10 Best Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks (2024 Guide)

Stainless Steel Sinks Compared

1. Kraus KHU100-30 Inch 

The top pick for best stainless steel kitchen is the Kraus KHU100-30. It offers a combination of robust construction and style, which makes it uniquely useful for any home. Built to be simple to clean and long-lasting this stainless steel sink is demonstrable value for money for small or large homes.

Kraus has been operating for over ten years, and they produce a diverse range of products for the home. They've quickly made a name for themselves showing quality and innovation in what they provide because of the materials they use and the technology they have developed.

Kraus has built this stainless steel sink with a couple of key features that make it stand out for me.

It's built to be dent and scratch resistant so even heavy pans shouldn't cause any problems.

Kraus has applied an undercoating to the base of the bowl and used insulation to limit the noise when using the sink. This makes it more practical to use in any home situation.

The materials used, and the satin finish, mean that this sink has a style which fits in most homes. It also makes it much easier to clean than other models, and it’s corrosion resistant, which helps with the longevity of the equipment. 

The KHU100-30 has a lot of features which make it perfect for pretty much every home, but it is best suited for small or medium households. There are over eight different shapes and sizes available, so it's versatile and suitable for most kitchens. It's competitively priced and offers features you would expect from more expensive models, definitely making it a worthwhile investment for your home.

2. Ruvati Drop-in 16 Gauge

Top mount sinks offer a simpler alternative to other installations and work well in the majority of kitchens. The Ruvati kitchen sink is one of the best stainless steel kitchen sinks available on the market and features heavily in reviews because of the quality of material and build. It’s my top pick if you’re looking for the best top mount kitchen sink.

Ruvati is another well-known manufacturer in the industry with over ten years of experience designing and creating kitchen sinks. The idea behind the company is to take high-end products but make them accessible for those with lower budgets. They’ve also incorporated a different twist of style into their products which makes them stand out from the crowd.

Ruvati doesn't make the high-end products, but they have successfully put these features into all of theirs. They've created a range of stylish but usable sinks that are easy to install and use, which is why they're one of my top picks for best top mount kitchen sink.

The Ruvati stainless steel sink has many critical features that help is stand out from the crowd. This sink is easy to fit and comes with all the accessories and items needed for installation so you can get it all sorted yourself quickly.

This sink is particularly long lasting and made from excellent quality materials. With 16 gauge steel, this sink is built to be durable and stand the test of time. On top of this, Ruvati has built this sink with a lovely traditional style that looks good and works well in most kitchens.

The overall look and feel of the Ruvati sink make it an attractive prospect, but the simplicity of installation makes life a bit easier. One to consider if you're looking to replace your current setup quickly and efficiently.

Users have raised some concerns over the draining of the sink. However, this will be influenced by the installation. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid any undue issues. Overall the reviews are very favorable for this sink and confirm that this is a postive investment.

3. ZUHNE Modena 30 x 18 Inch Single Bowl

The ZUHNE undermount stainless steel kitchen sink has earned its place in this review because of its build quality and soundproofing technology. It's as sturdy as they come but also pretty stylish in any modern or contemporary kitchen. If you're looking for an undermount stainless steel sink, then you might just have found it.

Zuhne isn't the oldest sink manufacturer on the market, but they've created quite a stir in the industry. Their goal is to innovate and push the industry to new heights by continuously improving their products based on user needs. 

Unlike some other brands, Zuhne specializes in only kitchen sinks, specifically stainless steel sinks. This focus on products has led to them creating some pretty impressive pieces that showcase quality. They now have the trust of a lot of leading home developers, and because of the features, they incorporate in all of their products, they're one of my go to’s.

The Zuhne Modena has earned its place in the best kitchen sinks because of the impressive range of features.

This Zuhne model is of industrial quality. It’s made with 16 gauge stainless steel which is corrosion, dent, and scratch resistant. It's heavier than other brands at 32 pounds, offering some durable quality that will last. Suitable for both home or industrial use, Zuhne was not messing around when they put this one together. 

To tackle the problem some sinks have had, the Zuhne Modena is built to drain quickly. It's made with sloped based channels so that water doesn't pool in the bottom.

The Zuhne Modena is deep at 10 inches, much deeper than some alternatives. That means you can use it for even your most substantial dishes without any issues. It also limits the risk of any splash back when using it.

Some users have complained that cleaning the sink can be a challenge and some parts aren't dishwasher proof, meaning you have to scrub it clean manually. Though, as long as you're cleaning this regularly, this shouldn't be too much work.

4. Frigidaire Undermount 

16 gauge stainless steel kitchen sinks are made with the thickest steel (around 1.5mm). This makes them more cumbersome, more robust, and more durable than thinner alternatives. The Frigidaire kitchen sink is commercial grade and therefore suitable for businesses or homes. The quality and size of this product make it one of the best stainless steel kitchen sinks available.

Frigidaire is a US company that has been producing home equipment for the home for over 100 years. In that time, they've diversified their product range and been responsible for some of the technological advances in the industry. They're now one of the most well-known brands and trusted up and down the country.

They've built their business on making life easier for the customer. Their kitchen sinks are some of the most stylish available, and the technology used in the crafting of their products makes them uniquely useful.

The Frigidaire stainless steel kitchen sink has made our list because of the following stand out features:

This stainless steel kitchen sink has been made with Frigidaire’s unique V-therm shield technology. This insulates the sink and keeps the noise levels reduced, but also works to keep the water in the sink warmer for longer. A unique and useful feature, especially if you have a lot of dirty dishes every night!

This sink is available in 32 inches making it one of the largest varieties out there. It’s suitable for higher volumes of dishes or large pots or pans and well suited for medium or large households, especially those without dishwashers.

The Frigidaire stainless steel sink is part of their professional series and made from 304-grade steel. This is one of the best grades used in kitchen sinks and makes it more robust and durable, even suitable for professional kitchens.

There are some criticisms of the slow draining, and how the angle of the drain isn’t steep enough. This can lead to water staying in the drain for longer than it should.

5. Lordear Black 32 Inch 

The Lordear black stainless steel kitchen sink is one of the best drop-in available (though this model is available in different mount types). Drop in kitchen sinks can often be less good quality than undermounts, and can be more challenging to clean and maintain. This sink has countered a lot of these problems by including features typically only seen on a high-end product but without the inflated price tag.

I must admit that Lordear was not one of the brands I knew that much about until recently. They're a newer manufacturer, but what they lack in history they make up for in innovation. Their designs have built on the flaws of past models, and now they've got a full range of kitchen sinks which have a lot of quality and integrate well with other kitchen features like garbage disposals.

The Lordear kitchen sink has some key features which make it stand out from alternatives. One of the best features of this sink is the drainage. It's correctly sloped to stop water pooling, but also designed so that glasses can be stood up in the sink with no risk of falling over.

Heavy, durable, and weighing 46.9 pounds, the Lordear kitchen sink is one of the heaviest available. It’s made with stainless steel of 16 gauge 304-grade stainless steel that can stand up to regular and prolonged use. 

The oversized bowl allows you to use the space available better. It's perfect for those who love to bake and need the space to put in baking sheets or tins once they've been used. It also makes it easier to clean, preventing the issues that sometimes occur with drop-in sinks.

Some feedback from customers does seem to indicate the installation instructions are not as clear as they could be, so be aware you may need to look online for some guidance.

6. MOWA 16 Gauge Topmount 60/40 

The MOWA stainless steel kitchen sink is the first on our list to feature two bowls. They’ve both been created to be flat bottomed for resting glasses but with hand made grooves for draining water out. It’s one of the best double bowled sinks available because of these small, but important, details that MOWA has built into their product that make it especially useful in the home.

MOWA specialize in solutions for modern kitchens by exploring common problems with home products and then developing their range to adapt to them. They’ve built trust with their customer base by using the highest grade materials and backing them up with a lifetime warranty. MOWA are a brand I know create robust products, and they're reliable when it comes to stainless steel kitchen sinks.

MOWA have put some of their innovation into this kitchen sink with the following features.

The MOWA sink is excellent quality, made with T304 brushed stainless steel. This is one of the highest grades available which is resistant to corrosion, scratches, dents, and other damage. The finish helps protect the material making it even more reliable.

Tight radius corners give the impression of a square edge, but it curves around. This makes it much easier to clean, but it's impossible to see unless up close, therefore protecting the style of a classic sink. 

Two bowls provide even greater space for more dishes. These are built extra deep so you can make even better use of the sink. It’s well suited for families or those who produce a lot of dishes to be cleaned.

One criticism that comes from users is that hard water can cause corrosion to the metal. If you live in an area known for hard water, you may want to invest in some extra protection for your sink.

7. Zuhne Prato Apron Deep 

Farmhouse sinks are uniquely beautiful and can add a lot to your home. They not only have a distinct charm, but they're deeper than usual sinks making them better for broad or very deep pans. This Zuhne farmhouse sink scores higher than all other competitors for both design and quality, and it stands out for me as one of the best farmhouse stainless steel kitchen sinks. 

This is the second Zuhne product to be featured in our list, which isn't overly surprising. When it comes to quality Zuhne have shown themselves to know the best way to design and build sinks, with their steel being 25% purer than any other brand. This, combined with their different features and styles, makes them one of the top manufacturers for sinks in this price range.

The Zuhne Prato farmhouse kitchen sink stands out because of the following features.

This Zuhne sink is made with increased durability. They are very particular when it comes to sourcing their products, and as a result, the stainless steel used is outstanding quality. This means that even under extreme use this sink won't wear, bend or bow so you can use it thoroughly every day.

Zuhne has all of their products 3rd party certified to ensure they comply with all codes and regulations in the industry. This means that you can have high levels of confidence in their products.

Zuhne has pioneered a new way of designing their sinks where the corners are rounded but even more tightly than before. This means you can clean it more efficiently while still looking like it's square. 

The only negative feedback is that the sink can take a long time to drain, and this can lead to water pooling. This might mean to need to clean it more regularly to avoid staining.

8. Kraus 36 inch 60/40 16 gauge

This double bowl farmhouse kitchen sink is made entirely from stainless steel and has more volume than any others on the list. The double bowl makes it great for a large number of dishes or pans and means you can use one side as a garbage disposal if needed. Like the others on the list, it's well built and uses modern technology and materials to make it very useful to the owner.

Kraus is featured again on this list with another stainless steel sink that’s great for any home. They’ve successfully combined the traditional with the modern by taking a farmhouse model and updating it to 21st century standards. Completely handcrafted, Kraus has shown their commitment to quality and stand behind the product with their lifetime guarantee.

The Kraus double bowl farmhouse kitchen sink has several qualities that make it one of the top choices.

Cushioning bumpers underneath the bowls provides extra protection against scratching. It also gives some soundproofing to limit the noise made from clattering dishes.

This sink is large, and when I say large, I mean very large. Featuring deep basins and two bowls, it's got enough space for anyone plus it’s designed to be low maintenance and easy to clean.

All the equipment you need to fit the sink comes as standard, but this sink can be equipped undermount or overmount. This means whatever set up you install, this sink will fit your current set up with minimal hassle.

Some users have complained that the sink is too big for their space. To avoid this problem, make sure you've measured correctly because this is one of the most massive sinks you can find and it will take up some considerable space.

9. Ruvati RVM4136 13" by 15" Bar Prep Sink

Small kitchen sinks offer the perfect solution for those with limited kitchen space. They're made smaller, generally with a single bowl and suitable for those from modest households where there won't be as much use. This is one of the best compact stainless steel kitchen sinks available because even though it's smaller, it doesn't lose any of the features that large tubs have, with a good design and quality materials.

Ruvati have vast experience in designing and building sinks which can be seen in their full range of products. That same quality has been incorporated into this compact model which features: 304-grade stainless steel that gives protection against denting or scratching, padding to limit sound and elegant design.

This compact Ruvati sink has made it on the top list because of the following features.

Small kitchen sinks are often built with thinner steel because they will see less wear and tear and therefore, in theory, don't need to be as sturdy. Ruvati have opted for thicker, 16 gauge stainless steel because it offers excellent protection and more longevity, therefore making it better long term value for money.

A 3.5-inch drain opening allows for a garbage disposal to be used with the sink. This means that even in a small kitchen, you still get the same utility as you would from a much larger one.

Thick sound padding is installed underneath the bowl to insulate the kitchen sink and keep noise to a minimum. This is especially important given compact tubs are more likely to be used in smaller homes where sound can travel a long way. 

The only negative point that has been raised is that this sink requires regular cleaning to maintain, but that isn't too much work given the compact nature of the product.

10. Ufaucet 32 Inch 16 Gauge 10 Inch Deep

Commercial kitchen sinks are designed to be used in restaurants where there would be much higher volumes of dishes than you would typically get at home. For commercial stainless steel kitchen sinks, the most important factor is the quality of materials because this will determine if it can stand up to the wear and tear. This sink features high-grade stainless steel, a commercial grade premium finish and stone guard undercoating, making it one of the best commercial sinks available.

Ufaucet is a Chinese company who have been operating since 1995, and they now supply to almost every company in the world. In the last 20 years, they've grown significantly, and their product range has grown with it. 

Ufaucet have become industry leaders by basing all their sinks on customer needs and adapting to changes in use. They are known for developing durable products which are some of the strongest on the market, so it's no surprise they've made it onto the list.

The Ufaucet stainless steel sink is made with top quality materials. They use 304-grade stainless steel, and this model is combined with a great protective finish. This makes it extremely resistant to scratching or denting, even if used continuously. 

Dampening pads (3mm) have been specially designed and fitted to this sink to absorb the vibrations caused by water or dishes, and limit any sound. Ufaucet have managed to do this more effectively than other brands meaning the sound that comes from the sink is very limited.

Channel grooves on the base of the sink allow for water to flow quickly and directly into the drain. These small indents make a huge difference and stop water pooling. This helps keep your sink clean and give it a long life.

Some of the criticism of the product has been over the packaging and delivery in some isolated cases. There’s also some negative feedback about installation instructions so my advice would be to look online for further guidance if needed.

Advantages of Stainless-Steel Kitchen Sinks

When I have the choice, I will always go for a stainless steel kitchen sink because they offer several key advantages to others:

Durable

Stainless steel is being used more and more around the home for equipment that sees a lot of use. The lasting nature of the stainless steel allows you to continue using it for longer without the need for replacement or repair.

Low maintenance

As well as being durable, stainless steel kitchen sinks are relatively low maintenance. They're easier to clean, which is essential in the place where all your food is prepared. Stainless steel is even resistant to corrosion, which prevents long term issues that can occur. 

Affordable

Stainless steel is readily accessible and not overly expensive. This means you can source a robust stainless steel kitchen sink without the huge price tag.

Reviewers agree that these days materials are more important than the manufacturer and you should always start there. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors you should consider when selecting your stainless steel kitchen sink.

Choosing a Quality Stainless-Steel Sink

Dimensions and Cabinet Size

Size and Shape

Gauge

The gauge of a stainless steel sink refers to the thickness of the sink. The lower the gauge, the thicker the sink ranging from around 0.7mm to 1.5mm. This number is significant because it can determine how sturdy and reliable your kitchen sink. The thicker the cut of stainless steel, the more it will stand up to wear and tear, and it's less likely to become damaged. Of course, on the other side of the coin, it can be more expensive to buy in the first place. 

Generally, a higher gauge (thinner) is more suitable for smaller sinks, and lower gauge (thicker) is better for large sinks. That being said if you can afford a thicker sink, it's worth going for.

Bowls

This will help water from splashing out of the sink and keep your kitchen area clean; however, depending on your height, you may find it difficult to reach the bottom if it's too deep. 

The orientation of your bowls will be determined by how you use the space and what other features you have (garbage disposal, etc.). It's worth considering what your current workflow is before making a choice.

Mounting Style/Installation Type

There are two main types of mounting for kitchen sinks:

Each has its pros and cons, but you should check how your current sink is fitted as it may determine what option you go for.

Finish (Steel Type)

A finish is used on your stainless steel type to help protect it from wear and tear. This is an important feature given the amount of use your kitchen sink will see, with constant interaction with large metal implements. Finishing is generally either done by brushing the steel or using chemicals on the surface.

When deciding on your finish, you'll want to pick one that matches the style of your home. There are three main types; matt, satin, or polished, however, there are also various specific design finishes available. A polished finish is the most popular, but it's worth looking at what’s available.

Soundproofing

Sinks are, by their nature, loud. Water splashing against steel, and pots and pan clattering can cause quite a noise. There are several ways to soundproof your sink, but it's generally easier to find a model that's done the hard work for you. Insulation has been developed by installing pads around the bowl of the sink. This helps stop the vibration and in turn, limits the sound.

Alternatively, specific coatings have been developed to limit the sound. This is applied to the bottom of the bowl and absorbs the vibrations created by water, pots, and pans.

Soundproofing isn't essential for everyone, but it can be beneficial. It's especially useful for small houses, particularly if you have kids you don't want to wake up during nap time.

Drain Size and Position

It's entirely possible to have a new drain fitted if needed, so it doesn't have to restrict your choices too much. However, it's better to go into the process with your eyes open. Before choosing your sink, you should measure the drain carefully because in most cases, the easiest option is going to be to find a sink that fits with it. 

Warranty

Warranty is an essential factor in all purchases for your home, and the length and details of the warranty will vary between manufacturers. Typically manufacturers will offer between 12 months and three years on a guarantee, but they may have surcharges for individual elements.

Having a warranty is vital for ensuring your investment is protected and getting the right level of cover can save you money in the long run. It's worth keeping in mind as you choose your stainless steel sink.

Installation of Different Mounting Styles

If you’re in the market for a new sink then it’s worth understanding exactly what’s involved in fitting it and getting it set up. This article provides a breakdown of the main varieties and the critical components involved. 

Full guidance can be found below, giving step by step instruction of installing different kitchen sinks. Make sure you know what you're doing before you start and if in doubt, look for help from a professional plumber.

Fitting an under-mount stainless steel sink

The process for installing an undermount sink involves planning out the space, applying a silicone adhesive and clipping your sink in while the adhesive works. After it has successfully stuck (usually within 24 hours) you will need to attach the faucet to the sink as well as ensuring the drain fits the bottom.

This video provides a full guide on how to install an undermount sink.

Fitting a top mount stainless steel sink

Installing a stainless steel top mount sink involves drilling holes in the sink as shown and then dropping it into the sink before applying clips to secure it in place. You will then need to attach the faucet and drain securely before using it.

This video provides full guidance on how to install a top mount sink.

Fitting a farmhouse sink

Farmhouse sinks can be mounted into existing sink spaces, but they do need a few modifications. Ensure you have the right size for your cabinet and then apply a silicone adhesive to the outer rim of the sink before sliding it in place.

You'll then need to make some adjustments to your draining by installing a drain assembly. More guidance is generally given with the product, or you can find it online. It might be worth hiring a plumber (see form below) if it is a more complex installation. 

Care & Maintenance of Stainless-Steel Kitchen Sinks

Stainless steel sinks are more durable than other varieties, but to get the most value for money, you need to make sure you properly take care of them. Here are my top tips to keep your sink functioning for longer:

Regular cleaning

Advice from the top is to give your sink a light clean every time you use it. Avoid using any harsh soaps and never use iron wool when cleaning because it can cause a lot of damage to the steel.

Don’t leave your dishes

Club Soda

Regular light cleaning will do your sink a world of good but if you want it to sparkle like in a commercial then rub some club soda into the metal and watch how good it will look.

FAQs

Which is better, a top mount or an undermount kitchen sink?

The two types offer different features, and the choice will be determined in part by your current setup. Top mounts are more common and generally more comfortable to fit and cheaper. Undermounts give you greater space in your kitchen and are easier to clean, but harder to install.

What is the difference between 18 gauge and 16 gauge?

The gauge is the thickness of the steel used to make the sink. An 18 gauge sink is 1.2mm thick, and 16 gauge is 1.5mm thick. For kitchen sinks generally, thicker is better. Sixteen gauge sinks are more rigid, offering better quality and increased durability. 

How to measure cabinet size vs. sink size?

When measuring your space for a new sink, you should start with the cabinet. Make sure you measure from outside edge to the outer edge, this is the minimum cabinet size you will need for any replacement. You should then measure the cabinet depth from front to back on the top of the unit. This will determine the space available for a sink.

What is the best grade of stainless-steel sink?

Steel for your sink should be 18/10 (chromium (18%) nickel (10%)). There are three primary grades of steel; 304, 316, and 410. 304 offers the best quality of stainless steel, giving the best protection against corrosion and rust.

Where is the best place to buy stainless steel kitchen sinks?

Stainless steel sinks can be found in a lot of places; however, you will get the best choice online. By using reviews, like this one, you can narrow down your search and then explore your options on Amazon for the best value.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this review has helped point out the positives an excellent stainless steel sink can bring, and the impact it can have on your home.

The Kraus KHU100-30 is the top pick because it’s a fantastic all-rounder that fits in well in any home. It’s robust, easy to clean and maintain and ultimately will not only save you time but also money because of its longevity.

The right stainless steel sink is an investment, and it's always worth taking your time and doing your research before committing. Whatever your requirements or specifications, hopefully this article has helped set you on the right path to getting the best kitchen sink for your needs.