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How to Choose the Best Kitchen Sink

Choosing the best kitchen sink can transform your food prep and cleaning routines. The key to finding the ideal kitchen sink is to evaluate your space and determine your family’s needs. Once you know what you are looking for, our showroom consultants can help you decide which sink options to narrow down. Kohler Sinks offers top-notch quality and innovative designs in various materials and colors. Navigate through this assortment by determining the size, material, and functions you need for your home.

Start With Your Installation Type

Did you know that kitchen sinks come in various installation types and configurations? When planning a kitchen remodel or simply upgrading your sink, the first (and often most important) decision you will make is the sink’s installation style. Different type of sink installations affects the look of your kitchen and how you use and maintain your sink daily. By knowing the strengths of each sink style, you can choose one that meets your functional needs while perfectly complementing the design you envision.

TOP-MOUNT SINKS

What Top-Mount Sinks Are: A top-mount sink, also called a drop-in sink, is among the most popular for a reason: straightforward to install, budget-friendly, and compatible with many different countertop materials. If you plan to replace your sink without a complete remodel, this option often requires fewer modifications to your existing countertop.

Why You Should Pick Them: The sink’s rim sits on the counter, creating a stable, secure fit. This design keeps spills contained in the sink area, making cleanup relatively easy. With many styles and materials available—from stainless steel to enameled cast iron—you can easily find a top-mount sink that matches your vision and stands up to everyday wear.

UNDER-MOUNT SINKS

What Under-Mount Sinks Are: If you prefer a clean, seamless countertop look (especially with granite, quartz, or other solid surfaces), under-mount sinks could be your best bet. Because the sink sits below the countertop level, you can directly wipe food scraps and liquids into the basin without catching on a rim.

Why You Should Pick Them: Beyond aesthetics, many homeowners appreciate the increased counter space under-mount sinks provide. Under-mount sinks are also sturdy when installed correctly. However, as a result of their installation process, under-mount sinks usually require professional installation and careful sealing to prevent leaks—a worthwhile investment if you desire a sleek, modern look and easier daily cleanup.

APRON-FRONT SINKS

What Apron-Front Sinks Are: Farmhouse sinks have become a staple in modern kitchen design, blending rustic charm with contemporary convenience. The exposed front makes a bold style statement, and their deep basins are perfect for handling large pots and pans—great for families or anyone who loves to cook.

Why You Should Pick Them: This design can make heavy dishwashing sessions more ergonomic. Remember that you’ll likely need custom cabinetry or adjustments to your existing layout. The result, however, can be a stunning focal point that adds value and character to your home.

INTEGRATED SINKS

What Integrated Sinks Are: For a truly streamlined look, integrated sinks—where the sink and countertop are made from the same material—offer a high-end, minimalist style. These sinks are often fabricated from seamless solid surfaces or composite materials, resulting in an ultra-sleek finish that’s easy to clean.

Why You Should Pick Them: Integrated sinks lack a sink lip to trap debris, resulting in an effortlessly clean kitchen environment. These sinks can be more costly and typically require professional fabrication and installation. Still, many homeowners find the elevated design and simple upkeep worth the effort and cost.

Sink Installation Type Comparison Chart

Installation Type Pros Cons
Top-Mount (Drop-in)
  • Affordable
  • Easier installation and replacement
  • Versatile with countertop materials
  • Edge catches debris, harder to clean
  • Visually less seamless compared to undermount
Under-Mount
  • Sleek, modern appearance
  • Easy countertop cleanup (crumbs can be wiped directly into sink)
  • Maximizes counter space
  • Costlier installation
  • Professional installation required
  • May need extra support, especially with heavier materials (e.g., cast iron, fireclay)
Farmhouse (Apron-front)
  • Stylish, statement piece
  • Easier access due to forward orientation (ergonomic)
  • Large basin space for washing large items
  • More expensive sink and installation
  • May require specialized cabinetry
  • Susceptible to damage (particularly exposed front)
Integrated (Seamless)
  • Elegant, seamless look
  • Very hygienic (no seams to trap dirt)
  • Highly customizable in shape and design
  • Most expensive option
  • Difficult to replace or repair without significant countertop work
  • Limited material options

Download Kohler’s Kitchen Faucet Portfolio

Discover the perfect blend of elegance, innovation, and unmatched functionality with the KOHLER Kitchen Faucets Portfolio. Tailored specifically for homeowners who appreciate superior quality, each faucet in this curated collection embodies thoughtful design and advanced technology, ensuring lasting beauty and durability in your kitchen. Whether you are drawn to the sleek minimalism of the Components® collection, the vintage-inspired charm of Artifacts®, or the professional-level precision of the semi-professional faucets, this portfolio highlights Kohler’s kitchen faucet models, technologies, and accessories to help you select the ideal fixture for your space. Explore options such as touchless technology for convenience, magnetic docking for effortless functionality, and specialized spray settings to tackle any kitchen task efficiently. Elevate your kitchen’s style and efficiency today—download Kohler’s portfolio and transform your kitchen experience.


Choose A Bowl Configuration Best For Your Cooking Style

Increase your kitchen’s functionality with extra basin options. For instance, a double basin allows you to use one basin for scrubbing and the other for rinsing. Single-basin sinks make soaking and scrubbing large pots and pans a breeze. A triple basin option is handy for draining pasta or rinsing produce when the other basins are full.

SINGLE-BOWL SINKS

Single-basin sinks (also called single bowls) offer plenty of space for large-diameter dishes and oversized pots, making them ideal for users who frequently cook and do not have a dishwasher.

Design and Functionality

  • Unobstructed Space: The defining characteristic is the single, large basin. This provides ample room for washing large pots, pans, and other bulky items. This design is particularly favored by those who frequently cook or entertain.
  • Modern Aesthetic: Single basin sinks often create a clean, minimalist look, aligning with contemporary kitchen designs.
  • Versatility: Single basin sinks can accommodate a variety of kitchen tasks, from washing dirty dishes to prepping food. Many single basin sinks now come with accessory options, like cutting boards or drying racks that fit within the sink, turning the sink into a workstation.

Sizes and Configurations

  • Variety of Sizes: Single basin sinks come in various bowl sizes to suit different kitchen layouts and needs. Standard widths range from 24 inches to over 36 inches. Depth also varies, with deeper sink bowls providing more space for large items.

Tips for Choosing a Single Bowl Kitchen Sink

Assess Your Needs

Consider your typical kitchen tasks. A large, deep single basin is ideal if you frequently handle large cookware. Think about your available counter space and cabinet size.

Measure Your Cabinet Space

Ensure the sink will fit within your existing or planned cabinet dimensions. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s specifications for the required cabinet base size.

Consider the Depth

Deeper bowls offer more space but may require more bending, which could concern some individuals.

Think about Accessories

Many single-basin sinks are now designed as workstations, with accessories like cutting boards, drying racks, and colanders that fit perfectly within the sink. If you would like those options, look for sinks that offer them.

DOUBLE-BASIN SINKS

Double bowl sinks allow for separate tasks, with one side used for soaking and washing dishes and the other for rinsing or food preparation.

Design and Functionality

  • Dual Basins: The defining feature is the presence of two separate bowls, allowing for simultaneous tasks. This design is ideal for multitasking, such as washing dishes in one bowl and rinsing or prepping food in the other.
  • Variety of Configurations: Double bowl sinks come in various configurations, with the most common being:
    • 50/50: Equal-sized bowls.
    • 60/40 or 70/30: One larger bowl and one smaller bowl.
  • Increased Efficiency: Double bowls enhance kitchen efficiency by providing dedicated spaces for different tasks. In addition, these sinks are particularly useful for those who frequently cook or entertain.

Sizes and Configurations

  • Width Variations: Double bowl sinks typically range in width from 30 inches to over 40 inches. The overall size and bowl proportions will determine the sink’s width.
  • Bowl Depth: Bowl depth can vary, with deeper bowls providing more space for large pots and pans.

Tips for Choosing a Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

Assess Your Needs

Consider your typical kitchen tasks and your sink use. Consider whether you prefer equal-sized bowls or a larger and smaller bowl combination.

Measure Your Cabinet Space

Ensure the sink will fit within your existing or planned cabinet dimensions. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s specifications for the required cabinet base size.

Choose the Right Configuration

Select a bowl configuration that suits your needs. A 50/50 split is ideal for those who prefer equal-sized basins, while a 60/40 or 70/30 split offers flexibility.

Consider the Divider

Some double bowl sinks feature a low divider, which allows for easier handling of large items and cooking utensils.

OFFSET BASIN SINKS

An offset basin sink is a kitchen sink design where the sink basin(s) are not centered. Instead, one or both bowls are shifted to one side, creating an asymmetrical appearance. This design offers several functional and aesthetic benefits.

Design and Functionality

  • Asymmetrical Layout: The defining feature is the off-center placement of the bowl(s). This can involve a single bowl shifted to one side or a double bowl where one bowl is significantly larger than the other. This design can create a more dynamic and visually interesting look than traditional symmetrical sinks.
  • Increased Workspace: Offset bowls can free up counter space, particularly behind the sink, which can be useful for placing faucets, soap dispensers, or other accessories. In double-bowl configurations, the larger bowl can accommodate large pots and pans. In comparison, the smaller bowl is ideal for rinsing or food preparation.
  • Enhanced Under-Sink Storage: Offset drains, often found in offset bowl sinks, can provide more usable space under the sink by moving plumbing to one side. This is especially beneficial when installing a garbage disposal.

Sizes and Configurations

  • Single-Bowl: Offset single-bowl sinks provide a large, unobstructed basin with a drain to one side. Sizes vary, but offset sinks are often designed to maximize the available space within standard cabinet dimensions.
  • Double-Bowl: Offset double-bowl sinks typically feature a larger main bowl and a smaller secondary bowl. Standard configurations include 60/40 or 70/30 splits, indicating the percentage of the sink’s width occupied by each bowl. Sizes will vary greatly depending on the split of the bowls.

Tips for Choosing an Offset Bowl Kitchen Sink

Assess Your Needs

Evaluate your typical kitchen tasks. Consider how you use your under-sink space and whether an offset drain would benefit you.

Measure Your Cabinet Space

Ensure your sink fits your existing or planned cabinet dimensions. Pay attention to the required cabinet base size specified by the manufacturer.

Faucet Compatibility

Ensure your faucet is compatible with the sink’s design and hole configuration. Offset bowl sinks may offer more flexibility in faucet placement.

Drain Placement

Consider where the drain is located. An offset drain can free up much space under the sink.

SMART DIVIDE SINKS

Smart divide sinks feature dividers half the height, offering the openness of a single bowl with the function of a double bowl.

Design and Functionality

  • Low Divider: The defining characteristic is a lowered divider between the two bowls. This divider is significantly lower than the traditional high divider found in standard double bowl sinks. This design allows for greater flexibility when handling large pots, pans, and baking sheets. You can easily maneuver these items across the sink without being hindered by a high divider.
  • Dual Functionality: Smart divide sinks retain the functionality of a double bowl sink, allowing you to separate tasks like washing and rinsing. However, the lowered divider provides the added benefit of using the entire sink as a single large basin when needed.
  • Increased Versatility: This design enhances the sink’s versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of kitchen tasks.

Sizes and Configurations

  • Configurations: Smart divide sinks are available in various configurations, including equal-sized bowls (50/50) and unequal-sized bowls (e.g., 60/40 or 70/30). The sink size will vary depending on the configuration and the manufacturer.
  • Installation: Smart divide sinks are available in under-mount and top-mount (drop-in) installation styles.

Tips for Choosing a Smart Divide Kitchen Sink

Consider Your Needs

Evaluate your typical kitchen tasks and consider the bowl configuration that best suits them.

Measure Your Cabinet Space

Ensure the sink will fit within your existing or planned cabinet dimensions. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Divider Height

Even within “smart divide” sinks, different brands and models can have slight variations in divider height. Consider how low you want that divider to be.

Determine The Materials You Prefer

Kitchen sinks can be made of various materials, including stainless steel, composite material, and stone. The best materials for kitchen sinks depend on your preferences, your kitchen’s style, and your budget. Decorative finishes are also options to consider. Mix or match a faucet finish with other metals in the kitchen.

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel is the most popular kitchen sink material due to versatility, practicality, and cost-effectiveness. As a result, stainless steel sinks are a common choice for both indoor and outdoor kitchens.

GRANITE

Granite kitchen sinks typically feature a matte black color to match contemporary kitchen designs, but manufacturers can also offer custom colors to suit specific aesthetics.

KOHLER ENAMELED CAST IRON

Kohler’s enameled cast iron provides exceptional strength and stability. This durable material is known for retaining heat, which is particularly beneficial in bathtubs. A thick, glossy enamel coating is fused to the cast iron. This finish provides a smooth, non-porous surface that is highly resistant to chipping, scratching, staining, and burning.

KOHLER NEOROC COMPOSITE MATERIAL

Kohler Neoroc composite is a proprietary material used by Kohler to manufacture kitchen sinks. Neoroc is a composite material made from a blend of different substances. In this case, Neoroc is a mixture of ground quartz and acrylic resins. This combination results in a strong and resilient composite sink.

Kitchen Sink Material Comparison Chart

Material Key Features Durability & Maintenance Aesthetic Versatility Heat & Sound Performance Typical Price Range
Stainless Steel
  • Most popular for indoor & outdoor kitchens
  • Lightweight compared to other materials
  • Often comes in 16- to 18-gauge thickness for durability
  • Generally low maintenance; easy to clean
  • May show water spots or scratches over time
  • Look for models with sound-dampening pads to reduce noise
  • Wide variety of finishes (e.g., brushed, satin)
  • Complements modern or industrial kitchen designs
  • Excellent heat resistance
  • Sound dampening depends on insulation
Budget-friendly to mid-range
Granite (Composite or Natural)
  • Matte black or custom colors available
  • Highly scratch- and chip-resistant
  • Non-porous surface resists stains (composite)
  • Sturdy and long-lasting
  • Composite rarely needs sealing; natural granite may need periodic sealing
  • Heavier, may require additional support
  • Ideal for upscale aesthetics
  • Matte finishes hide water spots
  • Custom color blends available
  • Very heat-resistant
  • Natural sound-dampening due to density
Mid- to high-range
Kohler Enameled Cast Iron
  • Exceptional strength & stability
  • Thick, glossy enamel fused to cast iron
  • Resists chipping, scratching, staining, and burning
  • Long lifespan; easy to wipe clean
  • Heavy; may require reinforced support
  • Classic, timeless look
  • Range of finishes and shades
  • Retains heat well
  • Often quieter than thin stainless steel
Mid- to high-range
Kohler Neoroc Composite
  • Blend of ground quartz & acrylic resins
  • High impact and scratch resistance
  • Matte finish is slip- and stain-resistant
  • Dense; less prone to dents
  • Low maintenance; matte finish hides spots
  • Modern, sleek appearance
  • Neutral or bold hues
  • Consistent color throughout
  • Excellent heat resistance
  • Dense composition provides sound dampening
Mid- to high-range

Consider Additional Features & Accessories

Choosing the right kitchen sink accessories can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. Below, we delve into various accessories, providing descriptions, purposes, functionalities, benefits, and a comparison of their pros and cons to assist you in making informed decisions.

SINK GRIDS

Sink grids are protective accessories placed at the bottom of your sink. These accessories prevent direct contact between cookware, utensils, and the sink surface, minimizing scratches and potential damage. 

  • Protection: Safeguards the sink’s finish from scratches and dents caused by heavy pots and pans.
  • Improved Drainage: Elevates dishes, promoting efficient water flow and reducing water pooling.

SINK BASKETS

Sink baskets are versatile accessories for rinsing vegetables, draining pasta, or holding utensils. In addition, sink baskets have hooks or suction cups to attach securely to the sink.

  • Versatility: Can be used for multiple purposes, from food preparation to drying utensils.
  • Organization: Keeps the sink area tidy by providing a designated spot for items.

COLANDERS

Colanders are perforated bowls used primarily for draining washed or cooked foods. Colanders are essential for tasks like rinsing vegetables or draining pasta.

  • Efficient Draining: Allows water to drain quickly while retaining the food.
  • Multi-Use: Can be used for washing produce, draining pasta, or even as a fruit bowl.

CUTTING BOARDS

Cutting boards provide a dedicated surface for chopping, slicing, and dicing, protecting countertops from knife marks and contamination.

  • Hygiene: Prevents cross-contamination by providing a clean surface for food preparation.
  • Countertop Protection: Protects countertops from scratches and knife marks.

SOAP DISPENSERS

Built-in soap dispensers provide a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to access dish or hand soap, reducing countertop clutter.

  • Convenience: Offers easy access to soap without the need for separate bottles.
  • Aesthetics: Provides a clean and integrated look to the sink area.

CLEANING & ORGANIZING

These include sponge holders, sink caddies, and drying racks designed to keep the sink area organized and efficient.

  • Organization: Keeps cleaning tools like sponges and brushes in designated spots, reducing clutter.
  • Hygiene: Elevates items to allow for proper drying, reducing bacterial growth.

Accessory or Feature Comparison Chart

Accessory or Feature Pros Cons
Sink Grids
  • Extends the lifespan of your sink by preventing surface damage
  • Enhances cleanliness by allowing debris to be rinsed away easily
  • Requires regular cleaning to prevent grime and bacteria buildup
  • Can be cumbersome to remove and clean
Sink Baskets
  • Enhances efficiency by streamlining tasks
  • Often removable for flexible use and easy cleaning
  • May take up sink space, limiting working area
  • Can harbor bacteria and develop odors without regular cleaning
Colanders
  • Comes in various sizes and materials to suit different needs
  • Some designs are collapsible, saving storage space
  • Bulky designs can occupy significant storage space
  • Some materials may retain odors or stains over time
Cutting Boards
  • Available in various materials like wood, plastic, and bamboo
  • Some boards fit over sinks, maximizing workspace in small kitchens
  • Wooden boards require regular maintenance to prevent warping and bacteria buildup
  • Plastic boards can develop grooves over time, harboring bacteria
Soap Dispensers
  • Reduces countertop clutter by eliminating standalone soap bottles
  • Refillable designs are eco-friendly and cost-effective
  • Installation may require drilling into the countertop or sink
  • Can be prone to clogging without proper maintenance
Cleaning & Organizing Accessories
  • Enhances cleanliness and organization of the sink area
  • Variety of designs to suit different preferences and configurations
  • Some accessories require additional cleaning to prevent mold or mildew
  • Can occupy counter or sink space, depending on design

Visualize Your Dream Kitchen with CAD Design Support

At Weinstein Collegeville, we believe seeing is believing—especially when designing your ideal kitchen. That’s why our team offers custom CAD (Computer-Aided Design) mockups as part of our design consultation process.

Whether you are selecting a new sink for a complete kitchen renovation or upgrading a focal point, our showroom consultants work closely with you to explore your layout, material choices, and installation preferences. We then use professional CAD tools to create accurate visual renderings of your new kitchen featuring your selected sink, countertop, and accessory options.

Benefits of Our CAD Support:

  • Realistic Kitchen Layouts: Understand how your chosen sink fits into your space and interacts with surrounding cabinets, appliances, and counters.
  • Material and Style Previews: See how different materials, colors, and finishes look together before making a decision.
  • Precision and Customization: Ensure your sink selection aligns with cabinet sizes, plumbing requirements, and ergonomic needs.
  • Confidence Before Purchase: Make design decisions with peace of mind, thanks to highly detailed and visually guided planning.

From initial ideas to polished designs, our CAD renderings provide a clear vision of what is possible, allowing you to feel confident and inspired before installation.


Customer Testimonials

The testimonial below is from David James Properties, a real estate company and a high-end property management team. We work with David James Properties to help their clients choose products for new homes or to remodel existing homes they are buying/selling. Take a look at what they had to say about one of our showroom consultants, Joe DeMarco.

  • 1. How would you rate your overall experience dealing with Collegeville’s showroom? Excellent, Great, Amazing, Exceptional, etc.

    Joe DeMarco, Showroom Consultant of Weinstein Bath and Kitchen in Collegeville offers an exceptional gold-star experience! We highly recommend Mr. DeMarco to all of our clients knowing they will receive extraordinary customer care and top-notch service. We can’t say enough about Weinstein’s ability to partner outstanding service with superior products!

  • 2. What about your experience with us did you find most helpful and why?

    Showroom Consultant, Joe DeMarco, is our “go-to” guy! He is extremely knowledgeable, very insightful and always takes the time to listen and recommend the best possible options available to achieve our goals and those of our clients. His response time is impeccable, which is imperative when it comes to the demands of our industry.

  • 3. Were your concerns listened to and addressed?

    Joe DeMarco is a professional in every aspect of the term. Our concerns are always addressed with the utmost professionalism, knowledge and guidance. We continually receive feedback from our clients who express how impressed they are with Mr. DeMarco and the Weinstein experience!

  • 4. Did you find a helpful number of product options when visiting our showroom?

    Weinstein Bath and Kitchen not only offers high quality products but a wide range of selection and solutions to fit our needs and our clients’ needs – which is very important for the demands of today’s world!

  • 5. What do you think of the value for the money you received?

    The bottom line is, when you make a purchase at Weinstein – be it a single item or a suite of products – you walk away with confidence, knowing the value for the money is unbeatable!

Generoso (Joe) Demarco

Showroom Consultant

Kitchen Sinks at Weinstein Bath & Kitchen in Collegeville, PA

The kitchen is an essential room in the home, where family members spend the most time preparing food. However, homeowners often overlook the kitchen when planning an improvement project for their home. Is your kitchen sink in need of an upgrade? Ask our showroom consultants to guide you through our newest kitchen sink selections.