The sink is a crucial part of every modern kitchen. The sheer amount of activities that it facilitates is a major reason for this and these include tasks like:
- Dishwashing and Cleaning
- Food Preparation
- General Cleaning
- Waste Disposal
- Hand Washing
Even the US Department of Agriculture admits that the state of this equipment is crucial for ensuring food safety. You can check here for more insight on this.
Considering the demands of using sinks and their importance, choosing kitchen sink materials that are up to the task is a necessity. Thankfully, this article intends to shed light on several kitchen sink materials and by so doing, help you make an informed choice in this regard.
Let’s now take a close look at some common materials used for making kitchen sinks.
Stainless Steel
This material’s popularity among consumers says a lot about its quality and benefits. There are also concerns that you need to be aware of.
Pros
Some of the benefits of using stainless steel sinks include:
Durability
It usually lasts a very long time, validating its status as a long-term investment for consumers who opt for it. Stainless steel possesses inherent qualities that help it last as long as it usually does.
For example, it resists heat very well, which is a valuable quality. Its impressive ability to resist rust is another quality that makes it long-lasting.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining a stainless steel sink is not difficult. Just the use of quality microfiber cloth and mild dishwashing soap is usually what it takes.
Lightweight
Some kitchen sinks are very heavy because of the sheer weight of their primary material. Natural stone, fireclay, granite composite, and cast iron are a few examples.
The weight factor is a reason some of these may not be feasible for use in certain settings. This is especially true if cabinets sturdy enough to hold them are not available.
Thankfully, this would never be an issue with stainless steel as it is one of the most lightweight kitchen sink materials available. This is easily one of the reasons why it is quite popular.
Cons
Having looked at the pros of stainless steel, let’s also look at some of its cons. These include:
Water Spots and Fingerprint Issues
This material shows fingerprints and water spots very easily which can distort its aesthetic appeal. To prevent this, you should properly wipe its surface with a dry cloth to ensure its dryness.
Scratch and Dent Issues
Improper use can result in scratches and dents, especially in the long term. This means that although it can take quite a lot, caution is still of the essence while using such kitchen sinks. Some valuable tips for preventing this issue include:
- Do not use it as a chopping board. You should rather use a proper chopping board
- Clean in the direction of the stainless steel’s grain
- Always ensure that the surface is thoroughly dry after use
Fortunately, these are not difficult to keep. For more information on avoiding scratches and dents on stainless steel, you can visit Now
Granite Composite
Natural stone sinks are appealing for those who prefer kitchen sinks with a natural yet stylish appearance. However, the downside is that its maintenance needs can be steep, ruling it out as an option for many.
On the brighter side, granite composite kitchen sinks match or (at least) come very close to the natural beauty and functionality that natural stone kitchen sinks offer. However, its maintenance needs as not as demanding as those of the natural stone, making it a viable option for those who prefer low-maintenance natural-looking options.
Pros
Some of the benefits that it offers include:
Scratch-Resistance
It is impressively scratch-resistant. This is an area where it outshines an option like stainless steel.
Stain-Resistance
Unlike options that leave users with worries about taking off stains, this material is stain-resistant. If any stains appear on its surface, removal or cleaning it is easy.
Hygiene
The non-porous feature of this material creates an unpalatable environment for bacterial growth. It also has a smooth surface that makes cleaning very thorough and easy.
Multi-Color Options
The single color of most stainless steel products may not complement some kitchen decors. This is not the case with this material as it is available in various colors, making it easy to choose something that aligns with the kitchen’s décor.
Cons
Some of the possible worries with granite composite kitchen sinks include:
Weight Factor
It is naturally heavy and even more than several other alternatives. Its weight sometimes makes it unsuitable for use, especially when there is no cabinet base sturdy enough to hold it.
Need for Specialized Cleaning Products
There are no doubts that it looks natural yet stylishly appealing. However, its surface can turn dull over time, adversely impacting its aesthetic appeal. To maintain its shine and prevent dullness, special cleaning products are required.
Copper
Copper kitchen sinks may not be as rare as some may think. They certainly are nowhere near as popular as several other alternatives, but some folks love them for some of the reasons that we will list shortly.
These sinks have a unique look that is further enhanced over time. This is because of the development of their natural patina. As a result, it is an option for consumers who want their kitchen sink to look unique, yet appealing.
Pros
Some of the benefits that it offers include:
Antimicrobial Properties
Copper has natural antimicrobial qualities that inhibit bacterial growth. These qualities are very helpful for ensuring food safety, among other things, in the kitchen.
Eco-Friendly Options
Copper is a recyclable material which makes it eco-friendly. It ensures resource conservation and reduces the need for newly mined copper.
Unique Aesthetic
It is almost impossible not to take notice of a copper sink because of its distinctive and warm-toned appearance. So, it is an option for those who want something that stands out.
Cons
Some of the possible worries with copper kitchen sinks include:
Tarnishing
Irregular maintenance leads to tarnishing of the sink. So, make sure to clean and maintain regularly.
Discoloration
Exposure to especially acidic substances can lead to the discoloration of its surface. This requires taking preventive measures that include:
- Rinsing immediately after use
- Always ensuring a dry surface – To prevent mineral deposits and even water spots
- Gentle cleaning – Abrasive clothes/ sponges should be avoided
- Limited exposure to acidic foods – Food items such as lemon juice, tomato products, and vinegar should not be left on it for extended periods
- Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals – Examples of such chemicals include bleach, abrasive cleaners, ammonia, and harsh drain cleaners
Also, don’t leave things like toothpaste and cosmetics on its surface for extended periods. Doing all these reduces the chances of discoloration happening.
Final Note
Kitchen sinks are very important for every kitchen and there is a demand for using top-quality options. To choose a befitting modern kitchen sink, material choice is crucial. You now have information on three common kitchen sink material options, further increasing your chances of making a well-guided decision.
Also important is where you make your purchase as this can significantly impact its quality. So, besides choosing the right kitchen sink material, ensure that you purchase yours from the right supplier.
