Stainless steel has emerged as the most popular choice of materials for new sink installations because of its low cost, light weight, and almost unbreakable construction. Stainless steel sinks are made in many sizes and several thicknesses, measured in gauge.

The gauge of the stainless steel is the thickness of the stainless steel sink. The most common gauges are 18 and 20. The higher the number gauge, the thinner the steel. Eighteen is the most recommended gauge for sinks.

Stainless steel kitchen sinks are easy to clean and will stay looking newer for longer when cared for properly. You wont have to worry about leaving lemons in the sink overnight or cranberry stains, but it can become dull and scratched. It is best to put a plastic or rubber mat in the sink to protect it from scratches. A mat will protect the shiny surface and keep it looking new longer.

When choosing a kitchen sink, there are many different decisions that need to be made. Even the simplest of sinks are available in different styles and colors. The first consideration is the size. Make sure that your sink fits. Most kitchen cabinets are standard 24" measurement front to back.

Sinks are made with various qualities of stainless steel. Light-gauge stainless steel is more vulnerable to denting and scratching.

Stainless steel is also available in a mirrored finish, which gives it a shinier appearance. In brushed-stainless finishes, which is the latest trend, scratches are less visible. Also popular are satin bowls with mirrored rims.

Kitchen sinks come in one bowl, two bowl, or three bowl models. The bowls can be deep or shallow. Single bowl sinks are basic, and their depth can vary from 10 to 12. Two and three bowl sinks allow for multi-tasking. For example, you can rinse or store dishes in the large bowl, and use the small bowl for a garbage disposal or to rinse vegetables.

Stainless steel sinks are available in a variety of price ranges that depend on many factors such as the manufacturer's brand image, the size of the sink, the finish it comes in, and the features it boasts.