One of the most used items in the home is the kitchen sink, which residents rely on to wash the dishes or clean their hands. You may not give much thought to the sink, but it can determine how efficient you are in the setting while hosting parties and gatherings. If you want to install a new product and are shopping around for the best item, there are a few factors to consider to choose the right sink for your kitchen for your next get-together.
Consider the Size
The size of the kitchen sink you select determines how much room is available for stacks of dirty dishes after your guests are done eating. It can also determine if the sink is easy to share with another person who also needs to use it as they help you clean up.
Although single-bowl sinks have been most popular in past years, more people are installing double-bowl kitchen sink to take advantage of the larger size. It allows them to do two tasks at once for more productivity while cooking or cleaning. Consider a sink at least 27 inches long and 19 inches wide.
Knowing the Size You Need
Your budget is likely one of the main factors to take into account when determining the right size of the sink. Consider how much countertop space is available to prevent the sink from overpowering the room and preventing you from having room to cook and prep food during the event. Fortunately, it can be difficult to get a kitchen sink that is too large. If you opt for something larger, consider installing a gooseneck faucet to ensure you can easily wash dirt and food particles down the drain. If you tend to leave the dirty dishes in the sink each day, it can offer more convenience going with a larger size to prevent everything from sitting out on the counter.
Although it may be tempting to get the largest sink possible for your needs, it can make the kitchen less functional. You should still have enough room for placing dishes on each side of the sink. At the same time, a smaller kitchen may have limited space available for soaking larger pots and pans.
If you have a smaller kitchen, it can be easy to opt for a smaller sink, but it may not always work the best. Consider installing a sink with an average length of 22 inches because it’ll prove to be more versatile for different purposes.
Look into Extra Features
As sinks continue to evolve and become more accommodating over time, they often include extra features and add-ons for performing different types of tasks to make the clean-up process easier after the party ends. Many sinks include cutting boards where you have extra space for chopping up produce and herbs. Drainboards are also offered but can take up more space.
Learn the Installation Methods
Although there are different types of kitchen sinks available on the market, they can vary with how they need to be installed. The installation method will determine if you’re capable of installing the fixture yourself or if you’ll need to hire a professional.
The different types of mounting styles include drop-in, undermount, and farmhouse. If you select a drop-in sink, the rim will rest on the counter while the rest of the fixture fits right into the cutout on the counter. Undermount sinks are installed under the counter. Apron-front sinks are unique because they’re generally deeper and longer than standard sinks, allowing the front of the sink to remain visible and exposed for a more rustic design.
If you’re in the middle of renovations, the cutout of the old sink should be capable of fitting the new sink you purchase. You also have the option of expanding the size of the cutout if you have enough room.
Weigh the Pros and Cons of a Deeper Sink
It may seem like a deeper kitchen sink is always the best option, but it may not accommodate all types of people. Some models are two to three inches deeper than the standard size, which means you can load more dishes in the sink and keep them discreet when you want them out of sight as your guests spend time in the home.
It’s also important to keep in mind that with a deeper sink, you’ll be required to bend over more to reach the bottom of it. Some people with mobility issues or a lack of flexibility may not feel accommodated by the depth. Shorter adults have less of a problem using deeper sinks. They can also benefit from a farmhouse sink because it can be more accessible.
Explore the Materials Available
Porcelain sinks are ideal for consumers looking to invest in something stylish because there are a number of colors available, making it easy to purchase an item that fits within the color scheme of the room. The style of this type of kitchen sink is also distinct, making it necessary to be sure you won’t change your style or the look of the room in the coming years.
Granite composite sinks are more durable and don’t develop scratches or scuffs easily, making them ideal for homes with children. They also don’t show water spots as much as stainless steel, which accommodates properties with hard water.
Natural stone sinks are another consideration because of their sleek design, which allows them to match most countertops. It can create an authentic period look when you want something more eye-catching and unique.
Consider a Bar Sink
Bar sinks are still a popular option for those with enough space to install the fixture. Bar sinks are ideal if you plan to host a lot of parties throughout the year because they can allow one of your guests to have a place to wash their hands or clean off their plate when you’re using the main sink. Avoid choosing this option if you have limited space. Consider your lifestyle, how much you entertain, and if there’s usually more than one person in the kitchen at a time to determine if it’ll accommodate your needs in the home.