KITCHEN SINK LINER

Abstract

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a disposable sanitary liner system that may be temporarily secured within a variety of basin types. The liner may include a flexible, hydrophobic sheet with an adhesive perimeter configured to adhere to the interior surface of a basin, and may further include a closable aperture that allows fluid to be drained after use. The aperture may be selectively opened by a user, such as by cutting or pulling. The liner may conform to a range of basin configurations, including single, double, utility, or apron-front farmhouse sinks. In use, the liner may support a sanitary environment for soaking or rinsing food items such as vegetables and meats. Beyond food-related tasks, the liner may also serve in preparing gels, mixing materials, or cleaning items like pet accessories or craft tools. This adaptable configuration may help reduce cross-contamination by providing single-use separation tailored to specific tasks.

Claims

1. A disposable sanitary liner system comprising: a flat thin sheet formed of a hydrophobic, flexible material and configured for temporary placement within a basin; an adhesive section positioned along an outer edge of the sheet, the adhesive section being configured to temporarily secure the sheet to an interior surface of the basin such that the edge of the sheet conforms to a contour of the basin; a container configured to store and dispense one or more of the sheets; and a centrally located portion of the sheet configured to be opened by a user to create an aperture for draining fluid accumulated on the sheet, wherein the sheet is dimensioned to retain a volume of fluid and to provide a sanitary barrier between contents placed thereon and the underlying basin surface.

2. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the sheet includes one or more scored, weakened, or perforated regions to guide user formation of the aperture.

3. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the adhesive section comprises two or more adhesive tabs located on opposite sides of the sheet.

4. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the corner portion is visually marked to indicate a recommended location for user cutting.

5. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the sheet is sized and shaped to fit within a single-basin sink.

6. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the sheet is sized and shaped to fit within a double-basin sink and is configured to span both basin compartments.

7. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the sheet is sized and shaped to conform to a farmhouse-style or apron-front sink.

8. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a stack of liners with tear-away dispensing.

9. The disposable sanitary liner system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a roll of liners with tear-away dispensing.

10. A disposable sanitary liner comprising: a flat thin sheet formed of a hydrophobic, flexible material; an adhesive section disposed on at least a portion of the sheet's perimeter, the adhesive section configured to temporarily secure the sheet to an interior surface of a basin; and a centrally located portion of the sheet structurally configured to be opened by a user during a disposal mode to create an aperture for draining fluid accumulated within the sheet, wherein the sheet is dimensioned to hold a volume of fluid and to provide a sanitary barrier between the contents and the basin surface.

11. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the thin sheet may be disposed of by cutting the corner region with scissors after soaking is complete.

12. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the aperture is defined by a perforated portion of the sheet to assist with manual opening.

13. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the adhesive section comprises two adhesive tabs positioned on opposing sides of the sheet.

14. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the sheet is configured to retain fluid for soaking food items.

15. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the sheet is dimensioned for placement within a single-basin sink.

16. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the sheet is dimensioned to span across a double-basin sink and includes structural features to conform to both compartments.

17. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the sheet is configured to conform to a farmhouse-style basin having an apron front and extended depth.

18. The disposable sanitary liner of claim 10, wherein the adhesive section includes a removable release liner that is peeled away to expose the adhesive before installation.

19. A method of using a disposable sanitary liner system, the method comprising: providing a disposable sanitary liner system comprising: a flat thin sheet formed of a hydrophobic, flexible material and configured for temporary placement within a basin; an adhesive section positioned along an outer edge of the sheet, the adhesive section being configured to temporarily secure the sheet to an interior surface of the basin such that the edge of the sheet conforms to a contour of the basin; a container configured to store and dispense one or more of the sheets; and a centrally located portion of the sheet configured to be opened by a user to create an aperture for draining fluid accumulated on the sheet, wherein the sheet is dimensioned to retain a volume of fluid and to provide a sanitary barrier between contents placed thereon and the underlying basin surface; removing the sheet from the container; securing the sheet to the basin by applying the adhesive section to an interior surface of the basin; filling the sheet with fluid to create a soaking environment; placing items into the liner for washing, soaking, or rinsing; opening the centrally located portion of the sheet to form the aperture; draining the fluid through the aperture; and removing and discarding the sheet from the basin.

20. The method of claim 20, further comprising: allowing the fluid to exit through the formed aperture; retaining solid waste or debris on the upper surface of the sheet after drainage; lifting the sheet by its edges to prevent spillage; and, disposing of the sheet and retained waste in a disposal container.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary disposable sanitary liner system employed in an illustrative use-case scenario

[0008] FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams depicting an exemplary layout of adhesive positioning and liner structure for temporary installation within a double basin and farmhouse basin.

[0009] FIG. 3 depicts an illustrative use case scenario show user interaction with the liner during a cleaning or soaking procedure.

[0010] FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary method for preparing and deploying a sanitary liner in a basin environment.

[0011] FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary cleaning and sanitization protocol for a basin prior to liner installation.

[0012] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary measurement method used to size a basin for appropriate liner selection.

[0013] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0014] To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows. First, a disposable sanitary liner system is introduced with reference to FIG. 1 in an exemplary use-case scenario. Second, the structure and adhesive layout of the liner are described with reference to FIGS. 2A-3. Third, with reference to FIGS. 4-6, the document details example user interactions, liner deployment methods, and preparatory steps including basin cleaning and measurement.

[0015] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary disposable sanitary liner system employed in an illustrative use-case scenario 100. The illustrative use-case scenario 100 includes a basin environment in which a user interacts with a container 105 that holds a supply of disposable sanitary liners. The scenario represents a setting in which the liner system may be deployed, beginning with access to the liners from the container and continuing through installation, use, and disposal.

[0016] The container 105 contains liners 110. The container 105 may be positioned near or under a basin and may store multiple liners for sequential use. The container may support manual access by a user and may facilitate efficient retrieval and organization of unused liners.

[0017] The liner 110 may be withdrawn from container 105 for installation within the basin. The liner may be composed of a flexible, hydrophobic material that is suitable for single-use applications involving food handling, cleaning, or other sanitary tasks. The sheet-like form of liner 110 may allow it to conform to the basin interior when applied.

[0018] The liner 110 may include an adhesive strip 115 extending along one or more edges. Adhesive strip 115 may provide temporary adhesion between the liner and the inner walls of the basin, enabling the liner to remain in place during filling, soaking, or washing procedures. The adhesive may be covered with a removable backing prior to application, which the user may peel away during setup.

[0019] A user 116 may manually retrieve a liner 110 from the container 105 and apply it within the basin. The user may align the liner with the basin geometry, activate the adhesive strip by pressing it into place, and prepare the liner for use. The user may then proceed with a cleaning, soaking, or preparation activity using the lined basin. A process 120 may begin once the liner is installed. The process may involve a sequence of actions, starting with liner installation and followed by fluid introduction, item cleaning, and eventual removal and disposal of the liner. This process may support various cleaning or preparation tasks while reducing the risk of contaminating the underlying basin. Water 125 may be introduced into the basin with the liner installed. The water may fill the lined interior of the basin and create an isolated fluid volume above the liner surface. The liner may act as a containment layer, preventing direct contact between the water and the underlying basin structure. Food 130, such as fruits, vegetables, or meats, may be placed into the water-filled liner for cleaning. The liner may provide a sanitary separation between the food items and the basin, allowing the user to soak or rinse the food without concern for prior contaminants on the sink surface. Remaining waste 135, including organic debris, dirt, or other residues, may collect on the inner surface of the liner after food cleaning is complete. The liner may help contain these materials, keeping them isolated from the basin and simplifying cleanup. An user 140 may remove the liner from the basin by peeling the adhesive strip away and lifting the liner in a manner that retains waste and water. The flexible material may collapse inward as it is lifted, facilitating containment of the contents and reducing the risk of spillage. The user may place the used liner into a disposal container 145. This disposal step may mark the completion of the process, enabling a return to a clean, uncontaminated basin environment. The use of a disposable liner in this manner may enhance hygiene while simplifying post-task cleanup.

[0020] FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams depicting an exemplary layout of adhesive positioning and liner structure for temporary installation within a double basin 200 and farmhouse basin 220.

[0021] FIG. 2A illustrates a double basin 200 in which a liner system may be adapted for coverage across both basins simultaneously. In this configuration, food 205 may be placed within one or both sides of the double basin for cleaning or soaking. A double liner 210 may be positioned across the double basin 200. The double liner may include adhesive edges or multiple liner sections joined in a manner that allows each basin compartment to be individually lined, or may span both bowls as a single integrated unit. The adhesive positioning shown may facilitate secure temporary installation over the entire interior surface of the double basin.

[0022] FIG. 2B illustrates a farmhouse basin 220. Farmhouse sinks may present a unique profile with increased depth and a forward-facing apron, which may require a modified liner structure for proper coverage and secure placement. A liner container 225 may be configured to store and dispense liners specifically dimensioned for farmhouse sink profiles. The container 225 may accommodate longer or deeper liners, and may assist the user in selecting the appropriate size. A farmhouse liner 230 may be deployed over the farmhouse basin 220. The farmhouse liner may be cut or preformed to match the distinctive dimensions of a deep or apron-front sink, and may include adhesives in regions optimized for stable positioning under water load during soaking or cleaning procedures.

[0023] FIG. 3 depicts an illustrative use-case scenario representing user interaction with the liner during a cleaning or soaking procedure 300. A user 310 may retrieve a liner 305 from a storage container in preparation for installation. This may involve unrolling or unfolding the liner to expose its full dimensions. The liner 305 may be positioned inside the basin 315. The user may align the liner with the shape of the basin to ensure full surface coverage 320. The user may peel away a protective backing from the liner's adhesive strip. This exposes the adhesive material to prepare it for mounting. The user may press the liner into place along the basin surface, causing the adhesive strip to temporarily affix to the interior. The user may introduce water into the liner and place items such as fruits or vegetables inside for soaking or rinsing. The use may dispose of the liner by tearing the liner and forming a waste storage container 325 to be disposed of. Liquid waste may, for example, be drained, and leftovers may be collected. Solid waste may, for example, be disposed without draining.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for preparing and deploying a sanitary liner in a basin environment 400. In step 405, the user may select a liner from a container or kit based on the intended basin and task. The liner may be prepared by unfolding it and checking for adhesive placement. In step 410, the user may evaluate the basin geometry to determine the appropriate size and type of liner to use, such as one configured for a double sink or deep basin. In step 415, the liner may be laid into the basin. The flexible sheet may conform to the basin's shape, aided by manual adjustment. In step 420, the user may remove the adhesive backing from the liner. The adhesive may be located along one or more edges to support stable installation. In step 425, the lined basin may be filled with water. The liner may respond to the weight of the water by further adhering and conforming to the basin walls. In step 430, the liner may be used in the cooking or cleaning process, such as for soaking food items or preparing ingredients. In step 435, the user may determine whether additional soaking time is required, based on the nature of the contents or cleaning purpose.

[0025] In step 440, the user may puncture or slit the liner near the basin's drain opening, allowing water to exit in a controlled manner. In step 445, the remaining water may continue to drain through the puncture or slit, leaving solid waste inside the liner for collection. In step 450, the user may remove the liner and place it into a waste bin, completing the cleaning or preparation process.

[0026] FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary cleaning and sanitization protocol for a basin prior to liner installation 500. In step 505, the user may wash the basin using warm, soapy water. This may remove food residues or other debris left from prior use. In step 510, the basin may be dried using kitchen or paper towels. Drying the surface may improve liner adhesion and reduce the risk of microbial growth. In step 515, the basin may be sanitized with an approved sanitizing solution, such as a bleach dilution or commercial disinfectant. This step may enhance hygiene before liner installation.

[0027] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary measurement method used to size a basin for appropriate liner selection 600. In step 605, the user may measure the inside edge-to-inside edge width of the sink. This may establish the horizontal span for the liner to cover. In step 610, the user may place a tape measure across the length of the sink basin to determine its full side-to-side measurement. In step 615, the user may measure the front-to-back width of the basin interior. This measurement may ensure edge coverage for deeper or farmhouse-style sinks. In step 620, the user may measure the sink's depth by extending a tape measure from the lowest part of the basin to the top rim. The result may help determine the vertical drop the liner must accommodate.

[0028] n some embodiments, the liner may be configured for use as a marinade preparation zone. The liner may allow a user to combine and season meats or vegetables within a contained space directly in the basin, reducing the need for additional prep bowls or containers and simplifying cleanup.

[0029] In some embodiments, the liner may be used in food-themed art projects involving edible or semi-edible materials. These activities may include egg dyeing, playdough kneading, or slime mixing, wherein the liner acts as a containment surface to minimize mess and protect the basin from staining or material buildup.

[0030] In some embodiments, the liner may support use in first aid or hygienic soaking tasks, such as the cleaning of minor wounds or the sterilization of small tools or baby bottles. The liner may form a temporary sanitary basin environment that avoids cross-contamination with the underlying sink.

[0031] In some embodiments, liners may be marketed with recipe cards or activity kits tailored for family engagement. These kits may include steps for craft projects like tie-dye shirts, baby handprint painting, or paintbrush soaking, each designed to be conducted within the basin using a liner as a protective surface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the liner may be paired with or sold alongside a secondary product such as an organic, biodegradable wipe. These wipes may be composed of wood pulp and infused with aloe or botanical extracts, and may be used for final surface cleanup after liner removal, thereby extending the brand's hygiene system.

[0033] In some embodiments, the liner may be designed to convert a basin into a temporary cooler. When filled with ice, the liner may insulate and contain chilled beverages or desserts without direct contact with the sink, allowing for temporary party or picnic utility within a conventional kitchen fixture.

[0034] In some embodiments, liner designs may be optimized for educational or institutional use, supporting school-based art classes, science projects, or food safety demonstrations. In such cases, the liner may be configured with printed grid patterns, measurement guides, or labeling fields for instructional purposes.

[0035] In some embodiments, future product variants may include integrated pull-tab drain features. These features may allow users to drain the liner without direct hand contact with the internal contents, addressing consumer concerns raised in feedback forums regarding the inconvenience of manually puncturing the liner near the drain.

[0036] In some embodiments, adhesive residue may be mitigated by including an accessory such as an oil-based wipe or residue removal pad packaged with the liners. These cleaning accessories may be offered as part of a bundled product or subscription-based replenishment system.

[0037] In some embodiments, the liner system may be designed to accommodate various sink shapes and sizes, including single, double, and farmhouse basins. The liners may feature adjustable dimensions or customizable sections to ensure a snug fit, enhancing their utility across different kitchen configurations.

[0038] In some embodiments, the liners may incorporate materials that are both durable and environmentally friendly. This could involve the use of biodegradable or recyclable components, aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable household products.

[0039] In some embodiments, the product packaging may include clear usage instructions and visual guides. These aids can assist users in correctly applying and disposing of the liners, thereby improving user experience and promoting proper hygiene practices.

[0040] In some embodiments, the liners may be treated with antimicrobial agents to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. This feature can provide an added layer of protection, particularly beneficial in environments where cleanliness is paramount.

[0041] In some embodiments, the liners may be marketed as part of a comprehensive kitchen hygiene system. This system could include complementary products such as disposable gloves, cleaning sprays, or waste disposal bags, offering consumers a complete solution for maintaining a sanitary kitchen environment.

[0042] Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible.

[0043] Although an exemplary system has been described with reference to FIGS. 1-6, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and/or residential applications.

[0044] In some embodiments, a disposable sanitary liner system may be adapted for retail and online commerce distribution. The liner may be individually packaged or bundled in sets, and may be configured for compatibility with standardized basin geometries found in residential, commercial, or institutional environments. Packaging may include size indicators, instructions for use, or visual identification corresponding to basin types such as single-bowl, double-bowl, or farmhouse configurations.

[0045] In some embodiments, the liner system may be offered through online marketplaces or vendor-specific retail platforms. For example, the liner may be configured to meet quality and packaging requirements typical for fulfillment by e-commerce platforms, including SKU tracking, flat-packed or rolled shipping configurations, and customer-oriented labeling. Embodiments may include QR codes or product identifiers linking users to instructional media or reordering portals hosted on a brand-specific website.

[0046] In some embodiments, a website may serve as a central interface for consumer education and product selection. The website may provide interactive tools that assist users in measuring their sink dimensions and selecting appropriately sized liners. Embodiments may also include downloadable sizing guides or compatibility charts to enhance customer usability. The site may further offer refill packs or accessories such as liner dispensers, clip-on attachments, or biodegradable variants.

[0047] In some embodiments, the liner may be integrated into a consumer kit intended for specialized tasks. These kits may include multiple liners with varied dimensions, each labeled or color-coded for a specific use such as cleaning produce, soaking meats, dyeing hair, washing pet items, or performing crafting activities involving adhesives or dyes. Kits may also include instructional inserts, gloves, or other supplemental materials for safe handling and disposal.

[0048] In some embodiments, product variations may be configured for higher-margin commercial or institutional use. For example, bulk packaging or industrial-sized variants of the liner may be offered to food service providers, elder care facilities, veterinary clinics, or schools. These embodiments may feature increased material strength, enhanced adhesive performance, or custom-fit designs for utility basins, janitorial sinks, or portable sanitation setups.

[0049] In some embodiments, liners may be offered in biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials in response to environmental regulatory concerns or consumer demand. These variations may use natural adhesives, plant-based polymers, or other eco-friendly components without compromising performance. Such embodiments may be particularly suited to retail partners or jurisdictions with sustainability certification requirements.

[0050] In some embodiments, the disposable sanitary liner may include features that allow it to conform to a wide range of basin geometries, including single-basin, double-basin, and farmhouse-style sinks. The liner may be formed from a flat, flexible sheet of hydrophobic material, dimensioned to hold a volume of fluid for soaking or rinsing. The sheet may have a thickness ranging, for example, from approximately 0.2 millimeters to 1.0 millimeters, providing a balance between pliability and durability.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sheet may include visual markings that assist the user in aligning the liner correctly within the basin. These markings may also identify one or more designated regions near a corner of the sheet that are configured to be cut or opened to form a drainage aperture. Such regions may be pre-weakened, perforated, or visually highlighted to facilitate intuitive use, and may be positioned to align with the basin's drain to support gravity-based fluid release during a disposal phase.

[0052] In some embodiments, the adhesive section may take the form of continuous or segmented regions located along the outer edge of the sheet. These adhesive features may include opposing tabs, repositionable pressure-sensitive adhesive, or peel-away protective liners. The adhesive may be formulated to secure the liner temporarily to the basin's interior surface without leaving residue upon removal.

[0053] In some embodiments, the liner may be provided in a container that stores multiple liners in either stacked or rolled formats. The container may include features that assist with individual liner dispensing, and may incorporate instructional graphics or markings for product orientation and use. Together, these structural features enable a hygienic, single-use liner that supports food safety, cleaning, and household utility tasks across varied environments and basin types.

[0054] In some embodiments, the disposable sanitary liner may include a perforated region centrally located on the sheet and configured to form an aperture for drainage. The central placement of the aperture may allow fluid to accumulate evenly across the liner surface and drain efficiently once the aperture is opened. The perforated area may be circular, cross-shaped, or otherwise patterned to facilitate clean separation by pressing, puncturing, or cutting. In some variations, the central aperture may be aligned with the drain opening of the underlying basin to promote gravity-assisted outflow. During use, the aperture may remain sealed to contain fluid, and may be opened during a disposal phase to release liquid contents while retaining solid debris on the liner surface. The central configuration may reduce the need to lift or tilt the liner during drainage and may support intuitive user operation, especially in deep or flat-bottomed sinks.

[0055] In some embodiments, the disposable sanitary liner may be developed in response to growing public awareness of contamination risks associated with kitchen sinks, particularly in light of research and demonstrations using ultraviolet light that reveal high levels of bacterial presence. These embodiments may be designed to address consumer concerns regarding cross-contamination during food preparation, especially during common practices such as rinsing produce, marinating meats, or washing seafood directly in the sink. Inspired by seasonal trends and public debates, such as those that emerge annually around food-centric holidays like Thanksgiving, the liner may offer a safe and convenient alternative to traditional basin use. Drawing conceptual parallels to other familiar disposable kitchen aidssuch as slow cooker linersthe sink liner may be configured for intuitive single-use operation: simply peel, stick, use, and discard. In certain implementations, the liner may include pre-positioned adhesive strips that create a secure and watertight seal along the sink's inner surface, maintaining structural integrity even when exposed to fluids. By enabling consumers to create a temporary sanitary barrier in a space that is frequently cited as one of the dirtiest areas in the home, the liner may support safer food handling and reduce reliance on time-consuming cleaning procedures. These embodiments may be particularly suited for households, mobile food preparation setups, or compact spaces such as RV kitchens where space and hygiene solutions are at a premium.

[0056] The liner may be used to address heightened food safety concerns during major cooking holidays like Thanksgiving. In such embodiments, the liner serves as a protective barrier during food prep practices that have historically involved direct sink use, such as rinsing poultry or marinating meats.

[0057] The sink liner may specifically be designed to adhere securely to vertical and contoured surfaces within a sink environment using waterproof adhesive features. These embodiments may highlight cross-category familiarity to encourage adoption.

[0058] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made. For example, advantageous results may be achieved if the steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a different sequence, or if components of the disclosed systems were combined in a different manner, or if the components were supplemented with other components. Accordingly, other implementations are contemplated within the scope of the following claims.