Why You Might Come To Regret Putting A Corner Sink In Your Kitchen

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Sinks are a major part of any kitchen. It's where you spend a lot of your time, and it is often a central area, as it's used in everything from prepping and cooking to cleaning and washing. That's why figuring out where it should be placed is an important step. If you're someone who's struggled with not having enough countertop space before, you may lean towards a corner kitchen sink. Unfortunately, this might be something you regret doing if you don't realize exactly what such a design entails. 

When you first think about it, corner sinks sound like a good idea. After all, it takes up space that might otherwise be wasted, which is a kitchen renovation mistake you want to avoid making. However, while there are some positives, for many, the cons outweigh them and lead to a design regret. One of the biggest issues is that a corner sink may take up some valuable storage areas above and below the sink. The bottom cabinets in this layout often lose space to account for pipes and wiring as well. These storage areas can be a bit of a pain normally because of their depth, but their larger size makes them ideal for large pots and pans, or even a food storage solution that you may lose because of plumbing. You may also have to deal with a smaller sink, so it can better fit in a corner space, which can make it difficult to wash bulkier dishes. 

Whether or not a corner sink will work for your kitchen depends on the layout of the rest of your space as well. For example, while you should think twice before installing your sink too close to the stove, they do best when about 4 to 9 feet apart. This gives you enough room to move around and have plenty of counter space, while being close enough to easily move between stations. 

Another issue is trying to figure out where to put appliances and equipment that you do want near each other. Because of unique angles, adding items like a drying rack could create a tight or uncomfortable spot to do dishes. And if you want a dishwasher, there is also the struggle of where to put that. Too close and you won't be able to stand at the sink and fill the dishwasher up at the same time, but too far to either side and it makes for an awkward movement. 

It's possible to get around the dishwasher issue by putting a smaller cabinet between the two, like an 18-inch trash drawer, but this solution can take up already limited storage space. The awkward placement also means that it's difficult for two people to handle dishes at the same time. It can quickly feel cramped if your family is trying to come in and put plates in the sink or wash their hands while you are already there.

If you have decided that a corner sink may not fit your kitchen, but you still need extra space, there are alternatives. Instead of a corner design, you can make the most of your small kitchen by adjusting your sink type — such as using a smaller single basin, but in a more convenient location. You can also find covers for a classic double or single basin that allow you to turn it into a drying rack, cutting board, or just give you extra prep space, such as the Hifybaty Over the Sink Cutting Board.

You can also look at getting more countertop space in other ways. Dish drying areas take up a fair amount of room, too. You can purchase something like an overhanging kitchen rack, or one that will hang above part of your basin. Don't just focus on your sink, either. There may be other ways you can maximize your kitchen space, such as by taking advantage of vertical storage space, covering your stove with a board for a temporary countertop, or getting a movable cart that can act as an island when you need it. As you find more and more solutions, you may realize that the sink wasn't your issue in the first place.