An outdoor kitchen sink station can be a great addition to any backyard or patio area. It provides convenience when grilling, eating out on the patio dining set, gardening, cleaning up after backyard parties and more. Imagine being able to clean and cut veggies for the gas grill or wash up dirty dishes during a backyard barbecue without having to leave the party for the kitchen.

An outdoor kitchen sink is a lot like an indoor one in terms of basic use, which means you do want to be mindful of what you put down the drain. If you are using yours as a garden sink, make sure you’re not washing dirt, sand or pebbles down the drain, as they can clog and damage the pipes.

Because of harsh outdoor weather conditions, including wind that can blow debris into your sink, it is wise to invest in a weather-resistant sink cover. And to protect your sink from outdoor critters, it is especially important to make sure you leave it clean and dry after use. You don’t want small animals stopping by for a snack or a quick drink.

Before choosing your backyard sink, talk to professionals about what you will need in order to hook up your sink to your home’s water system. Your chosen placement can make this process easier or harder. It is also best to find an area of the yard or patio with a little protection from the elements where you can group your sink with your grilling station and an outdoor refrigerator if you have one. If you add an outdoor heater, you might even find yourself cooking outside in the cooler months!

Some outdoor sinks can be installed as standalone appliances while others are meant to be built into a countertop. The second variety is great for anyone learning how to design an outdoor kitchen, but if you just want a convenient outdoor sink station, you can install one on the side of the house or at another location that’s near household plumbing lines.

In terms of materials, the stainless steel outdoor sink leads the way for long-term durability. Stainless steel also offers a sleek and neutral look that is easy to clean and that will match most outdoor décor choices, including outdoor kitchen cabinetry and storage.