Shopping for Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are a great way to add counter space, storage space, and a very open feel to any kitchen. Often these islands are used to create a very open living space where the kitchen opens right into the family or living room. Kitchen islands have been around for many years, and they provide many new features that make them even more versatile than they were in the past. Here's a look at some of the most common types of kitchen islands.

Granite Countertop

One of the most common types of islands is the granite countertop. This is basically another kitchen workspace that matches the other counters in the kitchen. Granite is very stylish because it adds a certain level of elegance that cannot be found anywhere else. It is important to find out the necessary steps that you will need to take to care for a granite island. Some of them do require a granite sealer to be reapplied from time to time, so ask the retailer or installer what the best way to care for your granite island is. Care instructions may vary from island to island.

Butcher Block or Wood

Many kitchens are now seeing the installation of butcher block or wood kitchen islands. Kitchen islands with a butcher block top are meant to provide a cutting surface without a cutting board. Butcher blocks are probably the best cutting surfaces available on the market these days. A wood-topped island is also a good option if you do not want to go with a butcher block. However, remember that some woods are not meant to serve as cutting boards. If you are looking for a cutting surface that does not quite go to the lengths of a butcher block, then make sure that the wood you select is safe to cut foods on. Caring for both butcher block kitchen islands and wood-topped islands is about the same. Both should be cleaned immediately after use because these materials will soak up everything. Most manufacturers recommend a mild dish soap and warm water for regular cleaning. Mild bleach and water can also serve to disinfect the surface. Also most manufacturers will recommend a special oil to be applied to the surface every so often. The oil should be food-safe and non-toxic.

Stainless Steel

Another very common type of kitchen island that is in use today is the stainless steel island. Of course many of us picture commercial kitchens when thinking about a stainless steel island, but more and more homeowners now prefer a very professional type of kitchen. Stainless steel islands are a big part of that. Just remember that stainless steel is not good for knives, so always use a cutting board on top of your stainless steel island. Cleaning stainless steel is also very simple. Just use a sponge and a mild cleaner. Remember that stainless steel can be scratched rather easily, so avoid anything that could scratch it.

Match the Style of Your Kitchen

No matter what kind of kitchen island you choose in Ulhasnagar furniture market, just remember that the style should always match the rest of your kitchen. For example, a very modern kitchen with professional-grade appliances would probably work best with either a butcher block island or a stainless steel island. A standard home kitchen that already has granite countertops would definitely work best with a granite island. Wood-topped islands can be a solution for homeowners who like the look of a butcher block but may not be willing to pay the extra cash for a true butcher block.