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Dino Rachiele Journal
Reflections on Sink Design, Craftsmanship, and the Modern Kitchen

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Say Goodbye to Back Pain: The Ergonomics of the Perfect Kitchen Sink

  • Writer: Dino Rachiele
    Dino Rachiele
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read
50 years of ergonomic studies. I have the solution for back pain at the kitchen sink.

Do you ever find yourself dreading the dishes? Often, it is not because of the mess but because of the nagging backache that follows. If you’ve ever felt that familiar pull in your lower back while standing over the sink, you aren’t alone. Many homeowners assume that back pain is just an inevitable part of kitchen chores, but Dino Rachiele, founder of Rachiele Custom Sinks, is here to tell you otherwise.

With a background in ergonomics dating back to 1978, Dino has spent decades studying how the tools we use in the kitchen affect our bodies. The truth is, your backache isn’t a "you" problem; it’s a design problem.

Back Pain... The Hidden Culprit—Why Your Sink is Hurting You

Most people think back pain comes from bending over a sink that is too deep. While depth can be a factor, Dino points out a much more common culprit: your kitchen faucet.

1. The Faucet Reach Problem

Think about your current faucet. When the water is running in its "home" position, meaning you are not pulling out a spray, where does it drop? In most standard setups, the water hits the back third of the sink.

This forces you to lean forward and hunch your shoulders to reach the stream. Over time, those extra few inches of leaning create significant strain on your lower back.

The Solution: Use an extended-reach faucet. Dino recommends brands like Waterstone. Their faucets offer an 11-inch reach in the home position. When installed about two inches behind the sink, the water drops nine inches into the bowl. This allows you to stand up straight while working.

2. The Sink Bowl Size

Most standard sinks are not designed for a modern cook's workflow. Dino advocates for 18-inch bowls.  This specific size allows a half-sheet pan to fit perfectly inside.

When your sink is properly sized, you can perform all your food prep, such as chopping vegetables or opening canned goods, directly on the sink using integrated accessories. This keeps your workspace at a comfortable height and prevents you from hunching over the counter.

The Rachiele Philosophy: Treat Your Counters Like Furniture

Dino’s mission is to change the way we use our kitchens. In a Rachiele-designed kitchen, the sink is the primary workstation.

Dino suggests that your countertops should be treated like furniture. You should dust them every week or two, but they should never actually have to be wiped down. By moving all prep work to the sink, you keep the mess contained and keep your spine in a healthy, neutral position.

Experience the Only True 100% Custom Sink in the USA

Rachiele is a small, dedicated team providing a level of craftsmanship that is rare today. When you choose a Rachiele sink, you get a design partner rather than just a product.

  • Personal Interaction: There are no secretaries or automated menus. When you call Rachiele, you talk to Dino directly.

  • Custom Design: Every sink is designed based on your specific family needs, not a generic template.

  • Interactive Consultation: Dino uses Zoom calls to walk you through the design process to ensure your new sink is ergonomically perfect for your height and layout.

Ready to Fix Your Kitchen Ergonomics?

Do not let a poorly designed sink dictate your physical health. If you are ready to invest in a kitchen that works for you, it is time to go custom.

Contact Dino Rachiele Today:

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