinks
One of the best things about a fire clay sink is that they are easy to maintain; it will not stain or corrode with regular use and feel smooth against your skin. They also look more traditional than modern sinks and come in many different shapes and sizes.
Disadvantages of Fire Clay Kitchen Sinks
These types of sinks are very heavy and more expensive than porcelain or stainless steel sinks. They can also be challenging to clean because water tends to get stuck in the ridges, so you’ll want to wipe them up right after use.
Pros and Cons of Fireclay Kitchen Sinks
Pros: Clean appearance, smooth surface, resistant to chemicals
Cons: Expensive, heavy, difficult to clean correctly (water leaks into the sink)
Final thoughts about the Best Sink Types for a Kitchen
It’s essential to consider the pros and cons of different types of sinks when you’re shopping for your next kitchen update. Many things can make or break a sink, like how easy it is to clean versus its durability. If you want something that will last long-term in any environment without showing wear and tear, we recommend looking at granite or Corian kitchen sinks; these materials resist scratches and stains with regular use.
However, suppose budget is more important than quality in your home renovation project. In that case, another option may be porcelain or stainless steel material–these won’t scratch as easily and come in lower price points than other options on the market today. The best thing about all these choices? You have plenty from which to choose!
Psst! If you are thinking about renovating, make sure to get our Home Renovation Budget Spreadsheet.