Kitchen Sinks - Southern Living

Photo: Laurey W. Glenn

Stainless Steel

Pros: Stainless steel sinks are available in many styles and price points. They are sleek and easily cleanable.

Cons: The heat in hot water will dissipate more quickly from a stainless model than it will from other materials.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Porcelain and Porcelain Enamel

Pros: Porcelain and porcelain enamel sinks can be purchased in a color to complement your space.

Cons: Both may show stains, and porcelain enamel is susceptible to chipping.

Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett

Stone and Solid Surface

Pros: For a consistent and cohesive look, use the same material on your countertop and sink. Some stones and solid surfaces are offered in both countertops and sinks.

Cons: Just like stone countertops, some foods may stain or damage the finish of stone sinks.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Apron-Front Sink

Pros: An apron-front or farm-style sink is characterized by an exposed bowl front, and it is a popular option among decorators.

Cons: Often apron-front sinks have a deep bowl, and it can be difficult for children or seated users to reach items at the bottom of the sink.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Undermount Sink

As the name suggests, and undermount sink is installed underneath an opening the countertop surface.

Pros: Undermount sinks make it easy to sweep water and spills directly from the surface of the counter into the sink.

Cons: Undermount sinks made of heavy materials (like stone) can be difficult to install.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Self-Rimming Sink

Self-rimming sinks are installed through an opening in the countertop, and a small rim protrudes above the surface.

Pros: The self-rimming sink is often the most cost effective option. It is also the easiest to install.

Cons: The lip between the countertop and sink makes it difficult to sweep water from the countertop into the sink.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Integral Sink

An integral sink is manufactured along with the countertop. Stainless steel, concrete, and some solid surfaces can be custom ordered with integral sinks.

Pros: Like undermount sinks, integral sinks allow you to wipe spills directly into the sink. They also create a completely cohesive look.

Cons: Integral sinks are not available in all material types.

Kitchen Sink Exposé

Stainless Steel

Porcelain and Porcelain Enamel

Stone and Solid Surface

Apron-Front Sink

Undermount Sink

Self-Rimming Sink

Integral Sink