Maybe you’re in the middle of a kitchen remodel, thinking about starting one, or maybe it’s just time to upgrade your kitchen sink. Whatever your situation, there are many things to consider before you head to the home improvement store to pick out a new sink for your kitchen. One might think that a kitchen sink is a standard design, but this is not the case.

There are several different designs, sized finishes, and materials that you can choose from when selecting a kitchen sink, and to equip you with all the knowledge you need, we have compiled 10 kitchen sink styles plus their pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your kitchen.

With multiple options available, there is a sink for every style and budget. It’s essential to determine how often and for which purposes you will use the sink. Then select the size you need and the setup to accommodate the sink plumbing and accessories. Finally, you can decide the best kitchen sink material for you in terms of maintenance, durability, and affordability.

Single Bowl Sink

Single bowl sinks feature one large basin with no dividers and are an excellent choice for small kitchens with little counter space. They make cleaning large cookware and dishes more manageable because you can lay pots and pans flat at the bottom of the sink and not have to worry about debris spewing onto your counter.

Photo Credit: Raili Ca Design – Stunning green kitchen cabinets are adorned with brass hardware complementing polished brass gooseneck faucets mounted side-by-side over an undermount sink and in front of a row of windows.

Single bowl sinks aren’t ideal for multitasking, like cleaning and cooking simultaneously, so they’re advised for smaller households or single individuals.

Pros	Cons
Work well in small kitchens – These sinks use less valuable countertop space than double-basin sinks.	May make hand-washing complicated – Without a separate basin to rinse or dry dishes, hand-washing dishes will seem less efficient.
Roomier – One large basin makes it more manageable to clean larger cookware, like roasting pans and boiling pots.	Will need a drying rack – If you can’t use one basin to dry dishes, you’ll likely need to place a drying rack next to your sink.
	Hygiene can be a problem – With a single-basin sink, there’s no way to separate contaminated dishes, like those used for raw meat, from other dishes.

Double Bowl Sink

If you intend to hand-wash your dishes, double-basin sinks can contribute both functionality and style. These sinks have a divider, so you can nominate one side of your sink for washing dishes and the other for rinsing, drying, or food preparation.

Photo Credit: Purity Designs – Two Darlana Lanterns hang over a white center island fitted with a stainless steel dual sink and a polished nickel gooseneck faucet. The island is finished with a concealed dishwasher hidden behind a white paneled door.

These sinks were popular before dishwashers became routine, but this traditional design has yet to go out of style. double-bowl sinks come in various sizes, colors, and styles, making them effortless to integrate into your kitchen design.

Pros	Cons
Perfect for hand-washing – Individual basins for cleaning and rinsing make double-bowl sinks the most suitable choice for washing dishes by hand.	Not great for washing large cookware – these sinks are often larger than single-bowl sinks, but separate basins mean less room to wash large pots and pans.
Garbage disposal – Generally, a garbage disposal is installed in the secondary basin, so it’s still accessible when the main basin is filled with water or dishes.	Less under-counter storage – A sink base cabinet has no shelves or drawers, so you’ll sacrifice even more storage space for a larger sink.
Better for food prep – You can appoint one basin for dirty dishes and another for food prep while preparing a meal.	Takes up more space – Double-bowl sinks can measure up to 4 feet long, making them not ideal for small kitchens.

Overmount Kitchen Sink

An overmount kitchen sink, also known as a top mount or drop-in sink, drops into the counter, which creates a lip or rim around the sink. This is an excellent option because it’s easy to install and provides extra support, meaning that you can use almost any material, no matter how heavy.

Photo Credit – Bath Depot

One factor to consider is that grime and debris can get caught on the lip and can make cleanup more difficult.

Pros	Cons
Suitable for porous countertops – Overmount kitchen sinks provide a barrier to prevent water damage on the surrounding countertops.	Takes up countertop space –  If you need every inch of countertop space, an overmount sink is not the best choice.
Easy installation –  Properly referred to as drop-in sinks, you should be able to install a top-mount sink yourself.	Interrupts countertop flow – The raised lip around an overmount sink may collect crumbs and debris, resulting in mold.
Affordable – Even with professional installation, over-mount sinks will cost less than under-mount sinks.

Undermount Sink

An undermount sink is installed directly under the counter, making for a seamless look from countertop to sink. This type of sink is adaptable and works with most kitchen layouts. Not only do these sinks look sleek, but they also make for easy cleanup because debris can be pushed straight into the sink without catching on a lip or rim.

Photo Credit: Meghan Carter Design – A long floating shelf is mounted in front of a window partially framed by a marble slab backsplash and located over light gray cabinets donning brass hardware and a marble countertop holding a stainless steel sink with a brushed gold gooseneck faucet.

It’s worth considering the weight of the sink you choose since it is commonly installed with glue that attaches to the underside of the counter and the sink. Most fireclay or cast iron sinks will not work with this installation method because of their heaviness.

Pros	Cons
More counter space – If you use an undermount sink, you’ll be able to use your counter space right up to the edge of the sink.	Complicated installation – Hiring a professional to install this type of sink is critical to avoid severe leakage and improper support.
Easy to clean – You’ll be able to wipe away crumbs straight into the sink since the lip is below the counter.	Doesn’t work with all countertops – Laminate or tile countertops may not be strong enough to support an undermount sink.
Seamless style – Because the sink lip is flush against the countertop, these sinks create smooth lines perfect for a modern kitchen.	Price – These sinks are often more costly to install since you’ll need to construct a custom hole in your countertop.

Stainless Steel Sink

Stainless steel sinks are lightweight and easy to install, making them a practical and favored option. They come in various styles, such as farmhouse, under-mount, and over-mount. While these sinks are typically more costly than porcelain, they’re an inexpensive option compared to other high-quality materials like granite.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee – A black leathered granite kitchen countertop is fitted with a stainless steel sink matched with a stainless steel industrial pull-out faucet.

Stainless steel sinks are classified by sheeting thickness or gauge. A thicker gauge means the sink will typically be heavier and cheaper, while a thinner gauge will mean the sink is lighter and often more pricey. Stainless steel sinks tend to be noisier than other sink materials, and they can dent, but they offer excellent heat and stain resistance.

Pros	Cons
Versatile – These sinks complement every color or style of kitchen.	Easy to scratch – Abrasive cleaning agents or metal utensils can cause tiny scratches in the steel over time.
Durable – Stainless steel sinks never tarnish or rust, and they hold their shine for years.	May dent – Depending on the gauge, stainless steel can dent under pressure.
Good value – For a high-quality sink, stainless steel is a great middle-of-the-road option that will last forever.	Noisy – Anticipate a lot of crashing and banging when cleaning dishes in a stainless steel sink.

Farmhouse Sink

A farmhouse-style sink, also known as an apron sink, extends over the edge of your counter. This type of sink is generally used in a classic or rustic farmhouse-style kitchen and can be designed with a single bowl or double bowl.

Photo Credit: Bonesteel Trout Hall – Kitchen features light gray cabinetry accented with brass pulls, a brass gooseneck faucet with a farmhouse sink and glazed white subway tiles.

These sinks are earning popularity with the resurgence of rustic and farmhouse interior design. They generally come as fireclay or cast iron and are highly durable and easy to clean because of their nonporous material. Farmhouse sinks have a deep basin perfect for big families, large pots and pans, and easy cleanup. They can be pricey and are more difficult to install because you have to cut out a large portion of your counter.

Pros	Cons
Functional – A large single-basin sink can serve many household purposes, from washing clothes to bathing babies.	Heavier build –  Depending on the material, you may need to modify your existing cabinetry to support the additional weight.
Durable -These sinks come in durable materials like fireclay, copper, and cast iron.	Challenging to install – You have to cut out a large portion of your counter to fit a farmhouse sink.
Chic design – Farmhouse sinks pull inspiration from vintage design, making them a timeless trend.	Price – These sinks are usually made from more costly materials.
Versatile – Most farmhouse sinks don’t include pre-drilled holes for a faucet so you can choose the best faucet for your needs.	Space takers – Apron sinks are more significant than your average kitchen sink and may not work in smaller kitchens.

Cast Iron Sink

Cast iron sinks are sprayed with a porcelain enamel coating that gives them a glossy white finish, which appeals to many homeowners looking for a sink to complete their vintage, farmhouse, or country-style kitchen.

Photo Credit: Whittney Parkinson Design – Beneath windows, a cast iron dual sink matched with a polished nickel deck mount faucet is fitted over white kitchen cabinets donning polished nickel cup pulls and a white quartz countertop.

Cast iron sinks are heavier and more durable than others, but the porcelain enamel can chip easily. These sinks are not meant to be cleaned with abrasive cleaners, as they will wear down the enamel coating. You’ll also need to use caution when washing dishes since the hardness of this sink can easily chip your dishware.

Pros	Cons
Durability – Cast iron sinks rarely receive cracks and dents and will last a very long time when cared for properly.	Staining –  It’s possible the porcelain coating will become stained over time.
Easy Maintenance – The smooth porcelain surface permits quick wipe-downs to prevent buildup.	Cost –  Cast iron sinks are some of the most expensive sinks to buy and install.
Keeps heat – in most sinks, water cools down halfway through washing — with a cast iron sink, heat is maintained for longer.	Can chip –  Abrasive cleaners can cause the porcelain coating to get scratched or chipped, leaving the cast iron vulnerable to rust.

Granite Composite Sink

Granite composite sinks are made by gluing crushed granite with a resin filler. This type of sink is extremely durable, stain-resistant, and delivers cutting-edge modern style to any kitchen.

If you’re thinking of a granite composite sink, they are heavier than stainless steel sinks, so you may want to add structural support to adapt for the extra weight. Granite composite has an intrinsic sound-absorbing effect due to its thickness.

Pros	Cons
Upkeep – Granite composite does not require chemical cleaners and hard scrubbing to keep it looking brand new.	Bulkiness – Due to their size and weight, you’ll want assistance installing these sinks and should evaluate reinforcing the areas around your sink drop-in.
Durability –  Granite composite sinks have all the durability of a full-granite sink, but the composite materials used will also reduce the impact when dishes are tossed in the sink.	Cost – Though more affordable than traditional granite options, granite composite is much more costly than stainless steel or other materials that offer comparable benefits.
Sanitary – Unlike natural granite, granite composite is highly nonporous, meaning there aren’t many places for bacteria to grow.	Chipping –  Granite composite sinks can chip or crack if heavy pots and pans are thrown around recklessly.

Fireclay Sink

Fireclay sinks are almost identical to cast iron sinks but tend to be slightly more durable. Fireclay sinks are made from clay and glaze fusing together at very high temperatures, upwards of 1,600° Fahrenheit. They won’t chip, etch, or stain, and you can use abrasive cleaners, unlike on a cast iron sink.

Photo Credit: Amber Interiors -Cottage mudroom surrounded by vertical white shiplap walls and shaker cabinetry is contrasted by a black fireclay apron sink. Nickel hardware and a polished nickel faucet, add a luster to the simple airy furnishings while a marble countertop attracts the eye, revamping the mudroom into an elegant, streamlined design.

Fireclay sinks are generally more costly than cast iron due to the more comprehensive fabrication process. This material is often used for farmhouse-style sinks, making it an excellent fit for country or farmhouse kitchens.

Pros	Cons
Cleaning – Can use virtually any cleaner on a fireclay sink	Variations – Because fireclay sinks are handcrafted, small variations in size and shape can occur even with the same model.
Chip-resistant – Unlike cast iron sinks, fireclay sinks are less likely to scratch or chip.	Costly – Even though fireclay sinks are nearly indistinguishable from cast iron sinks, they tend to cost more.
Non-porous – Fireclay is nonporous, resistant to acids, and easy to keep clean.	Limited design options – Almost all fireclay sinks feature a single-basin, farmhouse-style design.

Low Divide Kitchen Sink

A low-divide kitchen sink, or a low-score sink, has a low center divider that only rises halfway up the basin. This gives you room to wash larger dishes that wouldn’t fit in a double-bowl or single-bowl sink while still being able to organize washing and rinsing into separate basins.

Photo Credit: Blanco

Pros	Cons
Illusion of single bowl –  If you want to follow the single-bowl kitchen sink trend without sacrificing the divider, this option is for you.	Shallow basins – You won’t be able to fill either side of your sink past the low divide, which proves problematic if you need deep water.
Separate basins – With a low-divide kitchen sink, you’ll still be able to designate one basin for cleaning and the other for rinsing or drying.
Large cookware – A lower divider provides more room to wash large pots and pans.

Different Materials

When looking for a new kitchen sink, how it will be used will impact the materials you can choose from. If you maintain a busy lifestyle, you may not have time to take care of a particular surface. If your home accumulates a lot of dishes, you’ll need a deeper basin. A kitchen sink should always be durable and capable of withstanding deep cleaning. Nevertheless, it is also crucial to pick a sink made of a material that complements the rest of your kitchen style and fixtures.

Stainless Steel: 

• The most favored kitchen sink material, stainless is available in various styles, including drop-in, farmhouse, and undermount.
• Provides an ideal balance of cost, durability, and ease of cleaning.
• Higher quality stainless steel sinks are made of 18 to 16 gauge to avert dents and scratches. Gauge is a measurement of the thickness of stainless steel. The lower the number, the thicker the material.
• Look for vibration-damping foam insulation or pads on the underside of the bowls to deaden water drumming.
• Brushed satin finishes tend to hide water spots and scratches.

Cast Iron:

• This type of sink is cast iron and coated in porcelain enamel to deliver a hard, durable surface.
• Has a smooth, glass-like finish that makes it uncomplicated to clean.
• Cast iron is guaranteed not to chip, crack or burn.
• Extremely heavy and requires two people to install it. Not normally suited for wall-mount installation.

Granite/Quartz Composite:

• Made of 80 percent quartz and 20 percent resin to supply a sturdy, low-maintenance surface.
• Scratch, stain, and heat resistant; available in drop-in, farmhouse, and undermount.
• Available in a range of colors.
• Withstands hot cookware.

Fireclay:

• A hard-fired clay material, it’s primarily used in farmhouse-style sinks.
• Comparable in appearance to cast iron. Has a smooth, glazed, non-porous surface.
• Exceptionally durable material. Fireclay resists chips, scratches, and acid damage.
• Mainly sold in white, but other colors and textures are available.

Copper:

• Highly durable metal that does not rust; needs little maintenance.
• The surface takes on an aged patina over time.
• Each sink is individually handcrafted and unique.
• Copper’s anti-microbial properties kill bacteria and viruses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What is the most popular kitchen sink style?

The most popular type of kitchen sink arrangement is the double basin/bowl sink. Dual basins allow for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side.

What is the lowest maintenance kitchen sink?

The most stain-resistant sink is a stainless steel sink. A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.

Is it better to have a single or double sink in kitchen?

Double-bowl kitchen sinks are optimal for handwashing dishes. The multifunctionality of a double-bowl configuration is ideal if you do a lot of cooking and washing up as it gives you the support to do both. With two sink basins, it allows you to wash dishes in one sink and air dry them in the other.

What is the most hard wearing kitchen sink?

Composite granite sinks are some of the most solid and robust sinks available, with superior resistance to heat and scratches. Combining their hardwearing build with a stylish design, they offer fantastic value for money and superior resistance. 

If you want more design help for the kitchen, take a look at these related articles:

• 40 Kitchen Appliance Storage Ideas To Keep Your Kitchen Clutter Free
• Mesh Cabinetry Is The New Kitchen Trend And We Are Here For It
• Kitchen Curtain Ideas: 41 Ideas For A Beautiful Space

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When it comes to the furniture in the home, couches encounter the most wear and tear. We use them daily to sit on and relax, watch our favorite TV shows and even nuzzle up with our family and pets. In some houses, couches are even used as makeshift beds for guests. So all this action can turn your favored spot into a desirable place for germs, dirt, and more. This is why it’s crucial to learn how to clean a couch and to ensure that you are doing it regularly.

Photo Credit: Lindye Galloway

If you’re only cleaning your couch when you need to extract a stain, that’s a blunder. Cleaning a couch should be incorporated into a weekly cleaning schedule. This will help to make your couch last longer and look brand-new again. How you clean a couch relies on the precise material it’s made from—and if you clean it the wrong way, you might ruin it. In this article, we have all the information you will need to ensure that you clean your couch correctly.

Importance of Cleaning the Couch

It’s essential to understand why you need to clean your couch first. There are three main reasons couch cleaning is a must. The first, of course, is about protecting your expensive purchase. Furniture is an investment, and therefore it is essential to maintain its appearance.

But the other two reasons have to do with your well-being. Allergens such as fleas, mold, dust mites, and bacteria can live in the fibers of your couch, and if left for long periods of time, they can hurt your health. Further, your couch can hold massive amounts of dust, and when you sit on the cushions, this dust is released into the air. So, if you’re not vacuuming your couch regularly, you’re probably breathing in dust.

Cleaning Frequency

How often you clean your couch is almost as important as how you clean it. To keep yours in tip-top shape, deep-clean it every three to six months. But it is also recommended to vacuum your sofa at least once a week—more if you have pets—and spot-cleaning as required.

Cleaning frequency should hinge on how much you use your couch and who uses it. In addition to pets, little children manage to get things messier faster. The color of your sofa is also an element. White, ivory, or beige sofas, of course, tend to need more care than darker colors.

Cleaning Supplies

• Warm water
• Natural-bristle fabric brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Natural dish soap
• Spray bottle
• White vinegar
• Castile soap
• Leather Honey
• All-purpose cleaner
• Handheld vacuum or vacuum with attachments

Tackling Stains

Even though you may want to put in some elbow grease and scrub, doing so may push the stain further into the fabric, sealing it into the couch. Even if you get the stain out, rubbing too hard may also damage the couch fabric’s texture, leaving behind a different kind of unappealing mark. Patting, laying a cloth on it, and letting it absorb naturally, are all ways to help ensure that it’s not going to sink in and infect as many layers as possible.

Your immediate goal, if you’re trying to do a quick fix for a stain that just happened, is to work with a dry towel. You want to get up as much of that substance as possible, whether with a dry washcloth, a dry towel, or a dry paper towel.

Step One for All Couches

For any type of couch, the first step is always the same—you want to start by removing the cushions from the couch. Once you have removed the cushions, use a vacuum to clean under and around the cushions. You can also use a dry natural-bristle brush to loosen dirt and dust gently.

Next, you will want to read the fabric care labels to see if the cushion covers are machine washable. In general, couch cushion covers should be cleaned in cold water either by hand or on a delicate cycle in the washing machine.

Nevertheless, be cautious when it comes to drying them. A common complaint, even with machine-washable covers, is that they tend to shrink in the dryer and fit the cushions too tightly afterward. Air-drying might be a better option.

How to Clean a Linen Couch

• Begin by reading the care labels of your linen couch to determine what solution you can use on it.
• Vacuum your sofa to remove all dirt and dust.
• To spot-clean an area, gently blot the stain with a damp cloth. Do not rub or scrub, as this may ruin the material.
• If your sofa needs a more thorough cleaning, you can hand-wash the linen coverings or put them in the washing machine on a warm temperature with a mild natural detergent.
• You will probably want to stay far away from the dryer — read the instructions carefully beforehand. Typically, the safest method is air drying.

Photo Credit: Meghan Carter Design

How to Clean a Microfiber Couch

• Begin by reading the care label of your microfiber couch to determine what solution you can and cannot use on it.
• Vacuum or brush your sofa to remove all dirt and dust.
• Depending on your couch’s care label, use a natural cleaner, which you can make at home using 1 Tbsp. natural dish soap and 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle.
• Lightly spray the solution on the stained areas, and then gently blot them with a dry cloth.

Photo Credit: Widell and Boschetti

If your microfiber couch feels rigid after cleaning, gently soften it by using a soft, natural-bristle brush to fluff the fibers.

Rubbing alcohol is also excellent for microfiber couches because it evaporates quickly and doesn’t leave water stains behind – If you go this route add a little rubbing alcohol to your spray bottle, saturating the stain with the solution and then gently rub away the stain.

How to Clean a Wool Couch

• Begin by reading the care label of your wool couch to determine what solution you can and cannot use on it.
• Vacuum the sofa to remove all dirt and dust. You can also use a dry natural-bristle brush to loosen dirt and dust.
• Wool couches are generally labeled with a “W,” with the label specifying whether the fabric is a blend or 100% wool.
• Most wool couches should be cleaned only with water so use a damp towel or cloth and gently scrub in a circular motion to remove any dirt or dust. (If you use a couch cleaner, you might permanently damage the sofa.)

Photo Credit: Bria Hammel

How to Clean a Synthetic Fabric Couch

• Begin by reading the care labels of your fabric couch to determine what solution you can use on it.
• Vacuum your sofa to remove all dirt and dust. You can also use a dry natural-bristle brush to loosen dirt and dust.
• Mix together 2 cups of water, 1 Tbsp. dish soap and 1 Tbsp. white vinegar in a spray bottle. You can also use an all-purpose cleaner since synthetic fabrics are generally sturdier and stain-resistant.
• Spray the sofa or just the stains with your solution, depending on how dirty your sofa is, but make sure the stains are saturated with the solution.
• Once the sofa is saturated, dampen a microfiber cloth with more solution and gently dab at any stains.
• Blot the area with a dry paper towel or microfiber cloth to help lift the stains.
• Do not rub, as you may rub the stain in instead of removing it.

Photo Credit: Jane Beiles

How to Clean a Faux-Leather Couch

• Begin by reading the care labels of your faux-leather couch to determine what solution you can use on it.
• Vacuum it to remove all dirt and dust.
• Mix 2 cups of water and 2 Tbsp. castile soap, and put the solution in a spray bottle.
  • Castile soap is recommended for faux leather and leather couches. It is plant-based and will not dry out the leather as other soaps may
• Spray the stain, then wipe or lightly scrub it.
• Dry the area using a hair dryer, or blot it with a dry towel.

Photo Credit: Tatum Brown

How to Clean a Leather Couch

This is possibly the easiest couch to clean. It simply needs to be wiped down after each use or when a stain is present.

• Vacuum your sofa to remove all dirt and dust.
• Mix a solution of equal parts water to white vinegar in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can also use mild soapy water made with plain dish soap.
• Lightly spray the solution all over the couch.
• Use a microfiber cloth to rub the solution onto the couch in circular motions lightly.
• Use a clean towel to dry it.
• You can also try using Leather Honey, a nontoxic leather cleaner and conditioner. Place a quarter-size drop of leather cleaner on a lint-free cloth, spot-test it in a discreet area, and allow your test area to dry. If everything’s fine, coat your leather in a thin, even layer of conditioner.

Photo Credit: Rita Chan Interiors

How to Clean a Velvet Couch

With velvet furniture, you should always spot-clean instantly after a spill. Place a microfiber cloth or paper towel on the spill to absorb it. Leave it there until the entire spill has been absorbed. Always start with a microfiber cloth, especially when dealing with velvet.

The best way to keep your velvet couch clean is to steam-clean it regularly. Gently apply your steamer to the sofa and work your way down. You can use a clothes steamer or one made for upholstery.

If you don’t have a steamer, create a natural solution:

• Mix 1 tsp. natural dish soap with 1 cup of warm water in a bowl — make sure you mix it, so there are bubbles.
• Dip a microfiber cloth into the solution.
• Lightly blot your stain until you have removed most of it.
• Allow the cleaned area to dry for at least 30 minutes.
  Note: Velvet material can discolor, so try to dry it out of direct sunlight.

Photo Credit: Croma Design

How to Clean a Silk Couch

For a silk couch, you want to make sure you are very careful. Silk fabric can be a little trickier than other fabrics, as it can get damaged more easily. Sometimes when silk is wet, the dye can come off, so it is important to check first what solutions you can use.

• Begin by reading the care label—and read it twice, just to be double sure which cleaning products you can use.
• Vacuum your sofa to remove all dirt and dust.
• Use a simple solution of 2 cups of cold water mixed with 1 Tbsp. mild laundry detergent. Alternatively, you can mix water and vinegar. But it is recommended to do a patch test before using either. If there aren’t any color transfers, you can continue.
• Dip a soft cloth into your solution and gently blot at any stains. Avoid dousing the fabric, or you might ruin the sofa or discolor it.
• Use a hairdryer to dry the area and prevent any water stains from forming.
• Note: If you are unsure about silk fabrics, you should get them professionally cleaned. 

Photo Credit: The French Mix

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you clean a sofa without soaking it?

To help remove odors and brighten the fabric, sprinkle the upholstery with dry baking soda. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently work it into the fabric. Allow the baking soda to work for at least one hour or up to overnight. Then, vacuum away the baking soda and the soil it has collected.

How do you deodorize a fabric sofa?

To get rid of smell in couch, sprinkle baking soda generously on cushions, in crevices, and especially on areas with a stain. Give the baking soda some time to work –about an hour or so — then vacuum up the remains.

How long does it take a couch to dry after steam cleaning?

Depending on the type of fabric, after your upholstery steam cleaning your furniture will be dry within 2 to 6 hours.

Will vinegar make my couch smell?

White vinegar also has antibacterial properties, and it works really well to kill smells. To use it, put straight white vinegar—not white wine vinegar—in a spray bottle and mist the couch with it. As the vinegar dries, the smell will dissipate, but you should also spritz from about a foot away and try not to overdo it.

How can I make my couch smell nice?

Baking soda is a fantastic cleaning treatment when you’re learning how to clean a smelly couch. It removes and prevents odors as well as removes most stains. Use dry baking soda by sprinkling it all over your couch to absorb odors or sprinkle it on a stain to help loosen it.

Here are some other great cleaning and organizational reading that you may find useful: 

• 15 Objects for Happy Spring Cleaning
• Mastering the Art of House Cleaning
• Shower Cleaning Tips for a Gleaming Powder Room
• 38 Bathroom Closet Ideas for a Clean and Clutter Free Space

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If you were to embark on a short ferry ride from Seattle, Washington, USA, you’d find yourself at Bainbridge Island—and you might be lucky enough to witness this Island Retreat home in Bainbridge!

All photos are courtesy of Coates Design Seattle Architects, who specialize in modern architecture and sustainable design.

This hillside 2600-square-foot home is a two-bedroom retreat, on the same property as its sibling shoreline home. This waterfront property has been in the clients’ family since the 1950s. The two siblings who acquired these matching homes developed them in conjunction with each other, intending to be able to use the homes for big family gatherings in the future since they’re only 50 feet apart.. This Island Retreat (and it’s sibling, Seaview Escape) is done in a Pacific Northwest style that’s popular in the area.

The home features beautiful wood floors and an expansive two-story glazing that allows a view of the mountains from the upper balcony. The cantilevered wood “floating” stairs lead to a library that overlooks the double-height living and dining space on the main floor below. A stone mass wall with cortex panels provides the focal point of the living space. The wall also houses a fireplace and media center while providing separation from the master suite. In order to bring the coastal feeling indoors, beach glass and nautical light fixtures were used in the bathrooms.

When taking over these properties and piece of land, preserving the land was an important priority. The existing site topography was maintained to minimize earth disturbance on the steep slope, and the new homes were built on the existing footprint. 

The photos from this Pacific oasis do not disappoint!

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It’s not a secret that we all want that pretty magazine-worthy home. Our homes are the essence of who we are, and we want them to be expressions of ourselves, but we also want to convey style, design, and taste. Anyone can achieve the richness and luxury that come with a magazine-worthy home.

You have to be smart with your decor and know a few tricks of the trade! In this article, we will share 36 ways to make your house look expensive even if you’re working with a budget.

Paint Doors a Contrasting Color

Instead of the standard, basic white, paint your doors differently. Add in a pop of dark contrast for a more luxe look.

Photo Credit: Amy Storm & Co – Long hallway with a plank barrel ceiling elegantly displaying a cascading chandelier over a light gray vintage rug layered on oak floors. A black arch front door brings a unique look contrary to a dull standard door.

You could try a steely gray or a mushroomy taupe. Go bold with a punch of color if that’s your style. Choosing anything but plain white makes your home feel custom without spending a lot.

Add Molding, Wall Trim, or Architectural Details

There are many ways to DIY molding and wall trim. You can beef up your existing crown molding by adding additional molding around it. Adding millwork or some form of wall treatment to your spaces is a huge plus for adding a layer of luxury.

Photo Credit: K+Co Living

Declutter

If you really want to know how to make your house look expensive for free, decluttering doesn’t cost a thing. You don’t necessarily have to be a minimalist, but the goal should be to make a “home” for every item in a room.

Photo Credit: Kristen Bombeck Minimal white and rift sawn oak cabinet kitchen with extra thick concrete countertops.

Go Large with Wall Art

It doesn’t have to be expensive at all. There are so many DIY wall art options out there to inspire creativity. You can also visit the thrift store to find large canvases to paint over.

Photo Credit: Widell and Boschetti – Contemporary living room features modern black and white lounge chairs on a black rug with white coffee table, abstract art over a marble look fireplace mantel and a living wall over a blue credenza.

Even though it isn’t that expensive to create, large-scale art gives the illusion that it costs a couple of thousand dollars.

Change Out Your Hardware

It’s amazing how taking basic cabinets and adding unique knobs can create a major wow factor. Add some interesting drawer pulls to a plain dresser, or swap out your doorknobs around the house for ones with a vintage or ultra-modern vibe. That one small detail makes such a difference.

Photo Credit: Collective Studio – Tall tan plank cabinets donning brass pulls are fixed beside sliding frosted glass cabinet doors stacked over tan plank drawers.

Streamline Your Gallery Walls

Creating colorful, eclectic, quirky gallery walls is so much fun, but if your goal is to create the illusion of “high end,” scaling back on the variety of colors, shapes, and textures achieves that look.

Photo Credit: Kristen Nix – Gold framed gallery wall on a white wall adds a sophisticated appeal above a white sofa with Greek key trim and blue pillows. A light gray oak coffee table on a tan and white geometric rug completes the living space with a cozy finish.

Choose art or photos that are within a similar color palette. Incorporate frames that are similar or identical in size and shape. Arrange them in a geometric layout like a grid or stair step.

Choose Natural Materials

Whenever possible, incorporate materials that are found in nature. Go with real marble instead of laminate, or pick solid wood furnishings rather than veneer.

Photo Credit: Venegas and Company – A pull-out faucet is fixed to a gray marble kitchen island countertop over a gray marble sink in a beautifully appointed kitchen.

Leather, antique brass, and crystal are luxe compared to their cheaper alternatives, and you can often score them on Facebook Marketplace or at antique stores. Pulling these materials together creates the feeling that your house is luxurious and expensive too.

Add Flowers or Plants

Every room needs at least a couple of plants or flowers to add some life to a space. Think spa. Greenery adds that little bit of zen to a room. These are some of our favorite faux flowers that look realistic to place in a vase.

Photo Credit: Kristen Nix – Light gray oak block coffee table on a hexagon jute rug is centered between a white Greek key sofa and various accent chairs in a transitional living room design.

Use White Bed Linens

When you visit a luxury hotel, the sheets are always white. They feel clean and crisp, and bonus points: they can be bleached. By using white sheets and duvets in your bedrooms, you’re evoking that same luxury hotel feeling in your home.

Photo Credit: Lauren DeLoach – Bedroom features a small gold sunburst mirror over a black 4 poster bed with white bedding.

Use White Towels

Just like with white bedding, use white towels to create a high-end spa feeling in your bathrooms.

Photo Credit: Hazel and Brown – White and gray bathroom styled with a brown wooden vintage chair storing folded towels beside a white clawfoot tub atop large gray hexagon floor tiles.

Use Two Duvets

There is a lot to be said about how to make a bedroom look and feel luxurious, and a lot of it revolves around the styling of the bed. It makes sense since it’s the focal point of the bedroom.

Photo Credit: Bria Hammel – A white upholstered wingback bed is complemented with tan and brown layered pillows placed on white and tan bedding.

So, if you want your bed to look extra luxurious, try layering two duvets. You can put them both in the same duvet cover, and it will look like you have an extra fluffy, puffy duvet, or you can use two separate coordinating duvet covers. Pair this with nice plump king-sized pillows and a few throw pillows, and your bed will look like it came straight out of a luxury hotel!

Hang Your Curtains High and Wide and Lightly Puddle the Floor

This gives the illusion of a more grand room by making ceilings appear taller, and windows appear larger. Make sure they’re long enough to hang floor to ceiling, so the hem of your curtains barely touches the floor or slightly puddle for a more relaxed, romantic look.

Photo Credit: Bonesteel Trout Hall – Bathroom features a bay window with oval bathtub, a round nickel and glass accent table and cream curtains.

Customize Your Lighting

When in doubt, go oversize! If you don’t know how to make your house look expensive, start with the lighting. Swap out the dreaded “boob lights” and builder-grade lights for ones more definitive of your style. It’s better to choose a light fixture or chandelier that is slightly oversized than one that is too small for the room.

Photo Credit: Feather Hill Interiors – Elegant dining room features an ivory beaded chandelier that illuminates Serena & Lily balboa chairs at a Serena & Lily terrace dining table atop a tan rug and cream curtains.

Add Built-Ins

Built-in shelving, window seats, or closets can be expensive, but if you know how to make them yourself using IKEA hacks, they’re a great beginner-level carpentry project that can customize a room for way less than the real thing.

Photo Credit: Kate Marker Interiors – White styled shelves fixed over white cabinets with brass hardware flank a built-in window seat.

Use Appropriately Sized Rugs

When walking into a space that has a too-small rug, it immediately feels off balance. If you live in an open-concept home, rugs can help define individual living spaces.

Photo Credit: Purity Designs – An oatmeal linen sectional sits beneath a ceiling finished with wood beams and on a gray jute rug facing a brown oak coffee table.

Check clearance sections on store websites for rugs, or set up notifications on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Many people buy rugs and change their minds but can’t return them, so you can swoop in to get the deal.

Layer Your Lighting

Designers often recommend for a room have three types of lighting: ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Layering these types of lighting adds depth to a room and helps set the mood.

Photo Credit: Artelier Noel – Placed in a headboard nook custom lit by recessed lighting, an ivory tufted wingback headboard supporting a bed dressed in white and gray bedding topped with layered gray and yellow pillows flanked by styled bluish gray built-in shelves positioned above gray drawers fitted with brass pulls. The bed sits on an ivory rug lit by a flush mount light as walls are framed by gray crown molding and baseboards.

• Ambient or “general” lighting – canned lights, chandeliers, ceiling-mounted fixtures, buffet lamps, etc.
• Task lighting – lights to help you see tasks better, such as under-cabinet lights, desk lamps, reading lamps, etc.
• Accent lighting – lights that create a feeling of “atmosphere,” such as picture lights, candlelight, wall-mounted sconces, etc.

Go for Down or Down Alternative Throw Pillows One Size Larger

Ditch the floppy poly-fill throw pillow inserts for down or down alternative ones to make your beds and sofas feel a little more upscale. If possible, choose inserts one size larger than your throw pillow covers.

PHoto Credit: CH Designs – Welcoming master bedroom sitting area features a white curtain hung from an oil rubbed bronze rod in front of a nook boasting a round ottoman placed in front of dove gray wingback chairs lit by a brass lantern hung in front of windows.

Paint Walls and Trim the Same Color

If you’re feeling extra brave, paint the ceiling too! The result is the illusion of a room with more square footage.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee – Gray curtains are layered in front of a bamboo roman shade hung above an oatmeal linen sofa lit by a brass pharmacy lamp. A black stripe cube ottoman sits beside the sofa, in front of a board and batten wall, and beneath a ceiling finished with stained wood beams.

Incorporate Heirloom Quality Pieces

You can find high-quality furniture pieces at estate sales for a total bargain! And now that grand millennial style is “in,” that creates even more opportunity to grant vintage furniture a new lease on life.

Photo Credit: Bria Hammel Interiors – Vintage botanical prints in gold frames hang from a wall covered in Sanderson Summer Harvest wallpaper over a raffia wrapped dresser.

Update Your Lamp Shades

Lamps can date a room instantly, but simply swapping out an old lamp shade for one that’s more modern on the existing base, creates a whole new look without purchasing an entirely new lamp.

Photo Credit: Maine House Interiors – Brown and blue cottage foyer design features navy blue double gourd lamps with blue stripe lamp shades on a brown oak spindle console table with Chinese ginger jars and a blue stripe rug.

Use Neutrals Wisely

When the budget is tight, stick to neutrals as your “base” for sophistication- like curtains, furniture, area rug, and paint colors. Then, allow pops of color and trends to shine through your home decor accents. It’s much easier to change those smaller accents later versus changing an entire room of large bold, patterned pieces.

Photo Credit: Sarah Bartholomew – Beneath windows covered in bamboo roman shades, a rattan lamp sits on a blond x-table placed between white roll arm chairs topped with blue stripe pillows. The chairs sit on a jute rug facing a rattan stool coffee table.

Don’t Hold Back on Bold, Rich Hues

On the flip side, don’t be afraid to punch a room with a hit of bold, rich color if your heart says to go for it! Navy blue paint is a good example because it’s dramatic and sophisticated but can still act as neutral when you want it to. If you’re going to go all in, go all in.

Photo Credit: Kate Davis Design – Contemporary foyer features a brown oak credenza lit by black marble lamps with brass shades on a glossy green lacquered wall with a white sunburst mirror, green French doors, green octagon ceiling molding and black and white harlequin floor tiles.

The best guideline for creating a luxe-looking home in case choosing paint colors scares you: pick the paint colors at the very top or very bottom of the paint color sample strip. There’s a feeling of sophistication when it comes to high-contrast spaces.

Mat Your Photos

There’s something about adding that thick, white paper mount around a photo that makes it feel special and important. You can find all kinds of picture frames already matted at Target or Walmart, or pick up a mat at the craft store for around $5-10 to fit any frames you already own.

Photo Credit: Britt Design Studio – A brass picture light is mounted to a white wall over gold gallery frames.

Make an Impact with Wallpaper

Nothing says custom in a house quite like wallpaper. If you’re afraid of commitment, go with peel-and-stick instead of the pasted type.

Photo Credit: Lee Owen Designs -Anna French Savoy Cleo Vine Wallpaper covers a staircase wall positioned behind an ivory linen bench.

Add a Backsplash

If you want to make your kitchen look more expensive for not a lot of money, add a backsplash to the drywall under your cabinets. If tile is too pricey or you don’t feel quite skilled enough, something like a DIY pressed tin backsplash is a fast, tool-free, inexpensive alternative.

Photo Credit: Pure Salt Interiors -Kitchen features blond floating shelves on a rustic stone backsplash and white cabinetry accented with bronze pulls.

Be Mindful of Your Home’s Scent

Run a diffuser with some of your favorite essential oils; warm wax melts, light a candle, and get a plug-in fragrance diffuser. Charcoal bags are great for absorbing old house smells and cooking smells.

Photo Credit: Scout and Nimble – Modern nickel faucets compliment gray marble countertop and Ava vanity mirror. Countertop styling is completed with eucalyptus leaves in a glass vase, decorative candles, and a yellow sponge.

Whatever you choose, the smell in our homes creates a sensory experience unlike any other. That one change can do so much.

Mismatch Your Furniture

Resist the urge to buy all your living room furniture or bedroom furniture as one set from the furniture store. Instead, swap out one of the matching dressers with a dresser in another bedroom to allow variation.

Photo Credit: Marie Flanigan – A large landscape art piece hangs over a white nailhead sofa placed facing a kilim bench and paired with a yellow leather French accent chair. The sofa is flanked by light gray built-in shelves mounted over light gray cabinets.

Reflect Light in Dark Spaces with Mirrors

One of the best interior design tricks to make a house look expensive is by reflecting light on dark walls opposite windows with a mirror to help rooms feel bigger and brighter.

Photo Credit: Kate Marker Interiors – Styled built-in olive green living room shelves are mounted over cabinets accented with leather tab pulls. While a map art piece is mounted above a black skirted sofa positioned on layered rugs.

Put Toys In Cabinets and Bins When Not In Use

Utilize bins, closets, and cabinets to keep toys out of sight after playtime. Bonus: It teaches kids the responsibility of cleanup time too.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee – Floor to ceiling green built-in toy shelf decorated and styled with knick-knacks and woven storage bins for an organized appeal.

Thrift for Vintage Items

By mixing old and new decor, your home feels a bit more steeped in history and adds a layer of sophistication.

Photo Credit: Mandy Cheng Design – Workspace features vintage wooden desk with drawers.

Be Intentional with Household Items

Decant hand soap into glass soap dispensers, keep cooking utensils in a displayable container, store Q-tips in an apothecary jar, pick a “pretty” toilet brush… it’s the little things you use all the time that add up to a better daily experience.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee – Bathroom features styled gray veneer linen shelves and cabinets with brown woven baskets.

But it also reduces visual clutter by eliminating plastic packaging. Reducing clutter makes your space feel more inviting to you and others.

Add Fresh Landscaping

You don’t have to spend a fortune on landscaping for an expensive look. Invest in perennials for a flower bed that will come back year after year, along with some new mulch to give your home’s landscape a fresh update.

Photo Credit: Nest Design – White cottage home with white shingles and a gray roof contrasted with a black front door and black outdoor carriage lantern sconces. A covered porch displays doric columns for a classic finish contributing to a stunning curb appeal.

Update Your Entryway

Make the entry of your home a welcoming spot. Whether you paint the front door a bold color or add colorful flowers in planters or a wreath, simple touches go a long way.

Photo Credit: Studio McGee – Styled front porch features layered welcome mats in front of gray and glass front door finished with potted plants.

Mix Textures

By adding different textures to a room, you create a custom look. Try adding a Turkish rug with a wooden armchair and metal accessories. Add throw pillows in various textures, such as silk and velvet, to round out the look.

Photo Credit: DL Rhein – Elegant bedroom features a white beaded glass chandelier hung from a vaulted shiplap ceiling over a blue velvet tufted sofa topped with purple velvet accent pillows positioned in front of a white tufted bed dressed in a white ruffled bedding.

Go For Gold

For a big look that’s easy on the wallet, buy a can of gold spray paint to update the look of picture and mirror frames, trays, and vases. This inexpensive idea will add a bit of glamour to any room.

Photo Credit: Little Crown Interiors -White nursery designed with a white herringbone Foraker Cow Hide Hand-Woven Cream Area Rug furnished with a gold etagere with glass shelves. Creative Co-Op Wash Metal and White Wood Beads Chandelier finish the room with an elegant gold flare.

Maintenance

Generally, anything that is well-maintained will automatically feel more premium, which is why new stuff always feels so nice. It’s also why you feel better about yourself when you get your hair or nails done. It’s the same thing with your home. It needs care, and when it gets it, it makes everyone feel better!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes interior look cheap?

Filling a room with matching furniture, piles of clutter, and disproportionate furniture are all factors that can make houses look cheap. Thankfully, they are easy to avoid, and there are lots of other affordable alternatives that will help your scheme to shine.

How can I make my house feel like a luxury hotel?

Add luxury style to your home just like a hotel by investing in high-quality linens — bed sheets, duvets, and towels. Hotels put comfort at the top of the list, and when you go for a high-end comfort, you can’t go wrong.

What’s the difference between expensive and cheap furniture?

MDF, laminates, softwood, and melamine are also hallmarks of cheap furniture. Of course, these materials are great for less used spaces and children’s bedrooms, but if you spot these materials in cheap bedroom furniture, be sure to know that it won’t be high quality.

What makes a sofa look expensive?

Cushions in natural linens, soft leather or luxurious velvet can lift a sofa or an occasional chair making your setting appear more expensive than it is. Likewise, the right curtains can make an interior look well-considered and more opulent.

Here are some other home-decorating articles you may enjoy:

• Decorating With Anthracite, the Popular and Versatile Shade of Gray
• Offbeat Decorating Ideas for Every Room of Your Home: Quirky Delights!
• 5 More Top Kitchen Decorating Trends to Embrace in the New Year!

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