Stainless steel sinks have been a staple in recent kitchen designs, but are they still in style, and if so, for how long?
Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or deciding if it’s time to replace your kitchen sink, we’ve reviewed advice from the experts and trends reports to share what you need to know about stainless steel kitchen sinks.
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s (NKBA) 2021 design trends report, stainless steel sinks will continue to remain the most popular choice for kitchens over the next three years. Other reports suggest that the global stainless steel market will grow from 2017 to 2027. So, stainless steel kitchen sinks are likely to remain a top consumer choice for years to come.
While some designers agree that drop-in stainless steel sinks lack refinement and elegance, an undermount stainless steel sink is a timeless choice. Stainless steel sinks look best in modern or classic kitchen settings. They even complement stainless steel kitchen appliances. If your kitchen has cream, off-white, or quartz countertops, it can be challenging to pair a ceramic or fireclay sink that doesn’t clash. In those instances, stainless steel is a smart, long-lasting choice.
Stainless steel continues to be a top choice for residential kitchen sinks because it’s affordable, hard-wearing, sleek, and timeless. This metal is heat resistant and incredibly easy to keep clean. Plus, it pairs well with most granite, stone, and wood countertops. And most homeowners opt for stainless steel appliances, so a sink with a matching finish brings a cohesive look to the entire kitchen.
There are so many different types of stainless steel sinks and finishes on the market. From undermounts to drop-ins and custom hammered finishes to subtle brushed finishes, there’s truly a different stainless steel sink design for all tastes and kitchen designs. If you’re not sold on a stainless steel sink, learn more about some of the other popular kitchen sink styles and designs.
What Other Kitchen Sinks Are Popular in 2022?
From roomy farmhouse sinks to sleek undermount sinks, these are some of the trending styles and configurations this year.
White Sinks
Ranked below stainless steel sinks on the NKBA’s trend report, white sinks are currently in style and are another popular colorway. Like stainless steel, white is classic and timeless, and won’t date your kitchen. Plus, it goes with everything! Having a neutral sink is helpful when it’s time to pick out countertops and cabinets. White sinks look stunning when paired with quartz countertops for an airy, bright kitchen. Consider matching it with a great stove exhaust hood!
Nowadays, white kitchen sinks are usually made out of durable fireclay, cast iron, granite composites, or enamel. Each material has its own pros and cons when it comes to which material is best. Some are more scratch- and chip-resistant, while others are lower or higher in maintenance. White cast iron sinks tend to be the most expensive—fireclay sinks generally fall in the middle—and composites and porcelain sinks are usually the most affordable. The best material depends on how often you use your kitchen sink, your budget, and how much maintenance you want to deal with.
One of the biggest concerns many people have about white sinks is whether they’re easy to keep clean. While they can be trickier than stainless steel sinks to keep clean, it’s possible to keep them stain-free with the right cleaning materials. Never use any abrasive solvents or scouring pads like steel wool on your white sink because these can potentially scratch the finish. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your white sink clean:
- Always clean your sink daily with a soft sponge, warm water, and dish soap. Water and soap will remove any grease buildup.
- Rinse your sink thoroughly after pouring acidic foods or drinks into the sink, such as tomato juice or coffee.
- To remove any dull hazes, use a vinegar-soaked rag once a week to buff away the area.
Farmhouse Sinks
According to Lizzie Beesley, the head of design at U.K.-based retail and design firm Magnet, farmhouse-style sinks are here to stay in 2022. These sinks are loved for their iconic deep basin and traditional look. Farmhouse sinks are also known for their bright, white appearance, which can lighten up any kitchen design. Plus, the recent “cottagecore” trend, which romanticizes rural and farm lifestyles, has made farmhouse sinks even more popular in kitchen designs.
Besides their neutral appearances, farmhouse sinks are popular because they’re practical for busy kitchens and families. They are scratch- and stain-resistant and are easy to keep clean, depending on the material it’s made out of. Traditional farmhouse sinks feature one deep basin, though some contemporary styles have two basins. Having one deep sink basin makes it easy to clean large pans, dishes, and pots. Though one downside is without the second basin, it can be hard to multitask with food prep and cleaning.
If you’re considering a farmhouse sink it’s important to note that they tend to be more expensive than stainless steel sinks. This is due to the materials they’re made out of, and they’re harder to install because they’re heavy. Farmhouse sinks are also more challenging to customize, especially their size. So for installation, you may have to change the size of your countertops to make the sink fit.
If you’re looking up farmhouse sinks, you may also come across apron sinks. Farmhouse and apron sinks are very similar, but the main difference is that an apron sink’s front is exposed. Oftentimes, an apron sink is designed to be a centerpiece in a kitchen and may feature a unique design, such as a curved front or ribbed design.
Apron Sinks
Apron sinks are the second most popular configuration in NKBA’s trend report. They got their name because the front of the sink is exposed. Sometimes, the exposed front matches the rest of the sink design. Other times it’s used to display ribbed patterns and curved or geometric silhouettes. Their name is often used interchangeably with farmhouse sinks, though there are slight differences—all farmhouse sinks are apron sinks, but not every apron sink is a farmhouse sink.
Farmhouse sinks are known for their white appearance, while apron sinks are made in a variety of other colors and metals, such as stainless steel and copper. Stainless steel apron front sinks are a contemporary choice, but keep in mind they can scratch just like any other stainless steel sink. Use caution around the exposed edge of the sink to prevent scratching the exposed side.
Apron sinks are beneficial for taller people because the open front makes it easier to reach the sink, and eliminates the need to stretch over. Most apron sinks have more than one sink basin, with a divider in the middle. These are beneficial for households that would like to soak dishes on one side while using the other end of the sink for food preparation and cooking.
Undermount Sinks
In 2022, undermount sinks are more popular than drop-in sinks. Many believe that they create a more seamless design because they’re installed underneath the countertop, so the rim isn’t exposed. An undermount sink can elevate more affordable sink materials, such as stainless steel. These types of sinks also save space in a smaller kitchen and create a clean, sleek look. Installing an undermount sink can even increase your remodel’s value.
In addition to their desirable appearance, undermount sinks make cleaning the counters a breeze. You can easily swipe from the counter into the sink, instead of having to wipe debris around the edges of the sink. Though it can be a little challenging to clean between the rim of the sink and the counter, so keep that in mind if you choose to install an undermount sink.
Undermount sinks tend to be pricier because of the installation process. While the sinks themselves generally aren’t much more expensive than drop-ins, the countertop must be prepped differently for an undermount sink versus a drop-in sink. Undermount sinks also only are compatible with certain types of countertops, such as granite, marble, and limestone. Though they are pricier to install, some would argue that undermount sinks are worth the price for the high-end look.
Double Sinks
Another popular sink configuration in 2022 is double sinks. Though single basin sinks are trending, especially with the rise of farmhouse and apron sinks, double sinks are still in style and are a classic, tried-and-true kitchen favorite. And don’t just take our word for it. Double sinks made the NKBA’s trend report as the fourth favorite kitchen sign configuration.
These types of sinks are popular for a few reasons. First, they make dishwashing easier because you can soak dishes on one side of the sink, while you continue using the other side for meal preparation. Second, some homeowners like having a split sink so they can multitask on either side and keep dishes organized.
Double sinks are sometimes larger than single basin sinks, and they can take up more room in your kitchen because of that. They tend to eat up more counter space, which could be used for something else, especially if you have a smaller kitchen. And though you have two spaces to wash dishes, it’s challenging to fit large dishes and pans in a double basin sink. If you have a larger kitchen and can afford to lose some counter space, then a double sink may be a great fit for your space.
Granite Composite Sinks
Ranked second on NKBA’s trend report, granite composite sinks are a favorite because they’re available in an array of colors, durable, and very easy to clean. These sinks are typically made of a mixture of crushed granite or quartz and resin. Granite composite sinks don’t absorb liquids or colors because they’re non-porous. So they’re very unlikely to stain. Cleaning these sinks is very simple. After you’re finished using your sink, wipe it down with warm water, dish soap, and a soft cloth.
Because these sinks come in a variety of colors, such as black, brown, gray, cream, and white, it’s very easy to find a colorway that matches cabinets and appliances. One downside of these sinks is they’re more expensive than stainless steel sinks. They also have a great risk of chips and cracks. Homeowners should be cautious when cleaning their granite composite sinks and avoid using acidic cleaners.
What Sink Are You Dreaming of for Your Remodel?
While it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest kitchen design trends, remember to choose a sink that best fits your household and personal taste. But, choosing smart finishes and current styles can help your kitchen remodel add value to your home.
Are you thinking about replacing your kitchen sink or looking for a design for your dream kitchen? Contact us today to speak with our sales team and to learn more about our kitchen sinks and other long-lasting products. CopperSmith is a leader in sustainable, custom metalwork handcrafted with heirloom finishes.
