The “Lip” Problem: Dealing with the Edge of Your Top Mount Sink

The raised lip acts like a barrier, catching crumbs, spills, and grime that should slide straight into the sink. Instead of one smooth motion, you’re left chasing debris with a sponge, often smearing mess along the edges. Over time, food particles and moisture collect around the lip, making cleaning more difficult and creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. For those who value a seamless, hygienic kitchen, the lip can feel like a constant battle.

Beyond cleanliness, the lip can also affect the overall look and feel of your kitchen. The edges often accumulate discoloration or stains, especially in older sinks where sealant has worn away. Even if the sink itself is clean, the lip makes the area appear untidy. For homeowners who take pride in a polished kitchen, this can be frustrating and even embarrassing when guests gather around.

Fortunately, there are solutions. Regular deep cleaning with a toothbrush and mild cleaner can help manage buildup around the lip, but for a long-term fix, many homeowners switch to an undermount sink. Installed beneath the countertop, undermounts eliminate the raised edge altogether, creating a smooth transition that makes wiping debris directly into the sink effortless. It’s a design upgrade that not only improves function but also modernizes your kitchen’s aesthetic.

At I Hate My Sink, we’ve heard countless stories of homeowners fed up with their sink’s lip problem. While top mount sinks are budget-friendly and practical, they don’t always match the lifestyle of busy families or avid home cooks. By upgrading to an undermount or considering a workstation sink, you can say goodbye to the lip problem for good—and enjoy a kitchen that works as smoothly as it looks.

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