'Sink' in the spotlight this time

The kitchen is the heart of the home as this is the place where delicious treats are prepared to be warmly served. However, the humble sink is one place that handles all the dirt, grime and cleaning that the beautiful cooking and serving leave behind. In fact, the sink is the only working area used to both prepare meals and clean up after all the cooking is done.

Although quality sinks can last 15 years or more, they do wear out. Finishes start to dull or chip, annoying leaks appear mysteriously around the rim and the drainage system corrodes. So, watch out for these warning signs and get a new one installed before the old one completely gives up.

Manufacturers offer sinks in a variety of materials and styles, from gleaming stainless steel and durable porcelain on cast iron to several newer materials. Sinks are also one of the lowest-priced components of a kitchen remodel. Although some high-end models carry four-digit price tags, there is a wealth of well-made sinks on the market starting at around Rs 10,000.

Sink size vs kitchen size

With so many options — single bowls to multiple bowls of different sizes, shapes and depths — you need to consider the size of the room and how you’ll use the sink. Large multi-basin models, which are popular, will attest a huge image in a small kitchen. Follow the standard 22X24” single-bowl model for kitchens less than 150 sq ft. Large kitchens can even think of installing double and triple bowl sets that also allow dish stacking and rinsing of vegetables. However, do check for a correct mounting depending on the usage and working height preferred.

Spice it up

Yet another beautiful rendition to this rather plain installation is colour. However, it typically ranges higher than any of the simple ones. Add features like a drain strainer or utensil holder and the range will mark up. Considering that you’ll be living with it for a long time, might as well go for a quality and aesthetically pleasing one. Granite fused with steel and other sturdy material fusions are in vogue these days.

Trendsetter

Another rising style seen, especially in the metros and Tier-II cities, is the installation of island-style kitchens. This enables home owners to not only enjoy the hassle-free cooking and washing, but also have small meetups in the kitchen. “I never knew my kitchen could ever be a space to flaunt. However, with my new island-style kitchen fitted with latest technology and a beautiful blue pottery sink, it has become quite a showstopper. Our guests love to be treated around the kitchen and it’s just so much convenient to serve a warm and fresh spread of food,” says Komal Sardana.

You can also choose from some authentic handcrafted ones that come in colourful varieties — blue pottery, ceramic, stones and tiled are some choices. However, they are mostly installed in powder rooms and bathrooms to create a desired look. It’s about getting creative and choosing the best for your home — so go out and explore the varieties; you will be awestruck.

Basics for the basin

Stainless steel is easy to clean and extremely hygienic. Its smooth, non-porous surface makes it difficult for bacteria and micro-organisms to survive. However, it does need daily rinsing and wiping.

Take extra care when treating and rinsing the surface to avoid any unnecessary corrosion. Avoid contact with aggressive detergents and ferrous substances that can be deposited in the pipes.

Always use cleaning products specifi-cally formulated for stainless steel. Do not use detergents containing chlorine, bleach, hydrochloric acid or lime scale removing agents.

When cleaning, use soft cloths and not abrasive sponges or metal scourers.
Finish with a thorough rinse with water.

Never leave wet sponges or utensils containing iron on the surface for a long time — they leave brown iron stains.

Store containers of detergent or acidic chemical products tightly closed under the sink and never around it.