Most people who cook prefer a sink that's larger rather than smaller: You don't often hear someone complain their sink is “too big.” An undersized sink quickly gets crowded and cluttered, and it's hard to wash large pots, pans, and woks; extra space is better for both food prep and cleanup.
Kitchen Sink Sizes
In general, the standard sink size is 22” x 30”. While single bowl sinks can have a width upto 36 inches, double bowl sinks can go upto 48 inches.
If you frequently use large pans or baking trays, it might be worth getting a sink with an extra wide or extra deep bowl – or even a 1½ / double bowl. If you don't have a dishwasher in your kitchen, make sure you get a sink with a built-in drainer, so you have enough space to let items dry after you hand wash them.
Single-bowl sinks are generally larger than double-bowl sinks, which can make them more convenient for tasks such as washing large pots and pans. They also offer more uninterrupted space for items such as a drying rack or cutting board. Single-bowl sinks are often less expensive than double-bowl sinks.
Most styles of sink work in small kitchens, as long as the sink is roughly between 22 and 24 inches. Anything more than 27 inches runs the risk of being too big and overpowering your kitchen, as well as taking up valuable counter space. As you have less space, a single bowl sink may be the better option.
Base cabinet size
To determine the maximum sink size for your base cabinet, measure the interior of your cabinet and subtract two to three inches from each dimension. A 36″ base cabinet can handle a 33″ sink at most; a 30″ cabinet should be fitted with a sink no larger than 27″ wide.
A sink depth of at least 10 inches will give you the room you need to wash larger dishes without splashing water all over the floor and surrounding countertops. Keep in mind that if you are going with an undermount sink, you will gain the additional depth of the countertop thickness.
Double Basin/Bowl Sink
The most popular type of kitchen sink arrangement, dual basins allow for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other side.
They're roomier, for washing large pots and pans.
And if you don't clean as you go, a big, deep single sink is a good place to stash dirty pots and dishes, so your kitchen looks more orderly.
Double-bowl sink
The most popular style of kitchen sink, the double bowl, is a good choice for those who wash their dishes by hand or who need to be able to perform more than one task in the sink at one time. For instance, one person can be standing at the sink washing up while another chef drains the pasta.
'The easiest kitchen sink material to maintain is going to be one made of stainless steel, copper, cast iron or enamel because they will not support microbial growth as they are not cellulose material,' says Darren Hudema, director of training and technical services at PuroClean.
Deeper sinks typically are preferred by more avid cooks because they tend to use a lot of dishes, pots and pans when preparing meals and deeper sinks allows them to hide dirty dishes from the view of guests and others. Bakers also prefer deeper sinks because they can easily accommodate sheet pans and cutting boards.
The second, smaller bowl is ideal for allowing you to continue using your tap without obstruction, should the main bowl be in use. It's the perfect place for washing vegetables, or simply pouring a drink whilst the main bowl is full of washing up.
However, it is important to note that granite sinks can be susceptible to staining if they are not properly sealed. On the other hand, stainless steel sinks are also extremely durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and heat. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a popular choice for busy kitchens.
The best color for a sink could be traditional white, multi-colored through to a statement black, including metallic finishes in silver, gold, and bronze.
Even the smallest restaurant requires at least two sinks, and many establishments need three. Large commercial kitchens may have several. You need at least one double sink for washing and rinsing equipment. You are required to have at least one more sink for washing hands.
Island Sinks Can Be A Mess Magnet
With so much cooking prep and clean-up localized in one area, the kitchen island can become a hotspot for daily messes. Be it crumbs and food scraps, or the excess water from washing dishes, the area around your sink will no doubt require routine cleaning.
Reasons to consider a double sink
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. The most common reason to choose a double sink is that you need more space because you share the bathroom with another person.
Timeless: Think farmhouse sinks in porcelain, soapstone sinks (integrated into the counter, or not), and surprisingly, concrete (subtle colors akin to soapstone or slate). Copper is a timeless material for pantries and bars.
Birchfield agrees, pointing out that fireclay and granite selections have been on the rise as they offer more warmth or a sense of nostalgia to the kitchen space. "White fireclay apron front sinks have been on the rise offering a charming statement piece.
f you want a sink bigger than 22-inches but still compact enough to fit in a smaller kitchen, a 24-inch sink may make sense. This size is great for food prep and basic cleaning tasks but may not be spacious enough for larger pots and pans.
The thicker steel sink has relatively better damping and denting characteristics because of its mass. But if you purchase a thin sink, you can face denting and bowing problems. Even after a year, you will end up with lots of marks of knives, forks, and other kitchen items.
Farmhouse sinks, also known as apron sinks, feature a wide expanse and deep bowl with an exposed front. They are available in a wide range of materials. This style allows for easier cleaning of larger items like pots and pans.