Kitchen Sink and Tap Guide: Choose the Right Fit for Your Kitchen

Kitchen Sink and Tap Guide

Choosing a kitchen sink and tap isn’t just about appearance. It’s one of the most used areas in the kitchen, so it needs to work well with how you cook, clean, and move around the space. From bowl size to fitting styles and materials, this guide walks through everything you need to consider.

Whether you're replacing a sink or planning a full renovation, this article will help you make confident decisions about your sink, tap, and how they fit into your overall kitchen plan.

Outline

1. What types of kitchen sink are there?

2. What bowl layout makes the most sense?

3. Which kitchen tap features are worth considering?

4. Inset or undermount - what’s the difference?

5. Are ceramic, stainless steel, or composite sinks better?

6. How to choose the right size and layout

7. Is a Belfast sink right for your kitchen?

8. What colour options are available?

9. How to sort and filter options online

10. What else helps you find the perfect kitchen sink?

1. What types of kitchen sink are there?

There are three main types of kitchen sink to choose from:

• Inset sinks are dropped into a hole cut into the worktop. The edge of the sink rests on top, which makes fitting easier. They’re common in domestic kitchens and suit most laminate surfaces.

• Undermount sinks are installed underneath the worktop. They give a cleaner, seamless finish and make it easier to wipe mess directly into the sink. These work best with solid surfaces like quartz or granite.

• Belfast sinks are traditional ceramic models with a large, deep bowl and exposed front. These are typically used in shaker-style or period homes and require a suitable cabinet.

Each type offers a different look and function. The best choice depends on your worktop, kitchen style, and budget.

2. What bowl layout makes the most sense?

Your choice of bowl layout depends on how you use the sink day to day.

• A single bowl sink gives you maximum space for washing large pots and pans. These work well in compact kitchens or homes with a dishwasher.

• 1.5 bowl sinks combine a full-size bowl with a smaller second bowl for rinsing or draining. This layout gives flexibility without needing a large base unit.

• Double bowl sinks give you two full-size sections and are useful for multitasking in busy kitchens, but they take up more room.

If you’re unsure, a 1.5 bowl sink is a solid all-round option that balances space and function.

3. Which kitchen tap features are worth considering?

A good kitchen tap complements the sink and makes your space more functional. Features to consider include:

• Mixer taps, which combine hot and cold water through one spout. These are standard in most modern kitchens and work with single or double-hole sink setups.

• Filter taps provide clean drinking water straight from the tap, avoiding the need for a separate filter jug.

• Some taps offer boiling water on demand - useful if you want to reduce kettle use.

Check compatibility between the kitchen tap and the sink. Some ceramic kitchen sinks come with pre-drilled holes, while undermount sinks often require the tap to be mounted to the worktop.

4. Inset or undermount - what’s the difference?

Choosing between inset and undermount is about both appearance and practicality.

• Inset sinks are easier to fit and replace. They’re suitable for all worktop types and usually have a built-in drainer.

• Undermount sinks create a flush look and make cleaning up faster, but they must be paired with solid surfaces like granite or quartz.

If you’re after a modern, tidy finish, go for an undermount sink. For simplicity and a wider choice, inset is often more flexible.

5. Are ceramic, stainless steel, or composite sinks better?

Each material has different benefits:

• Stainless steel sinks are lightweight, affordable, and handle heat and stains well. These are the most common choice in UK kitchens.

• Ceramic sinks are heavier, more traditional, and resistant to scratches and discolouration. A white ceramic finish suits a Belfast sink or classic kitchen look.

• Composite sinks (including granite sinks) are made from resin and stone blends. They’re highly durable, offer superior stain resistance, and come in darker colours like grey or black.

Choose composite if you want a stylish modern look with strong durability. Pick ceramic for a timeless feel. Stainless steel remains the go-to for everyday value and function.

6. How to choose the right size and layout

To find the right size, consider:

• The width of your kitchen cabinet. A 600mm unit typically suits a 1.5 bowl sink with a drainer.

• The amount of space around the sink for food prep or dish drying.

• Whether you want a left or right-hand drainer, or a reversible option.

If you're short on space, a single bowl sink or compact composite model works well. For larger layouts, look at double bowl or bowl sinks with extended drainers.

7. Is a Belfast sink right for your kitchen?

A Belfast sink gives you a deep ceramic bowl with a distinctive front-facing edge. It suits traditional designs and heavy-duty kitchen use.

Pros:

• Large capacity

• Matches shaker or in-frame units

• Durable ceramic finish

Cons:

• Needs a specific base unit

• Takes up more space

• No built-in drainer

If your kitchen has the room and a traditional style, a Belfast option adds character. Otherwise, consider a ceramic kitchen sink in an inset format for more flexibility.

8. What colour options are available?

Sinks come in more than just silver now. Colour can help your sink blend in or stand out.

• White sinks (usually ceramic) look clean and suit classic kitchen designs.

• Black kitchen sinks or dark granite options create contrast and hide marks well.

• Some composite sinks come in muted tones like grey or beige.

Pick a finish that works with your cabinets, worktops, and kitchen accessories. If you're planning an entire kitchen colour scheme, it helps to view samples side by side.

9. How to sort and filter options online

When buying online, use the site's sort and filter tools to narrow your selection.

Key filters include:

• Bowl layout (single, 1.5, double)

• Drainer side

• Material (ceramic, stainless steel, composite)

• Mount type (inset, undermount)

• Width

You can also filter by colour, tap hole configuration, and whether the sink comes with sink accessories like waste kits or chopping boards. Look for terms like “shop our wide range” or “find your perfect” to browse efficiently.

10. What else helps you find the perfect kitchen sink?

A few small decisions can make your setup work better:

• Some sinks come with built-in waste disposal units or support them.

• Think about your kitchen mixer style - especially if you want it to match cabinet handles or appliances.

• Look for sinks that come with or support mixer taps, especially in stainless or brushed finishes.

Some suppliers, including well-known names like Franke and Rangemaster, offer a range of kitchen sinks built for domestic and commercial use. Use tools to compare the range of styles, or visit a physical showroom if you want to see how finishes look in person. Better Kitchens customers can view a wide range of kitchen sinks and taps at our Weston-super-Mare showroom, or plan your DIY kitchen online with expert help.

Summary - What to Remember

• Decide between inset, undermount, or Belfast depending on your worktop and kitchen style.

• Pick a bowl layout that suits your routine - 1.5 bowl options suit most households.

• Choose a kitchen tap that fits your sink and offers the right features (e.g. mixer taps, filter taps).

• Match materials to your needs - stainless steel, ceramic, or composite all have pros and cons.

• Use colour and finish to complement the look of your kitchen.

• Don’t overlook size, layout, and drainer side when choosing.

• Use online tools to sort and filter by the features that matter to you.

• Consider extras like sink accessories, waste disposal units, and matching taps.

• Use trusted brands and suppliers that offer a wide range and reliable stock.

• You can plan and order online, or visit our Weston-super-Mare showroom if you want to explore in person.