Standard Kitchen Sink Size— Complete Buying Guide
From being a hidden corner of your house to becoming the heart of your home, the kitchen interior has come a long way! As a workhorse in your kitchen, your sink has remained necessary for every design, size, and functionality.
Finding the right sink to match your design aesthetics is crucial, but it’s also equally important to choose a sink design and a sink size that serves your daily needs. So, it’s necessary to think about how you need it to function and what your daily activities look like.
- Do you need a sink for the kitchen island to wash/prep food?
- Do you need a sink that holds lots of daily plates every day?
- Do you need a sink for bigger pans and pots?
There are all-in-one sinks, workstation sinks, triple bowl sinks, and many more options. However, which one is the right sink design for you? More importantly, what will be the standard kitchen sink size for you?
What is a standard kitchen sink size? Saying there’s a single standard sink size for every kitchen out there would be straight out wrong! However, there’s the right sink for every space and style out there, and this guide will help you find the one for you.
What Are Standard Kitchen Sink Sizes— An Overview
A kitchen sink size could be as small as 15-20” (in length) and as large as 60” (in length). Understanding the intended function of the sink and its usage can provide direction in making your choice.
You will find sink sizes between 30” and 36” to be more common in apartments and an average household. Of course, sink sizes between 30” to 36” will all differ in functionality and usage.
Below’s a list of all Kitchen sink dimensions:
15-20” sink sizes (smallest sink for kitchen):
Anything smaller than 30” inches is mostly used for preparing food or washing vegetables/hands/small dishes or a bar sink. It’s also because 15-20-inch sink sizes have less depth than your average 30”-36” sink sizes.
On average, you can expect this kitchen sink width to have a depth of 5-6 inches. This sink size is ideal for your kitchen if you only need it for minimal washing. Plus, it’s also cost-efficient.
Please note: A sink of 15-20 inches in width is referred to as a bar sink and is often used as a secondary sink, usually installed on kitchen islands or home bars for prepping food/cleaning/drying vegetables/fruits.
You can have a small sink for the kitchen island aside from your main sink to have two separate places for washing and cleaning.
Some individuals prefer two different sinks at two different places (countertop and kitchen island) instead of a double-bowl sink to completely separate the washing and prepping area.
30” sink size:
A minimum 30” sink length is ideal if your kitchen uses bigger bowls and dishes. Mind you, a 30-inch sink size can only hold one big bowl at a time.
Estimated depth: 8-10 inches in depth
Check out our Small Kitchen Remodel and the farmhouse sink we installed and loved!
33” sink size:
Of all sink dimensions, 33” could be considered the most standard sink size available in the market. It’s neither too small nor too massive to overcrowd your kitchen.
It’s also an ideal size you’d find in most kitchens, so replacement/renovation will not require a new base cabinet installation.
It’s functional in all senses whether you have a busy kitchen or a kitchen with minimal washing requirements. 33” sink size is cost-efficient, space-efficient, usually easy to replace without many changes, and adjusts well with an average kitchen size.
Estimated depth: 10 inches
Related article: How To Organize A Pantry
36” sink size:
36” is the start of bigger sink sizes and complements kitchens with heavier usage or kitchens bigger in size. Design-wise, 36” has an exquisite presence and usually fits perfectly well with grand kitchen schemes such as island kitchens, U-shaped kitchens, gallery kitchens, etc.
Mostly, 36” is the ideal size for the double sink requirement in case you want to have divided space for dirty dishes and washing/prepping vegetables/fruits.
Estimated depth: 10-12 inches
45”-47” sink sizes (big kitchen sinks) are considered big kitchen sinks with a depth of 10-12 inches.
Large Kitchen Sink or Oversized Kitchen Sink:
This sink size is specially designed for grand kitchen schemes. It’s a rare and rich choice, and suited for very large kitchens.
60” is also perfect if you want to choose an advanced sink such as a triple bowl sink, all-in-one sink, workstation sink, sink with an integrated drainboard, etc.
Estimated depth: 10-12 inches.
What to Keep in Mind When Choosing the Standard Sink Size For Your Kitchen?
Here are a few things to consider before you make the final purchase.
1. Are you renovating the sink area along with the cabinets?
If you only plan to replace the kitchen sink, it’s best to choose the same sink size that was previously installed.
Choosing a different sink size will imbalance your whole budget and may require a complete renovation or at least, a change of cabinets beneath the sink, which will add significant costs. So, if you don’t plan to invest in a whole new cabinet, it’s best to choose the same sink size.
Measuring the depth matters as well. See if your cabinet can adjust a deeper basin than the previously installed one.
However, if you plan to remodel and change the size, choosing a bigger sink size isn’t an issue. Keep in mind the budget will be much higher for renovating the sink cabinets than for replacing the sink. You will also need to change the plumbing fixtures to mount on the new sink as well.
Related article: Spanish Style Kitchen Remodel
2. Cost For Kitchen Countertop Sink
The remodeling cost will depend on your sink type/sink size preference, cabinet design/size, and whether you will be changing the countertop or not.
Consult a professional to get a proper quotation for your remodel. It may cost you $200-$2000+ and the cost varies as per the design and how much you wish to replace.
- Sink cost: $100-$1000 (Double bowl sink, farmhouse sink, or a sink made of marble may cost you as much as $1000-$2000!) However, these are on the expensive side, you can easily find a functional sink to meet all your demands for under $300.
- Base Cabinet/Vanity: $100-$300 but the cost may depend on the design and if it’s custom or prefabricated.
- Modifying the kitchen sink countertop: Instead of replacing your countertop, I suggest you modify it to adjust a new sink to save any additional cost. Kitchen countertops can be very expensive, especially if made of materials such as granite or marble.
- Additional labor: Don’t forget to calculate the installation cost, labor, demolition, etc.
Related article: White Dove Kitchen Cabinets
3. Kitchen Sink Width and Depth
Please note: The kitchen sink depth and width may differ depending on the type of sink you choose (We’ll discuss the different types of sink ahead in the article). Most of these sink types come in different depth/width varieties.
If you won’t be doing much washing, you don’t need a deeper sink, anything between 5-8 inches will do. However, if you will use it for washing large pots and pans, I suggest choosing a sink that is wider (front to back) and deeper. Measuring the depth and width of your basin will facilitate two important aspects:
- A deeper basin will allow more space for soaking and dumping a good number of used dishes together.
- A wider sink will give you more space to work to fit larger sized pots and pans.
3. What’s Your Preferred Sink Type?
Although it’s crucial to keep your budget and size preference in mind, it’s also important to choose a sink variety that meets all your demands. Below is a detailed overview of all the types of sinks available in the market!
Different Types Of Kitchen Sinks— What Kitchen Sink Is Best?
You probably have decided on the standard sink size for your kitchen depending on your budget and space availability by now. However, determining the sink size alone wouldn’t get you to your perfect sink match.
Most of these sink sizes offer a spectrum of options tailored to your specific requirements, be it driven by aesthetic considerations or practical functionality.
Let’s look at all the varieties available for you in the market, it will help you choose only the best.
Sink Types | Functionality Options
Before we head towards our style options, let’s focus on all the sink varieties that offer different/multiple functions.
1. Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
As the name suggests, single bowl sinks come with a single basin, the size can vary depending on your needs. They can be as small as 25” or as large as 42”.
It’s not surprising to know single bowl sinks are the most preferred choice for any average kitchen size. It’s simple, minimalist, and does its job.
- Single-bowl sinks are the most affordable option among all the other varieties.
- They require less space unless you go for a larger sink size, i.e., <33”.
- They come in multiple sizes.
Required Budget: $150-$350. The price depends on the accessories (pull-down faucets, strainer, bottom dish grid, etc) you choose to add to your purchase. Purchasing a simple kitchen sink without any added accessories will cost you $150-$250.
These charges will differ drastically if you wish to purchase an all-in-one sink or a workstation single-bowl kitchen sink.
2. Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
A little higher in cost but not over budget, double bowl sinks come with two basins; one for washing/doing the dishes, and the other is for prepping meals or drying dishes.
Double bowl sinks are perfect for individuals who like to have two separate compartments for cleaning and prepping or to simply keep clean dishes separate from dirty.
It’s a great alternative if you don’t want to install two different sinks at two different places. Having one double sink rather than two different sinks at different locations will save you space and installation money!
Mostly, double bowl sinks have two similarly-sized basins (50/50), but 60/40 (60% area for washing and 40% area for prepping) and 70/30 (washing/prepping) basin integration are also available and becoming more and more popular.
- A 50/50 basin is common choice and allows both sink compartments to be used primarily for washing, yet retains the flexibility for occasional food prep when the need arises.
Double sink dimensions: Ideally, a standard double kitchen sink size should at least be 36” in width (18 inches for each compartment/basin), but that’s just the starting number, a double bowl sink can be as wide as 48 inches (22-23 inch width for each basin)
Required budget: $250-$450
You can always find much more affordable options if you want a smaller double bowl kitchen sink—$150-$180.
The cost variations are not limited to size alone; they may differ by design, color, material, brand, and various other considerations. An expensive brand may cost you $550-$600 for a double bowl sink with added accessories.
3. Triple Bowl Kitchen Sink
Opting for a triple bowl sink is an uncommon and higher-cost decision. Sometimes, it might seem impractical, especially if you select a narrower width. With a narrow width, the individual bowls can become too small to effectively carry out the required tasks, limiting their functionality.
It’s advisable to consider a triple bowl sink only when your budget allows for a wider size, typically greater than 45 inches.
A larger width will allow you to enjoy its primary functions, i.e., washing, rinsing, soaking, and food preparation separately without having to hurry.
Usually, a triple bowl sink comes with two bigger bowls (at the sides) for washing and rinsing and one narrower basin (in the center) for food preparation.
Required budget: $800-$2500 (Don’t purchase a smaller (triple bowl) sink even if you are getting it at a cheaper price ($350-$450) because it will be useless!
4. All-in-one Sink
Whether you opt for a single bowl or a double bowl sink, choosing an all-in-one sink variety can be more convenient, facilitating, and more efficient than an only-sink purchase. It’s because you will not have to waste time purchasing other sink essentials/accessories separately.
An all-in-one sink usually consists of the following: faucets, pre-made holes for the faucets, pull-down sprayer, sink grid, sink strainer, colander, soap pump, etc.
Budget required: $250-$350 (It might cost you $400+ for double bowl sinks)
5. Workstation Sinks
Workstation sinks are a lot more different than all-in-one sinks. All-in-one sinks only come with basic amenities. On the contrary, workstation sinks not only offer sink accessories like a faucet, colander, or stainless grids but even more options.
You can expect cutting boards, drain baskets, drying racks, drainage platforms, waterfall flush, side stain remover, a variety of water outlets, etc.
Above all, they come with a built-in ledge to support the cutting board and triangular drainage baskets to minimize space consumption and maximize functionality. Workstation sinks are also called smart sinks or utility sinks for the many features they offer.
Workstation sinks mostly have a single but large basin to adjust all the amenities. You can expect them to be anywhere between 27” to 57 inches. Bigger workstation sinks will have more amenities compared to smaller workstation sinks, and they may include a separate colander bowl, condiment tray, double faucets, larger cutting boards, etc.
Budget required: $400-$1500
Kitchen Sink Styles
After you have chosen your preferred sink type in terms of functionality, it’s time to decide which sink design will be apt for you. All these sink designs will support different types of sinks!
Apron Front Or Farmhouse Sink (Wide And Deep Kitchen Sink)
Popular for their deep and spacious basins, farmhouse sinks have a modern edge to their appearance, and at the same, they remain a timeless addition to your kitchen.
Back in the day, people had to manually load and unload water from sinks. This led to the invention of farmhouse sinks, curated to hold ample amount of water before indoor plumbing became common. These sinks are wider than most of your available options.
What sets farmhouse sinks apart from the rest of your options is their exposed front, and so came the name Apron Front. Their exposed front can either sit flush with the cabinets or slightly extend beyond them.
Because farmhouse sinks have an exposed front, they enhance and contrast the overall contemporary look of your kitchen, especially if your cabinets are of a darker color.
If you choose an apron front sink, I highly suggest choosing materials such as fireclay, ceramic, white granite/stones, or white cast iron instead of steel. Exposed steel may not complement your kitchen’s overall color scheme.
It’s crucial to note installing a farmhouse sink will require a specific farmhouse base cabinet (open front to allow the sink to stand prominently). If you already have a cabinet or don’t want to invest in a new cabinet, farmhouse sink may not be the right choice for you.
Budget required: $300-$500 (Price may differ depending on the material and brand you choose)
Drop-in Sink, Also Called Top Mount Kitchen Sink
Drop-in sinks will be your easiest choice— not only are they easy to install, but they are also easy to replace without damaging your precious countertop.
As the name suggests, they are dropped in a precut hole and secured with the sink’s rim/lips above the counter. Such a type of sink design often comes with pre-cut mounting holes (2-3 holes) for faucets, soap pumps, etc.
Budget required: $150-$350 (The price may vary depending on the type of sink and material you choose.)
A simple drop-in sink will only cost you $150-$250. However, a workstation drop-in sink, double bowl drop-in sink, or sink made of expensive material will require an additional budget.
Related article: Types Of Countertop Edges
Undermount Sink
On the minimalist and modern edge, you have the undermount sink, built to provide a sharper and more sophisticated look to your equally modern kitchen.
This sink design is mounted underneath the countertop to conceal the rim of your overall sink, this entails a refined and clean look.
Installing an undermount sink is more expensive and complex than installing any other sink type/design:
- Because undermount sinks are anchored to the countertop, a professional installation is a must to avoid damage.
- It requires additional tools, such as mounting hardware, epoxy glue, brackets, etc., to properly attach the undermount sink.
- You may need to reform or modify your base cabinet to adjust the undermount sink properly.
Related article: Greige Kitchen Cabinets
What Is The Best Kitchen Sink Material— All Sink Material Options For You
While durability remains a key factor when choosing the best sink material for yourself, the selected sink material should also align well with the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.
This is also why the “best sink material” may vary for every individual depending on the budget, aesthetic demands, durability, and sink designs.
In terms of durability, almost all sink materials will provide a sturdier base. It comes down to style preference, maintenance, and your budget. While stainless steel or composite materials are more affordable, iron cast, fireclay, or copper will be more expensive options.
Stainless Steel Sink
The most common, durable, and compatible sink material remains stainless steel. Not only is it stain-resistant, but it is also corrosion-resistant, easy to maintain, and easy to clean.
Its versatility isn’t lost in the mist either, the material can easily blend into many designs whether modern, contemporary, or vintage.
However, I do suggest opting for an undermount fitting when choosing a stainless steel sink for contemporary or vintage kitchens. An undermount sink will help decrease the overbearing presence of the metal without infringing on your whole style aesthetics.
Composite Sink
Another affordable and durable option for your kitchen is the composite material. Composite sinks are essentially made using natural stones (a mixture of granite and quartz) and are mixed with resin to build a scratch-resistant and non-porous surface.
- They are a popular choice among homeowners not only because they are affordable, but also because they come in a variety of colors and textures.
- Other qualities include heat resistance, stain resistance, and low maintenance.
They can easily substitute for other expensive materials such as fireclay, solid stone, or iron cast material but save you the extra dollars.
Copper Kitchen Sink
Copper stands out as the most distinctive choice for your kitchen sink, particularly if you have a rusti, traditional, eclectic, or cottage-style aesthetics. Mind you, this material is expensive and may add a thousand more dollars to your budget.
Budget required: $1000
Copper has a rich color and it accentuates your kitchen’s vibe drastically and gorgeously. The sink can also easily go with modern kitchen designs.
However, design isn’t the only benefit copper sinks offer:
- The material is also corrosion-resistant
- Extremely durable
- It has anti-microbial properties to naturally prohibit the growth of bacteria
- It comes in ornate textures that increase the design of your sink and the overall kitchen.
Related article: How To Make Rustic Kitchen Cabinets
Cast Iron
Because cast iron is primarily a combination of metal alloy and smelting iron, it’s your strongest and sturdiest choice among all other options. You can say goodbye to dents or damage for life.
Additionally, the sink is either coated with porcelain or enamel to ensure a smooth surface that’s easy to clean.
Despite the iron base, cast iron sinks blend easily with any kitchen design whether contemporary or modern. Although white is a famous color choice, there are other options to choose from, such as black, tan, or beige.
Price-wise, the cast iron sinks are on the expensive side. In comparison, if the stainless steel sinks cost you $200, the cast iron will be somewhere between $350-$400.
Fireclay Sink
Fireclay sinks are crafted from a unique ceramic clay subjected to high-temperature firing, resulting in a smooth and lustrous finish. This exquisite surface is perfect for apron-front or farmhouse sink designs.
- The firing process results in a non-porous surface that effectively makes this sink scratch-resistant.
- It’s also resistant to chipping or staining.
Instead of having a modern appeal, fireclay sinks have a timeless and vintage appeal, perfect for a traditional or contemporary kitchen.
Just like copper sinks, fireclay sinks are also costlier than your average stainless steel or stone choices.
Budget required: $400-$700
Natural Stone Sink
The natural stone sink will be a luxurious addition to your equally opulent kitchen. Their edition is a statement in itself and speaks for its unique and one-of-a-kind existence. It’s because each stone slab is a unique blend of veins, color variations, and patterns.
Natural stone sinks can be more expensive— the price strongly depends on the stone you choose for yourself.
- Granite natural stone sink: $300-$800
- Marble natural stone sink: $500-$2000 (Marble is more expensive than most options.)
Related article: White Quartz Countertop