Find Your Perfect Sink Size With This Complete Guide
Choosing the right sink is one of the most important decisions when designing a kitchen. The perfect sink size can make meal prep, cleaning, and entertaining much easier. But with so many options, settling on dimensions can be tricky.
Standard Kitchen Sink Dimensions
Most sinks fall within a typical range of sizes. Here's what to expect from common configurations.
Single Bowl Sinks
Single bowl sinks are available in many widths, but generally range from 20-22 inches wide and 18-22 inches front to back. Narrower 18-inch models can fit in tight spots, while wider sinks up to 30 inches provide more workspace. Standard 8-inch deep single bowls get the job done for most kitchens.
For larger dishes, an extra deep 10+ inch single bowl could be preferable. Deep single bowls also accommodate a garbage disposal nicely. But if you don't need the extra depth, a larger shallow single bowl provides ample room for stacking, soaking, and washing.
Double Bowl Sinks
With two bowls side-by-side, double bowl sinks span 30-32 inches wide on average. Standard depth remains 18-22 inches front to back. For more depth, choose an oversized double bowl sink up to 10 inches deep.
Extra wide double bowl sinks extending 36-40+ inches offer even more basin space. They allow multiple cooks to share the sink effortlessly. But make sure you have adequate counter and cabinet space before opting for an extra wide double bowl.
Extra Deep Sinks
While most sinks are 6-8 inches deep, extra deep sinks of 10 inches or more provide added utility. The extra depth makes filling stock pots easier and provides ample room for washing oversized cookware.
Farmhouse and apron-front sinks often come in extra deep sizes. Built-in troughs in deep composite sinks enable convenient food prep right at the sink.
Small Sink Options
When tight on space, small sink options like corner, bar, and vessel sinks maximize utility.
A corner sink with two adjacent 18-21 inch sides offers practicality for corners. Bar sinks measuring 10-15 inches work nicely for wet bars. Vessel sinks sit on the counter with small 15-20 inch top diameters.
Specialty & Style-Specific Sink Sizes
Beyond the basics, some sinks come in specialty dimensions to accommodate their style.
Apron Front/Farmhouse Sinks
With their exposed frontal design, farmhouse and apron front sinks make a style statement. Farmhouse sinks typically range from 24 to 36 inches wide and are often extra deep, from 7 to 12 inches.
The defining exposed front looks great but does require a custom cabinet cutout. Farmhouse sinks cannot sit under an existing counter.
Undermount Sinks
Undermount sinks install below the counter with no rim or edges visible. Most models follow standard single and double bowl size conventions.
But undermount installation does "lose" about an inch of basin space on each side. Keep this in mind when choosing an undermount sink size.
Workstation Sinks
Workstation sinks incorporate deep single bowls exceeding 10 inches deep with integrated countertops. The combination sink/workstation allows food prep and cleanup all in one spot.
Workstation sink basins range from 25-30 inches wide. Adjacent countertops span 3-6 feet for ample workspace.
Factors That Impact Sink Size Needs
Consider these points to select a suitably sized sink for your kitchen:
- Kitchen layout - Optimize sink placement in the work triangle.
- Tasks - Accommodate cooking and cleaning needs.
- Dishes - Size and quantity of pots, pans, and dishes.
- Preferences - Desired depth, bowls, and specialty features.
Prioritize tasks performed at the sink like food prep, entertaining, and pet washing. Are two cooks frequently using the sink together? What types of baking, cooking and serving pieces will need cleaning?
Follow these tips to land on the perfect sink dimensions:
- Factor in your current kitchen layout and traffic flow.
- Consider how you use your sink for prep and clean up.
- Allow room to grow - anticipate future needs.
- Prioritize must-have sink features and styles first.
- Don't overlook depth and bowl configuration.
Carefully thinking through your kitchen tasks, dishes, and work habits will clarify your ideal sink size. With so many options available today, there's a sink perfect for any space and needs.