Bar and prep sink guide
A second, smaller sink takes pressure off the main sink. In a busy kitchen it lets two people work at once; in a bar or butler's pantry it keeps drinks away from the dishes.
Prep sink or bar sink?
A prep sink sits in the island or on the cooking side of the kitchen for rinsing vegetables and filling pots. A bar sink sits in a beverage area, basement bar or butler's pantry for ice, glasses and drinks.
Common sizes
Most are 12 to 24 inches wide. A 15 to 18 inch prep sink is big enough for a colander and a pot; a 12 to 15 inch bar sink is plenty for glasses. Check the base cabinet width the sink needs before you order; our sink cabinet fit tool helps.
Drains and disposals
Some small sinks have a 2 inch drain that will not take a disposal. If you want a disposal at the prep sink, choose one with a standard 3.5 inch opening. See the disposal guide.
Placement
Put a prep sink between the fridge and the range so the work flows. Keep a bar sink out of the main cooking zone so guests can help themselves.
Faucets
Bar faucets are smaller but often have a tall, high-arc spout for filling pitchers. A pull-down bar faucet is handy at a prep sink. Match the finish to the main faucet or use it as an accent.
Common questions
How big should a prep sink be?
Around 15 to 18 inches wide works for most kitchens.
Can a bar sink have a garbage disposal?
Only if it has a standard 3.5 inch drain opening.
Where should a prep sink go?
Usually in the island or between the fridge and the range.
Shop bar and prep sinks
Order online, pick up in Keene, or ask us about installation.
Book a consult
Tell us the room, a rough budget range and when you'd like to start. We'll come back with next steps and a realistic timeline, no pressure, no mystery pricing.
