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Buying a cheaper kitchen sink? Find out how to make it a perfect choice

A kitchen sink deserves equal or perhaps a bit more attention when you renovate your kitchen. It makes sense to be careful about this particular feature because you are going to use it the most. Whether you clean hands, wash dishes, stack dirty utensils, or prepare food, you ultimately depend on it for the smooth execution of all the tasks. Some people believe that only an expensive kitchen sink model can take care of every need, while in truth, price isn't as important as quality and the choice of material. So, if you want to buy kitchen sinks for cheap, then choose stainless steel. Check out this kitchen remodeling guide for how to's and ideas.

Most kitchen sinks feature stainless steel construction and for good reasons. Unlike other materials, such as ceramic, granite, and marble, stainless steel can live up to the expectations of any lifestyle choice and habits. It can be suitable for any home and environment. And the best part is, it doesn't have to cost a high price for being a perfect companion for your kitchen requirements. Since it contains chromium and nickel, you can trust it to remain in its original condition for a long time. The risk of rusting and denting is almost absent in this material. You also don't have to worry about chipping and cracking, which are familiar to ceramic and granite. 

However, to make sure your selected item is immune to most of these problems, you need to pay attention to its manufacturing details. 

How to choose the right option?

Gauge 

Look at the gauge of the steel that decides its thickness. Anything in the range of 16 to 18 gauges can be an ideal pick. These types of steel tend to be durable and long-lasting. You don't need to pay an additional cost for this feature. Reputable brands offer this trait even in the affordable range. However, remember some models in the market feature a gauge of 22 and may look tempting because of the significantly lower pricing. If your immediate goal is money saving and for that reason, you don't mind opting for a short-term solution, then you can purchase one of them. Otherwise, for an affordable cost, you can enjoy the quality of a 16 gauge steel. 

Grade

Choose a 304 series of stainless steel that usually contains a blend of chromium and nickel in the right proportion. This combination lends a stainless sink its shine, flexibility, corrosion resistance, and an ability to fight rusting challenges. These substances also make stainless steel sinks forgiving and better than most of the pricey choices.

Size and depth

Pick a single bowl sink over the double sink models to save more money. For a smaller kitchen of about 150 sq. ft, you can select from single bowl sinks under 20 inches. These can perform most of the functions of a high-priced material effortlessly. Just make sure that the bowl is somewhere 8 to 10 inches deep. It is a standard range in depth. Some variants can be less than 8 inches deep or so. In that case, you would need to consider its size and shape. Further, if you have a good height, even a 7-inch deep bowl can be suitable. Anyway, whatever you pick, analyze it from every aspect.

Why is stainless steel sink popular?

As you may realize, householders prefer stainless steel kitchen sinks because of its characteristics. For instance, you can find it to be tougher than porcelain or cast-iron sink and more durable than a granite one. You don't have to lose your sleep over chipping and cracking problems. Even if you get a basin in thinner material, you will at the most face denting issue. Other surfaces in a cheaper range cannot survive all these for long and give in soon.

Most other materials, even a few expensive ones also, can lose their shine over a period. But an affordable stainless-steel kitchen sink can retain its luster for long. Rusting, staining or fading risks are also very less. That’s why you can expect it to look new even after multiple years of use.

Since stainless steel tends to be flexible and strong, you get different shapes and sizes in this at every price point. Plus, the bowls can be deeper, allowing you to handle larger pans and pots comfortably. If you compare its utility in this respect from cast iron and ceramic sinks, you will realize why stainless steel makes a superior choice.

Another factor that makes it an obvious choice is its appearance. The smooth finish and clean lines of the sink empower it to match any design and theme with ease. No matter what color you select for your kitchen, a stainless-steel sink in elegant finishes can match the mood flawlessly. Then, it can go with any trend. So, you don’t have to replace it even when you upgrade your kitchen interiors.

How to take care of a stainless-steel sink?

Whether you invest in a pricey or moderately-priced model, you cannot expect it to last long in the absence of proper care and maintenance. For instance, you have to pick mild dishwashing solutions to protect the surface from scratching or losing its shine. Some edible items, such as vinegar, sour sauces, and salt and salty food, can stain or ruin the surface if left for a long time. So, you should not allow these things to sit on it. Wipe and cleanse them as soon as possible.

Besides, you should avoid using abrasive substances and tools on the surface. Mild soapy water and a soft cloth can remove all water spots and stains effortlessly when cleaned regularly. 

On the market, there is no shortage of cheap kitchen sinks. If you expect the real value for your money, then selecting stainless steel over other options can be a wise decision. This material has long served the kitchens and is still going strong. People love this choice because they get so many benefits from it for an affordable rate. So, explore your options thoroughly, and whatever you buy, provide it with the best care to ensure its longevity.

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