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Stainless steel kitchen sinks are leading the revolution. A seemingly endless variety of styles and special features can now be found in the once-humble kitchen sink. Stainless steel sinks stand above the crowd in many ways. Follow along to learn how and why. Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
While we’re at it, let’s take a look at the best stainless steel kitchen sinks available today. We’ve reviewed the best around and compiled a list of the top 10. To be considered, we had required some minimum standards. Each of the following picks are constructed of high-quality stainless steel, have adequate sound absorption qualities and carries a lifetime warranty.
The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the stainless steel kitchen sinks methodology for the ratings below.
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MR Direct 4521 Triple Bowl Stainless Steel
Bigger is better, it’s said. The MR Direct 4521 Triple Bowl Stainless Steel kitchen sink is the first, and the widest, sink in our lineup. At 43 inches wide, you’ll have plenty of working room in either of its over 18.5-by-8.5 inch deep basins. The third, smaller basin rests between the two and elevates the 4521 to the ultimate preparation and clean-up sink.
The price ranges depending on the retailer, accessory options and your choice of an 18-guage or 16-gauge model. An insulating coating and additional sound dampening pads ensure this brushed finish, undermount sink stays quiet and condensation free.
MR Direct’s website is a friendly place to learn more about their product line using their online chat tool. A limited lifetime warranty backs up their sinks and accessories. This particular product is currently out of stock in some locations, but is expected to return in early January, 2022.
Kraus Premier Kitchen 33″ Drop-In 18 Gauge Stainless Steel 60/40 Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
Standard side-by-side kitchen sinks have been upgraded. The Kraus Premier 33” Drop-in Kitchen sink is our best example of that fact. Rated at 4.7 stars, it’s a double bowl, 18-gauge, drop-in sink created to make kitchen chores a breeze. Hide dirty dishes in the 18.75-by-9 inch deep basin while prepping your next meal in the smaller, 16.5-by-7 inch side.
The satin brushed, stainless steel bowls are silenced by Kraus’ NoiseDefend soundproofing technology that minimizes noise and vibrations. A single faucet hole refines the look, and it’s backed by a lifetime warranty. It comes with its own drain strainers, but any accessories you’d like will have to be purchased separately.
Elkay Dayton Stainless Steel 31-7/8″ x 31-7/8″ x 7″, 3-Hole Equal Double Bowl Corner Sink
Elkay, a popular name in kitchen sinks, takes our third spot with their Dayton Stainless Steel Double Bowl Corner Sink. Made in the USA, this 20 gauge, drop in style, satin-finish, stainless steel corner sink turns a large wasted kitchen countertop corner into useful space.
The three pre-drilled holes, centered behind a pair of equally sized basins, are compatible with any style faucet and adapter combination. Sound deadening pads line the bottom to keep sink noises and vibrations to a minimum. Mounting clips come pre-installed in the U-channel for easy installation.
The Elkay Dayton Corner Sink is also available in a four-hole version for just a few dollars more on Amazon. All of Elkay’s sinks are backed up by a lifetime warranty.
Kraus Standart PRO 33″ Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel 50/50 Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
The Kraus company started in New York in 2007. Their second installment on our list takes fourth place overall. Expect to pay a little more for this one. That includes two drain assemblies, two protective bottom racks and 16 gauge construction. They’ll even throw in a free Kraus premium towel.
To make the most use of your cabinet space, this 10-inch deep, satin finish, double-bowl undermount sink has its drains located towards the back to maximize your under-sink storage capacity. Engineered drain grooves eliminate standing water, and Kraus’ NoiseDefend soundproofing technology keeps it quiet. A lifetime warranty comes with it too.
Ruvati Nesta 30-inch Undermount 50/50 Double Bowl Zero Radius 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
The Ruvati Nesta 30-inch Double Bowl kitchen sink is next. Its versatile design allows for either undermount or drop-in installation. Two equal size, 10-inch deep bowls are defined by what Ruvati calls, its sharp zEdge zero radius corners. They give it a sleek look, but the sink may appear too industrial for some kitchens.
Included drain racks protect the 16-gauge brushed stainless steel while drying your pots and pans. Thick rubber padding and heavy-duty insulation reduces vibrations, noise and condensation.
ZUHNE Genoa 32-Inch Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink Double Bowl 16 Gauge
For those looking for residential quality silence from a commercial grade sink, check out our next pick. The ZUHNE Genoa 32-inch Stainless Steel Undermount Double Sink is a pair of fully insulated, 14.5-inch wide by 10-inch deep basins with its drains located off-center towards the wall to accommodate discreet under-cabinet plumbing.
ZUHNE’s DualPro vibration and sound dampening system quiets even the most aggressive garbage disposers and eliminates sink condensation. The 16-gauge brushed stainless steel equals durability. In the box, you’ll also find a pair of bottom racks, a sponge holder and an over-the-sink colander set.
Its high quality is covered by a lifetime warranty but the sink comes at a steep price.
Ruvati Gravena 32-inch Low-Divide Undermount Tight Radius 50/50 Double Bowl 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
For our baking friends, Ruvati offers their Gravena 32-inch Low-Divide Double Bowl Kitchen Sink. It makes our list for its unique, low-rise center divider, ideal for scrubbing cookie sheets, mixing bowls and large pans. The 10-inch deep, equally-sized basins can be either drop-in mounted or installed as an undermount sink.
Its 16 gauge brushed stainless steel features Ruvati’s, easy to clean, edgeX, 10-millimeter radius inside corners that maximize the sink’s volume. A full coat of soundproof insulation and heavy-duty rubber padding keeps sink noise to a minimum. A lifetime limited warranty is included.
ZUHNE Turin 33 Stainless Steel Double Basin Farmhouse Sink 60/40 (33-Inch Curved Apron Front)
Farmhouse style kitchen sinks have recently enjoyed a surge in popularity. ZUHNE is an expert at creating functional beauty, and their Turin 33 Stainless Steel Double Basin Farmhouse Sink is a testament to that fact. The industrial grade satin finish, 10-inch deep, 60/40 split-bowl sink is available on Home Depot and it enjoys a 4.7 star rating on Amazon.
DualPro technology keeps the Turin 33 quiet behind its nine-inch tall, gently curving front sink wall that’s guaranteed to never corrode with a lifetime warranty. A pair of bottom grids and stainless steel strainers are included.
Kraus Premier Kitchen 20″ Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
Simplicity and elegance define the first single-bowl kitchen sink on our list. The Kraus Premier Kitchen 20” Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink, with its gentle curves and generous nine-inch deep profile, scores a 4.8 rating at Home Depot.
It comes with Kraus NoiseDefend soundproofing and extra-thick pads that encompass 80% of the underside of the bowl. The satin finished, 16 gauge stainless steel is durable, and Kraus is confident that this undermount sink will last as long as its lifetime warranty.
Kraus Standart PRO 30″ Undermount 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
For those that need more volume from a single-bowl kitchen sink, take a look at the Kraus Standart PRO 30” Undermount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink. Homey appeal takes a back seat to function in this 16 gauge, 30-inch wide, 10-inch deep, satin-finish, undermount, single bowl workstation. Perfect for high-volume kitchen prep work.
Featuring Kraus’ NoiseDefend technology, it comes with a lifetime warranty, a pair of bottom grids, a strainer basket and a free towel at Home Depot, Amazon and Wayfair. The Standart PRO enjoys an average 4.7 rating between all three retailers.
Wondering how to pick the right one? Don’t be discouraged if the sheer number of stainless steel kitchen sink options seems overwhelming. It’s not an unusual feeling. You can start to narrow the field by considering the following factors before you start shopping.
How do you use your kitchen sink? Your sink can limit or expand the usability of your kitchen. Consider the reasons you rely on your kitchen sink. Do you need a place to scrub large pot, pans or cookie sheets? A large, wide, deep, industrial-style sink may work best for you.
A kitchen without a dishwasher might only require a small, easily accessible sink for washing daily dishes. A kitchen used for entertaining or keeping a large family fed will likely want the most versatile sink possible. Or, a multi-function workstation may not be important to you at all. An attractive sink used primarily as a design feature may be more valuable in that case.
However, you use your kitchen sink will define what characteristics to look for as you begin searching for the perfect sink style. It’ll also determine what size sink would work best. Before choosing a size, confirm that the cabinet below is wide enough for the sink you’re considering.
How the sink will be installed is the next most important factor in choosing a kitchen sink. Are you replacing an existing sink, but reusing the countertop? Be sure to choose the same size or larger sink. You may also need to purchase the same style of mounting, whether it’s a drop-in, undermount, or farmhouse style, you’ll want to hide rough countertop edges.
If you’re replacing your countertops or your cabinetry altogether, the choice of mounting style is completely up to you, as long as it’s compatible with the type of countertops you’re installing.
There is little difference in functionality between mounting styles unless you’re in need of specialized kitchen equipment.
In rare cases, your mounting options may be limited by drain plumbing height or location.
If you want your kitchen sink to be long-lasting, it’s important to know what grade of steel it is made from. Stainless steel sinks are strong, durable and long-lasting if they’re well taken care of. The grade is another thing to look out for when purchasing a stainless steel sink. Grade 304 or 316 are considered the best grade for stainless steel sinks. This grade means that the steel is 18/8 stainless steel and made up of at least 50% iron.
The best quality is not always the best choice for every buyer. Stainless steel kitchen sinks have three important factors to consider: Steel gauge, steel grade and insulating qualities.
Ideally, we’d all want to purchase the highest quality sink that money can buy. Higher quality generally means higher prices though. Balance your need for high quality with your kitchen remodel budget to find the best sink for you
When it comes to the substance and style of your stainless steel sink, you don’t have to choose one or the other. Because a high-quality steel basin has the material and build to endure all types of scrapes, food spills and more, it can take a beating and still look as good as new.
And even if you don’t prefer the look of an industrial kitchen, a stainless steel sink might still be a good choice. The metal can work as a neutral in your cooking space, complementing all types of décor styles and kitchen layouts.
Wondering why stainless steel is so dominant in the kitchen sink aisle? Here are some reasons why. They’re also good reasons to consider one for your kitchen.
A mid-quality stainless steel sink has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Longer if they’re well cared for. That’s enough time to outlast most other items in a kitchen. There’s no finish to chip off, and normal cleaning won’t harm them. Stainless steel sinks are built to be used daily for a long time.
Stainless steel’s nonporous surface means that rinsing and wiping the sink after use is enough to keep it looking good. For infrequent deeper cleanings, baking soda works well as a cleanser. Harsh scrubbing is a thing of the past when cleaning stainless steel. In fact, it’s never recommended.
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are long-term, attractive kitchen additions. No matter how many times the appliance collection, tile design or paint colors change in your kitchen, your stainless steel sink will compliment almost any look you can create. With their long lifespan and enduring beauty, a new stainless steel sink could be the one item you keep when it’s remodeling time again. Compare Best Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks
To determine the best stainless steel kitchen sink ranking, the Forbes Home Improvement editorial team analyzed third-party data on 17 of major products, with each product’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics, including:
Average price for each stainless steel kitchen sink was analyzed across multiple platforms like retailer websites, Google and more.
Customer ratings for each stainless steel kitchen sink were gathered across a variety of websites like retailers, Google and more totaling 25% of the ranking.
The number of bowls each stainless steel sink had gained or lost it points totaling 25% of the ranking.
The comprehensiveness and length of each stainless steel kitchen sink’s warranty gained or lost it points for 15% of the ranking.
Whether a stainless steel kitchen sink had sound dampening features gained or lost it 5%.
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It is relatively rare for a stainless steel kitchen sink to rust or dent, provided you keep it well-maintained. As with any other product, improper care can cause issues. To prevent rusting, always be sure that you dry your sink thoroughly after you wash them, as any moisture left in the sink can create rust.
Stainless steel is produced in dozens of grades. Its grade is established by the quantity of various materials, other than steel, that provide additional qualities to the finished material.
The best grades for kitchen sinks offer a mix of durability and long-lasting sheen. Look for grades in the 300s. 316 grade is the best, but is often prohibitively expensive, while the more common 304 grade provides excellent quality at more reasonable prices.
On the pros side, the simple attractiveness of a stainless steel kitchen sink compliments any decor from older kitchen designs to ultra-modern style. They’re easy to keep clean and will likely last until your next remodel or beyond. Also, there’s plenty of options available to fit any budget.
The cons include the inability to repair scratches in stainless steel easily. They’re not easy to scratch, but if it happens, it’ll remain evident until the sink is replaced. Also, metal sinks can be loud if not properly insulated against vibration and noise. They can be silenced, but good insulation drives the price up significantly.
It’s possible to develop small scratches from daily use in a stainless steel kitchen sink. Brushed or satin finishes are less likely to show scratches than a glossy finish. Daily rinsing and the use of everyday items such as baking soda, vinegar and dish soap when cleaning will keep the surface from aging quickly. Protecting the bottom with a dish rack can help as well. Using harsh chemical cleansers and abrasive cleaning pads for any reason is never advised.
A higher gauge means the steel is thicker, so it’s less likely to dent, scratch or warp from heat. A 16 gauge stainless steel sink is ideal for a durable kitchen sink.
Having spent 30+ years in residential construction, contracting, remodeling, maintenance and home repair, Deane now contributes DIY, informational and financial content as a freelance writer and consultant for several publications. Throughout his career, he strived to assist his clients in finding the potential hidden within the walls of every home and empowering them to take control of their household repair and remodeling endeavors. Deane’s primary career goal involves sharing home-related knowledge and providing self-sufficiency tools to as large an audience as possible.
Lowe is a lead editor, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers like Hunker and Ranker and has multiple years of experience creating design and DIY content.
Composite Kitchen Sinks Samantha is an editor who covers all topics home-related including home improvement and repair. She edited home repair and design content at websites like The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. She also has hosted videos on DIY home tips and solutions and launched multiple home improvement review boards staffed with licensed pros.