Every housewife has to deal with washing dishes in the kitchen every day, which is sometimes a tedious task. To ensure that the process does not cause inconvenience, you need to carefully consider all the nuances in the work area, making the place for the sink and the sink itself as comfortable and practical as possible.
Read further in the article about what nuances you should know and take into account when choosing a durable, comfortable sink that matches the style of your interior.
Classification by type of material of manufacture
The initial and one of the main selection criteria is the material of the product. It must meet increased requirements for regular mechanical loads, not be afraid of constant humidity, and not lose its well-groomed appearance during operation.
The quality is also indicated by resistance to chemical detergents, since the washbasin will have to be cleaned several times. And, of course, each style of kitchen design has its own materials and color schemes, which must be combined with each other into an overall harmonious composition.
Get to know the most common modern types of materials to know all their strengths and weaknesses for further selection.
Stainless steel sink
Stainless steel products lead among all other options due to some significant advantages, one of which is an affordable price, so anyone can purchase them.
High-quality material is a durable alloy of steel with the addition of chromium and nickel, with a thickness of up to 1.2 mm. There are no harmful impurities in the composition, it is environmentally friendly and safe for health.
The surface texture can be glossy, with a matte effect. They also produce a modern anti-graphics coating that can hide accidental scratches and water stains. This will keep it new longer and ensure a well-groomed appearance in the kitchen.
Stainless steel is quite elastic, flexible, and is not afraid of accidental impacts from falling objects. Such a sink will not rust over time and will not be damaged by high temperatures if hot liquid is poured into it. The downside is that there is a lot of noise when opening the tap; you will need to take care of a special lining. Salt deposits can also disturb you; after washing the dishes, you should wipe the bowl dry.
The stainless steel washbasin has a wide variety of shapes and designs and will fit perfectly into most modern designs. Kitchens in high-tech or loft style include chrome and steel elements. This material with a metallic sheen in gray color will harmoniously highlight the interior.
Composite material for sinks
The composite material is a base made of stone chips, and a polymer serves as a binding component. The strength and wear-resistant properties of the product directly depend on the type of base.
A granite sink with quartz sand provides the sink with high strength, exceeding the parameters of natural materials, but its cost is quite high. A marble sink is a little cheaper, but is characterized by sensitivity to mechanical stress and does not tolerate temperature changes.
High-quality composite bowls can last up to 10 years, which is much longer than ceramic and stainless steel. It’s easy to care for them; you just need to wash the surface with a damp sponge, removing plaque and food residues. The artificial composite is not afraid of heavy dishes, sharp knives, or falling small objects. For minor damage, repairs will not be a hassle; you will need to sand the imperfections with sandpaper.
As for the disadvantages, in addition to the high price, aggressive abrasive agents should not be applied to such a product so as not to damage the top layer.
It is better to purchase a soft gel and use it carefully. Attention! If you place hot dishes that have just been removed from the stove into such a sink, you can get deformed, so avoid contact with hot objects.
These specimens made of composite material are suitable for both classic and modern kitchen interiors. A rich color palette allows you to choose a model to match the kitchen set or contrast it, at the request of the owner.
A natural stone
Natural stone is incredibly attractive, it will give the interior a presentable, noble, expensive look, but the price of the model is not cheap. They make natural products from granite, basalt, marble, cutting out a solid shell from rock by hand. Natural models have a solid base, are not destroyed by high temperatures, and are also environmentally friendly when used.
They will look very beautiful in the kitchen, attracting the views of others. Some options on the surface have shiny inclusions of mica, graceful stains created by nature.
All kinds of colors will allow you to create an interior to suit every taste. In a kitchen in a classic or modern style, such a bowl will become a highlight of the design, but it is important to combine it with furnishings also made of natural stone, such as a countertop or bar counter.
The disadvantages include careful care without the use of harsh detergents, as well as mandatory coating with special impregnations that repel water and grease. It must be applied at least once a year.
Ceramic sink
Ceramic sinks have their own characteristics. Bowls are made from porcelain stoneware, which is impact-resistant and can easily withstand temperature changes and shocks. There are also options made of porcelain and earthenware.
Strength is determined by the production method from clay, additives and water. This composition is heated, pressed, and then coated with special components to improve performance. Next, a coating or decorative paint is applied to the sink.
During the washing process, the sound of water is practically inaudible. The material does not emit unpleasant odors and is safe for food. The disadvantages are the large weight of the product, which can be destroyed if dropped, high price, and you should also avoid abrasive detergent compositions that destroy the coating.
Ceramic sink material comes in a wide range of shapes and colors. If desired, you can order a model with an individual pattern or original color. For a country style, you can buy a sink with the effect of artistic aging.
About manufacturers and costs
German, Italian, Spanish and Dutch kitchen sinks have earned trust in the domestic market. European manufacturers - TEKA, Blanco, Smeg, Foster, etc. present the buyer with an excellent and high-quality assortment.
The price range of kitchen sinks depends on a number of factors, the main ones being material, dimensions and brand.
- The low price range from 900 to 5,500 rubles is represented by an assortment of stainless steel sinks.
- The average price range from 6,000 to 30,000 rubles is occupied by ceramic sinks and sinks made of artificial stone.
- High price range over 50,000 rubles - these are elite models of sinks, of an increased level of quality from various materials.
Advice! By giving preference to online stores specializing in plumbing, as well as stores that are official representatives of manufacturing plants, you can protect yourself from purchasing low-quality goods.
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Remember that thinking through the smallest details before purchasing a sink will save you from further problems during its operation.
What types of sink installation are there?
When choosing an installation method, pay attention to its complexity, as well as the design features of the kitchen unit and the general style of the room. The choice of option depends on the personal preferences of the owner, the size of the kitchen, and the furniture model.
Get to know the existing types of installations:
- The overhead sink is mounted on a free-standing module in the form of a cabinet, without entering the common work area. It is advisable that all furniture be the same height. Convenient type for corner kitchen layout. It is easy to do it yourself. The downside is the gaps between the cabinets, which can allow water to get in.
- The mortise type can be mounted instead of a tabletop. The one-piece product is distinguished by its quality, protection from damage and the penetration of contaminants. Installed with standard furniture fasteners.
- The under-table option is mounted under the countertop, diversifying the design, allowing you to observe the beauty of the material, often made of natural stone, in cross-section. This sink is easy to use and maintains hygiene at a high level.
- The integrated type of sink is mounted at the level of the countertop, thereby creating a single surface with the work area. It is difficult to install and requires the services of an experienced technician. But the interior is created chic, incredibly attractive, taking into account fashionable design trends.
Materials
Most often, consumers prefer steel sinks. Stainless steel products are great for the kitchen. They are not afraid of temperature changes, do not corrode, and have good resistance to impacts and scratches.
The disadvantage of metal sinks is the noise of falling water into them. Manufacturers apply a special sound-absorbing coating to modern models.
Ceramic sinks are easy to use, easy to clean, and you can use household chemicals. This type is more expensive than its metal counterparts and is heavier and more fragile.
Stone sinks for the kitchen are highly durable and wear-resistant. Stone sinks are divided into acrylic and agglomerate, depending on the composition of the composite.
Different product shapes: how to choose the right geometry
The shape of the product is classic, that is, rectangular and square, as well as round geometry in the form of an oval or circle. The classic type of sinks is more common because it is practical, can be of any size, with different designs. Round sinks are relevant for modern styles; they will fit perfectly into the corner of the layout, but their dimensions must be roomy.
Advice! If you have a small kitchen and you have to wash a lot of dishes, then it is better to refrain from installing a small round sink on it. During operation, pans with long handles may not fit into the sink if the size of the sink is small.
Which size is best for the kitchen?
The wider and deeper the sink, the more convenient it is: more dishes will fit there, and water splashes will not fly onto the table. But in a small kitchen, you shouldn’t sacrifice cooking space and install a bulky sink that takes up the entire work surface. To accommodate more dishes, it is better to buy a deep design. The presence of a dishwasher is another plus in favor of a small sink.
The standard bowl depth is 15-18 cm. This is enough to fill a pan with water or soak dishes. When installing a sink, you should leave at least 5 cm to the wall or the edges of the cabinet.
The optimal dimensions for a square sink are 50x50 and 60x60 cm, for a rectangular sink - from 55 cm in length and 50 cm in width. Round products are produced from 45 cm in diameter.
A competent approach to choosing a design solution for a sink
There are sink models equipped with more than one bowl. There may be two, three or more. Of course, this is very convenient, because you can wash vegetables in one, dishes in another, and defrost food in a third. The question is whether such a structure will fit in your space. Therefore, base your choice on the area of the room.
Forms
Kitchen sinks come in different shapes. The following designs are popular:
- round (easy to clean due to the absence of corners);
- oval;
- square (roomy, convenient for washing dishes)
- polygonal;
- rectangular.
Pentagonal and hexagonal designs are in demand. Such shapes are formed due to the side wings. Polygonal sinks are spacious and can be mounted along the wall or in the corner of the room. They are suitable for large kitchens.
We equip the kitchen sink with additional accessories for convenience
Before purchasing a kitchen sink, you need to pay attention to the availability of components. Additional equipment simplifies work processes, saves time, and adds convenience and comfort.
A mixer with a removable shower head is indispensable when planning a sink near a window. When opening, it is easy to turn or remove, which will not interfere with the ventilation of the room. A useful accessory is a holder for washcloths and cleaning products, allowing you to keep everything you need at hand.
Also, built-in dispensers for liquid soap will come in handy. They help you wash your hands quickly. A removable strainer is indispensable for the kitchen sink, trapping large food debris. All these details make life much easier and every housewife will certainly appreciate them.
Advice from professionals
Kitchen sinks are divided into types not only by size, shape and material, but also by their design.
- The product must be in harmony with kitchen furniture and appliances. Universal colors are white and metallic. A stainless steel sink will fit well into a modern interior, but more noble materials and colors are suitable for a rustic and classic style.
- The design of the plumbing fixture should be correlated with the style of the kitchen: an “antique” sink will not fit into a loft or high-tech environment.
- The sink can contrast with the countertop or, conversely, merge with it. Contrast is appropriate in a kitchen that lacks accents.
- The optimal height of the sink is considered to be when a person’s elbows are approximately 10 cm from it.
How to choose a convenient sink for your kitchen, taking into account the dimensions and properties of materials, is described in detail in this video:
The modern kitchen plumbing industry offers many types of sinks - from the simplest to the most sophisticated. The sink, which previously had only a practical function, can now turn into a kitchen decoration.
How to achieve ergonomic kitchen sink: some expert advice
To organize the most comfortable, functional place for washing dishes, it is important to correctly determine the dimensions of the product that are suitable for your set, kitchen layout and room area.
The height and depth of the bowl is selected taking into account the number of family members and dishes. Do not forget about the size of the mixer, because it must be moderately high so that everything you need fits under it. The place for washing is most often determined next to the hob, separated from it by a countertop.
A thorough analysis of all factors, including the convenient location of the sink in the kitchen, will make work processes in the kitchen optimally ergonomic, which will significantly save your effort and time.
Overhead sinks
Installation of such models is carried out in a floor cabinet. Affordable price and easy installation made this type popular.
The disadvantage of the product is the possibility of water getting on the furniture, which leads to its damage. The sink and the floor cabinet are a single structure.
Most often, a rectangular product with rounded edges is chosen for this type. The design usually also includes a tabletop connected to a bowl. It is necessary for dishes or fruits, which are convenient to put on it after washing.
Kitchen sink - product requirements
Each housewife has her own taste preferences and concepts of a good wash. However, if you conduct a small survey, all preferences can be combined into several specific requirements. First of all, this is the capacity of the sink. It is this quality that many housewives highlight as the main one, since in addition to washing ordinary cups or mugs, larger items used in the kitchen, for example, baking sheets, pots, jars or a frying pan, should be placed in the sink.
An equally important factor is the ability of the kitchen sink to withstand high temperatures and exposure to detergents, without which high-quality processing of dishes is simply impossible. Therefore, another essential quality of a good wash can be called the durability of the product.
