Kitchen 101: How to Select the Right Sink for Your Lifestyle

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When you’re in the middle of a kitchen renovation, the last thing you probably want to do is mull over choosing the material of your new sink. When you have cabinets, hardware, tile and lighting to take care of, the kitchen sink seems menial in comparison. You just want one that works, right? The good news is that we’ve compiled a mini-guide for you to take a peek at when you’re finally asked the question, “So what do you want to do about the sink?” Read on for a no-fuss guide to choosing the perfect sink for your brand new kitchen.

1. Copper: Promotes a Healthy Environment

copper kitchen sink

Did you know that copper is a naturally antimicrobial finish? Copper sinks are the perfect solution to the kitchen that deals with heavy traffic, kids, pets and parties. This type of finish is also a cinch to clean and requires little day-to-day maintenance. Should you be in the market for something au natural, copper also ages really beautifully, hinting at a slight patina over the years. The only downside to a copper finish? It does tend to warp if you use boiling hot water often. A solution to this problem is to ask for a particularly thick copper finish that will withstand several years of pasta water and washing dishes. Prolong the beauty of your copper sink by keeping abrasive plates, bowls and glasses out of the sink and stowed in the dishwasher. The copper sink style looks beautiful in a contemporary home because of its metallic sheen, but it can also be completely classic when added to a traditional setting.

2. Stainless Steel: The Popular Option

Stainless steel kitchen sink

Strong and durable, the stainless steel sink is to kitchens as porcelain is to bathrooms. Stainless steel is a great option for the homeowner looking to match their appliances, promote a clean and sleek space or simply choose a sink that is relatively hassle-free. The stainless steel sink is also very sanitary, making it an ideal choice for washing dishes, small pets and dirty hands. Before you officially decide on this style, though, note that stainless steel is very prone to scratches. Luckily, most scuffs can be buffed out with a little elbow grease. This style works in nearly all homes, especially those with other stainless steel appliances like refrigerators and ranges.

3. Cast Iron with Porcelain Enamel: The Strong Solution

Porcelain kitchen sink

If you need more durability than copper and more scratch resistance than steel, take a look at cast iron sinks coated in porcelain enamel. Beautiful and strong, this sink is a great alternative to the materials mentioned above and then some. It’s heat resistant, so it won’t warp or bend, and it’s non-porous, meaning little scratches and scuffs are virtually non-existent. Other features include resistance to chipping and cracking, perfect for the avid chef who uses their sink often. Cast-iron sinks featuring porcelain enamel are beautiful and simplistic. They can be the star of a minimalist kitchen or one with a neutral color palette.

While these are our top three choices for kitchen sinks, we encourage you to do a little research of your own before making a final decision. Look at other options like granite and porcelain, as these styles have similar qualities to our favorites mentioned above. What are you looking for in your kitchen sink?

To see more kitchen sink options, visit The Home Depot.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
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Kerrie Kelly

Kerrie Kelly is an award-winning interior designer in California.She’s the founder of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab and the author of Home Decor: A Sunset Design Guide.

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