Choosing a Kitchen Sink That’s Right for You

The kitchen is one of the highest traffic areas in any home, and the kitchen sink sees it all. With so many different configurations and options, deciding on the perfect kitchen sink can be confusing. Here’s our guide to finding the perfect kitchen sink for you and your lifestyle.

Undermount

For a clean, contemporary look, consider an undermount sink. Undermount installation creates a seamless transition from counter to sink with no exposed mounting deck to trap debris, allowing you to easily wipe water and crumbs into the sink for effortless cleanup.

Top Mount

If you’re looking for a simple installation, try a top mount sink. These sinks can be installed with existing countertop cutouts, making for an uncomplicated renovation. Top mount sinks have raised edges to help keep water and debris inside the sink.

Dual Mount

Dual mount sinks are a versatile choice, as they allow you to install as an undermount or top mount sink in any kitchen countertop. The beveled edges sit flat against the counter allowing for hassle-free cleanup.

Farmhouse

Also known as apron-front sinks, farmhouse sinks have a deep, wide basin that is perfect for washing large pots and pans. Farmhouse sinks are a striking centerpiece as the front of the sink replaces the front edge of the kitchen cabinets underneath it.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel sinks are a popular choice, providing a modern and contemporary look. They are also extremely durable as a heat and scratch-resistant material. While stainless steel requires regular cleaning to eliminate water spots, maintenance is simple. 

Granite Composite

Granite composite is nonporous, making keeping your sink clean a breeze. Perhaps the most durable sink material, granite composite is resistant to scratching, chipping and discoloration. Granite composite comes in a range of colors, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen design.

Enamel-coated Cast Iron

Enamel-coated cast iron is commonly seen in farmhouse style sinks, and its nonporous material and heavy foundation make it durable enough to last a lifetime. Enamel-coated cast iron won’t crack or dent, and its smooth, glossy finish is aesthetically pleasing for a wide range of design styles. However, it can be prone to chipping or scratching if not handled carefully.

Off-Center

An off-center drain allows plenty of room in the sink to store dirty dishes and creates more space for under-sink storage. Off-center drains are also ideal for wheelchair and disabled access and are found in ADA-approved sinks.

Centered

A centered drain gives a classic look that is easy to install with existing plumbing. They are typically quieter and cause less splashing than other drain placements. However, they can be inconvenient when washing dishes as dishes can easily block the drain, causing water and food debris build-up.

Rear

Similar to off-center drains, rear drains allow extra room in the sink for dishwashing or food prep and under the sink for storage. However, installation and maintenance for rear drains can be more difficult with the plumbing at the back of the cabinet.

Single-Hole

Sinks with a single-hole allow for a single, one-hole kitchen faucet. 

Two-Hole

With a two-hole sink, there is space for a single-hole faucet and an accessory like a soap dispenser or beverage faucet, or a bridge faucet with hot and cold inlets.

Three-Hole

A three-hole sink can accommodate a single-hole faucet and two accessories or a bridge faucet and one accessory.

Four-Hole

A four-hole sink is the most versatile as it can allow a wide range of combinations and accessories like glass rinsers, filtered hot water dispensers or soap dispensers.

Single Basin

Single basin sinks have no dividers and have been rising in popularity. A single basin sink is ideal for someone who needs space to wash large pots, pans, and dishes, and often work well in smaller kitchens with limited counter space. However, single basin sinks limit garbage disposal use if the sink is full of water or dirty dishes.

Double Basin

Double basin sinks are ideal for multitasking, whether you’re washing dishes in one basin and drying in the other or stacking dirty dishes and prepping vegetables. Plus, the garbage disposal is easily accessible even when the main basin is full. However, washing bulky items like roasting pans can be difficult as the divider can get in the way. Some double basin sinks have a lower interior partition to remedy this issue. More counter space is typically required for a double basin sink, making it a less ideal choice for smaller kitchens.

Delta Workstation Sinks offer the best of both worlds with single and double basins, undermount and top mount installation types, stainless steel and granite composite options and a wide range of sizes. Delta’s first-ever workstation sinks are designed for versatility with high-quality materials and coordinating accessories, like cutting boards and dishwasher safe dish drying mats. Built-in WorkFlow™ ledges make food prep easy by allowing you to slide accessories across the sink, creating a multifunctional work surface for seamless transitions between tasks.

From scrubbing dishes to food prep to washing hands, we spend a lot of time standing at the kitchen sink. Choosing the right kitchen sink for you can make a huge difference in the style and functionality of your kitchen.