'The easiest kitchen sink material to maintain is going to be one made of stainless steel, copper, cast iron or enamel because they will not support microbial growth as they are not cellulose material,' says Darren Hudema, director of training and technical services at PuroClean.
When cleaned regularly and properly maintained, these types of kitchen sinks are able to keep their original glossy appearance for years to come. Porcelain, ceramic and fireclay kitchen sinks have extremely low water absorption characteristics (making them easy to keep clean on a regular basis).
Stainless steel sinks are very low maintenance; they are corrosion and rust resistant, and as long as they are cared for properly and wiped down after every use, they should not stain. Find out more about how to clean a stainless steel sink by reading our guide with handy tips and tricks from our experts.
Best for: Affordability, durability, and low maintenance. The most common option for a kitchen sink material is stainless steel. This material is well-known for its water-resistance, durability, and scratch-resistance, and is also often recognized for superior rust-resistance and antimicrobial properties.
Durability - It's nearly impossible to scratch or chip fireclay, and they're much less likely to crack or scratch compared to cast iron. Because of the finish, fireclay sinks are unlikely to discolor, rust, or fade over time.
'The easiest kitchen sink material to maintain is going to be one made of stainless steel, copper, cast iron or enamel because they will not support microbial growth as they are not cellulose material,' says Darren Hudema, director of training and technical services at PuroClean.
Fireclay
Manufactured from clay fired at an extremely high temperature, fireclay sinks are highly resistant to scratches, staining and chipping. Cleanup is easy — just dish soap on a sponge, or use a mild abrasive cleanser for tougher marks. These are the sinks I often recommend for those who want a white kitchen sink.
Stainless steel is the most popular kitchen sink material for ease of use/cleaning, installation, and to achieve a modern kitchen design. They provide a contemporary look with a sleek profile, especially when paired with composite stone, granite, or wood countertops.
Ans. Stainless steel kitchen sinks are considered the most durable because they are easy to clean, use and maintain.
Timeless: Think farmhouse sinks in porcelain, soapstone sinks (integrated into the counter, or not), and surprisingly, concrete (subtle colors akin to soapstone or slate). Copper is a timeless material for pantries and bars.
The best color for a sink could be traditional white, multi-colored through to a statement black, including metallic finishes in silver, gold, and bronze. There is a huge selection of sink colors and shades to harmonize and blend with your existing bathroom, kitchen, and washroom color schemes.
Unlike the common stainless steel sinks, much care is needed on matte black sinks and this includes regular cleaning. Simple regular cleaning goes a long way in reducing the amount of effort in combating soap buildup and calcium deposits.
According to HomeAdvisor, most homeowners spend between $220 and $560 to have a sink added or replaced. Angie's List reports that homeowners spend between $216 and $628 to have a sink installed. On average plumbers charge between $50 and $200 per hour to install a new kitchen sink.
Quartz kitchen sinks are fairly low-maintenance. Clean it regularly with a mild detergent, and deep-clean as necessary with a nylon brush and a cleaner like Bar Keeper's Friend.
Stainless steel sinks also resist chipping and cracking, however, are likely to be scratched through everyday use and often show water spots. Although they are easy to clean, they require regular maintenance to look their best. If you don't wipe them out regularly, they can quickly look dingy.
If you prioritize style, sound absorption, and a luxurious look, a quartz sink might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you value durability, versatility, and a more affordable price point, a stainless steel sink could be the way to go.
In conclusion, while stainless steel sinks are durable and resistant to corrosion, they can become stained if pots or dishes are left sitting in the sink for too long. By following these tips and practicing regular maintenance, you can keep your stainless steel sink looking clean and stain-free for years to come.
If you opt for a classic white porcelain farmhouse sink, it's very likely to get stained, and it will require regular cleaning to keep it sparkling. Scrubbing the sink with baking soda will help remove sauce stains, yet this mild abrasive won't scratch the surface.
Porcelain is susceptible to scratches and chips that might expose the surface beneath, which makes it vital to avoid dropping heavy metal objects in it or using sharp metal around it. It's recommended that people use silicone pads or a stainless steel rack to help protect it.
While stainless steel sinks are durable, they do tend to scratch if abrasive cleansers are used. You might notice tiny scratches on an older stainless steel sink if you look closely. Most stainless steel varieties have a grain or pattern to them.
Porcelain Kitchen Sinks
Strong and durable, porcelain sinks hold up well over time when cared for. Porcelain sinks are available in a wide range of colors. Porcelain can mimic the look of natural stones, like marble. It's a low maintenance material that's easy to clean.