Drop-In Stainless Steel Sinks: The Easy Swap, and What to Buy

Who should buy a drop-in

Bob Vila says a drop-in works with virtually any counter, and Family Handyman specifically recommends one for laminate. It's also the simplest job when the new sink is the same size as the old one. You give up the smooth wipe-in edge of an undermount, because the rim catches crumbs. That's the whole trade.

First, measure the old hole

If you're keeping the counter, this decides what you can buy.

1. Take out the old sink, or measure from below

   The hole is smaller than the rim. Measure the hole itself, side to side and front to back, from under the counter if the sink is still in.

2. Compare with the new sink's outside size

   The new rim must cover the hole all round. A sink that's too small leaves a gap.

3. If the new sink is bigger, check the cutting

   A larger sink means enlarging the hole, which is harder. Check the cabinet too, as the size guide explains.

Which drop-in?

Delta Lorelai 33

Delta lists 16-gauge steel, a 9-inch bowl and pads covering more than 80 % of the sink, plus an anti-condensation undercoating. In the box you get an acacia board, a roll-up drying rack, a bottom grid and a strainer with a cover.

Buy it if you want an upgrade without a new counter. Skip it if your faucet needs more than 2 deck holes. Note the 3.88-inch drain opening, and check your disposal fitting before you buy.

Kohler Task 33

It's built to go on top of the counter or under it. Kohler lists 18-gauge steel and one faucet hole, with a bamboo board, colander set and silicone mat included.

Buy it if you're replacing the sink now and the counter later. Skip it if you need more than one deck hole.

Elkay Dayton budget models

The D233193 double^* and the D125221 single^* are about as plain as a drop-in gets. We could only read the listings for these two, so they aren't picks. Elkay's own sheet for a Dayton double bowl shows what to expect from the family: #22-gauge steel and undercoating on the bottom of the bowl to dampen sound.

Buy one if the budget is the point, as in a rental. Skip it if you wash heavy pans, because thin steel and a shallow bowl are what the low price buys.

Typical mistakes

• Buying by width alone. Check front to back too.
• Forgetting the holes. Count your faucet parts, including a side spray or soap dispenser.
• Reusing old caulk. Family Handyman notes the drop-in is held by brackets with caulk at the seam. Clean the counter and start fresh.

Choosing between mounting styles? Undermount or drop-in compares both. To settle thickness first, read 16 or 18 gauge. If your counter is laminate, the Delta Lorelai 33^* is where we'd start.