Kitchen sinks tend to be both artistic and functional products at the same time because of their overall contribution to the setup. When buying it, you cannot afford to overlook one aspect for the other. There has to be a proper balance between the elements. You need to make sure your choice accentuates the existing or new interiors of your kitchen as well as increase its functionality by manifold even though it occupies one corner on the countertop. You get many versions in them, such as stainless steel, marble, granite, and fireclay. Every material has specific pros and cons about it. However, if you expect it to deliver an all-round performance, then a fireclay kitchen sink can be the best bet.
Exploring fireclay sinks
Sinks made out of fireclay is famous for its classic look, elegance, and timelessness in addition to strength. A kind of ceramic fireclay it can resist high temperatures with ease because of the glaze and clay that face hot temperatures to gain shape and durability. These molded products receive enamel coating for a glossy finish. And the mold is put in a heated kiln, so that ceramic and enamel combine into one sturdy body.
People find fireclay sinks to be quite affordable compared to other choices in the market. The risk of rusting and staining is not there. So, you don’t have to stress much over its maintenance. You can clean it quickly. Another plus point is that these are typically handcrafted, which makes them stand out from others. Other sinks like cast iron don’t follow this process.
Then, you can keep your pans and dishes in it without any worries. Its stain-resistance quality will ensure that your bowl is always sparkling clean. And if by chance you see any marks, you can remove it with a soft sponge or cloth and soapy water. The spots will disappear into thin air.
Besides, you don’t have to take any tension about the risk of cracking and scratching. The unique construction and the use of the bottom grid protect it from all types of dangers, warranting its durability and long-lastingness even after many years.
Care and maintenance
Like any other sink surfaces, fireclay also needs proper upkeep to continue to look the same after prolonged use. And to make sure it does, you have to clean it thoroughly. There are a few tips regarding this.
Frequent cleaning
The appearance of your fireclay sink can quickly get spoiled due to dirt and grime buildup. And since you get this type of sink in mostly light tones, of which white being the most common, you can understand the risk of not washing it daily. So, when you clean it, keep a soft white cloth and soapy water handy and rub the surface gently. Run over lukewarm water in the end once everything is done to get a spic and span effect. You don’t need any other special cleaning agent for it.
If you want your sink to look brand new every single day, then frequent cleaning is a must. You should not allow dirt and grime to settle on it. Sometimes, some stains tend to be stubborn and do not go away quickly. On that, you can use a mild baking soda solution and a soft sponge.
Also, make sure you dry wipe the surface after cleaning. It prevents water spotting.
Abrasive substances
Steel wools, concentrated drain cleaners, scouring powder, and other such solutions can be harmful to the fireclay surface. Avoid all of them and use only gentle products. Fireclay is a non-porous material, and that’s why you don’t need to use any heavy-duty cleaning agents.
Wax and bleach
Some homeowners recommend applying wax or bleach on the surface to give it a sparkling appearance. From the market, you can get liquid wax and spread a thin layer of it on the basin once every month with the help of a soft cloth. Make sure the fabric is clean, and also the surface is dry when you apply wax. Once done, allow the layer of the wax to dry. Until then, you should refrain from using the sink. The wax coating will not let any food residue to sit on the surface, and the bottom and the sides of the bowl will get easily cleaned.
Other than this, some people use a diluted bleach solution to cover the surface with its thin layer at the interval of a few days to keep the basin nice-looking every time.
Styles and construction
While stainless steel and granite composite can be available in many choices, fireclay sinks offer you minimal scope for selection. Most of them, as hinted above, comes in white color. And they usually feature classic farmhouse or apron-front design with a single bowl. Apron front style makes these sinks a valuable addition to any kitchen because of its ability to protect the cabinetry from water and foam spills. That’s perhaps one reason why many people don’t regret the fact it doesn’t offer them too many choices.
On the market, when you shop for an apron fireclay white kitchen sink, keep a few things in mind. You should make sure that the surface is high-grade so that it doesn’t develop scratches or cracks. The glaze should also be there to allow it to drain all the waste efficiently. Any concern related to discoloration and fading should also get addressed. Some companies ensure that the color of your sink doesn’t fade or get damaged even after heavy use or exposure to harsh sunlight.
Nowadays, some manufacturers provide a bottom grid as an accessory with kitchen sinks. This specific piece is instrumental in preventing the bottom surface of the basin from scratches or cracks.
In essence, buying an apron-front fireclay basin for your kitchen in white color can be a smart decision. Once installed, it can give you long service. However, it needs a proper installation.
So, hire a professional company that can fix it well. Otherwise, you will not be able to enjoy the real benefits of your investment.