It is very often the case that people do not pay enough attention to choosing a sink, as it seems like a minor consideration. Yet this is an area of the kitchen that we will use every day. In this series, we’ll be looking at the pros and cons of sinks made from different materials, to help you make the right choice.
Stainless steel kitchen sink
Advantages: Stainless steel sinks are relatively inexpensive to buy, and if you’re planning for the long term, they’re a superb choice, as they have an exceptionally long lifespan. They’re very hygienic; bacteria hardly cling to their surface at all. Nowadays, there are countless models available, so there’s plenty of choice in terms of both size and shape. The better-quality models are made from thicker steel, and there are even noise-reduced versions available. Naturally, prices rise in direct proportion to quality.
Disadvantages: Stainless steel sinks are available in a variety of finishes, including high-gloss and satin-finish versions. The downside of the former is that they are more delicate, and scratches and limescale are more visible on them. Unfortunately, stainless steel sinks are prone to limescale build-up by nature, so they need to be wiped down frequently to keep them looking their best. In models without noise-reduction features, washing up can be quite noisy, so we do not recommend these for households with a baby.
Granite composite kitchen sink
Advantages: Thanks to the combination of acrylic resin and granite, it is exceptionally durable. As it is non-porous, it is easy to clean and requires no chemical cleaning products whatsoever. If you choose a high-quality product, it is break- and scratch-resistant. It looks very attractive and is available in a wide range of colours thanks to the combination of natural stone and synthetic filler. It is difficult to scratch, and limescale leaves fewer marks on it than, for example, on stainless steel versions. There is also a wide range of sizes and shapes available, so it is not difficult to find a piece in the right size and shape to suit the style of your kitchen.
Disadvantages: There are differences in quality; by opting for the more expensive versions, you’re also getting a longer lifespan. The price is, in any case, higher than that of ceramic or stainless steel sinks. You really need to be careful about what you pour into it, and above all, make sure you rinse it out straight away, as otherwise unsightly, permanent stains may form on it.
Enamelled cast-iron kitchen sink
Advantages: It is available in a wide range of colours and can be fitted in various ways, making it very easy to integrate into your kitchen design. Cast iron sinks are long-lasting and resistant to dents and cracks. They are easy to keep clean and are not sensitive to heat.
Disadvantages: Cast iron – just like granite, for that matter – is a heavy material, so our kitchen units will probably need to be reinforced to support the sink. The enamel requires protection against rust, and may even crack if subjected to impact.
That’s all we’ve managed to fit into this section for now; if you’re keen to see what happens next, follow our Facebook page so you don’t miss out! If you’d like bespoke kitchen furniture and need a professional kitchen designer, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Mobilan, who will plan and bring your ideas to life, taking care of every detail!
