Kitchen Sink Style Guide

If you find yourself researching new kitchen sinks, you are in good company. According to the new market outlook from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), kitchen projects are popular. They rank #1 in 2021 home improvement plans. 

Adding style and improving functionality to your kitchen is simple when you purchase the right sink. But with a large marketplace, how do you know which one to pick? Follow along as we look at the best sink styles, new products, and their benefits. 

How Do You Pick the Right Kitchen Sink?

Here are three factors to consider when you are selecting your kitchen sink: 

1. Identify Your Sinks Primary Use: You may not make a big meal every day, but have you ever taken a day off from using your kitchen sink? With this in mind, consider where you want to put it to make the best use of your time while you are in the kitchen. For example, to make clean up quicker, you can place your sink near the dishwasher. Or, if you cook several meals during the week, it can be essential to position it near the stove. Whatever the decision, turn your stylish new sink is a valuable kitchen asset. 
2. Determine Sink Size and Depth: As a starting point, a standard kitchen sink runs between 22 inches long to 33 inches wide. Despite custom workstations measuring up to 45 inches, a critical dimension for choosing your kitchen sink size begins with the size of the kitchen's base cabinets. It is considering that average cabinets measure 24 inches deep, with a range of 36 to 42 inches high and 25-1/4 to 26 inches wide. These measurements have the standard 22 by 33-inch sink fitting into many modern-day kitchens. A simple way to determine depth is to look at the height of the cabinet that sits under your sink. As a guide, the average sink basin is 8 to 10 inches deep. 
3. Select Your Sink Style: Which shapes and colors are currently in your kitchen design? The answer to these questions and the following insight will help you determine what style is right for you. Kitchen sinks come in three main types: the popular drop-in sink, the efficient undermount sink, and the charming farmhouse sink. The material selection for your sink and countertop play significant roles in which style you choose.

What Type of Kitchen Sink Is Best?

Here is a brief introduction to five best-selling kitchen sinks and their benefits: 

• Drop-in sinks are one of the more easily installed options that remains a popular sink choice. Physically, they drop into a previously cut hole in the countertop while leaving the edge of the sink to be held in place by their weight. 
• Undermount sinks make clean-up quick—a benefit of their under-the-counter installation. 
• Farmhouse and Apron sinks add character with their exposed front and deep bowl. Functionally, they allow for easier cleaning of pots, pans, and oversized items. 
• Workstation Sinks are perfect for the busy kitchen and convert your sink into a prepping area or workspace. Several models include accessories like colanders, cutting boards, drying trays with an integrated ledge. 
• Corner Sinks allow for a longer stretch of the workspace and save counter space which works well in compact kitchens.

Can You Install a Kitchen Sink Yourself?

If you are a successful do-it-yourselfer that understands plumbing, you can expect to spend 4 to 5 hours installing a new kitchen sink. For reference or a refresher Home Depot's video offers step-by-step instructions on how to replace a kitchen sink with a garbage disposal. Pro tip: Start your project early in the day, so if you encounter a delay, the kitchen (and the new sink) will be operational by dinner time. 

For homeowners who do not have time or are more comfortable having a professional product installer assist, Home Advisor has a simple sink install calculator. They also provide links for information on installers in your area.

Based on Home Advisor's 2021 estimates, it costs $399 to install a new sink. Although project prices depend on type and complexity, a custom product installation could cost $1,100 or more.  

Do Smart Kitchen Sinks Exist?

Not really. But, a smart kitchen sink is possible when you combine it with the right faucet and wi-fi. With this combination, the advantages include adjustable water flow, specific water disbursement, and more, all through touchless control. Delta, Kohler, and Moen all now offer innovative kitchen faucets to help you turn on the water even if your hands are full. 

What Are the Best Kitchen Sinks? 

Top-rated brands that will pull together your kitchen include:

• Ruvati Undermount Sink: If you maintain a busy lifestyle, this easy to clean and long-lasting sink is the right choice. The sloped bottom with grooves allows quick and complete water drainage. This brand is also designed with heavy-duty sound guard padding and undercoating to minimize noise.
• Kohler Whitehaven Farmhouse Sink: A perfect fit in the new kitchen looking for an old soul. With durable, elegant, and timeless material, you will love how easy it is to do the dishes and other kitchen tasks in this best-selling sink.
• Versa 45 Workstation Sink: According to their fanbase, this Canadian collection provides a new concept and solution that will transform your sink into the life and soul of the kitchen. With functionality and intelligent design, you can prepare, entertain and clean up in one spot. 
• Kraus Quarza Sink: This unique sink compliments a contemporary design for a hard-working kitchen. The composite delivers a uniform look and is available in a large spectrum of sizes, shapes, and colors for custom kitchens.
• Ticor Steel Corner Kitchen Sink: Corner sinks are the solution to tight spaces in a kitchen. Add more style and functionality by placing the sink cabinet in the corner to better use the limited wall area.

How Can You Protect Your Kitchen Sink? 

Two strategies for protecting your new sink: use mats or grids and embrace regular cleaning. Sink mats and grids - either those designed to go with the sink or generic versions - protect more than the items in your sink. They also help you avoid denting or scratching your new investment. Products receiving great reviews include the versatile OXO Silicone Sink Mat and the iDesign Gia Sink Protector Grid. The healthiest way to protect your sink is to clean it regularly. If you are short on time, here are simple tips using household items to get you started.