Shopping for a stainless steel farmhouse sink?
You’ve come to the right place.
Your kitchen sink is where you probably spend more time than anywhere else in the kitchen.
This is why choosing a stainless steel farmhouse sink requires careful consideration.
Farmhouse sinks are a popular style among homeowners due to their spaciousness and classic yet modern look. These sinks are easy to clean, sturdy, and add to the aesthetics of your kitchen.
Whether you want to remodel your kitchen or build a new one, choosing the best farmhouse sink can be a time-consuming and tricky process. You have to consider many things like sizes, materials, styles, colors, designs, etc.
But don’t worry; we’re here to help.
We’ve combed through dozens of stainless steel farmhouse sinks to introduce you to some of the finest models available today – especially if you’re trying to fit one into a more modern kitchen design.
What’s in this Buying Guide
The wide range of farmhouse sinks available today makes choosing the right model for your kitchen a task.
So to make things easier, in this article we provide a list of our favorites, review each of them and list the pros and cons of each.
We also include a buyer’s guide to walk you through the selection process and point out the features you should look for.
In the end, we answer commonly-asked questions about stainless steel farmhouse sinks.
So, let’s begin!
Best Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sinks: Our Top Picks
Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com
- Best Design: Ruvati Gunmetal Black Matte Stainless Steel
- Quietest: Kraus KHF203-33
- Best Workstation: Ruvati Verona RVH9200
- Most Economical: AKDY Handmade Workstation Ledge
Best Design: Ruvati Gunmetal Black Matte Stainless Steel
Ruvati is a well-known name in kitchen sinks, and its products are highly popular among users due to their exceptional quality and creative designs.
This Ruvati stainless kitchen sink comes in an attractive gunmetal black matte finish that will become the centerpiece of any modern kitchen.
Features
- Made of 16-gauge T-304 grade stainless steel
- Innovative Nano-PVD technique for a durable finish
- Thick rubber NoiseDepend padding
- Heavy-duty SoundGuard undercoating
- Stainless steel bottom protective grid
Our Review
Constructed from 16-gauge stainless steel, the Ruvati Gunmetal Black Matte kitchen sink is dent and rust-resistant. Its matte-colored finish is applied using nano-PVD technology that not only makes this unit durable and resistant to peeling but also gives it a modern and understated look.
The matte texture of this sink is easy to clean and fingerprint and stain-resistant. The inside edges and corners of the Ruvati gunmetal black matte sink are curved slightly, which makes it easy to clean them.
Another excellent feature of this Ruvati sink is that it comes with a stainless steel sink bottom rinse grid that protects your sink from scratches. You can also use this grid as a drying rack for pots and pans.
The 4 drain groves and sloped bottom ensure that the water flows easily towards the drain, keeping your sink free from any food residue. Its thick noise-proof undercoating and heavy-duty SoundGuard pads minimize noise and offer superior thermal insulation.
The Ruvati Gunmetal Black Matte Stainless Steel kitchen sink is aesthetically pleasing and spacious; however, some verified users claim it does not drain well. They had to use a squeegee to encourage the water to drain.
Pros
- Black matte finish
- Fingerprint- and stain-resistant
- Deep and spacious basin bowl
- Sloped bottom
- Easy to clean
- Rounded inner corners
Cons
- Water does not drain well
Quietest: Kraus KHF203-33
The Kraus KHF203-33 is the perfect combination of practicality and style. It is designed with an exclusive NoiseDefend soundproofing technology that minimizes noise and absorbs vibration to provide superior protection against noise when the sink is in use.
Features
- Exceptional quality
- 16 gauge for durability
- Corrosion and rust-resistant
- Heavy-duty, dent-resistant T304 stainless steel
- NoiseDefend soundproofing technology
Our Review
The Kraus KHF203-33 kitchen sink features 16-gauge construction and extra-tough T304 stainless steel. It offers exceptional resistance to rust, corrosion, and dents. This extremely sturdy unit comes with rounded inside corners that offer maximum working space and are very easy to clean.
The sleek and contemporary look of this Kraus sink allows it to blend with all kitchen decors. Its gently sloped bottom prevents standing water inside the bowl, which ensures complete drainage. This optimized angle also protects your glassware from falling when you place it in the sink.
The KHF203-33 is designed with 60/40 double bowls to make washing and drying dishes very convenient. You can also choose the placement of the larger bowl, on the left or the right, according to your preference.
The NoiseDefend soundproofing technology involves nontoxic undercoating and extra-thick padding on the skin, which absorbs vibration, dampens sound, and reduces condensation.
The Kraus KHF203-33 is a durable option that comes in a commercial-grade satin finish. But some buyers state that the fingerprints show easily on this sink. They also complain that it does not come with any hardware to secure it to the cabinet.
Pros
- High quality ensures lifelong durability
- Commercial-grade satin finish
- Easy to clean
- Matches most kitchen appliances
- Extra-thick pads cover 80% of the sink
- Relatively quiet when the water is running
- Comes with accessories
- Rear mount drains
Cons
- No hardware provided to secure the sink to the cabinet
- Fingerprints show easily
Best Workstation: Ruvati Verona RVH9200
The Ruvati Verona RVH9200 combines the best of both worlds – a bold stainless steel apron-front with a built-in functional workstation that makes prepping food and cleaning afterward quite easy.
Features
- Single-tier track
- Comes with a cutting board, basket strainer, colander, bottom rinse grid, roll-up rack, drain assembly, and installation guide
- Thick rubber padding
- Curved corners
- Sloped bottom
- SoundGuard undercoating
- Premium T-304 grade stainless steel
- Brushed finish
- 16 gauge
Our Review
The Ruvati Verona RVH9200 is a bold and elegant sink that doubles as a functional workstation with a single-tier track. You can easily slide the built-in accessories on the integrated tracks and enjoy complete ease in preparing your meal.
The various accessories that come with this sink include a cutting board constructed of Sapele wood. This hardwood board has a beautiful finish, and unlike bamboo cutting boards that are less durable and cheaper, hardwood’s high quality ensures that it handles water well.
You can use the stainless steel colander as a strainer for different tasks like defrosting meat, draining noodles, etc.
The drying rack is made with a flexible silicone frame and stainless steel bars, and you can fold it and store it away. Plus, it is strong enough to hold all your pans and pots.
Constructed with 16-gauge, T-304 stainless steel, the Ruvati Verona RVH9200 features a commercial-grade brushed finish that is long-lasting and easy to clean.
This sink has a sloped bottom and 4 drain grooves that ensure that the water flows towards the drain, keeping your sink dry and clean. The excellent positioning of the drain in the rear center of the sink right below the faucet ensures complete drainage and minimizes splashes.
Although a number of verified users remarked that they received many compliments regarding this sink’s look and design, a few buyers complained that their sink developed scratches very quickly. Some buyers also found the quality of some of its parts inferior.
Pros
- Workstation stainless steel sink with single-tier track
- Rust- and stain-resistant
- Curved inside corners make it easy to clean
- Overhanging lips work as a track to slide the built-in accessories
- Rubber padded to reduce condensation and minimize noise
Cons
- Drain assembly has inferior parts
- May scratch easily
Most Economical: AKDY Handmade Workstation Ledge
If you are looking for a sink that can help increase your productivity and streamline your workflow in the kitchen without putting a strain on your budget, then the AKDY Handmade Workstation Ledge is the best option for you.
Features
- Unique 2-tier rack
- T304 stainless steel
- Comes with a cutting board and a drying rack
- Sound dampening pads
- Drain strainer protects the drain pipe
Our Review
The AKDY Handmade Workstation Ledge is an elegant stainless steel kitchen sink designed with a double ledge workstation design. The drying rack and cutting board slide easily on the ledges to convert this sink into a workspace.
Constructed with durable T304 stainless steel, the sink is sturdy enough to last a long time. The multi-purpose rack is not only functional but also keeps your kitchen neat and tidy. Plus, the drain kit comes with a drain strainer that prevents your drain pipe from becoming clogged.
However, some verified buyers complain that this sink does not drain well, and you need to use your hands to move the water and food residue towards the drain.
Pros
- Adjustable kitchen sink colander
- Bamboo cutting board
- Deep wastebasket
- Functional and easy to clean
- Insulating rubber pads create a quiet kitchen environment
Cons
- Does not drain well
Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink Buying Guide
What is a Farmhouse Sink?
A farmhouse sink is a drop-in sink that features an exposed front-facing side.
These sinks are designed to fit into a space especially cut out for the kitchen counter, allowing them to seamlessly blend with the kitchen counter for aesthetic purposes.
Compared to other sinks, farmhouse sinks are designed with a deeper bowl. Users can stand directly in front of the sink as there is no cabinet or countertop in between.
Why Buy a Stainless Steel Farmhouse Kitchen Sink vs. Other Kinds?
Your kitchen sink is the most used appliance, so it’s better to opt for a material that you can clean and maintain without much fuss.
The best thing about stainless steel farmhouse sinks is that they are highly durable.
Originally preferred for its strength and resistance to discoloration and rust, stainless steel is the perfect material for sinks.
What to Look for in a Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink
To get the perfect stainless steel farmhouse sink for your kitchen, make sure you keep the following features in mind:
Material
Farmhouse sinks come in a wide range of materials that come with their own strengths and weaknesses, which is why it is best to have complete knowledge about them:
Stainless steel
One of the most common materials used in the manufacture of farmhouse sinks is stainless steel. It offers a modern look to your kitchen and is rust and corrosion, chip, and scratch-resistant for longevity and maximum durability.
Stainless steel sinks are also highly affordable and easy to clean. However, the only downside is that they come in limited color and finish options.
Copper
Copper farmhouse sinks are incredibly eye-pleasing and durable. Their beautiful rustic look has a timeless and striking appearance. These sinks come in a traditional warm copper color as well as in a variety of soft matte or high-shine colors and finishes.
The biggest benefit of farmhouse sinks is that they are long-lasting. However, they are a bit pricier, and their color tends to change with continued use. Also, these sinks can dent easily.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is usually used for farmhouse sinks because of its ease of maintenance and high durability.
Cast iron farmhouse sinks are coated with a protective layer of ceramic or porcelain to give them a hard and glossy finish, making them very attractive. However, these sinks develop scratches and chips if they are not properly taken care of.
Fireclay
Fireclay is an extremely solid material and is used to make sinks that are superior in strength inside out. These sinks can withstand high temperatures, and their non-porous surface resists scratches and stains.
Unfortunately, these sinks tend to flake and chip over time. The hardness of fireclay sinks can be unforgiving to your dishes. Plus, they are quite heavy, which makes their installation quite a challenge.
Natural stone
Natural stone farmhouse sinks are ideal for people concerned about aesthetics. They are made from a number of natural stones like marble, granite, limestone, or travertine and give a unique look to your kitchen.
This material is durable and can withstand extreme impacts and temperatures. Their non-porous surface makes them easy to clean. However, it is pricier compared to other materials. It is also quite heavy, which makes installation a little difficult.
Size
Farmhouse sinks come in a number of sizes, ranging from 20-inch small units to 60-inch long sinks. Knowing how you will be using your sink will make it easy to find the perfect size. You should also measure the size of your cabinet to find out what sink size will be acceptable.
If you are replacing your sink, keep in mind its size. Was your old sink too big or too small for your needs?
Typically, farmhouse sinks are 10 inches deep. However, sometimes you can find retro-fit models that can be trimmed about 3 inches from the bottom to fit comfortably into your existing cabinetry.
Single or double bowl
Farmhouse sinks are available in both single or double bowl options. You can choose either one depending on your personal preference and how you intend to use your sink.
Single bowl sinks are ideal for washing large cookware like deep pots and pans. Their depth makes it possible to easily soak your dishes before cleaning. On the other hand, double bowls make it possible to separate the food prep area from dirty utensils.
Installation
If you plan to use your existing kitchen cabinet for your farmhouse sink, you will need custom support or cabinets to ensure proper installation.
Unlike standard under-mount or drop-in sinks, farmhouse sinks solely rest on the support underneath and do not attach to the countertop in any way.
If you plan on installing a farmhouse sink in your new kitchen, make sure you have an excellent support system as well as a suitable installation area.
It is also essential to keep in mind that farmhouse sinks are not designed with a mounting dock or a faucet hole for the sink faucet. So, you will need to ensure that there is enough space and a designated location to install your faucet.
Style
Farmhouse sinks are a beautiful combination of sleek, modern design with traditional aesthetics.
Some are designed with rounded or wavy lines to give the sink a soft look, while others capitalize on the utilitarian, contemporary look and come with sharp, squared-off lines that look more austere.
You should choose a style that blends in or complements the surrounding decor.
Finish
Most stainless steel farmhouse sinks come with a satin finish, high-polish mirror look, or a brushed nickel finish.
The mirror finish is very shiny and reflects light.
The brushed nickel finish has a very muted, almost matte, look.
A satin finish diffuses the light and offers a muted visual impact on the sink.
Accessories
Some farmhouse sinks come with accessories such as a cutting board, a basket strainer for vegetables, a sink protector, or other items that increase the usability of the sink.
Although these items do not affect the sink’s functionality, they can make your life easy and help you save some money down the road.
Color
Stainless steel sinks are available in many colors.
Some are tinged darker, while some range from silver to bronze tones.
Make sure you choose a warmer or cooler tone that compliments your kitchen’s decor. You can also go with an option that contrasts with your existing decor to give your kitchen a truly different look.
Warranty
A warranty is not only the guarantee of quality; it also protects you from hidden costs. A long warranty cultivates peace of mind about a product, and a sink is no different.
A sink that comes with a lifetime warranty is a surety that you are getting a durable unit that will stand the test of time.
Installation
The material used in the construction of the farmhouse sink plays a vital role in determining how hard it will be to install. Naturally, a heavy sink will be difficult to install.
You should also measure the width, depth, and length of your cabinet to find out the size of the farmhouse sink you can easily accommodate.
Drain size and location
The location of the drain and its size are important as they determine how fast the water will drain.
Slow-draining sinks are difficult to clean. Make sure the sink you choose is designed with an inward-sloping bottom. This will ensure that the water pours down easily and does not linger at the bottom and result in mildew.
Pros and Cons
Stainless steel farmhouse sinks come with many advantages that far outweigh their disadvantages.
Although their minor cons do not undermine the usefulness of these sinks, you might need to make a few concessions.
Pros
Spacious
There is no doubt that spacious sinks make it easier to work in the kitchen. To understand why farmhouse sinks are spacious, we have to go back to when they were first introduced.
Originally, farmhouse sinks were designed to be deep and large. As there was no running water at that time, these sinks were equipped to hold large amounts of water fetched by hand from nearby lakes, wells, and rivers.
This is an essential feature of farmhouse sinks that comes in quite handy in the modern kitchen as well. They can easily accommodate the largest pans and pots used to make meals for large families.
Plus, the deep bowl design allows you to soak several pans at the same time to remove food residue for effortless cleaning.
Convenient
The farmhouse sink offers exceptional ergonomics.
To understand this, let’s again go back in time to see how these sinks were originally used.
In the olden days, women used to spend a lot of time at the sink, which is why these sinks were designed such that women did not have to bend over to use the sink to save them from backache.
Modern farmhouse sinks also incorporate this ergonomic design. They are designed with a forward orientation that forgoes the countertop that makes you lean forward and strain your back.
Attractive
Stainless steel farmhouse sinks are popular among homeowners because of their looks. They add excellent aesthetics to a new kitchen and become the central focal point instantly.
Nowadays, these sinks are produced in contemporary, transitional, and modern designs so that they complement your kitchen decor perfectly.
For example, if you have a rustic-themed kitchen, you can easily find a copper farmhouse sink to match.
Versatility
Another advantage of a farmhouse sink is its incredible versatility. These sinks are available in various sizes, in multiple material options, and in single and double basin configurations.
These variations make it easy to find a model that matches your taste and personal preferences. Plus, you can choose a color that matches your kitchen decor.
Farmhouse sinks are available in a wide range of materials, including copper, fireclay, stainless steel, and many more. All these materials come with their own advantages and disadvantages, and analyzing them will help you find the most suitable unit for your needs.
Cons
Dishes might break more easily
Farmhouse sinks are designed with a deep basin that may cause you to break dishes and glasses accidentally. If you drop a glass or a plate, there is a good chance that it might crack.
Requires unique countertop cut
As these sinks are large and protrude in front of the cabinets, you will either need a special countertop cut or a specially designed sink cabinet.
Depending on the model you choose, you will have to cut the surrounding countertop and leave just a tiny portion of it behind the sink, or the surface will be interrupted by the sink completely.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your stainless steel farmhouse sink is the key to keeping your sink looking new. It is best to wipe down your sink after each use and clean it thoroughly every week. Following are some tips to help you maintain the shiny look of your sink:
Avoid things such as steel wool, scouring powders, bleach, and other abrasive sponges that can scratch and mar the surface of your sink. Instead, use soft sponges and rags.
You should clean stainless steel sinks with dish soap as it is mild and effective. You should avoid using oven or glass cleaners as they can scratch your sink surface or dull the finish.
If there are stains or stuck-on food in your sink, rinse your sink with faucet water and then coat it with baking soda. Use a sponge to scrub the sink in the direction of the steel grain.
Spray undiluted vinegar on the sink and leave for five minutes. Rinse the sink with faucet water. Buff with a couple of drops of olive oil to have your sink shining like new.
Whether your stainless steel sink has a satin or brushed nickel finish, you need to properly maintain it to avoid smudges or fingerprints. You can polish it with a safe and non-abrasive polish to keep it looking new.
To save your stainless steel sink from scratches and general wear and tear, it is best to place a protective grid at the bottom of the sink. This will protect your sink from being accidentally damaged by dropped knives or dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are stainless steel sinks a good option?
It is hard to go wrong with a good-quality stainless steel sink as these sinks are easy to clean, strong, efficient, and durable. Heavy-duty and professional kitchens typically opt for a stainless steel sink because they are durable and can withstand quite a bit of abuse.
How long does a stainless steel kitchen sink last?
Stainless steel sinks are a durable option as they can last from 15 to 30 years. You can also increase the lifespan of your stainless steel kitchen sink with proper care and maintenance.
What is the best gauge for a kitchen sink?
Stainless steel kitchen sinks come in gauges 16 and lower. When it comes to gauge, the lower number represents thicker stainless steel. Most people recommend 16 to 18 gauges as an excellent choice for a kitchen sink.
An 18-gauge stainless steel kitchen sink which is 0.0500-inches thick, is a good option, while a 16-gauge sink which is 0.0625-inches thick, is considered a luxury sink. Although 16-gauge stainless steel is more costly, its durability and heft make it a safe bet.
Final Verdict: What is the Best Stainless Steel Farmhouse Sink Sold Today?
After reviewing a number of stainless steel kitchen sinks, we find the Kraus KHF203-33 the best option. It is durable, convenient, and will look good no matter what the theme of your kitchen is.