The kitchen sink is often the focal point of the kitchen, so choosing the right one is an important decision. Stainless steel sinks remain one of the most popular options for today’s kitchens, prized for their sleek, modern look, durability, and ease of cleaning. With so many types of stainless steel sinks on the market, it can be tricky to determine which is best for your needs. This guide covers the pros and cons of the most popular styles of stainless steel kitchen sinks to help you select the perfect one for your space.

Single Bowl Sinks

Single bowl sinks are composed of just one main basin and remain a popular choice for many kitchens today.

Pros

Simplicity – With just one large basin, a single bowl sink provides a streamlined look that works well in many kitchens. The single bowl creates an open, uncluttered appearance.
Versatility – A single bowl allows you to wash larger items with ease. There are no dividers or smaller basins to work around.
Affordability – Single bowl sinks are often more affordable than double or triple bowl options. If you don’t need multiple basins, a single bowl provides cost savings.

Cons

Limited functionality – Only having one basin restricts your options for multitasking. It can be tricky washing dishes while also washing produce for meal prep.
Less workspace – Single bowls typically don’t offer as much sink space as options with more basins. If you regularly wash large pots and pans, this could be limiting.
Prone to splashing – With just one large basin, water and debris can more easily splash onto the countertop during washing.

Best Uses

Single bowl sinks work well in smaller kitchens where workspace is limited and multitasking isn’t a priority. Their simple style also complements contemporary kitchen designs.

Double Bowl Sinks

Double bowl sinks feature two equal-sized basins, expanding your workflow options. The dual bowls are typically installed side-by-side but can also have a front-to-back configuration.

Pros

Enhanced multitasking – The two bowls allow you to wash dishes in one side while prepping food in the other. This streamlines cooking and cleanup.
Added workspace – Double the bowls means double the sink space to accommodate larger items like baking sheets.
Separation of tasks – Keep dirty dishes isolated to one basin while the other stays clean for prep work.

Cons

Divided workspace – Some find the divider between basins obtrusive for washing very large items. A single bowl may work better depending on your needs.
More expensive – With nearly double the stainless steel material, double bowl sinks are pricier than single bowls.
Complex installation – Installing a sink with two basins generally requires more complex cabinetry work. Professional help is often advised.

Best Uses

Thanks to their enhanced multitasking capabilities, double bowl sinks are ideal for busy cooks and larger families. The divided workspace helps streamline meal preparation and cleanup.

Triple Bowl Sinks

As the name implies, triple bowl sinks contain three basins. This style provides even more functionality but eats up the most counter space.

Pros

Maximum multitasking – Three bowls allow you to tackle a variety of sink tasks simultaneously – from soaking dishes to prepping produce and draining thawed meats.
Lots of workspace – With three full basins, these sinks can accommodate even the bulkiest baking sheets and roasting pans with room to spare.
Defined separation – Each basin serves a dedicated purpose, keeping water from different tasks completely separate.

Cons

Significant space requirements – Triple bowl sinks need a minimum 36-inch base cabinet to accommodate their large size. Make sure you have room!
Most expensive – With the most stainless steel material, these sinks come at a premium cost. They are a big investment.
Challenging install – Expect professional installation with triple bowl sinks. The complex plumbing and cabinetry modifications require expertise.

Best Uses

Avid home cooks and bakers who regularly use large pans and cookware benefit most from triple bowl sinks. The generous space and multitasking capabilities streamline food prep.

60/40 Double Bowl Sinks

60/40 double bowl sinks provide an asymmetrical alternative to standard double bowls. One basin is larger (typically the left one), while the other is smaller.

Pros

Blend of basin sizes – The asymmetric bowls give you one large basin alongside a smaller one for flexibility. Enjoy extra room along with compartmentalization.
Efficient washing – The larger basin handles bigger washing tasks, while the small one tackles prep jobs or holds a drying rack.
Good use of space – Compared to a standard double bowl, the 60/40 offers more workspace while taking up less room than a triple bowl model.

Cons

Limited multitasking – With one main basin, these sinks don’t provide quite as much versatility as a standard double bowl or triple bowl option.
Reduced clearance – The unequal bowls mean one basin has significantly less depth than the other. This can limit washing large items.
Asymmetry not for everyone – Some find the imbalanced look of the 60/40 less visually appealing than standard double bowls.

Best Uses

The 60/40 double bowl sink provides a smart compromise for those seeking added function without committing to a full triple bowl model. The extra large basin accommodates oversized pots.

Apron Front Sinks

Apron front sinks feature a front panel that allows the sink to extend onto the countertop surface. This creates a stylish, furniture-like look.

Pros

Seamless design – The apron front helps the sink blend in with the countertop, creating a streamlined appearance.
Distinctive style – These sinks make a statement with their unique, furniture-inspired aesthetic. They bring artisan appeal.
Increased depth – With a protruding front wall, apron front sinks can offer enhanced basin depth compared to standard models.

Cons

Limited installation options – Apron front sinks require custom cabinetry. The protruding shape won’t work with standard base cabinets.
Prone to scratches – The exposed apron front is vulnerable to scratches, chips, and dents from kitchen tools and appliances.
Difficult undermount installation – If you prefer an undermount sink, apron front models require extra work for installation and may leave gaps.

Best Uses

Bringing sleek, furniture-like styling to the kitchen, apron front sinks are ideal for contemporary, rustic, or cottage designs. Their sculptural look makes a statement.

Farmhouse/Farm Apron Sinks

Similar to apron front sinks, farmhouse and farm apron sinks also feature a front face that enables the sink to extend onto the countertop. But these sinks have a distinctly vintage, rural aesthetic.

Pros

Unique retro style – The prominent front apron hearkens back to old-fashioned farmhouse designs. It brings pastoral charm.
Enhanced durability – Farmhouse sinks are typically made from very thick, heavy-duty materials like cast iron or fireclay. This enhances their sturdiness.
Deep basin options – Many farmhouse sinks offer extra deep basins able to hold the largest pots and dishes. Great for avid home cooks.

Cons

Weight – To provide durability, these sinks are extremely heavy. Professional reinforcement of cabinetry is needed to support their mass.
Prone to staining – The porous materials like fireclay used in farmhouse sinks can develop stubborn stains over time if not properly cared for.
Not for everyone – The bold, rustic styling of farmhouse sinks may not appeal to those with more contemporary tastes.

Best Uses

Bringing antique countryside charm to modern and traditional kitchens, farmhouse sinks are best for those who appreciate vintage appeal and generous basin capacity.

Undermount Sinks

Rather than dropping in from above like a traditional topmount sink, undermount sinks are installed below the countertop surface for a smooth, contemporary look.

Pros

Seamless design – With the countertop extending over the sink rim, these models provide a streamlined, built-in appearance.
Easy cleaning – Without a rim indent, countertop surfaces can be wiped directly into the basin for quick cleanup.
Versatility – Undermount installation works with a wide range of sink basin shapes and configurations. Great flexibility.

Cons

Limited DIY potential – Secure installation requires specialty brackets and potential countertop modifications. Professional help is strongly advised.
Susceptible to damage – Without a rim to protect the sink edge, undermount basins are vulnerable to chips and dents from falling kitchenware.
Not for laminate – Undermount sinks should only be installed in solid surface countertops like quartz, granite, or butcher block. Laminate risks water damage.

Best Uses

Offering a contemporary streamlined look, undermount sinks provide a sleek upgrade for modern kitchens or bathrooms with durable countertop materials like granite or quartz.

Topmount Sinks

Unlike undermount models, topmount sinks sit above the countertop surface. Also known as drop-in sinks, these are among the most common and affordable sink varieties.

Pros

DIY-friendly – Topmount sinks don’t require special installation techniques. They easily drop into a countertop opening, making them ideal for DIY upgrades.
Rim guarding – The sink rim helps protect against dents and scratches from dropped kitchenware. Great durability.
Works with any countertop – Topmount sinks aren’t limited by countertop material. They can be installed in laminate, solid surface, tile, or other countertops.

Cons

Visible rim line – The intersection of the sink rim and countertop leaves a noticeable seam that can make cleaning less convenient.
Limited style options – Topmount sinks come in fewer trendy styles and finishes compared to undermount models.
Not seamless – The rim indent disrupts the countertop line for a less streamlined look compared to undermount installation.

Best Uses

Offering convenience and affordability, topmount sinks are ideal for DIY installs and kitchens where heavy use means durability is key. They work with nearly any countertop style.

Other Popular Options

Beyond the most common styles, other sink varieties offer unique capabilities.

Bar/prep sinks – Compact and streamlined, these small sinks have just the essential workspace for drink mixing and food prep. Great for kitchen islands and bars.
Drainboard sinks – With an integrated solid surface drainboard next to the basin, these sinks provide extra room for drying washed dishes. Helpful for small kitchens.
Workstation sinks – Workstation sinks integrate extra countertop-like workspace around the basin to expand functionality. Helpful for avid home cooks.
Copper sinks – Valued for their natural antimicrobial properties, sinks made from copper offer a patina finish that evolves gracefully over time. A living finish.
Stone composite sinks – Offering rugged durability, stone composite sinks contain a blend of crushed stone and acrylic resins. These stand up to heavy use.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Sink

With so many great stainless steel sink options available, keep the following factors in mind while selecting the right model for your kitchen:

Installation – Determine whether you’ll need a topmount or undermount sink based on your countertop material and DIY comfort level.
Kitchen layout – Consider the size of your base cabinets and existing kitchen footprint. Make sure you have room for your desired basin configuration.
Multitasking needs – If you regularly wash large dishes or prep lots of produce, consider a double or triple bowl sink for enhanced workflow.
Style preferences – Decide whether you prefer a streamlined, contemporary look or vintage, farmhouse aesthetic to guide your styling options.
Budget – Simple topmount single bowl sinks tend to be the most budget-friendly options, while premium finishes and configurations cost more.
Materials – While stainless steel is the most popular sink material, also consider durable enameled cast iron, fireclay, copper, and composite materials.
Frequency of use – Opt for a durable sink that can stand up to heavy daily use if your kitchen sees a lot of washing action. Consider materials like cast iron.
Countertop material – Make sure to choose an undermount or topmount sink appropriate for your specific countertop whether laminate, solid surface, tile, wood, or other materials.

Final Thoughts

With their sleek styling, low-maintenance cleaning, and rugged durability, stainless steel sinks are a go-to choice for today’s kitchens. From space-saving single bowls to triple bowl entertainers models, stainless sinks offer versatile configurations for every need. Keep your cooking and washing style in mind as you explore popular options like 60/40 double bowls, classic farmhouse apron-fronts or modern undermount installations. With the right sink acting as your kitchen’s centerpiece, you’re ensured an inspired and efficient workspace for meal prep and cleanup.

Popular Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks: Frequently Asked Questions

Stainless steel sinks remain a darling of the kitchen for good reason – they combine sleek styling and low maintenance with rugged durability. But choosing the right stainless sink for your space leads to lots of questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about these popular kitchen sinks.

What are the different types of stainless steel used in kitchen sinks?

The two most common grades of stainless steel used are Type 304 and Type 316. Type 304 is the most popular choice. It provides good resistance to corrosion and staining while remaining budget-friendly. Type 316 offers enhanced protection from salt water corrosion but comes at a higher price.

What gauge stainless steel is best?

Look for a minimum 16 gauge stainless steel sink, although some heavier duty models may use 14 or even 12 gauge materials. Higher gauge numbers reflect thinner, lighter steel. Heavier gauges are more durable. Undermount sinks in particular benefit from thicker steel for enhanced strength.

Are thicker stainless steel sinks better?

In general, yes – thicker stainless steel sinks are stronger and less prone to dents. But gauge alone doesn’t always determine quality. Techniques like reinforcement under the basin impact durability too. Carefully check product details for sink measurements and reinforced designs.

Why are some stainless steel sinks more expensive?

Several factors contribute to a higher price tag for stainless sinks including more steel material for thicker gauges or larger configurations, premium finishes like a brushed bronze or copper colouring, sound-dampening features, added accessories like drainboards or grids, rare styles like farmhouse apron-fronts, and high-end designer names.

Should stainless steel sinks be undermounted or top mounted?

This depends on your countertop material and preferences. Undermounting creates a seamless look but risks chip and dent damage to sink rims. It also requires specialized installation. Top mounts are more durable, DIY-friendly, and work with any countertop material. Evaluate both options for your needs.

How do you keep a stainless steel sink clean?

Rinse thoroughly after each use to avoid stains and buildup. Avoid leaving wet sponges or cleaning pads sitting in the sink.
For routine cleaning, use a soft sponge or cloth with mild soap and warm water.
For stubborn stains, use a baking soda and water paste with a soft sponge.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or rough abrasive pads that could damage the finish.
Dry thoroughly with a soft towel to prevent water spots.

Can you change an undermount sink to a topmount?

In most cases, no. Undermount sinks require a precisely cut countertop opening and special installation brackets secured below the countertop. A topmount installation has a less precise opening cut to enable the sink rim to overlap the countertop edge. The different cut sizes and installation methods mean one cannot easily be converted to the other.

How do you remove scratches from a stainless steel sink?

Minor scratches can often be buffed out using an abrasive paste cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Rub the paste in the direction of the grain lines using small circular motions. Start gently and increase pressure as needed. For deeper scratches, progressively finer grit sandpaper may be required. Take care to rub in line with the satin finish grain to blend.

Are stainless steel or porcelain sinks better?

Each material has pros and cons. Stainless steel is more durable and dent-resistant. Porcelain enameled sinks offer a classic look and wider range of color options but may chip or stain more easily. Stainless is more budget-friendly. Porcelain enameled cast iron is heavier. Ultimately, choose based on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and durability needs.

Do stainless steel sinks stain?

Quality stainless steel like type 304 is quite resistant to staining, but it is not impervious. Some foods like coffee, soy sauce, vinegar and produce with high acidity can stain the finish if left to sit. Prompt cleaning after use prevents most stains. Baking soda or a stainless steel cleaner helps remove minor staining that does occur over time.

Conclusion

With the right selection and care, a stainless steel sink can provide flawless beauty and rugged durability to handle the toughest kitchen tasks. Evaluate popular styles and configurations to find the perfect multitasking and aesthetic balance for your space. Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to contact kitchen design professionals to ensure you choose the ideal stainless sink for your needs.