White sink for the kitchen: features and tips for choosing
The kitchen sink occupies one of the leading places in the interior of the kitchen. Ease of use largely depends on its shape and size, and the appearance can either emphasize the stylistic concept of the interior, or nullify it. Modern designers are increasingly giving preference to non-standard approaches (for example, black plumbing), but traditional white colors to this day do not give up their positions.
Sink selection criteria
Let's talk about the basic requirements, applied to sinks in general.
- Strength. The material from which the sink is made must withstand weight loads, not deform from an accidental fall of massive kitchen utensils and keep its appearance unchanged for many years without losing color, cracks and chips.
- Hygiene. High humidity and contact with food debris create an ideal environment for the reproduction of pathogenic microflora, so sinks have to be disinfected quite often. It will not be superfluous if the materials used for the manufacture of the sink are additionally coated with antibacterial compounds - this measure will greatly facilitate the hygiene of the home.
- Functionality. In retail outlets, more and more often you can find not only a standard sink, but also original models equipped with several bowls, a place for drying dishes, a small tray, a waste grinder and other accessories.
- Aesthetics. A woman spends a lot of time in the kitchen, so it is important that everything in this room is in harmony with each other and is pleasing to the eye. Any defect in appearance will be annoying and negative.Last but not least, this applies to the color scheme.
Features of the white sink
The snow-white sink is considered a versatile solution that is widely demanded in the design of kitchens. White color emphasizes the purity of the place, harmoniously fits into any style and is combined with a variety of shade solutions of the room.
The white sink favorably sets off the worktop and hob in dark colors, gives the kitchen a cozy look and creates an atmosphere of freshness. The main advantage of the white color is that on such a surface traces of splashes are invisible, as well as handprints, which are quite difficult to deal with - this is its essential difference from black sinks. However, dirt and traces of greasy stains on such a surface will, on the contrary, be even more visible, so in any case, you will not be able to avoid frequent cleaning.
White sinks never go out of fashion, they are relevant in classic interiors, in rustic provence, vintage shabby chic, as well as in modern minimalism and hi-tech.
By purchasing a high-quality white sink, you can change the design of your kitchen at any time without having to buy new plumbing fixtures.
Materials (edit)
White kitchen sinks can be made from a wide variety of materials.
Enamel sinks
Many housewives dislike such sinks, associating them with Soviet kitchens equipped with cast-iron and enameled structures. but these days such sinks are experiencing a peak in popularity - the appearance of modern models has been significantly improved, on sale you can always find spectacular, stylish and aesthetic models, even for ultra-modern kitchens. At the same time, of course, one should not forget about the durability and practicality of this material, which has served faithfully for several decades.
However, there were also some drawbacks. These include low impact resistance - with frequent use, cracks and chips may appear on white enamel. Enamel is quite hygienic, but often scratches, abrasions and other damage appear on its surface from abrasive cleaning agents.
Despite these disadvantages, enamel sinks have firmly become one of the most sought-after products and represent the optimal solution for white kitchen sinks.
Ceramic sinks
Ceramic sinks are no less practical. In any store they are presented in a wide range, so you can find the right sink without any problems.
The main advantages of white ceramics:
- high degree of hygiene;
- ease of cleaning and care;
- durability;
- medium impact strength;
- wide range of configurations and sizes;
- the ability to combine with any styles.
Of the minuses, one can note the impressive weight of the structure, which creates certain difficulties when installing the sink, as well as the need to select more durable supporting furniture.
A significant disadvantage is the risk of cracking under the influence of elevated temperatures, so it is better to wash dishes with warm water. It is also noted that some cheap types of ceramics, with prolonged use, lose their original whiteness and become covered with yellowish spots. To avoid such an effect, when buying a sink, preference should be given to models of well-known manufacturers of sanitary ware, the quality of which does not cause any concern.
Stone sinks
Without a doubt, this option is the most reliable and practical. The stone is many times ahead of all other options in terms of functionality, hygiene and durability. Although nothing perfect has yet been invented, therefore, natural stone products also have some disadvantages.
Over time, traces of dark drinks become visible on the surface of light stone sinks from coffee, tea, beets, fruit juice, wine and similar colored liquids.Do not put hot dishes on the stone, and because of the drained boiling water, it can simply crack. An accidental fall of pans or other heavy dishes also threatens with troubles - at best, chips will appear, at worst - the sink will completely fail.
The stone sink is difficult to maintain, it will have to be cleaned every day, and even more often with intensive use.
All these shortcomings were taken into account by the manufacturers of artificial stone - this material to a greater extent meets the requirements for sinks. Such structures are much stronger and much more resistant to any impact. However, if you try hard, then even such a model can be damaged. If you decide to test the strength of the material with a hammer or sledgehammer, be ready to say goodbye to a new sink. In addition, some housewives note that artificial stone looks cheap and looks more like plastic than high quality natural material.
From porcelain stoneware
Quartz agglomerate, better known among users as porcelain stoneware, will serve for a long time and without problems under normal use. The only drawback of such sinks, preventing their wide distribution in the houses and apartments of our compatriots, is its high cost. Of course, such a product will serve for more than one decade and will justify all the funds spent on it, nevertheless, the initial price for sinks made of porcelain stoneware is too high.
In the interior
The snow-white sink is able to set stylish accents in the room intended for cooking, cozy family meals and relaxation together. According to research by psychologists, the white color scheme calms, brings peace and tranquility to the atmosphere of the kitchen.
Oddly enough, white sinks do not at all fit into the Scandinavian style and other "airy" interiors, in which every meter of space is decorated in white shades.
Washing of this color scheme must be combined with contrasting tones. - red, black, emerald. The tandem of a snow-white shell with shades of fuchsia and ultramarine will be very effective. At the same time, absolutely any textures can be used, it is allowed to use decorative elements in the styles of modern, avant-garde, funky, as well as classics.
However, do not forget that there must certainly be other white elements in the room - this can be a kitchen set or stylish art objects.
Expert advice on how to choose the right sink for your kitchen in the video below.