Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
It's the most popular sink material in homes and commercial kitchens alike, and for very good reason: stainless steel sinks are durable, low-maintenance, heat- and stain-resistant, affordable, and impervious to chipping and cracking.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
Affordability
From expensive to affordable, there are several stainless-steel models suitable for every requirement.
Available in improved and upgraded form
New technology makes stainless steel kitchen sinks continue to be improved and upgraded. For instance, the latest 16- and 18-gauge sinks are thicker and much less noisy than the less-expensive older ones.
Durable
Stainless steel is remarkably long-lasting. Also, stainless steel is perfect for sinks and other applications as well, because it won’t chip, fade, crack, or stain.
Bigger bowl capacity
Stainless steel is comparatively light, but strong properties allow it to be made into larger and deeper bowls than cast iron or any other kind of material. Not to mention, the drop in stainless steel kitchen sink have a good grip which makes them easy to install.
Easy to take care of
Stainless steel is easy to maintain and remains unaffected by household chemicals. It retains its original glow when cleaned with a household cleaner and an ordinary soft towel. Hence, making it the perfect surface for sinks in the kitchen, laundry sinks, bathroom sinks, and any other design and residential application.
Will not rust
The metal allows a rich glow and enhances natural corrosion resistance. Available on the market, stainless steel finishes range from a mirror-like shine to a satin luster.
Absorbs shock
Stainless steel actually “gives” on impact to help cushion crystals, fine china, everyday glassware, and ceramic dishes against accidental breakage.
Accents the detail
Interior designers know that stainless steel kitchen sinks and appliances can emphasize a room’s different architectural details and eye-catching finishes. Its clean lines and cool textures reflect the enclosed colors and patterns. The timeless look of stainless steel can certainly complement your decor long after trendy colors go out of style.
Longevity
Stainless steel kitchen sink is the ideal choice for years of optimal performance and continued high-quality, attractive looks.
Recyclable
Basically, stainless steel is a recyclable material. Stainless steel does not diminish or lose any of its properties in the process of recycling, making stainless steel kitchen sinks a good environment-friendly option. Hence, with a strong commitment to environmental awareness, most manufacturers utilize salvaged, raw stainless steel in production processes.
Why Choose us
Quality
Our factory is committed to maintaining high-quality standards and uses advanced technology and equipment to manufacture products that meet customer requirements.
Experience
The company has been in the industry for over 20 years, which means they have accumulated a wealth of experience and expertise.
High-quality standards
Our products are made to high-quality standards, ensuring that they are durable and long-lasting. We use only the best materials and the latest manufacturing techniques to create our products.
Customer service
We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and ensuring that our customers are satisfied with their purchases. We are always available to answer any questions or concerns that our customers may have.
How to Choose a Good-Quality Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
The grade of the stainless steel
You’ll usually see an “18/8” label on your local stainless steel kitchen sinks. The ratio denotes the amount of chromium and nickel contained in the steel. For the ratio of 18/8, this means that there is 18% of chromium and 8% of nickel in the stainless steel.As a general rule of thumb, the higher the percentage of these materials, the higher quality your stainless steel sink would be.The grade is another thing to look out for when purchasing a stainless steel sink. Grade-304 is regarded as the best grade for stainless steel sinks. This grade means that the steel is an 18/8 stainless steel and made up of at least 50% iron.By understanding these properties of stainless steel, you’ll be able to spot high-quality sinks from poorer ones. It can also save you a lot of money when comparing sinks from multiple brands.
Gauge (thickness of the material)
“Gauge” refers to the thickness of the stainless steel metal for the sink. Don’t get confused; the lower the number of a gauge is, the thicker it is and vice versa. In this case, always remember that less means more when measuring the gauge of a sink.The gauge of the material will range from 16-22 gauge with the 16-gauge one being the thickest. While some people argue that the thickness of a stainless steel kitchen sink does not matter, having a thicker sink would mean that it is more sound-absorbent.It is significantly less noisy than thinner-gauge sinks as it “absorbs” the sound of running water in your sink or when the garbage disposal is activated. As a rule of thumb, high-quality stainless steel sinks are in between the 16 to 18 gauge range.
Insulation and coatings
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are usually covered with sound insulation layers or coatings to help reduce noise.Coatings also help to reduce condensation buildup on the bottom of the sink. Having the coating would mean that there won’t be moisture issues under your sink which can build up mold if there is moisture.It is important to know that your sink may or not come with any insulation or coating. These are usually add-ons when you purchase a sink but it’s worth it if you don’t want to get annoyed by the noisy sound of stainless steel sinks.
Sink finish
Finish refers to the surface of the stainless steel material. A mirror finish has a polished look to it and feels smooth. You can also opt for a matte look where the surface looks “brushed” rather than smooth. With the exception of polished mirror finishes, you will be able to notice the grain direction of a stainless steel kitchen sink which results from the finishing process.
Types of Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
Drop-In sinks
● A drop-in stainless steel kitchen sink is one of the most popular sink types. Also called a top mount sink, it literally drops into a pre-cut hole in the countertop. The edge of the sink rests on the counter for stability.
● Fairly easy to install, a drop-in sink works with almost every style of countertop and can be replaced without disturbing the countertop or relocating plumbing.
● Most drop-in sinks are self-rimming (held in place by their weight or fastened with clips and screws), though some are rimmed (more recessed into the countertop with the joint covered by a metal rim).
Undermount sinks
● Undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks are installed under the counter, making them ideal for use with solid surfaces and granite.
● They do not have an edge that rests on the countertop, so cleanup is easier when it comes to undermount vs. drop-in sinks.
Farmhouse sinks
● Farmhouse stainless steel kitchen sinks, also known as apron sinks, feature a wide expanse and deep bowl with an exposed front. They are available in a wide range of materials.
● This style allows for easier cleaning of larger items like pots and pans.
● A certain type of base cabinet is typically required to support it. Some styles can be retrofitted to your existing cabinets.
All-in-One sinks
● One of the most convenient options, all-in-one sinks are a complete kitchen sink unit including a single or double bowl sink as well as a faucet.
● Some models will also feature a pull-down sprayer, soap pump, sink grid or strainer.
● They will typically work with any countertop surface.
Workstation sinks
● Ideal for busy kitchens, either home or restaurant, a workstation stainless steel kitchen sink converts your kitchen sink into a work/prep space.
● Many include custom accessories like cutting boards, drying trays and colanders.
● Most workstation sinks have an integrated ledge to hold accessories.
Commercial sinks
● Commercial stainless steel kitchen sinks are typically used in restaurants or hospitality environments.
● They are extremely durable and are usually significantly longer and deeper than a standard residential kitchen sink.
● The sink usually has a prep surface built in which can help expand your counter space and protect your counter surfaces by giving an alternate place to prep food.
● They are normally made of stainless steel but are available in other materials in both under-mount and drop-in installation types.
Bar sinks
● A bar sink has a much smaller footprint than a standard sink, allowing it to be installed in spaces where a secondary sink is useful, such as a kitchen island or home bar.
● Usually made of stainless steel, they are easy to keep clean and sanitized.
● Allows for prep of fresh ingredients in isolation from the main sink to help prevent cross-contamination.
Which Sink Material is Right for You
Stainless steel kitchen sink
● It provides an excellent balance of cost, durability and ease of cleaning.
● Higher quality stainless steel sinks are made of 18 to 16 gauge to prevent dents and scratches. Gauge is a measurement of the thickness of stainless steel. The lower the number, the thicker the material.
● Look for vibration-damping foam insulation or pads on the underside of the bowls to deaden water drumming.
● Brushed satin finishes tend to hide water spots and scratches.
Granite quartz composite sinks
● Granite/Quartz composite is scratch, stain and heat resistant; available in drop-in, farmhouse and undermount.
● Available in a range of colors.
● Withstands hot cookware.
Fireclay sinks
● Similar in appearance to cast iron. Has a smooth, glazed, non-porous surface.
● Extremely durable material. Fireclay resists chips, scratches and acid damage.
● Primarily sold in white, but multiple colors and textures are available.
Cast Iron sinks
● Has a smooth, glass-like finish that makes it easy to clean.
● Cast iron is guaranteed not to chip, crack or burn.
● Extremely heavy (upwards of 125 pounds). Requires two people to install. Not typically suited for wall-mount installation.
Copper sinks
● Surface takes on an aged patina over time.
● Each sink is individually handcrafted and unique.
● Copper' s anti-microbial properties kill bacteria and viruses.
Use the right cleaner
Use a stainless steel cleaner or a homemade baking soda and vinegar solution.
Follow the grain
Clean the basin toward the direction of the grain to avoid scratching the stainless steel.
Dry thoroughly
After cleaning, dry the stainless steel kitchen sink to prevent white spots and the buildup of hard water deposits.
Regular maintenance
Keep the stainless steel kitchen sink clean by wiping it with a clean sponge or cloth and mild detergent.
Deep clean occasionally
Use warm water and baking soda to clean. Sprinkle baking soda onto the damp basin and scrub gently.
Rinse well
Rinse the sink with water after cleaning.
Polish for shine
To restore shine, polish the stainless steel kitchen sink with bar keepers friend. If you prefer a more natural approach, try distilled white vinegar.
Single-bowl sink
Stainless steel kitchen sink feature one large basin with no dividers and are a great choice for small kitchens with limited counter space. They make cleaning large cookware easier because you can lay pots and pans flat at the bottom of the sink and not have to worry about debris splashing onto your counter.
Single-bowl sinks aren't ideal for multitasking, like cleaning and cooking at the same time, so they're recommended for smaller households or single individuals.
Double-bowl sink
If you plan to hand-wash your dishes, double-basin sinks can offer both functionality and style. These sinks feature a divider so you can designate one side of your sink for washing dishes and the other for rinsing, drying, or food prep.
These sinks were popular before electric dishwashers became standard, but this classic design has yet to go out of style. double-bowl sinks come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles, making them easy to incorporate into your kitchen design.
Low-divide kitchen sink
A low-divide kitchen sink, or a low-score sink, has a low center divider that only rises about halfway up the basin. This gives you room to wash larger dishes that wouldn't fit in a double-bowl or single-bowl sink while still being able to organize washing and rinsing into separate basins.
Overmount kitchen sink
An overmount kitchen sink, also known as a top mount or drop-in sink, drops into the counter which creates a lip or rim around the sink. This is a versatile option because it's easy to install and provides extra support, meaning that you can use almost any material, no matter how heavy.
One factor to consider is that grime and debris can get caught on the lip and can make cleanup more difficult.
Undermount sink
An undermount sink is installed directly under the counter, creating a seamless look from countertop to sink. This type of sink is versatile and works with most kitchen layouts. Not only do these sinks look sleek, but they also make for easy cleanup because debris can be pushed straight into the sink without catching on a lip or rim.
It's worth considering the weight of the sink that you choose since it is typically installed with glue that attaches to the underside of the counter and the sink. Most fireclay or cast iron sinks will not work with this installation method because of their heaviness.
Stainless steel sink
Stainless steel sinks are light and easy to install, making them a functional and popular option. They come in a variety of styles, such as farmhouse, undermount, and overmount. While these sinks are typically more expensive than porcelain, they're an affordable option compared to other high-quality materials like granite.
Stainless steel sinks are categorized by sheeting thickness or gauge. A thicker gauge means the sink will typically be heavier and cheaper, while a thinner gauge will mean the sink is lighter and often more expensive. Stainless steel sinks tend to be noisier than other sink materials and they can dent, but they offer great heat and stain resistance.
Cast iron sink
Cast iron sinks are sprayed with a porcelain enamel coating that gives them a glossy white finish, which appeals to many homeowners looking for a sink to complement their vintage, farmhouse, or country-style kitchen.
Cast iron sinks tend to be heavier and more durable than other sinks, but the porcelain enamel can chip easily. These sinks are not meant to be cleaned with abrasive cleaners, as they will wear down the enamel coating. You'll also need to use caution when washing dishes since the hardness of this sink can easily chip your dishware.
Fireclay sink
Fireclay sinks are made from clay and glaze fusing together at very high temperatures, upwards of 1,600° Fahrenheit. Fireclay sinks are almost identical to cast iron sinks but tend to be slightly more durable. They won't chip, etch, or stain, and you can use abrasive cleaners unlike on a cast iron sink.
Fireclay sinks are usually more expensive than cast iron due to the more extensive fabrication process. This material is often used for farmhouse-style sinks, making it a great fit for hosting fun events, holidays or entertaining.
How To Keep Your Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink In Pristine Condition
Invest in a stainless steel grid
Every stainless steel kitchen sink needs a metal grid. It is non-negotiable if you want that spick and span look and minimal scratches and nicks. When shopping, consider a stainless steel grid as they blend with the aesthetics of your sink and offer the benefits that come with owning anything made of stainless steel. These bottom grids not only protect your sink but also allow water and other substances to flow down the drain smoothly without leaving a hint of their presence.
Reconsider your cleaning tools
If you want to learn how to keep your stainless steel kitchen sink in pristine condition, avoid cleaning tools with metallic components. This includes common household tools like steel wool, wire brushes, and abrasive scrubbing pads. Even though they are great for scrubbing sinks and a plethora of household items, they are not suitable for stainless steel. These items can create unsightly marks, cause further scratches, and leave behind iron particles that invite rust.
Wipe down after each use
Sure, it sounds simple enough, but you would be surprised at how challenging it can be to wipe down your stainless steel sink after each use. The good news is that once this simple action becomes a habit, you are well on your way to enjoying a clean, fresh, and shiny sink year-round.
Make your sink sparkle
When researching how to keep your stainless steel sink in pristine condition, you will notice that the words "sparkle" and "shiny" come up often. This is because a gleaming stainless steel sink is one of the hallmarks of a clean and well-maintained kitchen. There are several ways to achieve this lustrous effect, but the most common is by using club soda.
Keep your stainless steel sink empty
We understand that a busy life can get in the way of your domestic affairs, but if you can help it, do not leave items like pots, pans, and plates sitting in your sink. Wash dishes immediately after use or load your dishwasher right away instead of leaving the dishes out. As Kitchn explains, you do not want to let dishes with food scraps sit in your stainless steel sink as you could risk an invasion of bacteria that you may not get rid of so easily.
Furthermore, if your sink is contaminated, the chances of germs and kitchen pests having contact with your food increases exponentially. Also, let's face it, piling dishes high is an eyesore and your gorgeous stainless steel sink deserves better. If you get around to clearing the dishes, be sure to give the sink a good scrub with anti-bacterial soap.
Scrub in the direction of stainless steel grain
While on the subject of how to keep your stainless steel sink in pristine condition, let us discuss the grain of stainless steel. Like wood and rocks, steel too has grains, which according to Vacuums Guide, refer to the unique markings, lines, or stripes of color located on the surface and in the walls of the sink. Typically, they are quite small and appear angled in the same direction.
When cleaning a stainless steel sink, the experts agree to always clean in the direction of the grain. Doing this means you will be able to clean out the grime and bacteria that gets lodged between the tiny crevices of the grain. It also helps to protect your sink from scratches and dings. Pro tip: Do not use greasy rags or towels to wipe down your sink. Choose a lint-free rag or a microfiber cloth.
How to Seal a Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink for Long-Lasting Results
Start with a Clean Surface
Whenever you start a new sealing project, make sure you have a clean work surface by wiping it down with isopropyl alcohol. If you're replacing old caulk or sealant, completely remove it first, then wipe down the area with isopropyl alcohol. Let the surface dry before laying a new bead.
Apply Painter's Tape
For a smoother bead and easier cleanup, apply painter's tape on either side of the area you're sealing.
Carefully Cut the Sealant Cartridge
Next, prepare your sealant by cutting the tip of the cartridge. Cut the cartridge tip at a 45-degree angle so the hole is about the same size as the area you're sealing. Some caulk guns have a tool to cut the cartridge tip, but we recommend using a utility blade for consistently clean results. Cut off less than you think you'll need because you can always cut more. Once cut, pierce the cartridge's inner foil seal using the metal rod on your caulk gun or a long nail. Then load the sealant cartridge into the caulk gun.
Apply Sealant
After prepping your sealant and your work area, start running a bead of sealant around the entire stainless steel kitchen sink where it meets the countertop. Start at one corner of the sink and work your way around. Pull the gun toward you and maintain a relaxed, confident grip and steady speed to apply the bead smoothly. If you can't make it in one pass, it's ok to readjust your grip and start where you left off. Fill gaps with additional sealant as needed.
Tool the Bead & Remove the Painter's Tape
Use a caulk tool or your finger to tool the sealant bead until it's smooth. It's important to tool the bead before the sealant starts to cure, so if you need to, you can tool in sections. Run a bead of sealant in one manageable section, like along one edge of the sink, tool the bead, then continue applying more sealant.
Pro Tip: To aid in tooling, dip your finger in a mixture of dish soap and water.Then, immediately remove the painter's tape before the sealant has a chance to cure. Remove any excess or unwanted sealant with mineral spirits.
Let Sealant Cure Completely
Finally, allow the sealant to cure completely for the best performance. Sealant is same-day water-ready2 and fully cured in 24 hours, but check your product for specific curing instructions.Once the sealant has cured, your kitchen stainless steel kitchen sink will be watertight and ready to use.
Certificate
Franta invests to build auto polishing, auto passivization and auto laser welding lines for stainless steel kitchen sink manufacturing. We also have industry leading incoming material inspection spectrum analyzer, salt spray test machine, high temperature and humidity test machine to control sinks quality.
Asked Question
Q: What to know about a stainless steel sink?
Q: What should you not put on a stainless steel sink?
Q: How long should a stainless-steel kitchen sink last?
Q: Are stainless steel sinks hard to maintain?
Q: What grade of stainless steel sink is best?
Q: What to look for when buying kitchen stainless steel sink?
Q: Which is better 18 or 20 gauge stainless steel sink?
Q: Can you pour boiling water down stainless steel sink?
Q: What will ruin stainless steel?
Q: What gauge stainless-steel kitchen sink is best?
Q: Why does my new stainless steel sink scratch so easily?
Q: Is 16 or 18 gauge stainless steel better?
Q: Do stainless steel kitchen sinks scratch easily?
Q: Can you use car wax on stainless steel sink?
Q: What is the best cleaner for stainless steel sinks?
Q: How can you tell the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?
Q: What are the 3 grades of stainless steel?
Q: Is an expensive kitchen sink worth it?
Q: What color faucet goes best with a stainless steel sink?
Q: What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel kitchen sinks?
As one of the most professional stainless steel kitchen sink manufacturers and suppliers in China, we're featured by quality products and good service. Please rest assured to wholesale customized stainless steel kitchen sink at competitive price from our factory.
threaded fittings for hoses, stainless steel fittings for chemical industry, threaded fittings for chemical plants