Choosing a new kitchen sink isn't just about colour or material, it's also about finding the right layout for the way you cook, clean and use your kitchen every day.
One of the most common questions we hear is:
"Should I choose a single bowl, a double bowl, or a sink with a drainer?"
The answer isn't simply one option being better than another. It depends on your kitchen size, your cooking habits, and how you like to work. In this guide, we'll help you understand the pros and cons of each layout so you can choose a sink that suits your lifestyle.
Single Bowl Sinks – Spacious and Versatile
A single bowl sink offers one large uninterrupted basin, making it incredibly versatile for modern kitchens.
If you regularly wash baking trays, roasting pans, chopping boards or large pots, you'll appreciate the extra space that a single bowl provides.
Single bowl sinks are also a great choice for:
- Small to medium kitchens
- Open-plan homes with dishwashers
- Families who cook with larger cookware
- Minimalist kitchen designs
Many homeowners today pair a large single bowl sink with accessories such as a bottom grid, colander or roll-up drying rack to create a flexible workstation.
Best suited for:
- Home cooks
- Apartment kitchens
- Contemporary renovations
Double Bowl Sinks – Great for Multi-Tasking
A double bowl sink gives you two separate working areas, making everyday kitchen tasks more efficient.
Many people use one bowl for washing and the other for rinsing, draining or food preparation. Even if you have a dishwasher, a double bowl can still be incredibly practical when preparing meals.
Benefits include:
- Wash and rinse at the same time
- Separate dirty dishes from food preparation
- Easier hand washing of delicate items
- Better organisation during busy family meals
Double bowl sinks are especially popular in larger family homes where the kitchen is used frequently throughout the day.
Best suited for:
- Families
- Frequent entertainers
- Homeowners who often hand wash dishes
Drainer Sinks – Practical and Convenient
Although integrated drainer sinks have become less common in high-end kitchens, they're still an excellent choice for many Australian households.
The built-in drainer provides a dedicated area for:
- Drying dishes
- Washing fruit and vegetables
- Placing hot pots
- Keeping wet items off the benchtop
They're particularly useful if you don't have a dishwasher or prefer not to leave dishes on the countertop.
Many granite drainer sinks also add a clean, seamless appearance by directing excess water straight back into the sink.
Best suited for:
- Everyday family kitchens
- Homes without dishwashers
- Laundry rooms
- Investment properties
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a single bowl sink big enough?
For most modern households, yes.
A large single bowl sink offers plenty of space for everyday washing and easily accommodates oversized cookware.
Is a double bowl sink worth it if I have a dishwasher?
Absolutely.
Many homeowners still use one bowl for food preparation or rinsing produce while the other remains available for washing or soaking.
Are drainer sinks outdated?
Not at all.
While minimalist kitchens often favour undermount single bowl sinks, drainer sinks remain a practical solution for busy households. Today's granite and stainless steel drainer sinks have a much more contemporary look than older designs.
Which sink is easiest to clean?
Generally, a large single bowl sink with rounded corners is the easiest to maintain because there are fewer edges and joins where dirt can collect.
Granite sinks are also highly resistant to stains and scratches, while quality 304 stainless steel sinks are easy to wipe clean with everyday maintenance.
How Do I Choose the Right Size?
Choosing the right kitchen sink size is about more than simply fitting it into your cabinet. A sink that's too large can reduce valuable bench space, while one that's too small may not provide enough room for everyday tasks like washing large pots and pans.
As a general guide:
600–700mm
Perfect for compact kitchens, apartments and smaller households.
750–860mm
A popular all-round choice for most family homes, offering a good balance of bowl capacity and bench space.
1000mm and above
Ideal for larger kitchens, keen home cooks, entertainers, or anyone looking for a double bowl or integrated drainer.
Before making your final decision, always check your cabinet dimensions and the installation requirements of your chosen sink, as different installation styles may require different cut-out sizes.
If you're unsure which size is right for your kitchen, our Kitchen Sink Size Guide explains common sink dimensions, cabinet requirements and how to measure your space correctly before you buy.
Our Recommendation
There's no single "best" sink layout, only the one that best suits your kitchen and lifestyle.
Choose a single bowl if you want maximum washing space and a clean, modern look.
Choose a double bowl if you value flexibility and frequently multitask in the kitchen.
Choose a drainer sink if practicality and everyday convenience are your top priorities.
The good news is that whichever layout you choose, investing in a quality sink made from durable materials will provide years of reliable performance.
Explore Our Kitchen Sink Collection
Whether you're planning a complete renovation or simply upgrading your kitchen, Ezymall offers a wide range of kitchen sinks to suit every home.
Browse our collections:
- Granite Kitchen Sinks – Scratch-resistant, stylish and available in a range of colours.
- Stainless Steel Kitchen Sinks – Timeless, durable and easy to maintain.
- Single Bowl Kitchen Sinks – Spacious designs for modern living.
- Double Bowl Kitchen Sinks – Practical solutions for busy households.
- Kitchen Mixers – Complete your kitchen with matching tapware.
Our team is always happy to help if you're unsure which sink is right for your renovation.
