Updated October 2026
I'm Clare, and I'll confess something right away: I shamelessly stroke every sink I see, no matter what it's made of! Choosing a kitchen sink should be a pleasure, not a puzzle, so here's how I'd think it through: how the sink is mounted, how many bowls you need, and which material suits you.
The short answer: start with how you'll use your sink and the feel of your kitchen. Then choose a mounting style (undermount, top-mount or farmhouse), a bowl layout (single, double or workstation), and a material you love the look of. That last one usually decides itself.
Clare's tip: When a customer asks me which sink to choose, I ask how they plan to use it and what their kitchen's vibe is. Most people gravitate to a particular material because they love the way it looks.
Part 1: How the Sink Is Mounted
Undermount
The sink is attached under the countertop, so you can wipe crumbs and water straight into it. It's a clean, modern look, and the most popular choice with stone, quartz and solid surface counters. Most laminate counters can't take one.
Top-Mount (Drop-In)
The sink drops into a hole in the counter, and its rim rests on top. It's the simplest to install and replace, and it works with any countertop, including laminate. Just make sure the rim is properly sealed.
Farmhouse (Apron-Front)
The front of the sink is exposed, so you stand right up to a big, deep basin. It's the classic statement sink, and it needs either a custom cabinet or a retrofit design. I explain the differences in Drop-In vs. Retrofit vs. Traditional Farmhouse Sinks, and how to install one in my step-by-step installation guide.
Part 2: How Many Bowls?
- Single bowl: one big basin that fits large pots and baking sheets. It's my choice for most kitchens.
- Double bowl: two basins, for washing on one side and rinsing or soaking on the other. Each bowl is smaller, so check that your largest pan fits.
- Workstation: a ledge inside the bowl holds a cutting board, colander and drying rack, so the sink becomes a prep station.
- Drainboard: a built-in, sloped drying area beside the bowl, with a true vintage look. Read who a drainboard sink is right for.
Part 3: Choosing a Material
Stainless Steel
Practical, nearly indestructible and at home in almost any kitchen. Choose 16 gauge for a sturdy sink that won't dent. I share everything I've learned in How to Choose a Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink.
Clare's tip: I love how a stainless steel farmhouse sink bridges modern and traditional so beautifully.
Fireclay
Clay glazed and fired at extremely high temperatures, for a deep, glossy and timeless finish. It's the classic choice for a farmhouse sink, and it comes in more colors than you might expect. It's heavy, so the cabinet needs to be reinforced to support it.
Clare's tip: If someone is fantasizing about a fireclay farmhouse sink, just try talking them out of that!
Granite Composite
Made from crushed stone bound with resin, granite composite is durable, quiet, and comes in a wonderful range of colors. The Ruvati epiGranite 32" sink, for example, comes in arctic white, carnelian red, Catalina blue, espresso brown, juniper green and midnight black.
Clare's tip: The biggest plus of granite composite is that it comes in so many colors, so you can let your imagination run wild. But quality varies a lot. Some so-called granite sinks feel more like plastic, while others just ooze quality. My favorites are Ruvati's.
Copper
Handcrafted copper sinks are beautiful, and they make an impactful statement. Copper is a living finish, so unless it's sealed, its color will deepen and change over time, and it can need a little more care than other materials. Brass is a living finish too, and you can see how it changes over time in my post on why brass sinks change color.
Clare's tip: Do your research before you buy a copper sink, and don't expect it to stay that bright orange color! If I bought a copper sink, I would design my whole kitchen around it.
What I'd Skip: Cast Iron and Porcelain
Enameled cast iron is extremely heavy, and like an enameled colander, it can chip, and the exposed iron underneath can rust. Chips are also difficult to repair. Porcelain looks lovely in a bathroom, but it's too delicate for day-to-day use in a busy kitchen.
Clare's tip: I would never buy a cast iron sink. If you love that vintage white look, choose fireclay instead.
Our Picks
Browse our stainless steel, fireclay and farmhouse sinks.
Common Questions
What is the best material for a kitchen sink?
It depends on how you use your kitchen and the look you love. Stainless steel is the most practical all-rounder, fireclay is the classic for farmhouse sinks, granite composite offers the most colors, and copper makes the biggest statement.
Should I choose an undermount or a top-mount sink?
Choose undermount for stone, quartz or solid surface counters and a seamless look. Choose top-mount if you have laminate counters or want the simplest installation.
Is a single or double bowl sink better?
A large single bowl fits big pots and baking sheets and suits most kitchens. A double bowl suits people who like to wash and rinse separately.
Do copper sinks change color?
Yes. Unless it's sealed, copper develops a patina and its color deepens over time. Many people love that living finish, but it's worth knowing before you buy.
Are granite composite sinks good quality?
The best ones are excellent: dense, durable and colorful. Quality varies between brands, so buy from a maker you trust.
Still deciding? Call me at 1-800-359-4460. Tell me how you cook and what your kitchen looks like, and I'll help you narrow it down.
