How to Choose Your Kitchen Sink

Origins of the Kitchen Sink

Known as the workhorse of the kitchen, the humble sink has had quite a journey.  Starting out as a simple manual water basin in the 1800s, now you can choose from a wide range of styles, sizes and materials to suit every need, with aesthetics just as important as function.

In the early 1800s, ‘dry sinks’ were trough-style wooden cabinets with a zinc or lead basin that was filled by hand using a pitcher.   As indoor plumbing found its way into stately homes and manor houses, these timber designs evolved into farmhouse sinks made from more durable and hygienic materials such as tin, copper, cast iron and ceramic.

Large and deep enough to offer space for all the generously-sized pots, pans and baking trays that country houses would use, the sink became an integral part of the scullery or butler’s pantry, which is why it became known as a Butler sink. 

Considerations Before Buying a Sink

If you’re shopping for a new sink, whether it’s to upgrade what you currently have or choosing a design for a renovation, there are certain elements to weigh up before you buy.

Sink Material:

Stainless steel - affordable and hardwearing but shows up scratches easily.  It’s also rust and corrosion resistant, easy to clean and lightweight but can be noisy with water spots showing after time.

Composite or quartz - offers the look of natural stone as well as being heat, stain and scratch resistant.  A heavy material that can chip easily if something is dropped on top.

Copper - works well in period homes and has antimicrobial properties as well as a unique patina that develops over time but it’s also high maintenance and shows up finger marks easily.

Fireclay or ceramic - with its timeless look and smooth finish, fireclay is naturally anti-bacterial making it an ideal choice for kitchens. Heat, odour, impact, chemical, and dirt and stain resistant, these sinks are built for endurance and easy to maintain. 

 

Why Choose a Shaws of Darwen Fireclay Sink

For over a century, Shaws of Darwen fireclay sinks have been made using traditional techniques such as slip casting, glazing and hand finishing that have been passed down from artisan to artisan since the company was established.  Taking two to three weeks to make, every Shaws of Darwen sink comes with a certificate of authenticity and a 25 year warranty.

Select the Perfect Sink Style for Your Space

Shaws of Darwen has a wide choice of apron-fronted double bowl sinks (great for multitasking, washing-up, food prep and cleaning) and apron-fronted single bowl designs for smaller kitchens or washing-up.  There is also the option of inset and undermount designs, both compatible with any solid worktop such as granite, marble, quartz or solid wood.

How to Look After Your Fireclay Sink

Once you purchase a fireclay sink, you’ll want it to look and perform just like new for longer, so clean it every day with a non-abrasive cleaning product using a soft sponge or cloth. A simple soap and water solution should do.  Never place hot pots, pans or baking trays into the sink straight after cooking and use a Sink Grid or rubber mat to protect the bowl base. Wipe the sink dry after every use where possible and avoid standing water.