Kitchen Sink Singapore: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Sink for Every Home
The kitchen sink is one of the most essential components in any home. Whether you’re washing vegetables, scrubbing dishes, or cleaning up after a meal, your kitchen sink plays a central role in your daily kitchen routine. In Singapore, where homes range from compact HDB flats to larger condominiums and landed properties, choosing the right Kitchen Sink Singapore is crucial for both function and design. With a wide range of sizes, materials, and configurations available, selecting the perfect sink for your space can enhance your kitchen’s usability and complement its style. This guide will walk you through the different types of kitchen sinks, key buying considerations, and installation tips to help you make the best decision for your kitchen.
Why the Kitchen Sink You Choose Matters
In Singapore, kitchens are often compact, so every design and functionality choice counts. The kitchen sink is one of the most frequently used areas of the home and must be able to handle daily wear and tear. Choosing the right sink ensures long-lasting performance, easy maintenance, and efficient workflow. A good sink should be durable, hygienic, and proportionate to your countertop space. Additionally, with increasing interest in aesthetic home design, many homeowners now treat the kitchen sink as a focal point rather than just a functional fixture.
Types of Kitchen Sinks in Singapore
1. Top-Mount (Drop-In) Sinks
Top-mount sinks are dropped into a pre-cut hole in your countertop, with the rim resting on the surface. This type is easy to install and replace, making it a popular choice in HDB and BTO flats. They are cost-effective and available in various materials and sizes.
2. Undermount Sinks
Installed beneath the countertop, undermount sinks provide a sleek and seamless appearance. They make cleaning easier, as there’s no rim to trap dirt. These sinks are popular in modern and minimalist kitchen designs but require professional installation and are best suited for solid surface countertops like granite or quartz.
3. Flush-Mount (Recessed) Sinks
Flush-mount sinks are installed so that the rim is level with the countertop. This style offers both visual appeal and easy cleaning. It’s commonly found in designer kitchens and requires precise installation to achieve the flush alignment.
4. Single-Bowl Sinks
As the name suggests, these sinks have a single large basin. They are ideal for smaller kitchens or for those who frequently wash large pots and pans. Single-bowl sinks save space and provide a clean, uncluttered look.
5. Double-Bowl Sinks
Double-bowl sinks have two separate compartments, useful for multitasking such as washing and rinsing or separating utensils from cookware. They require more counter space but are convenient for households that cook often.
6. Corner Sinks
Corner sinks make efficient use of corner space in L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens. While less common, they can be a smart space-saving solution for certain layouts.
7. Integrated Sinks
Integrated sinks are molded from the same material as the countertop, often seen in Corian or stainless steel countertops. They offer a high-end seamless look and are very easy to clean but are more expensive and require professional fabrication.
Materials Commonly Used in Singapore Kitchen Sinks
Stainless Steel: The most popular material in Singapore due to its durability, rust resistance, and ease of maintenance. Choose 304-grade stainless steel for better quality. Look for thicker gauge steel for noise reduction and dent resistance.
Granite Composite: Made from crushed stone and resin, these sinks are highly durable, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant. They come in various matte colors like black, grey, and white, offering a premium feel.
Ceramic (Fireclay): Known for its glossy finish and vintage look, ceramic sinks are resistant to stains and scratches but can chip if heavy cookware is dropped on them. They are more commonly used in farmhouse-style kitchens.
Quartz Composite: Similar to granite composite, quartz sinks are durable and offer a modern matte look. They are easy to clean and available in different tones, making them popular in contemporary kitchens.
Tempered Glass with Stainless Steel: A modern hybrid option combining tempered glass surface with a steel basin. They are visually striking but more fragile and best used in light-duty applications.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Kitchen Sink
1. Size and Depth
Measure your cabinet and counter space before choosing a sink. Standard sink widths in Singapore range from 500mm to 1000mm. A deeper sink (at least 200mm) is useful for washing large pots and preventing splashing.
2. Mounting Style
Top-mount is easier to install but slightly harder to clean around the edges. Undermount and flush-mount offer cleaner lines and easier maintenance but require more planning and skill during installation.
3. Number of Bowls
Choose between single or double bowls based on your cooking and cleaning habits. Single bowls are more spacious, while double bowls offer flexibility.
4. Accessories and Features
Look for sinks that come with drainboards, colanders, chopping boards, or soap dispensers. Integrated accessories improve efficiency and reduce countertop clutter.
5. Noise Insulation
Premium sinks come with sound-deadening pads or undercoating to reduce noise during water flow and dishwashing. This is particularly helpful in open-concept kitchens.
6. Drain Placement
Rear or corner drain placement improves under-sink cabinet storage and water drainage. It also prevents splashing and pooling around the drain area.
7. Water Efficiency
Choose sinks with included strainers and basket waste systems to prevent clogs and reduce the need for harsh chemical cleaners, supporting environmentally friendly practices.
Installation Tips for Singapore Homes
Hire a Professional: Even if you’re a seasoned DIYer, sink installation involves plumbing, sealing, and sometimes countertop modifications. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures leak-free and proper installation.
Coordinate with Countertop Cut-Outs: Always measure accurately and consult with your countertop supplier. Some materials like quartz and granite require professional cutting.
Check for Existing Plumbing Alignment: Make sure your new sink’s drain location aligns with existing plumbing. Otherwise, you may need to reroute pipes, which increases cost.
Seal Properly: Use quality silicone sealant to prevent water from leaking around the edges or beneath the sink.
Where to Buy Kitchen Sinks in Singapore
Kitchen sinks are widely available in sanitaryware showrooms, hardware stores, and online retailers. Popular local and international brands include Blanco, Franke, Rubine, Teka, Kohler, and American Standard. When shopping, consider the following:
Warranty and Material Grade: Look for a warranty of at least 5 years and ensure stainless steel sinks use 304-grade steel.
Accessory Bundles: Some models include free accessories like a soap dispenser, chopping board, or dish rack.
Customer Reviews: Check online reviews or visit showrooms to see the sink in use and judge the build quality.
WELS Compliance: Although WELS applies more to taps, it’s good practice to pair your sink with WELS-certified tapware for water efficiency.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Daily Cleaning: Rinse and wipe your sink after each use to prevent soap scum, stains, or limescale buildup.
Use Mild Detergents: Avoid bleach or abrasive sponges that may scratch or dull the finish, especially for stainless steel and ceramic sinks.
Clean Drains Weekly: Use baking soda and vinegar to clean the trap and prevent odors or blockages.
Polish Stainless Steel: Use specialized stainless-steel polish to maintain the shine and remove fine scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best material for kitchen sinks in Singapore?
Stainless steel is the most popular for its durability and affordability. For a premium look, granite or quartz composite is a good option.
2. Are double-bowl sinks better than single-bowl sinks?
Double-bowl sinks are better for multitasking but take up more space. Single-bowl sinks offer more uninterrupted space for washing large items.
3. Can I install an undermount sink in a laminate countertop?
Undermount sinks are not ideal for laminate countertops because the exposed cut-out edge can absorb water and swell. Solid surfaces like granite or quartz are better suited.
4. How do I remove scratches from a stainless-steel sink?
Use a non-abrasive stainless-steel polish and soft cloth. Always follow the grain of the steel when polishing.
5. Do I need a sink with accessories?
Integrated accessories like drainboards, cutting boards, and strainers improve workflow and are ideal for compact kitchens with limited counter space.
Conclusion
Selecting the right kitchen sink in Singapore is a crucial part of building a functional, efficient, and attractive kitchen. With so many choices available—from mounting style and bowl configuration to materials and built-in features—it’s essential to match your sink with your cooking habits, available space, and design preferences. Whether you’re upgrading a resale HDB kitchen or building a dream kitchen in your new condo, the right kitchen sink will make everyday tasks easier and last for years. Choose a reputable brand, consult with professionals for installation, and follow a regular maintenance routine to keep your sink looking and functioning like new.
