Contemporary kitchen sinks or bathroom washbasins, sometimes referred to as bathroom sinks by users, are made of various materials – of granite, marble, ceramics, mineral and resin composites, stainless steel – which guarantee not only durability, resistance to mechanical damages, but also functionality, easiness to clean. Sink made of what material will look good for long years?

Sinks made of stainless steel do not resemble their predecessors at all – large, heavy and clumsy, suited for storing and washing-up of large quantities of cookware and pots. Modern sinks are elegant, can surprise with an interesting shape and finish. Due to the above, as well as to a number of useful features, they started to be used not only in public space, at the back of cafeterias, restaurants, in office kitchens, but also in domestic kitchens.

Stainless steel is a durable material, resistant to:
> corrosion (resistant to acids, however bleaching agents and strong detergents should not be used)
> mechanical impacts, abrasion (sharp and heavy accessories should be avoided on the sink surface, though)
> high temperatures
> chemical agents
> soiling (easy cleaning ensures high level of hygiene).

The choice of sinks made of steel 304 is wide – manufacturers and stores offer sinks of any size, one-bowl, two-bowl, undermount, inset, of any shape – round, rectangular or square, with or without drainer. Some of them have classic, glossy and smooth finish, while other are manufactured by using brushing method, owing to which the are provided with satin finish. In terms of intended use of a sink – whether it should be used in a domestic kitchen or a restaurant kitchen, it must be made of sheet metal of appropriate thickness. This means that a steel sink has its weight, which should be taken into account during installation (perhaps it is worth asking one more person for assistance) and selection of furniture (please note that an area where a mixer is to be installed on a kitchen sink should be reinforced so mixer tap can firmly hold on the sink).

Steel sinks have all the features that are appreciated by contemporary customers – they look good, are functional and can be used for long, long years. An elegant appearance can be kept by proper care – sinks with smooth and shiny finish should be wiped with a dry cloth so no unaesthetic runs and dried stains form, and also impregnated with use of suitable agents to provide protection of the sink surface.

To learn how to care for a sink mixer tap click here.

Steel sinks are perfectly matched with mixers made of steel 304. The choice of models is huge – various shapes, finishes (polished, matte, brushed) and sizes make a kitchen arrangement or metamorphosis in minimalistic, modern, retro or classic style, not a problem at all.

When choosing a mixer pay attention to its functionality – for sink mixer – cartridge type, length of spout (a practical solution facilitating washing-up and filling containers with water), provision of aerator (will be perfect in two-bowl sinks, and will facilitate washing-up of high pots, baking trays without splashing water), handles to turn on and adjust temperature of water mounted according to individual preferences – in side or front position.

Customers expect steel mixers to offer an attractive design, durability and a good quality to price ratio. Steel mixers perfectly satisfy their needs. Design – as already mentioned – is rich. Durability – ensured. As in the case of sinks, resistance to corrosion, high temperatures and mechanical factors is a guarantee of a perfect appearance for long years. Some manufacturers, as Laveo brand, provides a few-year warranty for mixers. The quality to price ratio is good – expenditure on a steel mixer is certainly worth it.

A properly selected set (while arrangement possibilities are unlimited) of sink + mixer will make a kitchen room acquire an exceptional and elegant appearance, while the set itself is its true decoration. What is important – it keeps this good appearance for long years.

Marmara

Marmara - 1 bowl sink

1646.00 zł

Bona

Bona - upright sink mixer with L-shaped spout

642.00 zł

Marmara

NMarmara - 1 bowl sink

1107.00 zł

Bona

Bona - upright sink mixer with U-shaped spout

328.00 zł

Stainless steel used in production of sinks and mixers usually is composed of iron (about 72%), chrome (about 18%), nickel (about 8-10%), carbon (0.08%). Such chemical composition determines excellent mechanical properties, weldability, resistance to oxidation (in intermittent work up to 870°C), very good properties at low temperatures and good reaction to hardening by cold processing. Steel 304 grade is characterized by resistance to majority of oxidizing acids, foodstuffs, sterilization solutions, most of organic chemicals and dyes, and most of inorganic chemicals. Therefore, this steel is often used in food processing industry and production of equipment used in household, and even in medical industry.

Although steel is considered an ideal material, please note that its surface has pores, grooves, small pits, where for instance limescale collects which in turn leads to soiling and tarnishing of the surface. Properties of steel by no means relieve users of steel equipment and appliances from cleaning the surface, also for prevention. It is worth caring for smooth steel surface on a daily basis, by using only water and a washing-up liquid and the soft side of sponge or a soft cloth, or special preparations. After each use the sink should be washed and wiped dry which will eliminate water drying and limescale build-up on its surface. Brushed surfaces should be coated with special impregnates which will allow to dissolve deposits and expose steel texture, and give its an elegant matt effect.