In the ever-expanding urban landscape where living spaces are shrinking, small kitchens have become a common feature of modern homes. With the increasing demand for space efficiency, homeowners are exploring innovative solutions to optimise every corner of their homes. One such solution gaining popularity is the installation of small kitchen sinks. Whether used in reduced spaces or as auxiliary fixtures alongside the main sink, these compact sinks offer a range of benefits that can make a significant difference in the functionality of a kitchen.
The Challenge of Limited Space:
As the cost of living rises and available living spaces become scarcer, many individuals find themselves residing in smaller homes, especially in bustling cities. The challenge is to make these smaller living spaces equally comfortable and functional, necessitating a thoughtful approach to maximise every inch of available room.
Understanding Small Kitchen Sink Measurements:
To effectively utilise limited kitchen space, it’s crucial to be aware of the measurements associated with small kitchen sinks. Large sinks typically exceed 80 cm in length, medium sinks hover around 70 cm, while small sinks are less than 70 cm. Depth varies from 45 to 65 cm in all cases, with a height ranging from 14 to 30 cm. For optimal functionality in a small kitchen, it’s recommended to install a sink with dimensions of at least 50 x 50 cm.
Choosing Functionality Over Size:
When faced with the dilemma of sacrificing a workspace for a larger sink or maintaining an ample workspace with a smaller sink, the latter proves to be the wiser choice. This is especially true considering the reduced reliance on kitchen sinks, thanks to the advent of essential household appliances such as dishwashers. The focus shifts from the size of the sink to its practicality, emphasising the importance of an efficient layout that accommodates both workspace and essential fixtures.
Dual Sink Configurations for Larger Kitchens:
In larger kitchens with the luxury of space, homeowners often incorporate islands, peninsulas, or expansive breakfast bars. In such scenarios, it’s common to install both a main kitchen sink near the dishwasher and a smaller sink in the cooking area. The secondary sink serves primarily for washing ingredients and handwashing, reducing unnecessary movement between different kitchen zones. For dedicated food preparation areas, a compact kitchen sink measuring around 30 x 45 cm proves to be the perfect solution.
Small kitchen sinks are not just about saving space; they are a strategic choice for creating a functional and efficient kitchen, especially in confined living environments. By prioritising thoughtful planning and choosing fixtures that optimise available space, homeowners can transform their compact kitchens into versatile and comfortable cooking spaces. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of a small urban apartment or designing a secondary residence, the benefits of a small kitchen sink extend beyond its size, contributing to a more practical and enjoyable kitchen experience.
Stainless steel sinks are a popular choice for kitchens and laundry rooms due to their durability and sleek appearance. However, to ensure your Everhard Stainless Steel sink maintains its lustre and longevity, proper care is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compiled a list of important tips and tricks to help you keep your stainless steel sink in pristine condition.
Routine Maintenance: Keep It Shining
Regular cleaning is the key to preserving the beauty of your stainless steel sink. Follow these simple steps to maintain its shine:
• Regularly clean your sink using bicarb soda or a stainless steel cleaner to enhance its appearance.
• After each use, rinse your sink thoroughly with clean water to remove any chemicals, iron deposits, or acids on the surface.
• Wipe your sink dry with a cloth after every use to prevent water spots and keep the stainless steel fresh.
Avoid Pitfalls: What Not to Do
Certain substances and practices can harm your stainless steel sink. Here’s what to avoid:
• Fruit Juice and Cleaning Chemicals: Fruit juice contains citric acid that can mark the stainless steel, and cleaning chemicals may contain chloride, leading to surface rust. Rinse the sink with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth after exposure to such substances.
• Chemical Storage: Storing chlorine, bleach, or acid-based products under the sink can lead to rapid rusting due to fumes attacking the surface. Store these products in a different area of your home.
• Avoid Soaking: Never leave damp sponges or cloths in the sink, as this can cause the surface to become pitted over time if not cleaned properly.
Understanding Stainless Steel: 304 Stainless Steel Material
Everhard sinks are crafted from 18/8 304 Stainless Steel, consisting of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. While stainless steel is durable, it requires proper care to resist elements in the domestic environment.
Common Causes of Corrosion: Prevention is Key
To prevent corrosion, follow these guidelines:
• Avoid direct contact with Hydrochloric or Muriatic Acid, commonly used in building trade materials.
• Steer clear of excessive contact with chlorine bleaches or harsh cleansers, as exposure to vapours can stain and spot the surface.
• Dry the surface after use to prevent water left on the surface from causing rust spots with contamination from cleaning products.
Removing Rust Spots and Stains: A Step-by-Step Guide
In case rust spots or stains appear, follow these steps:
• Clean the surface with water and dry it with a cloth or microfiber cloth.
• Use a stainless steel cleaning agent like Hillmark Steel Power or Autosol Stainless Steel Polish.
• Apply the cleaning agent to a cloth and rub it on the surface in a circular motion with slight pressure.
• For severe spots, create a film by leaving the cleaning agent on the surface for 1 hour, then remove with a clean cloth using a circular motion.
• Once cleaned, use a microfiber cloth to remove any excess cleaning agent, leaving a polished finish.
For a visual guide, check out Everhard’s Stainless Steel Care Video here and learn how to clean a stained sink here.
By following these tips and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can ensure your Everhard Stainless Steel sink remains a shining centrepiece in your home for years to come.
When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, every detail matters. Choosing the right sink is no exception. In the world of kitchen sinks, two popular choices often spark debate: top mount and undermount sinks. The primary difference between these two options lies in the location of the sink’s lip in relation to the kitchen’s benchtop.
Topmount Sink: The Traditional Option
A topmount sink, also known as a drop-in or self-rimming sink, is a classic choice for many kitchens. It sits on top of the benchtop, with its lip exposed and visible. This style offers several advantages and considerations.
Advantages of Top Mount Sinks:
Easy Installation: One of the most significant advantages of a topmount sink is its straightforward installation. It can be simply dropped into the pre-cut hole in your countertop, making it a cost-effective and time-saving option.
Durability: The exposed lip of the sink provides an extra layer of protection to the countertop edges. This can help prevent chips and damage, which is especially important if you frequently use heavy pots and pans.
Minimal Maintenance: Top Mount sinks are easier to clean because they don’t require meticulous care along the seam where the sink meets the countertop.
Undermount Sink: A Modern and Aesthetic Choice
Conversely, undermount sinks are all about style and aesthetics. In this configuration, the sink is installed beneath the benchtop, creating a seamless and sleek look. However, choosing an undermount sink comes with its unique set of considerations.
Advantages of Undermount Sinks:
Aesthetic Appeal: If you’ve invested in a beautiful, high-end benchtop material such as granite or quartz and want to showcase it, an undermount sink is the way to go. It keeps the focus on the benchtop’s elegance by hiding the sink’s lip from view.
Space Optimisation: Undermount sinks can make your kitchen appear more spacious and open. They create a clean and unbroken line across the counter, enhancing the sense of space in your kitchen.
Customisation: To install an undermount sink, you typically need a cabinet maker to create a substrate for the sink to sit on, sandwiched between the benchtop and the support substrate. This customisation allows you to tailor the sink’s positioning and size to your preferences.
Now, let’s consider which type of sink is best for you based on your lifestyle and preferences.
Pots and Pans:
If you frequently handle large pots and pans or have a bustling family kitchen, a topmount sink might be your best bet. The exposed lip provides added protection for your countertop, preventing potential chipping and damage from heavy cookware.
Beauty in the Benchtop:
Are you in love with your exquisite stone benchtop and want to showcase it to the fullest? If so, an undermount sink is the way to go. The uninterrupted expanse of your beautiful benchtop will be on full display, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
Hate Cleaning:
For those who dread cleaning or simply want to get out of the kitchen as quickly as possible, a topmount sink is the low-maintenance choice. You won’t need to worry about the intricate cleaning required around the seams of an undermount sink. Over time, undermount sinks may need regular maintenance, including re-siliconing the joins to prevent water seepage.
In the end, the choice between a top mount and an undermount sink comes down to your individual needs and the style of your kitchen. Neither option is inherently better than the other; it’s all about what suits your lifestyle and design preferences. So, before making your decision, carefully consider your kitchen habits and the look you want to achieve in your culinary space. Whether you opt for the classic functionality of a topmount sink or the modern elegance of an undermount sink, you can create a kitchen that perfectly fits your needs and your vision.
From a small Queensland concrete manufacturer to one of Australia’s largest producers of recycled plastics products, Everhard Industries has evolved over 92 years. Everhard has become a distributor of laundry products as well as supplying plumbing and drainage solutions within Australia. Best known for our iconic concrete laundry tubs, we’ve expanded into bathroom, kitchen, drainage, wastewater and civil products.
We are one of the largest manufacturers in Queensland with Australia-wide distribution. Everhard is committed to the continued development of innovative, quality products. Moreover, we are proudly remains a 100% family-owned Australian company.
Everhard has been a big name in laundry products for over 50 years in Australia.
With homeowners building larger homes and having more need for storage, greater importance is being placed on having a multi-functional laundry spaces.
With this in mind, we’ve been working on new product and brand ranges to meet the needs of the modern family.
Classic, Nugleam, and Excellence Laundry Products
Our new soft close drawer systems give homeowners much needed storage and ease of access. Finger-pull functionality provides elegance, form, and function.
The new reversible soft close door systems provide a sleek and modern twist on the traditional laundry unit, with full overlay design and internal floor.
Both units boast a 304 stainless steel bowl with contemporary lines and a 25mm internal corner radius for easy cleaning.
For those who covet custom cabinetry, we’ve developed new utility sinks with equally refined designs. Our sinks are made from 304 stainless steel and are available in 35L, 45L, and 70L capacity bowls.
With the introduction of these new products, it’s been the optimal time for Everhard to rebrand the complete laundry range. These fresh brands reflect the best new contemporary product designs.
Moving into the future, Everhard Laundry will comprise of 3 key brands.
For more information, view our range or find a stockist.
Our polymer laundry units have been re-developed to create a fresh, elegant design of the highest quality. Both the Laundry tubs and cabinets are moulded from white polymer by Everhard Industries, right here in Australia, making these laundry units 100% Australian made and totally rust proof.
To find out more, visit our product pages:
In 1964 Everhard Industries introduced the Glo-Tub™ Laundry Unit to the Australian market. The Glo-Tub™ became the flagship of Everhard’s laundry unit range for many years. It was the first laundry unit available in colour and created a new focus on the forgotten room of the house.