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Kitchen Sink Buying Guide

Covering everything from popular materials to different design options, this kitchen sink buying guide explains how to choose a kitchen sink that suits your decor, family size, or lifestyle. In this kitchen buying guide, we also walk you through the different designs available and the sizes on offer, plus the different types to help you narrow your search for the right fit in your home. Once you have found the right kitchen sink, read our kitchen taps buying guide to complete your washing station.

What kitchen sink material is easy to maintain?

When it comes to sink materials, stainless steel is the easiest to maintain, as it only needs soap and warm water to keep the surface clean. Meanwhile, composite granite and composite bowls are scratch, stain, and heat-resistant, ensuring they look newer for longer. Finally, ceramic styles are non-porous, which prevents germ build-up and makes them hygienic.

Ceramic

With a non-porous surface that repels bacteria, ceramic designs are hygienic. The fired-clay makeup means they're sustainable and offers a timeless look.

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Granite composite

Built from a stone compound, granite composite builds will stand up to scratching, staining and chipping, making them easy to clean.

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Composite

Like to granite composite, this style is made from quartz and acrylic. These materials have the same easy-clean and durability benefits at an lower price.

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Stainless steel

Best for small budgets, stainless steel is a readily available option. Like ceramic, this material is non-porous, making it another low-maintenance choice.

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Units that fit

Sinks must be installed in specially designed cupboards for a secure fit and a neat finish. These units have plenty of space for pipework and under-sink storage. They also have a removable back panel, allowing your trade professional easy access for plumbing repairs or regular maintenance.

What are the different types of sinks?

Belfast, butler, compact, and standard bowls are the different types of sinks available. Each design has its own benefits that suit different households, decors, and spaces. Thanks to our wide collection, a selection of colours, sizes, and configurations is available for each style. This makes it easy to find an option that fits your aesthetic and layout.

Belfast

The vintage style of a Belfast sink means the entire bowl is visible, turning a functional washing area into a fashionable feature.

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Butler

Like the Belfast, a butler design has the whole bowl on show. It is shallower in comparison - great for smaller homes looking to harness a heritage aesthetic.

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Compact

Thanks to their modest dimensions, compact bowls are the ultimate option for small washing areas, working well in kitchenettes and utilities.

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Standard

With a wide choice of materials and sizes, standard models have a versatile layout, making them a good all-rounder for those wanting to tailor a decor.

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Selecting surfaces

It is important to choose a work surface suitable for your sink, so speak to product experts at your local depot for in-depth advice. Non-porous materials, like solid stone, are water-resistant and suit undermount or Belfast designs. Meanwhile, laminate is best when opting for inset sinks.

What is the ideal sink size?

The ideal sink size depends on how you plan to use it and the dimensions of your room. For example, in compact areas, there may only be room for a single bowl, while bigger layouts can accommodate double-bowl designs without compromising on counter space.

Make it match

With so many options to choose from, picking the right combination of products can be tricky. With our sink and tap packs, we do the hard work for you by finding the fixtures that match. Most sets also include waste and plumbing kits for a complete installation.