While the look of your kitchen does matter when choosing a sink, you should also think about what your needs are. See our guide to the sizes and styles available.
With so many styles available, here’s what you need to know how to choose the right kitchen sink:
Ceramic
Ceramic sinks are chemical, stain and heat resistant, but can chip easily and should be dried after use to avoid limescale marks. Many come in the Belfast style (below).
Classic kitchen workstation, £445, Brass and Traditional Sinks
Stainless steel
Steel cleans well with ordinary detergent - but scratches easily, so avoid scourers and neat bleach. Buffing with a dry cloth after use will help maintain the finish and avoid limescale build-up. Comes in a variety of designs – from circular to square.
VQ40FN sink, £329, Smeg
Composite
Composite sinks are made from rock or quartz crystals and resin, and are resistant to scratches, stains, heat, chemicals and colour-fading. They are easy to clean with normal detergents and water, and come in a range of colours and designs.
Lausanne sink, £321, Astracast
Corian
Corian is a solid surface material that’s stain-resistant and durable. It can be formed into any shape so can be used to create a sink that joins seamlessly to the worktop. Available in over 70 colours, it’s easy to clean with soapy water.
Corian sink, £300 per linear m, Corian
Copper and wood
These are unusual options. Copper sinks develop their own patina with age, but you can seal them to maintain your chosen finish. Teak is the most popular choice for wood sinks as its natural oils repel water.
Etienne copper sink, £1,250, The Eclectica Partnership
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are actually very easy to maintain. Like other household fixtures, sinks can attract dirt and dust if not maintained regularly. You just need to have some household materials and an ounce of patience to keep your sinks maintained for a long time.
There are some things to avoid when maintaining your stainless steel kitchen sink. Here are some examples:
• Do not allow soaps, detergents, or any other cleansing agent to dry on your kitchen sink.
• Do not leave anything that is wet on your sinks. Avoid putting dishpans, rubber mats, cleaning pads, cloth, or sponges that can leave water on your kitchen fixtures.
• A silver cleaner is NEVER used with a stainless steel.
• Always rinse the sink with running water every after use.
• Do not let bleach sit in your sink for a long time. Bleach can permanently damage your fixtures by leaving hard spots on it.
• Never use abrasive materials on your stainless steel kitchen sink. These things include steel wool, some types of powders, and anything that has a metallic element on it.
Daily maintenance is required by your kitchen fixtures. Every time you use the sink, you must ensure removal of soap after dishwashing. Drying the sink afterwards is also another priority. Be responsible to your kitchen fixtures and you’ll be sure to have a long-lasting sink in your homes.