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Tiny House Sinks: What You Need To Know
Are your tiny house sinks minimalist or modern? Or do you want a sink with a rustic charm?
Sink designs come in an endless variety of materials, surfaces, and colors. Choosing a sink for your tiny home will come down to personal preference.
However, with so many options for styles and designs, it can be mind-boggling – especially if you’re new to tiny house living or want to reduce the clutter in your life.
But don’t fret. We have laid out all factors you need to consider to help you narrow down your search and choose the perfect sink for your tiny space.
Sink Size Matters
When it comes to picking out a sink, there is no industry standard. Tiny house sinks in the bathroom and kitchen come in various shapes, styles, and sizes. Different sizes and products like ovens and fridges will dictate the size of your sink as well. Here are some of the most popular sink ideas for tiny homes:
Under-mount Sink
Undermount is when the countertop material completely covers the top edge of the cabinet where your new sink will be installed. This creates an uninterrupted surface that looks like one continuous piece of stone or porcelain.
Drop-in Sink
The drop-in style is the most common style available. It has a lip around the top edge to meet the counter, allowing you to view inside the cabinet.
Corner Sink
Corner sink is an excellent option for tiny homes! Not only does it give you added counter space, but it’s also functional and good-looking. If your tiny house doesn’t come with cabinets in the kitchen, this sink could be something to consider before purchasing.
Double Sink
This type of sink is not a unique style, but it’s great for tiny homes. It has two basins that are connected on one pedestal. Again this would be a great option because of the extra space and functionality.
Farmhouse Sink
A farmhouse sink is another trendy style for a tiny house kitchen. This type of sink offers a larger bowl and more counter space. It’s also a stylish and unique option that will give your kitchen an updated look.
Freestanding Sink
With a freestanding sink, you have a single basin resting on your legs or adjustable feet. This fit can work well in larger open spaces with no island to put the sink/kitchen area within view of everyone in the room (standard with tiny homes).
If your cabinets line up with this central area, you can install your faucet over the cabinet above it, allowing more counter space to prep food. However, if your kitchen doesn’t have a wall (left or right) of this area, you’ll need to come up with a way to get water from your sink to your faucet.
A great idea is having the hot and cold valves run through the floor, which means you can go underneath and turn on some water for rinsing off dishes before washing them.
Type of Materials
When it comes to thinking about what kind of sink material would best work in your tiny house, keep in mind that most sinks are made out of stainless steel, cast iron, ceramic, copper, and many more!
To help you decide, here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of each sink material:
Stainless Steel
This is one of the most popular material choices for tiny homes because it is easy to clean, reasonably inexpensive, and durable. However, stainless steel does scratch easily, so you’ll need to be extra careful when loading your dishes into your sink.
Get this best seller stainless steel sink at Amazon and you will get a great deal!
- KITCHEN SET INCLUDES: Sink, bottom grid, drain assembly, removable drain cap, Kraus kitchen towel, mounting hardware, cutout template
- DURABLE AND DENT-RESISTANT sink made with premium TRU16 real 16-gauge T304 stainless steel
- Undermount DESIGN creates a seamless transition from sink to countertop and makes it easy to wipe water and crumbs straight into the sink
- ENGINEERED FOR EASY DRAINING with offset drain opening and channel grooves to keep sink free of standing water
- OUTER SINK DIMENSIONS: 25 L x 18 W x 10 D; Minimum Cabinet Size: 30 inches. DECORATIVE DRAIN COVER: CapPro conceals drain assembly and garbage disposal for a seamless look
Cast Iron
This type of material could last a lifetime if it’s maintained properly but it’s also quite heavy. Additionally, cast iron sink is a bit more difficult to install in comparison with other types of materials
Looking for a durable cast iron sink? Look no further. This is the best selling selection on Amazon.
- Country Of Origin: China
- Brand Name: American Standard
- Color: White
- Model Number: 77Sb30190.
Ceramic
Ceramic sinks are beautiful and come in many different colors, patterns, sizes, and shapes. In addition, they can be glazed for increased durability or unglazed for a more classic look.
Ceramic sinks are also high maintenance as they require special cleaners and care tools to avoid cracks.
- Highly Durable: The 30 farmhouse sink is constructed of HIGH-GRADE FIRECLAY that is fired at temperatures of 2900°F for high strength and durability. Quiet farm sink of solid construction.
- Reversible Design: Apron sink offers two kinds of front design, one side is smooth and flat, and the other side has a decorative fluted design. You can choose any side to match your kitchen style.
- Easy Clean & Perfect Drain: White kitchen sink corner is designed with a radius of 10mm for easy cleaning. The sloping bottom makes fast draining and prevents water pooling.
- Anti-Stain Surface: The non-porous glossy glaze surface of the single bowl kitchen sinks is beautiful, sturdy, distinctive. Smooth porcelain finish can effectively prevent scratches and stains.
- Bonus Accessories: 30 x 20 x 10 (fits the minimum cabinet size is 33 inch) apron front farmhouse sink, one removable stainless steel grid, one strainer and installation manu
Copper
If you’re on a budget this is an excellent option as copper tends to be the least expensive metal used for basic kitchen tasks. However it will need some maintenance work done to keep it looking new but after that you’ll have a very good quality material that serves its purpose well.
Check out this product on Amazon and you’ll get a high quality copper sink for your tiny house that won’t break your bank.
- HANDCRAFTED HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: The Monarch Abode Pure Copper Hand Hammered Highball Dual Mount Bar Prep/Kitchen Sink (17 inches) is handcrafted by our skilled artisans to strike a balance of beautiful design with lasting performance. The copper sink is made of solid, heavy gauge pure copper that will stand the test of time.
- VERSATILE DUAL MOUNT DESIGN: The bar sink has a dual mount design for flexible and easy installation. This feature allows this copper bar sink to be installed as a drop-in sink or undermount sink. The copper kitchen sink includes a cutout template for installation; does not include drain faucet.
- STYLISH APPEARANCE AND DESIGN: The single bowl kitchen sink is enhanced with hand hammered impressions and an attractive oil rubbed bronze finish. The kitchen sink is a perfect upgrade your home, condo, apartment, or restaurant.
- ITEM OVERALL DIMENSIONS: Outer dimensions: 17.25 in x 15.25 in x 6.5 in, Inner dimension: 15 in x 13 in x 6.5 in
- STANDARD BAR/KITCHEN SINK DRAIN SIZE - 3.5 inches without overflow. As metal sinks are not as thick as porcelain or stone sinks, please make sure the drain you purchase has threading all the way to the top.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Simply wipe the surface of the kitchen sink drop-in surface with a damp, soft cloth to keep it looking beautiful with minimal maintenance. DO NOT use corrosive / abrasive cleaning liquids or material as that will damage the copper finish.
- NOTE: Copper is a living material, and our sinks are hand finished - as such, there will be a slight variation in color from sink to sink. Copper will oxidize and darken over time due to interaction with water/a
Consider The Price and Your Budget
Most of the time you get what you pay for. If you buy at a very low price sink, expect it to only last 1-2 years before it starts to chip or get stained. Evaluate your situation when deciding on the right price for a new sink.
If you will be in your tiny home long-term then buying something that costs a bit more is not a big deal since it can last 10 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.
The Most Commonly Asked Questions About Tiny Home Sinks
1. Can I install a kitchen sink in my tiny home?
Yes, but it will have to be small. It should not take up too much of your precious countertop space. Keep in mind that having a lot of counter space is vital to make your kitchen feel open and spacious.
2. How long does it take to install the sink?
A: Usually, it takes about an hour if you know what you are doing. If not, depending on the type of sink you choose to install, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours.
3. Can I install a larger sink in my tiny home?
Yes, but only if you have the proper configuration for it. If your tiny house is 10′ wide or less, avoid large sinks altogether as they will make the space look smaller. It’s best to go with small under-mount or drop-in sinks that can compact into the counter.
4. Why are kitchen sinks different from bathroom sinks?
Kitchen sinks are usually larger since they need more room for cleaning dishes, pots, pans, and other kitchen wares. In contrast, bathroom sinks are designed to accommodate the smaller quantity of items in bathrooms.
5. What factors should one consider when shopping for a kitchen sink?
Look at the bowl depth. Does it look like it would comfortably fit dishpans and cookie sheets? Is there anything (like faucet handles) blocking access to your drain? Make sure you can open both doors on your cabinets below without bumping into any part of the sink or the faucet.
6. What is the average tiny home kitchen sink size?
18″(wide), 12″ (deep) and 20-24″ (height). The size of your sink depends on how much counter space you have and how many people will be using it. Be smart when choosing your measurements, so you don’t end up having too little or too much of a sink.
7. Which faucet type fits my tiny home sink?
Go for one that isn’t bulky such as single handle, vessel, or wall mount types. Pick one that will fit your sink and not take up too much space.
8. Do I need a permit for my tiny home sink?
If you plan to install plumbing for your new sink, then maybe yes. Talk with your local building or zoning department and see what they suggest.
9. How to clean and maintain my tiny home sink?
To prevent water stains on stainless steel sinks, you should wipe off excess water after each use. Avoid using chemicals that contain lemon or vinegar, as they can damage the finish on metal sinks. It is best to buy a special cleaner for stainless steel sinks instead.
In addition, be careful not to scratch or chip your sink surface. Use coasters on glasses with wet bottoms and avoid piling items in the way of the faucet, overflow drain, or stopper hardware.
10. How much does it cost to install a sink in my tiny house?
The cost will depend on the size, type and if your tiny home sink is plumbed in or not. An average price for a simple stainless steel sink is about $150 and can go as high as $400 for some high-end sinks. Also, don’t forget to add the cost of labor.
Some Final Words
Never underestimate the influence a sink can have on the functionality and aesthetic of your limited space. Ensure you choose the right sink for your tiny home so you can avoid unforeseen problems and enjoy a sleek design statement.
In addition, your choice should reflect your personal taste and requirements. After all, your sink is the first thing you see, and it might as well be the most beautiful appliance in your tiny space. So, get the most out of your tiny house sink!