Sinks are super important. They provide a necessary hub for cleaning, food preparation and most cooking uses in the kitchen. So when you think about the material, style and color of your new cabinets and countertops, don’t forget to include your sink choice in the planning phase of your kitchen remodel. But choosing the perfect sink to fit your kitchen, your style and your needs can be tricky, and that’s because of the many types of sinks available on the market today. But don’t fret—we’re here to help you pick your perfect sink by breaking down the two types of bowls and the three types of sinks.
Before you can even begin to debunk the many kinds of sinks available on the market today, you have to make sure that you’re looking at sinks that fit your kitchen. This means that you have to think about the size and bowl configuration of the sink that would fit your kitchen and your needs. The National Kitchen and Bath Associate (NKBA) suggests the standard 22 x 24 inch single bowl sink for kitchens that have less than 150 square feet.
Oversized farmhouse sinks have been really popular this year, but this type of sink can look out of place, or function poorly in a kitchen that cannot support the sink’s size and design. Picking a sink that is too large for your kitchen will take up much-needed countertop space, while choosing a sink with a complicated bowl configuration can make your sink less functional. Be sure to take some time with your designer to discuss sink size and bowl configuration before purchasing your sink.
Single Bowl
Single bowl sinks are pretty self-explanatory. With only one basin, these sinks are perfect for smaller kitchens, because they offer more space inside the sink, which is usually needed in smaller kitchens.
Double Bowl
Double bowl—or even multi-bowl—sinks are the most commonly chosen sink for homeowners today, because they can custom fit personal needs. Available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations, these work best in medium sized to larger kitchens that have multiple cooks or for homeowners who like to be really organized.
1. Top Mount
Photo from Pinterest.
Also known as Drop In, these sinks are placed into a hole in your countertop made by your installer. They usually have a lip meant to hold the sink in place without needing any interior support. Top Mount sinks can be a cost-effective option, but beware—dirt and grime can easily grow underneath the lip, and can be difficult to clean.
2. Under Mount
Under Mount sinks are the opposite of Top Mount sinks, because they are installed underneath the countertop. The support system underneath requires more installation and money, but with no lip, contents fall directly from your counters into the sink for easy clean up and a more hygienic option.
3. Integrated
Integrated sinks are the most popular sinks on the market today, because they are low-maintenance and have a beautiful, seamless look. These sinks are made from the same material as the countertop and form a continuous surface from countertop to sink. Available in many materials, like non-porous Corian solid surface, Integrated sinks are the most sanitary sinks available.
