Choose the Right Kitchen Sink
The etymology of the phrase “everything but the kitchen sink” probably has to do with the fact that the sink is difficult to move. For instance, if a person absconded with “everything but the kitchen sink,” it means he or she made off with every conceivable portable item. But here is a new way of looking at the term: What if said person didn’t take the hypothetical sink because it was too necessary to the kitchen?
When you think about it, there are very few features in the home that are used as often. And what other home item performs as many different tasks? It could be argued that the selection of a sink is one of the most important kitchen choices you will make — and it’s a decision that will affect your daily life for many years to come.
How Many Basins, and in What Configuration?
1. A large, single sink.
Pros: A single, deep basin means you can easily soak or wash a big pan or prep large quantities of food.
Cons: Rinsing vegetables while soaking a large casserole dish requires a bit of juggling — as does hand washing and rinsing china or stemware.
2. Two basins of differing sizes (a 60/40 or offset sink).
Pros: Two basins allow you to perform separate tasks, such as cleaning dishes and preparing food, with ease. A 60/40 sink has one basin that is usually about 18 inches wide and another that is 14 inches wide. The idea is that you can clean up in the large basin and prep in the smaller one. Dual basins also come in handy when you are washing items you don’t want to put in the dishwasher (soap in one basin, rinse water in the other).
Cons: A smaller basin makes it harder to wash and soak large pans.
3. Two basins of equal sizes (a 50/50 sink).
Pros: This is for people who love symmetry in design. It also has the benefit of allowing separate tasks (cleaning, prepping and washing, rinsing).
Cons: That large pan could be soaking on the counter.
4. Three basins (two large ones and one small one with a garbage disposal).
Pros: You can use the garbage disposal independently of the sink.
Cons: In some models, such as this one, you can’t sweep food scraps off the counter and into the disposal (this could be remedied with a cutting board insert). Because it is a wider sink, more space is needed.
Choosing the Shape of Your Sink
1. Farmhouse.
Pros: Many farmhouse sinks are simply single, large basins. The difference is their distinctive apron front, which has a vintage vibe many homeowners love. For a typical sink, the basin can be 4 inches away from the edge of the countertop, but this sink can sit a bit beyond the counter line. For people of shorter stature and kids, a farmhouse sink can be more accessible. If you choose a porcelain or ceramic farmhouse sink, there are a wealth of color options.
Cons: A farmhouse sink makes a deliberate design statement that will be with you for a long time — which is wonderful, unless your tastes change.
2. Double farmhouse.
Pros: Same benefits as any other double sink.
Cons: It does not have the true vintage style of a single-basin farmhouse sink.
3. Rounded sides.
Pros: Many homeowners consider a curved sink easier to clean than one with square edges.
Cons: If a sleek, minimalist look is your kitchen style, this might not be the look you’re after.
4. Built-in drainboard.
Pros: Of course, it’s great for draining dishes, so if you do a lot of hand washing, it’s convenient. The drainboard can also allow fruits and vegetables to dry after washing.
Cons: This is a wider sink that eats up countertop space.
For more tips on how to choose the right kitchen sink such as which material to use or the accessories to go along with it, please read this Houzz Article!