'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).
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.
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.
Porcelain is easy to clean and maintain and is stain, scratch, and heat resistant. However, porcelain is susceptible to cracking or chipping from dropping hard or heavy objects so we recommend using a protective grid or silicone pad in your kitchen sink to prevent damage.
Both top-mount and undermount models are available; undermount models ease cleanup because there is no lip to catch food and debris, but are usually more expensive. Stainless steel sinks also resist chipping and cracking, however, are likely to be scratched through everyday use and often show water spots.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kitchen Design
Rectangular sinks with sharper edges contribute to a minimalist or modern kitchen design. Rounded edges are better for traditional kitchens. If your kitchen has a trendy style, opt for D-shaped sinks, which offer more space than similarly sized rectangular sinks.
Double Basin/Bowl Sink
The most popular type of kitchen sink arrangement, dual basins allow for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side.
Porcelain kitchen sinks are durable
While porcelain is incredibly durable, it can chip or stain under certain conditions. If you drop a heavy item in your porcelain sink, such as a cast iron pan, it may chip and require resurfacing.
Undermount sinks also remain popular, with Beesley sharing that they're “a popular choice for customers as they are installed under the level of the worktop creating a seamless design. These types of sinks save space, and create a clean and sleek look which is great for minimalist-style kitchens.”
Because they have corners, square sinks are harder to clean than oval sinks. Although they take up less space than rectangular sinks, they take up more space compared to the oval and round sinks. They don't have a large water depth compared to other shapes.
By far the most popular material for kitchen sinks, stainless steel sinks are resistant to heat and stains and are available in a variety of types, styles and sizes.
Durability. Composite granite sinks are primarily made up of a mixture of quartz granite particles and resin, both of which are incredibly hard-wearing and durable. The result of this is that any knocks that would usually dent, chip or scratch a regular sink will not show up on a composite sink.
The simple answer, is yes! Of course they can scratch and they can stain. Like most things in life, it is all about how you maintain and treat your investment. Damage is inevitable, with enough weight or force on any of these sink options.
Conclusion: Vinegar can indeed damage your stainless steel surfaces if precautions aren't taken during its use.
› We recommend that you do not use chlorine bleach in your stainless steel sink, as chlorine will attack the protective layer that makes stainless steel truly stainless. Any drain cleaning products containing sulphuric or hydrochloric acid will also attack the sink.
Remove limescale from a stainless steel sink
Use a spray bottle to apply a 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and water, leave for a minute or two, then wipe and rinse; do not leave it longer because the vinegar may damage the stainless steel over time.
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.
Yes, composite sinks can withstand boiling water. There is no issue with pouring hot water down a granite, quartz, or solid surface sink.