When designing or renovating a kitchen, one of the most important yet often overlooked decisions is selecting the right sized double sink. With so many options on the market, it can get confusing fast. Should you go for a standard 22-inch size or opt for an extended large double sink?
Read on to learn standard measurements, when to size up or down, special considerations for farmhouse styles, and more tips to take the guesswork out of finding the perfect double kitchen sink.
Standard Double Sink Dimensions
The most common width for a double kitchen sink falls between 22 and 33 inches wide. The standard length tends to be anywhere from 30 to 36 inches. When it comes to depth, most household double sinks have a basin depth measuring 8 to 10 inches deep.
As an example, a popular configuration is a 33-inch wide double sink basin with two equally-sized 22-inch sinks positioned side-by-side. The length is often 30 inches. This 22×33 standard allows the sink to fit nicely within a typical 36-inch sink base cabinet while leaving room on either side for mounting.
Depth Considerations
While that standard 8 to 10-inch sink basin depth works well for most households, you may want to consider going shallower or deeper.
If you have a particularly tall family, choosing a deeper double kitchen sink around 10 inches helps make cleanup of large pots and pans easier. The additional depth helps reduce splashing as well. Just ensure the sink base cabinet is deep enough to accommodate the larger size.
For short homeowners, or if you prioritize a streamlined look, consider dropping down to a shallower basin depth around 6 to 8 inches. The reduced depth brings the water level closer to the counter surface for easy access.
When to Consider Extended Double Sink Sizes
While a 22 inch double sink meets most family’s needs, you may want to consider bumping up to an extended large double sink in certain situations:
Accommodating Larger Kitchen Spaces
For particularly spacious kitchens, a larger double basin sink that’s up to 48 inches wide can help anchor the sizable countertops and cabinets. Oversized sinks make a stylish design statement while offering ample cleaning room for heavy use.
Fitting Extra Wide Sink Cabinets
If your kitchen remodel includes an extra wide sink base, you’ll need an oversized double sink basin to fill the larger void. Measure the exact interior cabinet width and allow around 2 additional inches for mounting before shopping for sinks.
Improving Multi-User Functionality
For busy families, upgrading to an extended double sink provides each person washing dishes more personal space. Wider sinks allow multiple people to use the area simultaneously without crowding.
Farmhouse and Apron-Front Double Sinks
If aiming for a vintage charm or rustic style with your new double sink, a farmhouse or apron-front model is likely on your radar. Unlike standard double sink basins, farmhouse sinks are characterized by:
- An exposed front panel that installs onto countertops, enhancing classic appeal
- Deeper bowl depths up to 10 inches
- Elongated lengths ranging anywhere from 20 to 60 inches long
Due to the signature exposed panel that fits flush to counter edges, pay special attention that your existing cabinetry can accommodate these larger farmhouse sinks. Focus on sink length and front panel height early in your selection process.
The Role of Kitchen Cabinet and Countertop Size
Available kitchen cabinet and countertop space plays an integral role in double sink sizing. As you shop for your dream sink, focus first on measuring your existing sink cabinet or vanity width.
The interior width dictates the absolute maximum dimensions your new double basin sink can take. Remember to account for at least an inch of mounting space on either side of the sink when sizing appropriately.
For countertop cutouts, opt for a sink template that allows 1 1/2 to 2 inches clearance on every side. This provides the necessary room for securing clips or brackets during final installation.
New Cabinet Considerations
If your kitchen refresh includes installing all new cabinets too, you have more flexibility on dimensions. Just be sure to coordinate your sink and cabinet measurement ahead of time to ensure alignment.
Design professionals recommend selecting your dream sinks first, then using their measurements as a guide for requisite cabinet sizing during building. This sequencing ensures a customized finished look.
Shopping Tips for Double Kitchen Sinks
Armed with standard sizing context for double sinks, use these helpful tips while shopping:
- Always measure existing sink base cabinet interiors first to understand width constraints
- Focus on key measurements like overall dimensions, basin depth, and rear-to-front apron heights for farmhouse models rather than basing decisions on sink capacity alone
- Ask sellers if sink drain and faucet hole positions accommodate your existing kitchen’s hookups before purchase
Keeping these practical size considerations in mind takes the guesswork out of choosing the perfect double basin kitchen sink for both form and function.
FAQs on Double Kitchen Sink Sizes
What size should a double kitchen sink be?
Most standard double kitchen sinks measure 22 inches wide and 30 to 36 inches long. However, farmhouse or apron-front double sinks can range from 20 inches up to 60 inches wide to accommodate larger vintage-inspired spaces.
How wide of a sink can fit in a 36 inch cabinet?
The maximum double kitchen sink size that fits a typical 36-inch wide sink cabinet is around 32 to 34 inches. This leaves 1 to 2 inches of mounting space on either side of the interior cabinet width.
What is the standard height for a kitchen sink?
Standard kitchen counter height falls between 34 to 36 inches tall. Most sinks designed for home use have a basin depth of between 8 and 10 inches to keep the water level comfortable for use within this counter height.
When selecting your dream double kitchen sink, prioritize measurements like overall sink dimensions, sink basin depth, and farmhouse apron-front heights first. Comparing your existing sink cabinet and countertop cutout sizes ensures you find an optimal fit the first time.
Keeping these standard double sink sizing benchmarks in mind removes the complexity from the equation. Focus on the dimensions and proportions most vital for your family’s needs and space to transform your cooking area with a functional, beautifully-sized double basin sink.
