If you live in an area that has hard water, unless you install a water softener, you may experience some difficulties with regard to your kitchen sink. Hard water refers to water that has a high mineral content, which means it will leave watermarks, stains, and soap scum in your sink.
We’ve interviewed experts and homeowners and spent over 50 hours researching and locating the top kitchen sinks with surfaces that are resistant to the effects of hard water. After all considerations, it has been proved that quartz and composite granite sinks are more effective in preventing hard water spots and stains.
In this article, we will reveal our findings from our research so that you can choose the best kitchen sinks for hard water. And provide you with tips on choosing the right one for your home.
Table Of Contents:
- Top 10 kitchen sinks for hard water
- #1. Blanco 440195 Kitchen Sink (Best for Overall)
- #2 Elkay Quartz Classic ELGRU13322WH0
- #3. KRAUS KEU-14 Pintura Kitchen Sink
- #4. Blanco 441285 Granite Kitchen Sink
- #5. Swanstone QZ03322LS.077 Granite Sink
- #6. Kraus KGD-442BLACK Quarza Granite Sink
- #7. Blanco 440215 Diamond Granite Sink
- #8. Blanco 440067 Performa Cascade Granite Sink
- #9. Blanco 441592 Diamond Kitchen Sink
- #10. Houzer M-200U MIDNITE Kitchen Sink
- What is the best type of kitchen sink material for hard water?
- How We Assessed and Evaluated These Kitchen Sinks for Use in Areas with Hard Water
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Top 10 kitchen sinks for hard water
| Product | Weight | Depth | Editor's Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blanco 440195 | 45 lbs | 9.5 | 4.90 |
| BLANCO DIAMOND 441285 | 45 lbs | 9. 5 | 4.85 |
| KRAUS KEU-14 | 20.94 lbs | 10 | 4.80 |
| Swanstone QZ03322LS.077 | 30 lbs | 10 | 4.60 |
| Kraus KGD-442 | 37.4 lbs | 10.75 | 4.65 |
| Elkay Quartz Classic | 33 lbs | 9.4 | 4.70 |
| Blanco 440215 | 37.4 lbs | 9.5 | 4.60 |
| Blanco 440067 | 40 lbs | 10 | 4.50 |
| Blanco 441592 | 44 lbs | 9.5 | 4.50 |
| Houzer M-200U | 48 lbs | 9.5 | 4.55 |
READ MORE: Best Kitchen Faucets For Hard Water, Best Bathroom Faucet For Hard Water
#1. Blanco 440195 Kitchen Sink (Best for Overall)
The first sink in our review in this term is the Blanco 440195 Diamond Super Single Bowl. Made from Blanco’s very own, non-porous composite granite, known as Silgranite, this sink has been built to withstand actual day-to-day cleaning activities.
The Blanco 440195 is a drop-in, undermount bowl, that has been designed to resist scorching, scratching, and staining. Heat resistant up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit, it also easily rebuffs damage from household acids/alkali solutions.
The Blanco single bowl gives you more than enough room to do chores with its 22 x 33-1/2 x 9-1/2 inch dimensions. This drop-in sink design makes for quick and easy installation, and the sink is IAPMO Certified.
Pros
- Manufactured from Silgranit, Blanco’s own,non-porous composite granite
- 9-1/2 inch deep single bowl
- Resistant against heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit, acids, alkalies, scratches, and scorching
- Drop-in makes for a quick and easy install
Cons
- Single bowl, so the user may have to purchase a bowl divider separately if necessary
Verdict
This is a fabulous sink for those of you looking for a durable solution for your kitchen needs. The composite granite is designed not to chip and is resistant to heat, stains, scratches, and scorching, and it’s one of the best sink materials for hard water. We like this sink as it is not only tough and designed to give you years of service, but it is also very easy to install and comes with one pre-drilled faucet hole.
#2 Elkay Quartz Classic ELGRU13322WH0
The Elkay Quartz Classic ELGRU13322WH0 Kitchen Sink is a hard water stain resistant, easy to clean, scratch-resistant sink that will be a beautiful addition to your kitchen. The quartz material is durable and will withstand the rigors of everyday use.
The white finish is easy to clean and will not show dirt or water spots. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and you’re done!
The sink is 33 x 18.5 x 9.4 inches, making it perfect for larger kitchens. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
The color is perfect for any type of decoration, and the sink is very easy to clean – food and liquid won’t leave a mark.
It’s molded from fine quartz sand, so it resists banging, chipping, and scratches. Plus, it’s heat safe up to 535 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can use your favorite cookware without any worries.
We love this and highly recommend this product for having hard water in your area!
#3. KRAUS KEU-14 Pintura Kitchen Sink
The Kraus KEU-14 Pintura kitchen sink is a great addition to the home, including high mineral in water. It’s made of hard water stain-resistant material and comes with a great soundproofing technology with the NoiseDefend feature that helps to keep your kitchen quiet.
This deep sink offers plenty of space to accommodate even your largest items, and the curved design makes it easy to reach everything.
The sloped bottom of the sink prevents standing water, while the beautiful design will complement any décor.
It featured a super-durable enamel finish and fired at 1500 F to create a virtually indestructible finish that can withstand even the most challenging kitchen tasks.
The white-coloured Kraus Keu 14 does not come with a drain and grid rack. So you have to buy them separately.
#4. Blanco 441285 Granite Kitchen Sink
The Blanco Dual Drop-in undercounter sink made from Silgranit is the second pick on our list. This unit has everything that our first pick has, except it offers you the convenience of two bowls instead of one. Manufactured from 80 percent granite for guaranteed toughness, this composite granite sink will resist scratching, acids, and alkali solutions, as well as staining, and can resist temperatures of 536 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dimensions for this model are 21-1/4 x 32-1/4 x 9-1/2 inches total, with both left and right bowls measuring 17 x 14-1/2 x 9-1/2. Easy to maintain, clean, and install, the Blanco Diamond double basin kitchen sink comes with one pre-drilled hole for your faucet.
Pros
- Made from durable, non-porous Silgranit
- Dual bowl design for your convenience
- Easy to clean, maintain and install
- Resists scorching, scratching, acids, and alkalis
Cons
- While drop-in clips come with the purchase, under-mount clips must be sold separately
Verdict
Our 4th pick is a gorgeous, highly functional kitchen sink. Here, you get not just one bowl, but two. Made from Silgranit, this easy-to-clean unit offers you a clean-ability 40 percent above the competition due to its 7 industry patents. It also resists damage from common household acids and alkali solutions and can endure heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit. It comes with a pre-drilled hole for your faucet as well. Finally, it’s our another great recommendation to prevent hard water stains on your sink.
#5. Swanstone QZ03322LS.077 Granite Sink
Our fifth choice is the Swanstone granite 1-hole dual mount kitchen sink. This drop-in, undermount sink comes with one pre-drilled hole to fit the faucet. This kitchen sink by Swan is crafted from 80 percent, all-natural quartz stone, which gives it the durability to endure years of service. This all-natural, scratch-resistant stone means that you’ll no longer have to be concerned about stains from wine, teas, or other substances.
This unit comes with a lovely, organic wave-like design which adds a touch of contemporary elegance to your kitchen. While it is a double bowl, you’ll notice that the larger basin is on the left, with a dimension of 17-1/4 x 18 x 9-3/4 inches, and the smaller one, with dimensions of 11 x 15-1/4 x 7-1/2 inches is on the right. Both bowls are separated by a low divider to facilitate the transfer of pots, pans, and dishes from one bowl to another.
Pros
- Constructed from 80 percent all-natural stone quartz
- Easy installation either by drop-in or undermount
- Low sink divider
- Stain, scratch, and heat resistant sink
Cons
- Some users find the clips which accompany the purchase difficult to use
Verdict
With its organic, wave design which mimics the movement of water, purchasers of this durable and chip-resistant kitchen sink will find it adds a unique beauty to their kitchen. made from 80 percent all-natural stone quartz, it is resistant to stains, scratches and boiling water. This dual bowl sink comes with a low divider to facilitate the transfer of pots, pans and dishes. Many consumers tell these features are the best type of sink for hard water. All in all, this is also a good choice for those looking for an elegant, organic design that is tough and durable.
#6. Kraus KGD-442BLACK Quarza Granite Sink
The Quarza drop-in/undermount dual bowl kitchen sink by Kraus offers you high quality at an affordable price. Part of the Quarza Series by Kraus, the KGD-442 kitchen sink is manufactured from durable, UV resistant, 80 percent all-natural quartz and durable acrylic resin. Together, they create a beautiful, stain-resistant, non-porous surface. As it’s non-porous, you know that substances such as wines and teas won’t soak in and cause unsightly staining. This unit has a 60/40 dual bowl design with each side separated by a low divider. Another perk of this sink is that the material composition ensures that sounds are absorbed. This means that you can click and clank dishes all through the night without waking up the rest of the family. This sink is also heat resistant so boiling water will have no effects and the almost imperceptible curve of the bottom surface makes for quick draining without concern of water pooling in the sink. Overall dimensions are 33 x 22 x 10 inches.
Pros
- UV resistant composition of 80 percent quartz and acrylic resin
- Stain, heat, and scratch-resistant surface area
- Designed to absorb the sound of the clanking of pots, pans, and dishes
- Dual bowls with 60/40 design with low divider and rear set drains
Cons
- Draining baskets are sold separately
Verdict
This kitchen sink by Kraus is perfect for those looking for an attractive, dual bowl sink for their kitchen. Never to fade, it’s UV resistant, 80 percent quartz and acrylic material ensure colorfastness, heat, and stain resistance. Another huge perk is the material blend also works to absorb as much sound as possible while you do dishes, and that is one of the major reasons why we like this sink so much. That’s why we can say that it’s built with the best kitchen sink material for hard water.
#7. Blanco 440215 Diamond Granite Sink
The Blanco Diamond Dual Basin drop-in granite kitchen sink is a sight to behold. This luxurious kitchen sink not only offers you the best of both in terms of design and functionality but also looks elegant in your kitchen as well. Manufactured from 80 percent solid granite, you’ll find that this non-porous surface is exceptionally easy to clean, as well as being scratch, stain, and scorch resistant. In fact, if you have concerns about pouring boiling liquids into your sink, don’t, as this surface has been designed to withstand temperatures of up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as all household acids and alkali’s. Easy to install, overall dimensions are 33 x 22 with the depth of the larger, left bowl is 9-1/2 inches, and the smaller right bowl at inches. Comes with a pre-drilled, single hole for faucet placement.
Pros
- Extreme clean-ability backed by 7 industry patents
- Resistant to household acids, alkalies, stains, scratches, and scorching
- Easy drop-in install, heat resistant up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit
- Elegant dual bowl design, 80 percent solid granite
Cons
- Undermount clips are not included
Verdict
We like this Diamond Double-Basin kitchen sink by Blanco for its high-quality construction and ease of maintenance. In fact, the surface is so easy to clean, that it’s backed by 7 industry patents. Made from 80 percent solid granite it resists heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit and does not absorb stains or scratch easily. It’s also resistant to household acids, and alkalies as well.
#8. Blanco 440067 Performa Cascade Granite Sink
The Blanco Performa Cascade is a single-basin, undermount kitchen sink composed of Blanco’s own Silgranit II material. This is an excellent choice for those looking to add a bit of unique style to your kitchen, as its lovely, organic contours will blend seamlessly with your decor. It is designed with a raised ledge, which comes in handy for placing colanders, making rinsing produce a snap. Being manufactured from non-porous Silgranit means that it can withstand heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit while being scratch, stain, and scorch resistant. Silgranit’s ultra-smooth, color-fast non-fading surface also means that clean-up will be a breeze and will not be affected by household acids or alkalies. This dual bowl sink comes with a larger bowl with a depth of 10 inches, and a smaller bowl with a depth of 7-3/4 inches.
Pros
- Constructed from Silgranit II, which is 80 percent solid granite
- Heat-resistant surface up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit
- Scratch, stain, and scorch resistant, easy-to-clean surface
- Will not fade over time, not affected by household acids or alkalies
Cons
- The undermount clips that come with your purchase may not work well in smaller, tighter areas
Verdict
Manufactured from Blanco’s very own Silgranit II material, you’ll find that this sink comes with a hard, easy-to-clean surface. Silgranit II is colorfast, and will not stain or scratch under normal, everyday usage. Clean-up is super easy, due to its non-porous Silgranit II surface, which also holds 7 industry patents to ensure that it is 40 percent easier to clean.
#9. Blanco 441592 Diamond Kitchen Sink
Come for the fabulous look, and stay for the dependable functionality of this superb sink by Blanco. The Blanco Diamond, dual-bowl under-mount kitchen sink is designed to make not only clean-up easy but also meal prep. Made from Blanco’s very own, patented Silgranit material, you’ll find that it is heat resistant up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit. Its ultra-smooth, hard surface means no chips, nicks, scratches or staining from normal, daily use. Silgranit is also resistant to household acids and alkalies. This is a low-divide bowl with a 60/40 split, meaning that the divide height is 5-1/2 inches, making the movement of pots, pans, and dishes much simpler. The depth of both the right and the left bowls is 9-1/2 inches. Another great perk for this sink is the sound dampening quality. This means that the acts of washing dishes and prepping meals won’t be so noisy.
Pros
- Constructed from Silgranit, which is 80 percent solid granite
- Resistant to heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as household acids and alkalies
- Low, 5-1/2 inch divider which assists in the transfer of pots, pans and dishes
- Bowl depth for both right and left basins is 9-1/2 inches
- Sound dampening ability
Cons
- The drain basket is sold separately
Verdict
The Blanco Diamond under-mount kitchen sink is one of the best you’ll find on the market today. With its Silgranit surface, you’ll find that it is resistant to everything from fading, household acids and alkalies, heat, scratches, and stains. The low, 5-1/2 inch divider makes it easy to transfer pots, pans, and dishes from one bowl to another, and the 9-1/2 inch depth of each bowl means that you’ll have plenty of space to work with.
#10. Houzer M-200U MIDNITE Kitchen Sink
The Houzer M-200U Midnite dual bowl kitchen sink is quite the beauty. Constructed with a hygienic, non-porous, composite granite/quartz surface, this easy to clean and maintain sink features antibacterial properties, called Microstop, for added protection. Resistant to UV rays, you’ll experience no fading of color over time, and the surface is resistant to heat up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a 50/50 design, meaning that each bowl is 14.56 x 16.38 x 9.5 inches and separated by a low divider, making the transfer of pots, pans, and dishes easy. Another great feature is the sound absorption ability, meaning you can wash dishes and prep meals with as little noise as possible.
Pros
- Constructed from non-porous composite granite/quartz
- Antibacterial properties provided by Microstop
- Resistant to fading, heat up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, scratches, and staining
- 50/50 rectangular design with each bowl separated by a low divider
- Sound absorption ability
Cons
- The sink may not fully drain
Verdict
This sink by Houzer is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a dependable, all-around kitchen workhorse. In other words, its hard, easy-to-clean surface, coupled with a Micro-stop gives this sink a hygienic quality, while the 50/50 rectangular design comes with a low divider to facilitate the transfer of dishware and produce. If being antibacterial, and easy to maintain is not enough, then you’ll be thrilled to know that it also comes with a sound dampening ability. This sink won’t scratch, fade, chip, or stain under normal, everyday usage.
What is the best type of kitchen sink material for hard water?
There are a few different types of kitchen sinks that can be used to prevent hard water. The best type of sink to use would be a composite kitchen sink. This type of sink is resistant to hard water stains and mineral deposits. A fireclay kitchen sink is also an option, but it is not as easy to clean as other materials.
| Material | Hard water prevention rate |
|---|---|
| Quartz kitchen sink | 93% |
| Granite kitchen sink | 90% |
| Fireclay kitchen sink | 72% |
| Solid surface sink | 67% |
| Porcelain kitchen sink | 41% |
| Enamel-coated cast iron sink | 19% |
| Stainless steel sink | 10% |
How We Assessed and Evaluated These Kitchen Sinks for Use in Areas with Hard Water
When it came down to selecting the kitchen sinks for hard water, we went with composite granite. Composite granite materials are made from a blending of around 80 percent solid granite stone, and usually an acrylic resin. This is then formed into the desired bowl shape. This material has excellent benefits for those living in hard water areas, as it offers strength, longevity, ease of maintenance, and resistance to scratching.
Strength and Design
Each of the kitchen sinks we looked at had to be known for its durability and strength. After all, the purchase of a new kitchen sink is an investment for your home, and as such should be expected to give you many years of service. We also selected a variety of shapes for you. For instance, you’ll notice that the Houzer model comes with the traditional 50/50 bowl split with a rectangle shape. While the Kraus comes with a rather modern 60/40 bowl split design with more curvy, organic contours which mimic water.
Ease of Cleaning
In the past, some composite granite sinks developed the reputation of being hard to clean. We wanted to make sure that we did not include any of those sinks in our list of the best kitchen sinks for preventing hard water. As such, we stayed with companies such as Blanco, which sought to overcome these concerns by developing their own, special type of composite material, in this case, Silgranit. Silgranit is actually 40 percent easier to clean than other surfaces due to the 7 industry patents taken out by Blanco. Also, consider our offering by Houzer. It is made with Microstop, which is an antibacterial agent.
Durability
Another past issue experienced by composite granite surfaces was that they could be easily damaged by heat or household cleaners. As this was the case, we looked for sinks that had no issue with household acids or alkalies, such as the Blanco Diamond model.
Sound Absorption
This is an added plus. After all, no one likes to be woken up by the clank and bang of dishes as they are being washed. Therefore, all of our 8 selections below have some sort of sound dampening quality, which we are sure other household members will appreciate.
READ MORE: How To Remove Hard Water Stains From The Toilet, How To Remove Hard Water Stains From Porcelain Sink, How To Remove Hard Water Stains From Stainless Steel Faucets Find the Best Shower Heads For Hard Water
Conclusion
Those of you who live in areas with hard water know how difficult it can be, to deal with the high mineral content. With the composite granite sink, you not only get a nice variety of styles, shapes, colors, and sizes but also the advantages of strength, durability, and ease of maintenance. All of the sinks listed above have high rates of customer satisfaction via customer reviews, ensuring that they are true, an excellent investment for your home.
FAQs
Which is better stainless steel or quartz sink?
Stainless steel sinks are more durable and less likely to stain than quartz sinks. However, quartz sinks are easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria. But modern stainless-steel kitchen sinks are easier to clean and soundproof, which was a big limitation earlier. Ultimately, the choice between a stainless steel or quartz sink depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Which Is Better To Prevent The Hard Water- Quartz Sink Or Stainless Steel Sink?
The quartz sinks tend to be more resistant to staining and scratching than stainless steel sinks, so they may require less maintenance in the long run. If you are concerned about hard water stains, you may want to choose a quartz sink for your home.
Which type of kitchen sink is easiest to keep clean?n
A kitchen sink built in porcelain or ceramic with a single basin is easiest to keep clean. Because a single basin is easier to reach all of the surfaces rather than a double basin.
Why is my black quartz sink turning white?
There are a few reasons why your black quartz sink might be turning white. One possibility is that the sink is not sealed properly and water is seeping in, which would cause the minerals in the water to discolor the sink. Another possibility is that the sink is not made of quartz, but rather a cheaper material like plastic, which will discolor over time.
See also:
- Best Undermount Kitchen Sinks for Granite Countertops
- What Type of Sink Should You Have For Quartz Countertops?
- What is the Difference Between a Farm Sink and an Apron Sink?
- How To Fix a Kitchen Sink Sprayer
- Best Granite Composite Sinks For Kitchen
- Best Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink
- Undermount vs Drop-in Kitchen Sink
