The material used in making your kitchen sink can have a significant impact on your kitchen. Different materials used in making kitchen sinks come with different aesthetic appeal and maintenance levels.

Though there are various types of kitchen sink options in the market, the most common ones are stainless steel and ceramic. What most homeowners don't know is the differences between stainless steel and ceramic kitchen sink.

Stainless Steel Vs. Ceramic Sink

Stainless Steel Sink
Stainless steel gets created from combining chromium with steel. The material fits in making a sink because of its stain-resistant nature. The sturdiness of the stainless steel is also fantastic. The sinks come made incredibly thin and still maintains their strength in many years to come. Despite offering a better user experience, stainless steel sinks have the following advantages;

Stainless Steel Sink Pros

Convenience
A stainless steel sink blends well with many decorating styles and kitchen appliances. Thanks to the fact that it comes in various finishes like glossy sheen, mirrored, or brushed nickel.

Though you will always find a stainless kitchen sink in silver, it complements most colors and blends well with the interior décor of any kitchen. You can, therefore, fit it in your customized kitchen, and it will look great.

Mounting Options:
Stainless steel sinks come either as drop-in or undermount design. More so, they contain various bowl configurations to accommodate all needs. Example include;

• Corner sink styles
• Double sink styles
• Single sink styles

The sinks' shapes also vary in size and design. Their thicknesses also vary, and you get to choose what gauge you like. A stainless kitchen sink with a small gauge number means that its steel is thick. When made thin, it will cost less than a thick sink. An 18-gauge sink will cost more than a 23-gauge stainless steel sink.

Cost
When you compare the price of other sinks made using different materials like porcelain, granite, or porcelain, a stainless steel sink costs less despite the bowl's configurations and gauge. Because it lasts long, a stainless kitchen sink can save you a lot of your hard-earned money in the future. A tub made with less durable materials will need replacement after some time.

Rust-Free and Stain-Free
A stainless steel kitchen sink does not rust or get stained, thanks to its material. Wiping away food hardened on its surface is easy due to its non-porous state. As a result, a stainless steel kitchen sink is easy to maintain.

Serves for Many Years
Stainless steel kitchen sinks don't chip, peel, or crack, making them top on the list of the most durable kitchen sinks available today. It is the reason these sinks have won the hearts of many homeowners.

Stainless Steel Sinks Cons

Noise Making
If you own a busy kitchen, you wouldn't want a sink that makes noise. Unfortunately, despite the many advantages of a stainless steel sink, items or dishes dropped in the sink makes a loud noise. Some manufacturers have tried to rectify the situation by installing dampening pads beneath the tubs, but it only helps a little bit.

Prone to Scratches
Abrasive cleaners are renowned to scratch the surface of a stainless steel sink. Try looking at an old stainless steel sink; you will notice some scratches.

Only in Silver
Though stainless steel sinks blend well in any kitchen, they do not have color options. Stainless steel kitchen sinks come only in silver. If you are a color person, this type of sink may not be a good option.

Ceramic Kitchen Sinks
The ceramic material used in making ceramic kitchen sinks gets made from different materials. The material formed is hard and easy to shape. Then it gets subjected to a high degree heat to form the ceramic sinks. The sinks look lovely and ideal to use in a rustic kitchen. Here are the benefits of a ceramic kitchen sink;

Ceramic Sink Pros

Scratch-Free
Ceramic kitchen sinks withstand pressure and high temperatures. You can place your hot kettle or pot, and nothing will happen to the tub. It also doesn't get scratched, and don't have to worry about your ceramic sink getting a dent.

Color Options
Though gleaming white is the most common color that comes with ceramic kitchen sinks, you can also find them in other colors.

Different Designs
Ceramic kitchen sinks come in multiple shapes and styles to suit your needs. Based on your budget and preference, you go for what you want.

Fits Seamlessly
Ceramic sinks will fit into any kitchen's counters seamlessly. If any space left, it's very little to allow accumulation of grime and dirt.

Easy to Clean
Cleaning ceramic sinks is a bliz, thanks to their impenetrable surface. The general all-purpose cleaning products are enough to have them clean. But in case you require to give your ceramic kitchen sink a deeper clean, wiping it down with vinegar solution or diluted bleach will work out great.

Ceramic Sink Cons

Chip and Crack
A ceramic sink may not dent, but it cracks and chips if excess pressure gets exerted. When chipped, the area and its surroundings discolor quickly.

Breaking Dishes
Because of their toughness, glasses and plates tend to break when dropped carelessly on ceramic sinks. You may need to install a removable sink mat on your ceramic sink to prevent your dishes from breaking.

None Environment-Friendly
If looking for an environment-friendly sink, a ceramic sink isn't perfect because its primary materials come from the earth. Its process of manufacturing also uses a lot of energy.

Conclusion
As discussed above, both the stainless steel and ceramic kitchen sinks come with their advantages and disadvantages. Both types are suitable for specific purposes and kitchen types. The differences between these kitchen sinks explained above will help you decide on the sink type you require.