Skip to main content

This is the best kitchen sink material you can choose for your home

Sinks are one of the biggest conversation topics when it comes to remodeling kitchens. What used to be a fairly standard, boring kitchen item is now one of the best ways to bring character and function into the space. There are so many sink material options to choose from that you need to understand what will work best for how you will use it.

There are pros and cons of popular sink materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, stone, copper, and enamel (to name a few), and you’ll need to consider these in the context of the overall design of your kitchen. We’ve done the work for you to break down the benefits and drawbacks of each material, as well as other considerations for deciding the best kitchen sink material for you.

Stainless steel sinks

The most classic, longest-used sink material, stainless steel is timeless and popular for many reasons. Here are a few pros of buying a stainless steel sink:

  • Highly affordable
  • Easy to clean
  • Customizable so it can be over- or undermounted on the kitchen counter
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Heat-resistant

Stainless steel can be hard to beat, but it does scratch easily and is prone to water spots. That said, if you’re looking for an affordable option that’s easy to clean, stainless steel is for you!

Cast iron sinks

If you’re looking for luxury, cast iron sinks should be a consideration for your kitchen. They are gorgeous, and we love them in farmhouse kitchens because they really add to the overall design. Here are some other reasons we love cast iron:

  • Rust-resistant and easy to clean (with porcelain finish)
  • Durable
  • Comes in tons of colors
  • Highly sanitary
  • Makes a bold statement

Like we mentioned above, luxury comes at a cost. Cast iron sinks are more expensive than other options, and they can be difficult to install because of their weight. The porcelain enamel also can be prone to chipping, so you need to be careful when washing dishes.

Copper kitchen sinks

Copper is a fan favorite of ours because it delivers such character and warmth to a kitchen. Copper sinks work in many home styles, but we love them in a farmhouse or vintage-style home. Here are some of the many reasons to choose copper:

  • Affordable and easy to install
  • Durable
  • Color will change over time as it ages (we love this, but something to keep in mind)
  • Makes a statement

Copper sinks are easy to clean, but you need to do so regularly so they don’t tarnish. They can also dent easily, so make sure whoever is installing this knows how to do so properly. You’ll also want to be careful setting dishes in it once it’s installed.

Natural stone sinks

Stone sinks are carved out of natural stone like granite or marble, so they are all unique and incomparable to other types of sinks. This is one of the most expensive types of sinks you can buy, but it may be worth it for how it will look in the heart of your home. Here’s why we love them:

  • Extremely versatile and can be used as an over- or undermount, apron-style, or farmhouse sink
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Naturally nonporous, so it won’t stain
  • One of a kind

As we mentioned above, it’s not only expensive to buy but also expensive to install a stone sink because it is so heavy. You’ll also need to reseal it yearly to make sure your investment stays protected. That said, if you have the budget, a natural stone sink is hard to top.

All the sinks above will look gorgeous in any kitchen, and with the mix-and-match mentality of today’s designers, you can add a farmhouse sink to a more traditional kitchen to breathe new life into your room. Understanding how you will use the sink (and who will use it) can help you decide what will work for your lifestyle. For instance, if you have young kids who may drop things frequently, you may want to avoid sinks that scratch or dent easily. If you have a big budget and want to go all out, you may be able to splurge on one of the luxury sinks above.

As with anything, your decision will come down to personal preference. Do some shopping online or in person to get a sense of what really speaks to you before you decide. With so many choices, styles, and colors, you’re bound to find one that will work for you.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Julie Scagell
I am a freelance writer based in Minneapolis, MN. My passions include my dogs, talking about my dogs, and taking pictures of…
How to pull off a chic black and white kitchen (without it feeling cold)
Your black and white kitchen doesn't have to feel cold or flat. Here's how to style a chic design
Black and white industrial kitchen

For modern enthusiasts, the black and white kitchen is a chic and sophisticated design choice. Simple, clean lines that feel minimal and sleek while maintaining an elegant and luxe touch without appearing overly gaudy are why the black and white kitchen has prevailed in many interiors. However, styling it the right way is more challenging than most people think.

The greatest issue homeowners face with styling the black and white kitchen is finding themselves with an end result that feels cold or flat. It’s easy to wind up with an overwhelming space that feels too stark and barren. So today, we’re giving you the tips you need to achieve a chic black and white kitchen that doesn’t feel cold or depressing.
Be intentional about the color balance
The use of color can make or break your black and white kitchen. The palette needs to feel intentional and work with the space. You’ll need to determine whether you want more black in the space, more white, or a balance of both. A mostly black kitchen with a hint of white can feel more moody, intimate, and luxurious, while the alternative may feel more bright, clean, and refreshing. A balance between the two colors, if done correctly, can look ultra modern and sleek.

Read more
6 incredible ways to achieve the perfect coastal kitchen aesthetic
Must-haves to create a coastal kitchen in your home
Kitchen with light blue cabinets and wood accents

Whether you live by the sea or far from it, it’s hard not to adore the fresh and simple look of coastal decor. The coastal aesthetic brings a refreshing and calming aura into the home, which can be a much-needed distraction from the hectic nature of everyday life. And what better place to invite this soothing design style than in the kitchen?

If you’re looking for simple decor ideas and tips on decorating the perfect coastal kitchen, we have just what you need.
Add plenty of wicker and rattan pieces
Adding wicker and rattan furniture is one of the easiest ways to create a coastal look in your kitchen. Wicker fruit baskets, pendant lights, and seating can add a down-to-earth and woven feel to the space. Rattan furniture can also be a fantastic option for a nearby sunroom or kitchen seating if you have space for a classic breakfast nook. The lighter tones and airy aesthetic of these pieces create the perfect seaside vibe.

Read more
Don’t over-theme your beach home. Here’s what to do instead
Prevent your coastal decor from going overboard by balancing nautical and sophisticated design
Beach-themed vacation home decor

Decorating a beach home so it doesn’t look over-themed and kitschy can be challenging. While it’s easy to gravitate toward the oversized conch shells and the nautical life buoy decor, doing so can make your home look "theme" and lack sophistication. However, it’s fairly simple to create a chic look without making a beach home look like a tacky seaside tourist trap. After all, we’ve all been to one of those pirate-themed fish restaurants with the netting on the ceiling. The last thing you want is for your home to look like it’s gone overboard!

So today, we’re giving you some ideas on how to find a balance between your nautical sea decor and a sophisticated and modern look.
Less is more
The main issue many homeowners face when styling a beach home is adding too much to the coastal design. From shells to furniture, it’s easy to get carried away and add an excessive amount of decor. However, too many decor items quickly make the design feel overwhelming, cluttered, and super cliché.

Read more