Everyone dreams of a multi-functional worktop sink for the kitchen – after all, anything that cuts down on food prep and cleanup time is worthwhile, right?
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--JBh5BGPW--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/250/250906.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--oNcA3Q6P--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/236/236839.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--Dg4o2uK1--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/146/146079.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--UadbUcFH--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/220/220699.jpg)
But for many, that dream remains a dream due to lack of space (or funds) for a huge workhorse unit; one also may not be inclined toward integrated cutting boards, which can be difficult to clean and prone to unsightly scratching and knife marks. Plus, there may not be a configuration to fit every cook’s individual needs.
A great option for those in that camp: DIY! Make your own worktop sink just the way you like it. Add the items you use most – cutting board, colander (for draining pasta or vegetables and drying dishes, depending on size and shape), sponge holder, multi-compartment workstation – to customize your sink according to your specific needs.
The additions are removable and changeable as desired, less expensive, less complicated and more flexible than built-ins, and easier to clean. There’s no commitment involved: if you decide you don’t like that colander after all, you can just stop using it! Be aware that many sinks are available with custom-fit removable accessories; check before ordering to see what works with your sink and usage patterns.
![](http://www.blanco-germany.com/media/media/20_bam_medien/00_bilder_1/produkte_7/spuelen_6/edelstahl_1/quat/518172_QUAT_R0_SSING_CA_WB_workstation_Image3.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--QDiGcXlR--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/products/38-0_12-large_htagsg.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--ecIcWYsi--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/products/AC72_hqohxg.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--hF28Hegn--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/258/258696.jpg)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--l-KTXwE3--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/products/AC50_ffm0af.jpg)
If you do a lot of produce chopping and rinsing, consider an all-in-one station to fit atop the sink:
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/qb/s--C_iuyzFV--/e_trim:0/c_limit,h_2048,q_75,w_2048/v1/images/originals/255/255853.jpg)
This clever kit is designed to be a perfect cutting station; the cutting board features a cutout at one end for easy waste disposal:
![Madeli Urban Cutting Board/Drying Board Set](https://blog.qualitybath.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/colander_cutting_board.jpg)
How do you cook and wash up? What are your must-have kitchen sink accessories?