Find out the most common kitchen sink sizes on the market
Measure lipped sinks from lip to lip, or from edge to edge for lipless sinks.
25 inches is the smallest common size for kitchen sinks.
For spacious kitchens, sink sizes can stretch 39 inches or more.
Your kitchen sink is essential for maintaining the flow of your kitchen, whether you’re washing fresh produce or taking care of the dirty dishes. If you’re in the market for a new one, learning about kitchen sink sizes is almost as important as the type of kitchen sink, and there are a variety of standard sizes to choose from. Here’s what you need to know about the most commonly available kitchen sink sizes.
Although there’s no hard-and-fast rule for how big or small a sink should be, the go-to standard kitchen sink size is 30 inches wide. That’s mainly because such dimensions can fit into both spacious and tiny kitchens alike, and is large enough to allow for either a single or double basin sink. While you can find sinks made from just about any material in these proportions, farmhouse and double-basin sinks are among the most popular styles for this kitchen sink size.
Kitchen sinks come in a wide variety of styles and sizes. They can vary a lot in length, but many options will be 22 inches wide. Their depth can also range anywhere from 6 to 12 inches, with deeper vs. shallow sink options being preferable for preventing splashback while cleaning.
A 25-inch option is one of a couple of small kitchen sink sizes in today’s market. These are ideal for compact kitchens, as they take up minimal space while still being functional. Farmhouse-style sinks are frequently chosen at this size, but it’s also common to see drop-in kitchen sinks or flush-mount sinks.
The 27-inch sink is a popular choice for small to medium-sized kitchens, although it falls on the smaller end of the spectrum for kitchen sink sizes. While there are farmhouse-style sinks available in this size, drop-in sinks are the most common. This size of sink can come as a single basin or double sink, although some may find a double sink to feel cramped in this size range.
If you have a spacious kitchen, you may consider installing a 33-inch kitchen sink. You’ll find a variety of farmhouse sinks, double-basin sinks, and drop-in kitchen sinks in this larger size. While it demands a lot of counter space, a sink of this size provides ample room for dishwashing and soaking large cookware. Building a kitchen island can provide the additional counter space you need to make a large sink work seamlessly into your space.
In larger kitchens, a sink size of 36 inches is luxurious and highly functional. These generously-sized sinks come in a wide range of styles, including drop-in sinks, farmhouse sinks, and double-basin sinks. For a complete refresh, consider new kitchen backsplash ideas to make a statement that extends through the kitchen.
Sinks wider than 36 inches are available for extra-large kitchens. If you have the space, your kitchen sink can even be as large as 46 inches. Models in these larger sizes are often convertible “workstation” sinks, including attachments such as strainers and cutting boards.
There are a few important things to consider when choosing a new kitchen sink size, the most consequential being the proportions of your other kitchen features.
Take measurements of everything—especially your countertops—to know how it will fit into your space as a whole. For example, if you discover that your countertops are smaller than you thought, you’ll know to pick a similarly smaller sink to conserve what you have.
The type of kitchen sink you choose will also affect how small or large your final choice should be. For instance, there’s a difference in how much counter space an undermount vs. drop-in sink will use—the former has a lip that will take away an inch or two from your workstation, while the latter doesn’t take up any additional room. Additionally, those interested in double- or triple-basin sinks will need to choose a size range that will accommodate their bulkier dimensions—nothing below 33 inches long in most cases.
Finally, don’t overlook your particular needs as a home cook when picking a kitchen sink size. Ask yourself how often you cook and exactly how many people you’re cooking for to determine what’s right for you. Single or double-person households should have no issue with single-basin sinks on the smaller side, while larger groups should consider bigger and deeper options. Whether or not your setup has a garbage disposal can also have an impact, as these drains are one or two inches wider than standard alternatives, and a sink needs to be large enough to fit them comfortably.
If you’re replacing what you already have, it’s important to know how to measure for a new kitchen sink properly. For sinks with a lip, start by measuring the length from one outer edge of the sink lip and extending to the opposite outer edge of the lip. If your sink doesn’t have a lip, like a farmhouse or undermount sink, measure the length starting from one edge of the countertop and extending to the other edge lengthwise.
The same principle applies to measuring the width: Depending on the type of sink, you’ll either measure lip to lip or from one countertop edge to the opposite edge.
If you’re looking to get a larger sink than the one you currently have, many new sinks will come with a paper or cardboard template that precisely outlines the area where you’ll be making the cut. Don’t have the counter space? Extending your kitchen island or building a new one can give you the room you need to do the upgrade.
If your remodeling aspirations include everything plus the kitchen sink, the next step is to budget for project costs. On average, a kitchen remodel costs anywhere from $15,000 to $40,000 or more. However, only replacing or installing a sink costs between $220 to $700, depending on the sink size and type. If you’re unsure about sizing for your sink installation or replacement, consider hiring a kitchen sink installer near you who can work within your budget to help you achieve your dream kitchen.
Alison Kasch contributed to this piece.
