Farmhouse sinks are becoming more and more popular, and it’s easy to see why. These sinks are distinguished by their “apron” front style and deep bowls.
Homeowners love farmhouse sinks due to the practicality and look. They also usually use an undermount installation, so it’s easy to keep the surrounding counter clean.
If you’re considering a farmhouse sink for your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the best farmhouse sinks can be tricky since there are many materials and sizes to choose from. However, by knowing what to look for, you can make the decision much easier.
How to Find the Best Farmhouse Sink
Deciding on a farmhouse sink for your kitchen is a rather bold move. Farmhouse sinks aren’t subtle, but they add a sense of luxury to a kitchen. Moreover, due to the apron front, you can install this type of sink on any counter.
We love farmhouse sinks, but choosing the right one requires a few considerations.
The main deciding factors to consider are:
1. Choosing the Right Size
Length
First of all, farmhouse sinks — in general — are larger than regular kitchen basins. The length can be anywhere from 20 inches all the way to 60 inches and more.
Width
Some farmhouse sinks are quite wide. This can either compromise counter space or cause it to protrude from the front. On the other hand, if you’d like a large sink but lack the space, the inch or two that you lose in length could be made up in width.
Consider Your Existing Space
How large of a sink do you actually need? If you have a busy home with lots of dishes piling up every day, a large sink is a must. On the other hand, if your kitchen is small and there aren’t many people in the home, getting a large sink will compromise space.
We suggest you look at the sink you already have. How big is it? Is it enough, or do you feel like you would benefit from a larger size?
Apron
The apron is the part of a farmhouse sink that hangs over the cabinetry. The apron front is generally around 10 inches, but you can find retrofit sinks with a shorter apron.
These will usually trim 3 inches from the bottom to fit into your existing cabinetry. So if you aren’t planning on replacing your cabinets or getting customized cabinetry, we suggest you choose a retrofit sink.
2. Double or Single
The old battle of double or single bowl sinks isn’t something you can avoid when searching for a farmhouse sink. Although farmhouse sinks are generally single-bowled, there’s still a wide range of double sinks available on the market.
Single bowls are excellent if you only use the sink for one task at a time. However, if you often have dishes piling up, double bowls could be highly beneficial.
With a double sink, you’ll always have one free sink, even if you’re washing the dishes. Due to the already grand size of a farmhouse sink, you’ll still be able to soak pots and pans without trouble.
The measurements of a double farmhouse sink aren’t different from the same single-bowl sink. Most double farmhouse sinks use 60/40 basins, which means one is slightly larger than the other.
3. Material
Much like other kitchen sinks, farmhouse basins are available in a range of materials.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most common materials used for kitchen sinks. It’s durable, affordable and has a sought-after attractive, modern look.
When choosing stainless steel, though, there are a few things you should consider. The steel of a sink is measured by gauge; thicker steel will have a higher number compared to a thinner grade.
Durability
A higher-numbered gauge will be thicker and denser. Therefore, it will more durable and less prone to dents and damage. Due to the large size of most farmhouse sinks, they’re most commonly constructed from 16-gauge steel.
Larger sinks will require a more durable material, which 16 gauge provides. Most commercial sinks used in places such as restaurants are between 14 and 16 gauge (1).
Sound and Vibrations
The thickness of the steel also plays a significant role when it comes to sound and vibrations. You might be familiar with the loud noise that occurs when water hits an empty metal sink. Thin steel will be louder and cause more vibrations.
Scratches
No matter how careful you are, scratches are likely going to happen with stainless steel sinks. However, you can minimize them by choosing a brushed finish since scratches won’t be as visible compared to a shiny finish.
The apron front is also more prone to scratches. This is because we spend a significant amount of time up against it as we use the sink.
Fireclay
Fireclay is a ceramic material made up of clay and glaze. The two components are then fused and fired together at extremely high temperatures reaching 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (2).
Fireclay is an extremely tough and durable material that looks very similar to enameled cast iron. They’re non-porous and resistant to scratches, chipping and other damage. We love fireclay due to the soft design and easy maintenance of the sinks.
A downside to fireclay is the weight. It’s a weighty material that can be tricky to install. For this reason, most manufacturers recommend that professionals install fireclay sinks.
Enameled Cast Iron
Enameled cast iron sinks have been around for quite some time. They’re popular due to their durability and look.
Cast iron sinks are made up of two layers. The first is a durable and heavy iron alloy, which is then coated in a thick enamel layer. Next, it is fired in about 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit (3).
As a result, you get a solid surface with a beautiful finish. A high-quality cast iron sink will last you for many years to come.
However, they aren’t without flaws. The weight of these sinks require professional installation and supported cabinetry and counters. Also, if cracks do happen, they can quickly rust and form spiderweb-like patterns.
Keep in Mind
The Best Farmhouse Sinks of 2020
When creating our list, we looked through the best-selling farmhouse sinks on the market. Our expert team analyzed materials and how well each basin would keep up in even the busiest kitchen. These are 7 of the best farmhouse sinks for your home.
1. Kraus Kore Farmhouse Sink with Workstation
Having a workstation integrated into your sink can help with multitasking and save space. This farmhouse sink from Kraus is a beautiful 36-inch model that fits in any industrial-style kitchen.
You get a range of high-quality accessories, such as a solid wood cutting board. The accessories are easily slipped onto the ledge, so you can keep everything close at hand. We love the large bowl as it gives plenty of room to wash and soak large pots, pans and trays.
The entire sink is made of 16-gauge stainless steel that’s not only durable but also easy to clean.
Why We Love It
Spacious
This vast sink is an excellent addition to any busy kitchen. You can easily fit anything into the bowl without clogging the entire sink. Not only is it large, but it’s also deep, which makes it easy to soak tools before washing.
The drain is offset, and the sink is slightly sloped to help water and food debris into the drain.
High-Quality
This sink is made of 16-gauge stainless steel, which is one of the strongest forms of stainless steel. It features a lovely brushed finish that easily matches other appliances in the kitchen. The finish is also resistant to rust, corrosion and won’t show scratches as much as a shiny finish.
Underneath the sink, you’ll find extra-thick pads that will effectively absorb sounds. To make the sink even more soundproof, Kraus has added a special undercoat that minimizes sounds and vibrations.
Great Accessories
You get everything you need to create your ideal workstation. A solid bamboo cutting board is easily slipped onto the integrated ledge — it forms a smooth surface between the board and counter. The bamboo board won’t warp or crack, and it’s highly resistant to odor buildup.
When you need to dry your dishes, employ the roll-up dish drying rack. It slips onto the ledge, and it’s highly sturdy to hold glasses. Place the dish grid at the bottom of the sink to protect it from scratches.
Keep In Mind
Very Deep
Before deciding on this sink, make sure your cabinets and counters can room it. It’s 10 inches deep and will require a significant amount of room for installation.
Additional Specs
| Size | 35.88 x 20.25 x 10 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Color/Finish | Brushed finish |
| Number of Basins | One |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
2. Zuhne Turin 33-Inch Double Bowl Farmhouse Sink
The Zuhne Turin two-bowl farmhouse sink is one of the most popular of its kind. It’s not often that you find a farmhouse sink with two basins, but this one is just as good as a single.
The Turin is made of a durable 16-gauge stainless steel that’s resistant to rust, corrosion and dents. The sizing ratio is a standard, so one is slightly larger than the other.
You get several accessories, such as two grids and drain strainers. The sink is covered by a lifetime warranty and free returns.
Why We Love It
Quiet
Thunderous sounds and vibrations caused by water hitting an empty sink can be annoying. Luckily, this sink is fitted with one of the best insulations in the industry that absorbs sounds and vibrations. It will even help to dampen the noise from the garbage disposer.
You can easily use the sink for both hot water and icy cold water without worrying about condensation. The insulation will keep condensation to a minimum to protect your cabinets.
Sloped Base
The sloped based leads to the rear-set 3.5-inch drains. This feature effectively drains the sink quickly without leaving puddles that could potentially cause damage.
High-Quality
The double sink is made of 16-gauge stainless steel. This is an industrial-strength construction that will last you through the years. The material is also non-toxic and lead-free, so you can be sure you and your family are safe.
Keep In Mind
Shows Fingerprints
Despite being resistant to rust, corrosion and dents, the finish isn’t resistant to fingerprints. It does require you to wipe it down after use to avoid water spots and prints.
Additional Specs
| Size | 33 x 21 x 10 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Color/Finish | Brushed satin finish |
| Number of Basins | Two |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
3. Bocchi Classico Apron-Front Fireclay Sink
If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual stainless steel, this might be for you. The Classico is an apron-front 30-inch single bowl farmhouse sink. It’s made of fireclay and is available in three unique colors.
Fireclay is incredibly durable compared to other materials. The material is resistant to water spots and fingerprints; it’s easy to clean with only a few wipes.
You’ll get a bottom grid to protect the sink and prevent noises as you’re placing items in the sink. The sink also comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Why We Love It
Unique
Not only will the fireclay material give your kitchen a warmer feel, but you can also choose a unique color. The Classico sink is available in a classic white, matte brown and a gorgeous sapphire blue.
Heavy-Duty
The fireclay material is ready to withstand hard work in even the busiest kitchen. It’s 100 percent mineral-based and is, therefore, natural. Fireclay is a tried and tested material that’s been used for centuries due to its unbeatable strength.
Smooth Texture
Fireclay kitchen sinks are known for their smooth texture, but Bocchi has taken this to another level. The Classico sink is up to 19 times smoother than other glazed ceramic sinks. This improves hygiene since grime and germs can’t stick to the surface as easily.
Cleaning the sink is also quickly done thanks to the smooth texture. You can easily wipe it down using a microfiber cloth to restore its shine.
Resistant
Bocchi fireclay sinks are fired in kilns with temperatures reaching up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes the material resistant to even the hottest pots and pans.
Furthermore, the sink is highly impact-resistant and won’t chip or crack. The glazed surface is also stain-resistant and non-porous.
Keep In Mind
Minor Slope
Even though Bocchi made an excellent farmhouse sink, it fell short in one area. The slope leading to the drain is very subtle and won’t remove all water or food debris.
Additional Specs
| Size | 30 x 18 x 10 inches |
| Material | Fireclay |
| Color/Finish | White |
| Number of Basins | One |
| Warranty | Not specified |
4. Kraus Standart Pro Round Farmhouse Sink
The Kraus Standart Pro is a beautifully crafted two-bowl sink. It’s made of premium T304 stainless steel with a satin finish look.
It’s fitted with thick sound-absorbing pads and features a protective undercoat that minimizes condensation. You get 60/40 basins, so one is slightly larger than the other, but both are equally deep.
Subtle grooves and a slight slope leads to the drain and help to prevent puddles within the sink. You get two grids, as well as drain strainer baskets to prevent clogs.
You also won’t have to worry about loud noises as the water hits the bowl. There are extra-thick pads fitted underneath the sink that will absorb noises and vibrations, creating a peaceful kitchen environment.
Why We Love It
Heavy-Duty
The 16-gauge stainless steel is heavy-duty and highly durable — it’s resistant to rust, corrosion and dents. The undercoating will help to protect your cabinets from damaging condensation buildup.
Soft Corners
Sharp corners can be tricky to clean — they’re also more prone to rust since water easily becomes trapped. However, this sink has soft, rounded corners that are easy to clean and won’t trap water. The round shape also increases the workspace inside the sink as you can fit more dishes.
Deep
This sink is an impressive 10 inches deep, meaning you can easily soak large pots and pans. Due to the double sinks, you’ll always have one free sink, even if you’re soaking or washing dishes in the other. This is excellent for a busy family home where the sink always seems to be filled with dishes.
Keep In Mind
Has to Be Wiped Down
Despite being resistant to rust, it’s still essential that you wipe the entire sink every day. Water left behind tends to cause small rust spots that can be frustrating to deal with.
Additional Specs
| Size | 32.88 x 20.75 x 10 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Color/Finish | Brushed finish |
| Number of Basins | Two |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
5. Lordear Commercial 33-Inch Farmhouse Sink
This 16-gauge farmhouse sink from Lordear is a favorite among many homeowners. It has a simple, stainless steel look that makes it a perfect match for any type of kitchen.
The thick material makes it heavy-duty and resistant to dents and damage. Large pots, pans and trays can easily fit inside the sink thanks to the wide and deep bowl. You get a few handy accessories, too, such as a drain strainer basket and bottom grid.
Why We Love It
Quiet
We all know that thunderous sound the water makes as it hits a large sink. Many homeowners avoid large sinks for this reason.
Luckily, Lordear fitted high-quality sound-absorbing pads to various points underneath the sink. These won’t only absorb sounds but will also minimize vibrations.
Rounded Corners
To increase the capacity of the sink, it’s designed with R10 angled corners. These are soft, rounded corners that are super easy to clean. They won’t trap water that could cause damage.
Handy Accessories
Most sinks come with the usual drain strainer and bottom grid, and even the occasional cutting board and drying rack.
However, you get a few different accessories with this one. For instance, there’s a high-quality apron cloth, microwave oven gloves and a thermal insulation pad.
Keep In Mind
Minor Slope
Unfortunately, this sink only has a minor slope leading towards the drain. It can be tricky to get leftover water and food debris towards the center without a pull-down faucet.
Additional Specs
| Size | 33 x 21 x 10 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Color/Finish | Brushed nickel |
| Number of Basins | One |
| Warranty | Not specified |
6. Kohler Whitehaven Farmhouse Sink
If you’re looking for a high-end, high-quality farmhouse sink, look no further than this Whitehaven model from Kohler. It’s an enameled cast iron sink that’s not only good-looking but also durable.
This sink was clearly designed to last you through years of hard work. It’s stain-resistant, heat-resistant and resistant to damage.
We also love this sink for its versatility. You get the option to install it as an undermount or even top mount, depending on your counters.
Why We Love It
Easy to Install
We all love an easy job done, and this sink might be one of the easiest. If you already have a cut counter, you can easily slip this sink right in and attach it. There are no faucet holes that need to be drilled.
High-Quality
This enameled cast iron sink is heavy and durable. Kohler guarantees that this sink won’t crack, chip or burn. It’s highly resistant to heat and can withstand scalding temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Easy to Clean
The smooth, glazed surface is super simple to clean and requires only a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth. It’s non-porous and won’t absorb moisture.
Recycled
If you’re looking to make your home more eco-friendly, why not start with a recycled kitchen sink. The Whitehaven sink is made using 80 percent recycled materials.
Keep In Mind
Sensitive
Despite being a high-end model, this sink is rather sensitive. Metal pots and pans can cause rust stains at the bottom if left. Many customers purchased a bottom grid to avoid this issue.
Additional Specs
| Size | 32.69 x 21.56 x 9.63 inches |
| Material | Cast iron |
| Color/Finish | White |
| Number of Basins | One |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited warranty |
7. KES Fireclay Farmhouse Kitchen Sink
If you’d like something different in your kitchen, this sink could be for you. This KES farmhouse sink is made from fireclay; it’s highly durable and resistant to damage.
We love this sink for its simple yet modern design. There are no seams or weak points that might leak or damage over time. It’s cUPC certified in the U.S. as well as Canada, meaning it meets all standards when it comes to safe and sanitary materials.
It’s not as deep as other farmhouse sinks. However, it can fit perfectly in a smaller kitchen or marble kitchen island.
Why We Love It
Elegant Design
Despite the smaller size, this sink is one that will turn heads. The soft corners and edges combined with the shiny glazed surface make this sink one you can’t forget. If you don’t fancy the white color, it’s also available in matte black.
High-Quality
Because it’s made from a premium quality ceramic construction, this sink is resistant to chipping, cracking and scratches. Furthermore, it doesn’t stain as it ages. So you won’t have to worry about the shiny white color turning yellow over time.
Easy to Clean
The glazed surface is a breeze to clean and to keep clean. All it requires is a quick wipedown using a microfiber cloth — no need for abrasive tools or cleaners. Because of the glazed surface, the ceramic won’t absorb stains or dirt; it will stay cleaner for longer.
Keep In Mind
Shallow
Despite being a kitchen sink, this isn’t the deepest bowl in the kitchen. Reviewers claim it tends to splash a significant amount of water around when on high pressure.
Additional Specs
| Size | 30 x 20 x 9.84 inches |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Color/Finish | White |
| Number of Basins | One |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Detailed Comparison Chart
| Product | Best | Size | Material | Finish | No. of Basins | Warranty |
| Kraus Kore Sink | Workstation | 35.88 x 20.25 x 10″ | Stainless steel | Brushed | One | Limited lifetime |
| Zuhne Turin Sink | Double Sink | 33 x 21 x 10″ | Stainless steel | Brushed satin | Two | Lifetime |
| Bocchi Classico Fireclay | Color Range | 30 x 18 x 10″ | Fireclay | White | One | N/A |
| Kraus Standart Sink | Stylish Sink | 32.88 x 20.75 x 10″ | Stainless steel | Brushed | Two | Limited lifetime |
| Lordear Commercial Sink | Commercial | 33 x 21 x 10″ | Stainless steel | Brushed nickel | One | N/A |
| Kohler Whitehaven Sink | Cast Iron | 32.69 x 21.56 x 9.63″ | Cast iron | White | One | Lifetime limited |
| KES Fireclay Sink | Small Kitchens | 30 x 20 x 9.84″ | Ceramic | White | One | N/A |
A Timeless Sink
The sink is one of the most important components of a kitchen, so its design plays a significant role. With a farmhouse sink, you can’t go wrong. These are timeless pieces that aren’t only attractive, but also functional, thanks to the large bowl.
When choosing the best farmhouse sink for you, it’s essential to consider the size and additional measurements of the apron. The best way to do this is to measure the available space you already have or the existing sink size.
Also, consider the material and how heavy it might be. This is especially important if you choose fireclay or enameled cast iron.
