The Finishing Touches: Sink Accessories

Why These Details Matter

After installing a shiny new faucet, you'll suddenly notice how dated everything else around the sink looks. The drain strainer that's been there since 2005. The soap bottle that doesn't match anything. The splash guard that's seen better days.

These are the details that separate a "nice faucet" from a "wow, your sink looks amazing." And they're incredibly easy to fix.

Sink Accessory Checklist

Walk through this list and decide which items need attention:

Replacing Your Drain Strainer

The drain strainer is often the most neglected item in the sink. A new one makes a surprisingly big difference.

When to Replace

• Visible rust or corrosion that won't scrub off
• Discoloration from hard water or age
• Damaged basket or strainer holes
• Stopper doesn't seal properly
• Finish doesn't match your new faucet

Choosing a New Strainer

Most kitchen sinks use a standard 3.5" drain opening. Strainer styles include:

• Basket strainer with stopper: Traditional style, basket lifts out, stopper seals drain
• Deep cup strainer: Larger basket holds more debris, great for food prep
• Disposal flange: Connects to garbage disposal, different installation

Installation Steps

1. 1.Remove the old strainer: From below, loosen the large locknut. If it's stuck, spray with penetrating oil. From above, you can use channel-lock pliers in the strainer opening for grip.
2. 2.Clean the sink opening: Scrape off old plumber's putty and any gunk around the hole.
3. 3.Apply plumber's putty: Roll a rope of putty about ½" thick. Press it around the underside of the new strainer flange.
4. 4.Insert the strainer: Press down firmly into the drain opening.
5. 5.Secure from below: Add the rubber gasket, fiber washer, and locknut. Hand-tighten, then snug with pliers.
6. 6.Clean excess putty: Wipe away any putty that squeezed out around the top.

Adding a Built-In Soap Dispenser

If you have an unused sink hole (common when switching from a side sprayer to a pull-down faucet), a soap dispenser is the perfect use for it.

Benefits of Built-In Dispensers

• Cleaner counters: No bottle clutter around the sink
• Easy refilling: Unscrew from above, refill from below
• Coordinated look: Match your faucet finish
• Large capacity: Holds more than typical pump bottles

Installation (Usually No Tools Needed)

1. 1.Check hole size: Standard is 1-1/4" to 1-1/2". Measure first.
2. 2.Insert from above: Drop the dispenser tube through the hole.
3. 3.Secure from below: Hand-tighten the mounting nut. Don't overtighten.
4. 4.Fill with soap: Unscrew the pump head, fill reservoir, replace pump.

Replacing the Garbage Disposal Splash Guard

If your disposal splash guard is torn, worn, or discolored, replacement is the easiest upgrade on this list.

How to Replace

1. 1.Pull out the old guard: Grip firmly and pull straight up. They're designed to be removable.
2. 2.Clean the mounting ring: Wipe away any buildup on the metal ring.
3. 3.Push in the new guard: Press firmly until the flaps seat properly in the groove.
4. 4.Test the fit: Run water to make sure it's seated correctly and drains properly.

Choosing a Replacement

• Universal guards ($5-8): Fit most standard disposals
• Brand-specific guards ($8-12): InSinkErator, Waste King, etc.
• Quiet guards ($10-15): Thicker rubber reduces noise

Sink Hole Covers

If you've switched to a single-hole faucet and don't want a soap dispenser, sink hole covers create a clean look.

Options

• Flat disc covers: Simple, minimal look ($5-10)
• Decorative caps: Button-style tops in various finishes ($8-15)
• Sprayer hole covers: Specifically sized for sprayer holes ($5-10)

Installation

Most sink hole covers simply drop in and secure with a nut from below. No plumber's putty needed—there's usually a rubber gasket included.

Bonus: While You're At It

Since you're already working around the sink, consider these quick upgrades:

Replace the Dish Drying Mat

A stained or worn drying mat undercuts your fresh sink look. Choose one that complements your kitchen colors. Silicone mats ($15-25) drain better and last longer than fabric.

Get a New Sponge Holder

That wire sponge holder from the dollar store? Replace it with something that matches your new hardware finish. Adhesive-mount holders keep the counter clear.

Coordinate Your Dish Soap Bottle

If you're not doing a built-in dispenser, at least get a decorative bottle that doesn't clash. Many people decant dish soap into amber or ceramic dispensers for a cleaner look.

Match Your Finishes

For the most cohesive look, match sink accessories to your faucet:

FAQ

How often should you replace a sink strainer?

Replace when you see rust, corrosion, or discoloration that won't clean off. Most strainers last 5-10 years. If the basket doesn't sit flat or the seal is failing, it's time for a new one.

Are built-in soap dispensers worth it?

Yes, they keep bottles off the counter and look cleaner. They're especially worthwhile if you have an unused sink hole. At $15-30 for a basic model, it's an affordable upgrade.

Should the drain strainer match the faucet?

Matching isn't required but creates a more polished look. At minimum, stick to the same metal family. A mismatched strainer is less noticeable than mismatched faucet and hardware.

How do I replace a garbage disposal splash guard?

Simply pull out the old one and push in the new one—no tools needed. Universal splash guards cost $5-10 and fit most disposals.