How to Choose the Right Size Kitchen Sink

How to Choose the Right Size Kitchen Sink

Whether you're building a new kitchen or remodeling an existing one, you're probably in the market for a new kitchen sink. In order to find the sink that meets your needs both functionally and aesthetically, it's important to consider placement, style, and kitchen size. Here are a few things to keep in mind so you can upgrade to the perfect new sink.
1

Measure for Sink Size and Placement

Apron sink in bright kitchen with wood countertops
Type Width
Average Sink 22 to 30 in
Single Bowl 22 to 23 in
Double Bowl up to 48 in
Triple Bowl up to 60 in

 

Where you want to put your sink is key to getting the right measurements. If you’re using an existing space to place your new sink, you’ll want a sink that matches the current measurements. If you are renovating your kitchen, you have a little more freedom to customize and accommodate for the exact type and size of sink you want.

2

Estimate Minimum Cabinet Depth for Proper Fit

Small sink in corner of white kitchen Image Provided by Bright Yellow Door

Before you purchase a new sink, make sure you have enough counter and cabinet space to accommodate the sink you want. Most kitchen sinks can fit an average cabinet depth of 24 inches, but each kitchen sink has a minimum cabinet size requirement for proper fit. A sink’s minimum cabinet size is a measurement indicating the least amount of under-cabinet and top counter space required for the sink to fit properly. Look at the product description to find the minimum cabinet size, and then measure your kitchen’s available counter space from front to back to find out if the sink will fit.

3

Subtract Kitchen Backsplash From Measurement

White apron sink in kitchen with blue cabinets

A tile or stone backsplash is useful for making sure water from your sink doesn’t splash and damage the sheetrock of the wall behind your counter. However, a backsplash also decreases the counter space available for your kitchen sink. Make sure you measure and take into account the thickness of your backsplash and subtract it from your countertop’s depth measurement.

4

Choose a Kitchen Sink for Your Needs

Wide stainless steel sink in modern kitchen Image Provided by Bryce and Stefanie

It’s essential to choose a kitchen sink that suits your kitchen’s size and your cooking needs. A small sink in a small kitchen will help free-up counter space while a spacious kitchen affords the room for a large sink. When it comes to function, the style will play a large role in how you use your sink. For example, an undermount sink allows you to easily clean your counters by sweeping crumbs and food straight into the sink. If you need room for food prep and cleaning, a double-bowl sink gives you room to both wash dishes and peel vegetables.

5

Consider Kitchen Sink Styles

Farmhouse kitchen with white apron sink Image Provided by The Foothill Farmhouse

There are many mounting styles and shapes that might determine the placement and installation of your new kitchen sink. Here are a few common sink styles to consider while you shop.

 

Undermount Sink: An undermount sink has an edge or lip that mounts beneath the countertop instead of above it, creating a seamless look and leaving extra counter space.

 

Apron-Front Sink: An apron-front sink, or farmhouse sink, is large and tub-like with an exposed front that either sits flush or extends beyond the counter line. This sink type requires cutting out extra counter and cabinet space prior to installation.

 

Drop-in Sink: A drop-in sink (also called a top-mount or self-rimming sink) is a very common kitchen sink style that can be placed in an existing space cut out from the countertop. It is mounted using an edge or lip that hangs over the counter.