Best Tap Brace for Stainless Steel Sink: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Kitchen Fitter
One of the most common complaints I hear after a kitchen renovation involving a stainless steel sink is the 'tap wobble'. You install a heavy, expensive monobloc mixer tap, but because the steel of the sink is relatively thin, the whole tap flexes when you turn it on. It feels cheap and insecure.
In my joinery work across York, I prefer to bond a piece of 18mm marine plywood to the underside of the sink for absolute rigidity. However, for an existing installation where you can't adhere timber, a plastic tap brace is the industry standard solution.
These triangular reinforcement plates spread the load of the tap across a wider surface area of the steel, significantly reducing flex. In this review, I'll compare three options available right now that can solve this frustrating issue in minutes.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Eliminates All Wobble"
"Marketing often claims these plates will make the tap completely rigid."
Whilst they massively improve stability, if you have a very large, heavy pull-out tap on a budget sink with thin gauge steel (0.5mm), you may still experience slight movement. Total rigidity usually requires a solid worktop or timber reinforcement.
The Spec: "Universal 36mm Fit"
"Fits any standard kitchen tap."
It fits the standard hole size, but check your under-sink plumbing. If the copper tails or flexi-hoses are crowded, the triangular shape of the brace can sometimes foul against the pipework.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
2 Pack Plastic Sink Reinforcement 36mm Kitchen Tap Brace Bracket
Aeipou
This is a straightforward, no-nonsense solution. You get two braces for a very low price, which is handy if you have a utility sink that also needs attention. The resin plastic is rigid enough to handle standard mixer taps effectively.
The Good
- Excellent price point for a twin pack
- Includes necessary fittings
- Lightweight but durable resin construction
The Bad
- Plastic can crack if over-tightened significantly
- Basic finish
Installer Tip:
Don't overtighten the nut against this plastic plate. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn with a box spanner is usually enough. If you crank it too hard, you risk cracking the plastic brace.
Priced at £3.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon2 Pcs Plastic Sink Reinforcement 36mm Kitchen Tap Brace Bracket
Aeipou
Whilst similar in design to the budget option, this set offers a slightly better finish quality. When you're working awkwardly under a sink cupboard, having a part that is moulded cleanly without rough edges makes the job smoother. Reliable performance for heavier taps.
The Good
- Better moulding quality
- Good resistance to wear and tear
- Epoxy finish helps durability in damp under-sink environments
The Bad
- Slightly more expensive than the budget version for a similar function
Installer Tip:
Before fitting, clean the underside of the stainless steel sink deck. Often there is sound-deadening glued there or greasy residue which can cause the brace to slip. A quick wipe ensures it seats firmly.
Priced at £4.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonKitchen Sink Tap Reinforcement Brace - 36mm Plastic Kitchen Tap Brace
ZALAOR
This ZALAOR brace is designed specifically to tackle the common issue of modern high-neck taps on thin sinks. It provides a solid platform that distributes the leverage of the tap, acting as an effective stabilizer where space is tight.
The Good
- Designed specifically to reduce lateral wobbling
- Compatible with most standard UK tap fittings
- Strong resin construction
The Bad
- Single unit pack (check if you need more)
Installer Tip:
If you are retrofitting this to an old tap, you'll need to disconnect the water supply tails to slide the brace up the threaded bar. Ensure you have new fibre washers for the flexi-hoses before you start, as old washers often leak when reconnected.
Priced at £4.49 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why does my kitchen tap wobble on a stainless steel sink?
How do I install a tap brace?
Can I use a piece of wood instead?
Will this work on a ceramic or composite sink?
Do I need a plumber to fit this?
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