Are you thinking about renovating your kitchen? If so, then our Sink Spotlight series will help you. Today we go back to basics with a look at drop-in sinks:
Sink Style: Drop-In
Also Known As: Topmount or self-rimming sinks.
Distinctive Features: These sinks "drop" into a hole cut out of the countertop, with the sink rim or lip resting on the top of the countertop. Faucet mounts directly on a sink ledge along the back edge of the sink.
Countertop Compatibility: Compatible with all types of countertops, including laminate.
Pros: Cheap, easy to install, available in most materials, most commonly stainless steel but also fireclay, composite, solid surface, acrylic, and cast iron.
Cons: Dirt and food grime gets caught between the rim and the countertop.
Installation: Installation is very simple if there is a pre-cut hole in the countertop. Clamps beneath the countertop keep the sink secure, while caulking around the rim provides a water seal..
Price range: Basic stainless steel drop-in sinks start as low as $50, but can range up to $350 depending on the material.
Related Kitchn Posts:
• All About: Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks
• All About: Undermount Kitchen Sinks
• Help Me Choose a New Kitchen Sink!
Other Recommended Reading
• Installing a Drop-In Sink | Home Depot
• Install a Drop-In Sink | Caulk Your Home
(Images: 1. Leela Cyd Ross; 2. Faith Durand; 3. Bethany Nauert; 4. Leela Cyd Ross; 5. Leela Cyd Ross)





Martha Concrete Lam...

do you have any information about that first sink? thanks!
Yeah, the first one is really nice. Got a 'little' kitchen project going myself.
I have a sink similar to the first one, and I like it, but I'd also list as a con that it can be difficult to find drainboards that work with the raised edge. I purchased a draining mat instead.
We installed sink 4 recently. I love the shape.
If I'm not mistaken, it's Ikea.
$350 for a top price? i'll have another one please. i paid more at Home Depot 12 years ago.
i have a double koehler, white. one side is 15.5" side to side, 19" front to back and 9" deep. the other side is 12" side to side, 16" front to back and 7.5" deep. why white? because colors cost more.
btw, i bought an expandable dish rack that spans a sink at BB&B. whichever sink i'm not using currently gets to dry the few things that missed the dishwasher.
forgot to say: enamel over cast iron and i love it. the grout (or whatever) had to be replaced 2x, but that was no big deal. i love having the deep sink and the separate smaller one for fragile items.