Understanding the Different Types of Kitchen Sinks

Sasha Ferguson
Sasha Ferguson

The kitchen is a very important part of the house, since it is where mostly the members of the whole family meet and exchange stories, discuss about things, and simply talk about what interests them. The kitchen sink is one of the essential parts of the kitchen and in the whole house that is taken for granted, but in fact, the kitchen sink is the most valuable portion of the kitchen. It is where the kitchen utensils are being washed off, where hands are cleaned, water is taken, and other important usage. Without the kitchen sink, the kitchen is not a kitchen in much sense.

Since the kitchen sink is used more often compared to any other items in the kitchen, it is crucial to choose the best kitchen sink that is durable, and fits the theme of the kitchen design.

Kitchen Sinks Segmented By Shape and Attachment Method

Farmhouse Kitchen Sink  
Undermount kitchen sink    
Drop-in kitchen sink    
Bar Sink    
Corner sink    
Drainboard Kitchen Sink    
Single Bowl Sink    
Double Basin/Bowl Sink    
Low Divider Double Basin Sink  
Integrated Sink    

Farmhouse Kitchen Sink

The farmhouse kitchen sink is most commonly known as the apron sink, where the front of the sink extends over the counter’s edge. It is easier to wash dishes and pots using the farmhouse sink because the washer does not need to make effort to lean over the countertop, but can relax and do the dishes without worrying about the height and overextending to do the task. This type of sink is definitely suitable for people with back pains.

Undermount kitchen sink

The undermount sinks are connected to the counter’s bottom area using special clips or glue. This type of sink does not have any rims, lips, or exposed edges, therefore it is quite easy to seep the water and crumbs using a sponge into the sink. It is easy to clean, and they look seamless.

Drop-in kitchen sink

Drop-in sink or top mount sink or self-rimming is the opposite of undermount sink. This type of sink is easy to install, as it only needs to be installed on top of a counter, which in result creates a rim or a lip around the kitchen sink. The drop-in method is great for added support for the sink, and no need to attach the sink to the counter’s bottom.

Bar sink

Bar sink or prep sink or island sink is mostly used in small kitchens or in a bar, since it is small in size, and is used mostly to quickly wash off fruits or simply rinse some small items. It is not really for washing many dishes or pots.

Corner sink

Corner sinks are mounted on the corner portion of the counter, with two basins being set apart. This style is good for saving space on the kitchen’s counter. 

Drainboard Kitchen Sink

A drainboard sink is a combination of a small basin and a counter-level drain board on either side. The drainboard contains a lip that easily traps water and it flows back to the sink.

Single Bowl Sink

Single bowl sinks are used for kitchens that have small spaces. It has no drying area, and can be used by one person at a time only.

Double Basin/Bowl Sink

The multi-purpose double bowl sink has to equal-sized basins.

Low Divider Double Basin Sink

A low divider sink is actually a double sink with the difference that this type has a divide that rise only to the middle part of the sink, not to the top. This is a perfect combination of a single and double basin sink.

Integrated Sink

Integral sinks or integrated sinks are solid sinks that are molded with the same materials that are used for the counter. Both are made together, and there is a seamless flow between the counter and the sink.

Materials to Consider When Looking for Kitchen Sinks

Copper    
Cast Iron    
Fireclay    
Granite Composite    
Stainless Steel   
Native Stone (Concrete)    
Solid Surface    

Copper

It has natural rust-resisting anti-microbial properties that are amazing for a rustic look.

Cast Iron

It is stain resistant, durable, the porcelain finish gives many options for varying colors for the design.

Fireclay

Highly durable material that can survive heavy usage. It is resistant to stains, scratches, chirping, alkali, and acid. This is very heavy, but it easy to clean.

Granite Composite

Contains nonporous materials that allow the sinks to stay clean, and are resistant to scratches, alkali solutions, household acids, and stains.

Stainless Steel

Is a durable material that can last for 30 years, and is resistant to heat and stains. This is a practical choice for a kitchen material sink since stainless steels are more affordable than other materials, but their price does not sacrifice the quality of the product.

Native Stone (Concrete)

Composed of natural cement and jute fiber, and is eco-friendly. The advanced nano sealer blends well with the concrete’s molecules.

Solid Surface 

The sink can be unified with the counter, or both can be created together, using the same materials.