The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home, but no kitchen is complete without a reliable, easy-to-use sink.
In this article, you’ll learn all about the dimensions of kitchen sinks to help you with your next purchase.
Before heading to the store, you’ll need to know the sink’s length and width. To get the correct sizes, measure your countertop and under-cabinet and subtract three from those dimensions.
I used to work in the plumbing department at Menards, so I know a thing or two about sinks. I’ll teach you all you need to know about kitchen sink dimensions.
Standard Kitchen Sink Dimensions
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Food service businesses must have a sink with three compartments that each measure at least 18 x 18 x 12 inches.
However, the standard household kitchen sink usually has one to two compartments. A residential kitchen sink is typically no more than 36 inches long.
After 36 inches, the sink is considered oversized. The most common length for a sink is between 30 and 33 inches.
Most experts suggest you buy a sink that’s at least 7 inches deep, but some sinks have a depth of up to 10 inches. The average width of a standard kitchen sink is about 22 inches.
Although there are standard sizes for kitchen sinks, the size of your sink will depend on how large your kitchen is and what the dimensions of your countertop and under-cabinet are.
Determining the correct kitchen sink dimensions is essential, and not just for aesthetic reasons. A sink that’s too short can cause pain in your neck, back, or shoulders when you use it often.
Sinks that are too large take up too much space, making the kitchen uncomfortable at best and unusable at worst. On the other hand, sinks that are too small might leak and lead to water damage.
You’ll save time, money, and your back when you calculate the correct kitchen sink dimensions.
Other Options
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A newbie will think that if you’ve seen one sink, you’ve seen them all. But we know better!
There are countless styles, materials, and sizes to choose from when it comes to kitchen sinks.
From copper and stainless steel to natural stone and fireclay, kitchen sinks now come in many robust materials to match your kitchen decor. Once you choose a material you like, it’s time to select a style.
Some popular ones include:
- Apron Front: Apron front sinks are also called farmhouse sinks. With a bowl depth of anywhere from 8 to 9 inches, these sinks have deeper bowls than many other options.
- Drop-In: These sinks work well with any counter dimensions, small or large. They’re also the easiest sinks to install.
- Prep Sinks: Prep sinks are best for larger kitchens because you install them in addition to the normal kitchen sink. They usually have a single bowl that’s much smaller than traditional kitchen sinks.
- Wall-mounted: The wall-mounted sink has a unique vintage appeal. These sinks typically have one bowl that is smaller than more modern kitchen sinks.
- Corner Sinks: Corner sinks are perfect for making the most out of a small kitchen space. Installing a corner sink is a little trickier, as you need to get the precise dimensions of two separate countertops. These sinks are about the same size as a modern kitchen sink, with two bowls about 7 inches deep.
Finally, choose the size of your sink by determining the kitchen sink measurements. Make sure you also consider the size of your kitchen.
Things to Consider
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You know what size sink you need, and you found a style you love. You’re all ready to install the perfect kitchen sink, right? Wrong! There are a few more things to consider before you buy.
Drain Location
The drains in most sinks are centered, but some prefer to have the drain further to one side or towards the back of the basin.
Whatever you decide, you need to make sure that the plumbing in your kitchen will work with the sink’s drain location.
Drainboards
Drainboards are a feature that many people overlook. If you hand wash a lot of dishes, an inbuilt drainboard serves as the perfect drying rack.
Number of Bowls
Kitchen sinks usually come with one to three bowls. How many bowls you choose depends primarily on how you will use the sink.
You should opt for a sink with two or three bowls if you hand-wash dishes or cook often.
Size of Your Kitchen
That 36-inch granite sink might be the sink of your dreams, but it might be overkill in your 60-square-foot kitchen.
Choose a sink that adds to your kitchen’s decor but doesn’t overwhelm it.
Dishes
Do you hand wash your dishes, or do you mainly use a dishwasher?
If you mostly wash your dishes by hand, you should opt for a deeper sink. Choose one that’s anywhere from 8 to 10 inches deep.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Buying the perfect kitchen sink isn’t rocket science, but it does take some preparation and know-how. This FAQ will help you get started.
What Is the Length of a Standard Single Kitchen Sink?
he standard size of a kitchen sink measures anywhere from 24 inches to 36 inches long. However, most standard kitchen sinks are about 30 inches to 33 inches in length.
When you shop for a sink, these are the most common sizes you’ll find. Any sink over about 30 inches will typically have a single large bowl rather than two smaller bowls.
What Is the Length of a Standard Double Kitchen Sink?
The standard size of a double kitchen sink is about 33 inches long by 22 inches wide. However, standard double kitchen sinks can be as long as 36 inches.
These sinks are usually larger than standard single kitchen sinks. They have two bowls and are ideal for washing dishes by hand.
What Is the Average Depth of a Kitchen Sink?
The average depth of a 33-inch long and 22-inch wide sink is about 8 inches. You can find kitchen sinks with a depth of up to 10 inches, but experts recommend a minimum of 7 inches.
What’s the Best Size for a Kitchen Sink?
Even if you have a small kitchen, you should get a kitchen sink that’s at least 22 inches long. That said, anywhere from 22 inches to 27 inches is the ideal size for a kitchen sink.
Length isn’t the only dimension that matters when it comes to kitchen sinks. You also want a sink that’s deep enough to handle a few dirty dishes.
A kitchen sink that’s at least 7 inches deep will allow you to pile up a few dirty dishes while still being able to use the faucet. Choosing the right size kitchen sink will make your daily chores much more manageable.
What Does Minimum Base Cabinet Width Mean?
When choosing a kitchen sink, you’ll need to know the dimensions of the under-cabinet and the top counter space.
These two dimensions make up the minimum base cabinet width. For example, if you want a kitchen sink that measures 24 inches wide, your base cabinet width will need to be at least 27 inches.
How Far Should a Kitchen Sink Be From the Edge of a Counter?
When you buy a new sink, it should come with a template. That template will tell you exactly how far your new sink should be from the edge of the counter.
In general, you should keep the template at least 1.5 inches from the counter’s edge when you install the sink.
How Do I Choose a Kitchen Sink Size?
When choosing a kitchen sink size, you’ll need to measure the dimensions of your countertop and under-cabinet. To get the right size kitchen sink, take your countertop and cabinet measurements and subtract 3 inches.
For example, if your countertop and cabinet measure 36 inches long, then your new kitchen sink can’t be more than 33 inches in length. Repeat this step for all of the necessary measurements.
A Final Word on Kitchen Sink Dimensions
When you’re improving your kitchen, take the time to find the correct kitchen sink dimensions before you buy.
By following the advice laid out in this article and measuring your space, you’ll find a new sink that’s the perfect fit!