To stainless steel or not to stainless steel, that is the question! Choosing a new kitchen sink is a long term investment that may completely alter the functionality of overall aesthetics of your kitchen for good. Sinks after all do see their fair share of use in a busy kitchen. So how do you ensure you get the kitchen of your wildest Pinterest dreams? How about a comprehensive checklist of a few factors that you should consider before you take the plunge? From myriads of sizes, to sink materials and configurations, the options really are endless!

How to select a stainless steel kitchen sink?

Besides having a great pro look, stainless steel kitchen sinks also clean up quickly which makes it a great choice for a kitchen sink. However, here’s a quick checklist for you to consider:

Metal: While choosing and gauging your stainless steel metal, you have to keep in mind that it must be the strong, silent type which is characteristic of the best (yet lowest) gauges. The metal is always more probe to denting and vibrating when you get up tp 22-gauge and far less likely to handle a garbage disposer with ease and efficiency. High gauge drop ins are ill equipped to support bulkier faucets because they tend to be thin around the edges.

Depth: A 9 or 10 inch sink contrary to 6 inch deep basins can hold a lot which is an added advantage if countertop space is constrained. An under-mount will end up an inch lower which will strain your back. Besides, shape makes all the difference in the world. With square comes greater volume, flat bottom, straight sides and soft angles that permit good drainage. It’s an added advantage if it’s double bowled. 

Undercoatings: Rubbery undercoating which cancel out the sound of running water and the clinking and clattering of your dishes also help reduce condensation in the basin cabinet. Thus, you should always be on the lookout for rubbery undercoatings and pads while buying your stainless steel kitchen sink!

Drain Placement: Some sinks come with drain baskets and assemblies while others don’t. You might also want to consider location and design. Toward the back implies more space in the basin cabinet and efficient drainage when dishes get piled up in the sink. 

How to install a stainless steel kitchen sink?

Drop in stainless steel sinks are the most common are very easy to install. Here are a few steps that will make the task at hand easier:

1. Measure your countertop with a tape and choose a sink that will fit.
2. If necessary, draw a hole outline on the countertop and make the cutout (not required if it’s already done)
3. Form a thin rope plumber’s putty and roll it in your palms. Wrap it around the bottom surface of the garbage disposal collar. Insert the strainer into the hole, slide the rubber gasket and metal washer and tighten the nut.
4. Install the faucet by setting the base plate and aligning it with predrilled holes.
5. Lay a bead of pure silicone caulk around the hole. Drop the sink and push it down along the rim. Install clips to hold it in place and tighten with a screwdriver. 
6. After this, you may need to connect the faucet, install the garbage disposal and assemble the P-trap to connect the drain.

The installation procedure for an under-mount sink is similar with a few key differences. You will have to install mounting posts to support the sink. Once that’s done, you have to figure out a way to hold the sink in place as you connect it to the posts. The most commonly used method is to lay a 2 x 4 across the countertop cutout, insert bar lamps and tighten them to hold the sink in place.

How to clean a stainless kitchen sink?

Stainless steel kitchen sinks continue to be a popular favourite despite the extra work required to keep the finish clean. Well, with this easy to follow routine cleanup is easier than ever before. Follow these steps to remove spots, stains, scratches and restore your sink’s original shine seamlessly.

1. Rinse the sink with some water. Wet the faucet and the surrounding countertop as well. Feel free to squirt a little dish soap.
2. Coat your sink with baking soda.
3. Follow the direction of the stainless steel grain and scrub with a nylon scrubber.
4. Spray undiluted vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. If it starts to fizz, you’re doing it right.
5. Rinse thoroughly and dry the sink to avoid water spots. Add an extra shine by applying a few drops of olive oil!

Do stainless steel sinks rust?

Despite the name, stainless steel sinks do rust (that’s why we have trust issues, right?)! However more often than not, the rust you witness is not from your sink but from another source like metal cookware left in the sink to dry. Thanks to their ability to oxidise in water, the rust mixes with water, water pools in your sink and poof! Luckily, it’s easier to clean it up than to understand how it got there in the first place. Some baking soda combined with vinegar (ingredients that you used to fashion a 5th grade science project) will do the trick. 

How much does a stainless steel sink cost?

Stainless steel kitchen sinks can be expensive because they are made of high-quality materials and in large sizes. But it’s a smart and long term investment that will save you money in the future. Stainless steel sinks (depending on the size) can cost anything between $399 to $499. With Zure, you get optimised quality at minimised prices that makes it a lucrative offer you just cannot miss. Check out our comprehensive range now!