Where to Buy a New Kitchen Sink (Bunnings Alternatives)
As a plumber with 20 years of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of kitchen sinks. If you’re in the market for a new one and want to explore some options beyond the big box stores like Bunnings, this article is for you.
Here’s the thing, you don’t want any old kitchen sink – you want a high quality, durable sink that’ll go the distance. That’s why when it comes to buying a new kitchen sink, I always recommend shopping around at specialty stores that carry a good variety of kitchen sink and styles.
Boutique brands offer kitchen sinks with unique styles and designs for a one-of-a-kind kitchen, and not to mention because they specialise in kitchen sinks they can offer top-tier advice. I’d also recommend direct to consumer brands, as they typically offer distinct and high-quality products often at a lower price because they cut out the middleman.
Would I recommend online shops? I would, but I’d say you need to do your research and make sure you’re buying something that’s quality, and not just jumping at a wallet-friendly price. Always speak to the seller if possible to find the right fit for you.
Let’s take a look at some of the different kitchen sink brands out there and how they compare: I’ve grouped them into high-end brands, direct to consumer brands, mid-tier brands and budget e-commerce brands so you can see the difference.
Source: buildmat.com.au
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High-End Kitchen Sinks - Caroma and Abey ($1,400)
High-end kitchen sinks are a premium choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen. These sinks are made from top-quality materials, such as thick stainless steel or natural stone, and are designed to be both beautiful and long-lasting.
Overall, high-end kitchen sinks are a great choice for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their kitchen and are willing to invest in a top-quality product. Caroma and Abey are two high-end kitchen sinks brands, with sinks starting at minimum $1,000 and going up to $1,700 or more.
Pros of buying high-end kitchen sinks:
- Some of the best quality sinks you can buy
- Long-lasting
- Added features for convenience
Cons of buying high-end kitchen sinks:
- Mid-range sinks can be just as good, for half the price
Direct to Consumer Brands - Buildmat and ABI Interiors ($500)
Buying kitchen sinks from direct-to-consumer brands is a popular option for homeowners looking for affordable, high-quality and unique kitchen sinks. These brands typically sell their products online and offer them at lower prices than traditional retail stores by cutting out the middlemen.
Direct-to-consumer kitchen sinks are usually made from high quality materials such as stainless steel or composite granite, which are durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Brands like Buildmat and ABI Interiors sell kitchen sinks direct to consumers from anywhere between $250-$600 and above.
Buildmat double bowl sink: $499
ABI Interior double bowl sink: $799.90
Pros of buying D2C kitchen sinks:
- Unique and bespoke options
- Often hand-crafted and not mass produced
- Excellent customer service and after-care
Cons of buying D2C kitchen sinks:
- Less options compared to big name brands
Mid-Range Kitchen Sinks - Seima and Meir ($1000)
When shopping for a new kitchen sink, many homeowners opt for mid-range brands, as these offer a good balance of quality and affordability. These brands typically use materials such as stainless steel or composite granite, which are durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Mid-range kitchen sinks also come in a wide variety of styles and finishes, so it's easy to find one that matches the look and feel of your kitchen.
When buying a kitchen sink from a mid-range brand, it's important to read reviews and do some research to ensure that you are getting a product that is of good quality and value. Seima and Meir are two mid-tier kitchen sink brands, ranging anywhere from $450 to $800 and up for a kitchen sink.
Seima double sink: $517
Meir double bowl sink: $1,309
Pros of buying mid-range kitchen sinks:
- More affordable than high-end brands
- Made from good quality materials
- Often include built-in features like cutting boards and drying racks for convenience
Cons of buying mid-range kitchen sinks:
- May not have as many features as higher priced sink brands
Budget Kitchen Sink - eBay and MyDeal ($200)
There are a few good options for buying budget kitchen sinks in Australia. One option is to shop online at e-commerce stores like eBay and MyDeal, which often carry a selection of lower-priced sinks or have great sales year round.
You can find kitchen sinks from as low as $130. It's always a good idea to do some price comparison and research before making a purchase to ensure that you're getting the best deal.
Cefito double bowl sink: $145.82
Simplus double bowl sink: $288.95
Pros of buying budget sinks online:
- Cost effective option - ideal for rentals
- Plenty of availability in sizes and colours
- Often free & fast shipping
Cons of buying budget sinks online:
- Not as durable as premium options
Why I Recommend Buying Direct to Consumer Kitchen Sinks
There are a few reasons why buying kitchen sinks directly from the manufacturer or seller is the way to go.
- Save money: You'll often be saving some money since there aren't as many middlemen involved and there are less overhead costs.
- Better knowledge: You'll have a better understanding of the product and the company, which can be really helpful if you have any questions or concerns.
- Customisation: Some direct to consumer kitchen sink companies even offer customisation options, so you can get exactly what you want in terms of material, colour, and size.
- Customer service: And if you run into any issues with your purchase, you'll have an easier time getting help from a smaller company that has a more personal approach to customer service.
Buying Considerations When Shopping for a New Kitchen Sink
Shopping for a new kitchen sink involves some consideration and planning, from the style of sink to the material, to the configuration and more. Let’s dive a little deeper below:
Sink Style
Your new sink style is one of the most important considerations. After all, your sink is a prominent feature in your kitchen and you want it to look good. There are so many different styles to choose from, from sleek and modern to traditional and farmhouse. Think about the overall look and feel of your kitchen and choose a sink style that complements it. You should also consider the colour and finish of the sink: do you want a stainless steel sink with a brushed finish? Or perhaps a composite granite sink in a sleek black colour?
Sink Material
Different sink materials have different properties and advantages, so it's important to choose the one that best meets your needs. Some common materials for kitchen sinks include stainless steel, composite granite, and natural stone. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it's durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and scratches. Composite granite is another good option because it's also durable and easy to clean, and it comes in a variety of colours. Natural stone, such as granite or marble, is a more high-end choice and adds a luxurious touch to your kitchen, but it can be more expensive and requires more maintenance.
Sink Configuration
Do you want a single bowl or a double bowl sink? Or perhaps a sink with a built-in draining board? The type of sink configuration you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. For example, if you do a lot of baking or have a large family, a double bowl sink might be a good choice because it allows you to wash and rinse dishes at the same time. On the other hand, if you don't have a lot of counter space, a single bowl sink might be a better fit because it takes up less room. You should also consider the size of the sink and whether it will fit in your kitchen. Measure the space where you plan to install the sink to make sure it will fit properly.
Installation Type
One important decision you'll need to make with your new sink is whether to go with an undermount or overmount sink. An undermount sink is installed under the countertop, so the rim of the sink is not visible. This gives the counter a sleek, seamless look and makes it easier to wipe crumbs and spills straight into the sink. On the other hand, an overmount sink is installed on top of the counter, with the rim of the sink visible. This type of sink is easier to install, but it may be harder to keep clean because crumbs and spills can get trapped between the sink and the counter.
Depth of Sink
The depth of the sink refers to how deep it is from the top of the rim to the bottom of the basin. A deeper sink can be more convenient because it allows you to wash larger pots and pans and provides more space for rinsing and soaking dishes. However, a deeper sink may also be harder to reach into, especially if you're on the shorter side. On the other hand, a shallower sink is easier to reach into, but it may not be as practical for washing large items. Consider your needs and the size of the pots and pans you use most frequently when choosing a sink depth.
Thickness of Sink
The thickness of the sink refers to how thick the material is that the sink is made from. A thicker sink is generally more durable and long-lasting because it is less prone to dents and scratches. It can also be a better choice if you plan to install the sink under heavy countertops, such as granite or quartz. On the other hand, a thinner sink is lighter and easier to install, but it may not be as durable as a thicker sink. A thicker sink may be a better long-term investment, but a thinner sink may be a more practical choice, especially if you’re on a budget.
Sink Accessories
Don’t forget to consider the accessories that come with a kitchen sink. Some sinks come with accessories such as a cutting board, a colander, or a draining rack, which can be really handy for washing and preparing food. Other sinks may come with a soap dispenser or a built-in drying rack, which can save you counter space and make your sink more functional. Sink accessories can be a great way to get more value out of your sink and make it more convenient to use. However, be aware that sinks that come with in-built accessories may cost more, and you can often buy accessories after the fact for a cheaper price.
Budget
Kitchen sinks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the material, style, and features you choose. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping so you don't overspend. Consider your needs and how much you're willing to spend, and try to find a sink that fits within your budget. Don't forget to factor in the cost of installation and any additional accessories you might need. Keep in mind that while a higher-priced sink may have more features and be made from higher-quality materials, it doesn't necessarily mean it's the best choice for you. A cheaper sink may still be a good value if it meets your needs and fits your budget.
Maintenance
Different sink materials require different levels of maintenance, so it's important to choose a sink that fits your lifestyle and cleaning schedule. For example, stainless steel sinks are easy to clean and maintain, but they may show fingerprints and water spots. Composite granite sinks are also easy to clean, but they may require periodic sealing to prevent staining. Natural stone sinks, such as granite or marble, are beautiful but require more maintenance, such as regular sealing and polishing. Consider your cleaning routine and how much time and effort you're willing to put into maintaining your sink when choosing a material.
The Best Alternative to Bunnings
I hope this has helped inspire you to think and shop beyond Bunnings for your next kitchen sink purchase. Whether you're looking for specialty stores, online retailers, or direct to consumer brands, there are plenty of options out there to suit your needs and budget. Shop around, talk to the brands you’re dealing with and you’ll be sure to come out with the best kitchen sink for your needs.
If you still have questions about how to choose the best range hood for your home, the following answers to some of the more frequently asked questions may help.