Pro Tips for Stainless Steel Sinks: Durability, Options, and Long-Lasting Care
- PROHS
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Stainless steel sinks remain the #1 choice for kitchens in high-traffic homes, rentals, commercial spaces, and busy job sites. They're tough, timeless, and versatile—but not all stainless steel sinks are created equal. At PROHS, our lineup emphasizes genuine 304 surgical-grade stainless steel (the gold standard for corrosion resistance and food-safe performance) in popular undermount models like the U011, U010, U031, and more.
In this guide, we'll break down the key benefits, gauge differences (16 vs. 18), standout PROHS models, and the essential care routine from page 70 of our 2026 Catalog to keep sinks looking pro-grade for years.
Why 304 Stainless Steel Is the Professional Standard
Superior corrosion resistance — 304 grade (also called 18/10 or 18/8) contains 18% chromium and 8-10% nickel, making it highly resistant to rust, staining, and pitting—even in humid or coastal environments.
Food-safe and hygienic — Non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth and is easy to sanitize.
Heat and impact tolerant — Handles hot pots, heavy cookware, and daily abuse without warping or cracking.
Recyclable and eco-friendly — A sustainable choice that holds up over decades.
PROHS uses only 304 stainless steel across our single-bowl and double-bowl undermounts, stamped handmade options, and workstation sinks—no cheap 430-grade fillers here.
16-Gauge vs. 18-Gauge: Which Is Right for the Job?
The "gauge" measures thickness—the lower the number, the thicker the steel. Here's the quick comparison:
16-gauge (thicker at ~0.063" / 1.59 mm): More rigid, dent-resistant, and sound-dampening. Ideal for heavy-use kitchens, commercial installs, or clients wanting premium durability. Slightly higher cost but longer lifespan with less visible wear.
18-gauge (thinner at ~0.047" / 1.2 mm): Lightweight, easier to handle/install, and more budget-friendly. Still plenty durable for most residential jobs, especially with our double-thick rubber sound pads and extra undercoating that minimize noise and vibration.
PROHS tip: For high-traffic or luxury projects, go 16-gauge (e.g., U031 or U010). For cost-sensitive renos or lighter use, 18-gauge (e.g., U011 or U052) delivers excellent performance.
Top PROHS Stainless Steel Models to Spec Right Now
U011 (18-gauge single bowl undermount) — Classic size (inside 28" x 16-1/4", depth 9"), grid available. Perfect everyday workhorse.
U010 (16-gauge) — Larger bowl (inside 29-1/4" x 18-7/8", depth 9"), ultra-quiet with heavy sound-deadening.
U031/U052 (16/18-gauge options) — Wide shallow bowl (inside 29-1/2" x 16-1/8", depth 9"), great for modern minimalist designs.
U040 (18-gauge ADA-compliant) — Shallow 5-1/2" depth for accessible installs.
Handmade and workstation options (pages 08–16) — For custom or high-end looks.
All feature 304 steel, sound-deadening pads, and grid compatibility for scratch protection and prep efficiency.
Expert Care Guide: Keep It Spotless Year-Round (From Catalog p.70)
Daily use builds up water spots, soap scum, and mineral deposits—especially in winter when indoor humidity fluctuates. Follow this simple routine:
Daily wipe-down — After use, rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.
Weekly deep clean — Sprinkle baking soda or use a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner (like Bar Keepers Friend). Scrub gently in the direction of the grain with a soft sponge or nylon pad. Rinse and dry immediately.
Avoid these pitfalls — Never leave rubber mats, wet cloths, steel wool, or bleach-based cleaners sitting in the sink—they can cause discoloration or pitting. Skip abrasive powders or harsh chemicals.
Stubborn stains? — For hard-water buildup, try a 50/50 white vinegar/water soak for 15–30 minutes, then rinse and dry. For fingerprints, a drop of mineral oil or stainless polish buffs them away.
Pro installer note — Recommend clients dry the sink after every use—it's the #1 secret to maintaining that showroom shine.
With proper care, a PROHS 304 stainless sink will look great for 10–20+ years, even in demanding environments.
Ready to spec the right sink for your next project? Browse our full stainless steel lineup in the 2026 PROHS Catalog (pages 01–16) or download the e-catalog at GoPROHS.com.
Questions on sizing, grids, or bundles? Contact us at (727) 433 8776. We're here to help Tampa Bay pros win more bids.
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