It seems like every day there’s a new trend in home design. One day everyone is raving about open floor plans, and the next thing you know, people are talking about double bowl sinks being outdated. So what’s the verdict? Are double bowl sinks outdated?
There isn’t a simple answer to this question. While some people may still prefer the look of a double bowl sink, others might find them outdated or even inconvenient.
In general, double basin kitchen sinks are not outdated. It is less preferred by pros but still common in many homes. It is just a matter of opinion.
I have a double bowl sink in my kitchen. Am I archaic? I certainly do not think so. Do I love my sink? Now that I think about it, yes I do. Let’s take a deep dive into this topic.
What Is A Double Bowl Sink?
A double bowl kitchen sink has two basins or compartments in one unit, usually separated by a divider. Mostly, both sink basins are of the same size. However, now, there are double basin kitchen sinks with different size compartments. One basin may be bigger and/or even deeper than the other.
They come in a variety of materials including stainless steel and porcelain. There is also a variety of sizes and styles to choose from and they can be either a drop-in or an undermount sink.
Why A Double Bowl Kitchen Sink?
Now that it has been established that double basin kitchen sinks are not out of style, let us look at why someone will opt for one.
1. A Great Choice For Washing Dishes By Hand
I do not have a dishwasher so the double basin kitchen sink is my preferred choice. My number one reason for this choice would have to be that the double basin kitchen sink is ideal for washing dishes by hand.
The two basins allow me enough space to wash, rinse and drain the utensils. While one basin is used to gather all the dirty utensils and soak them in soapy water, the other basin will have clean water to rinse the washed dishes.
After washing, the dishes could also be left to air dry on a rack in one of the basins.
2. Multi-Use
I find that double basin kitchen sinks are versatile. Aside from being great for dishwashing by hand, it can be great for performing different tasks as well.
For example, one basin can be used for prepping vegetables while the other is used to separate the dirty dishes from food prep.
In commercial kitchens, the double bowl sink allows two people to work at the same time. One person can wash the dirty dishes while the other prep food. It is more efficient.
3. Stylish And Elegant
Despite what some people may think, double bowl kitchen sinks can be quite stylish.
There are a variety of materials, sizes, and styles to choose from. Whether you want a sleek and modern look or a more traditional and elegant look, there is definitely a double basin kitchen sink that will suit your needs.
4. Ideal For Frequent Use
If you cook a lot and for a large family, then a double basin kitchen sink would be ideal for you. The two basins offer enough space to accommodate all the prep work, cooking, and cleanup.
Are Double Bowl Kitchen Sinks Out Of Style?
Double bowl kitchen sinks are not out of style. Before the invention of dishwater, the double basin kitchen sink was the common choice when it came to the kitchen sink.
Now, with the dishwasher being a household appliance in most homes, the double basin kitchen sink has become less popular.
However, that does not mean that they are out of style. Many people still prefer the look and functionality of a double basin kitchen sink.
The bottom line, whether you think double basin kitchen sinks are outdated or not is entirely up to you. There are pros and cons to both sides of the argument.
Is It Better To Have A Single Or Double Bowl Kitchen Kink?
We can compare single and double bowl sinks but cannot exactly say that one is better than the other. Both single and double bowl sinks have their pros and cons. It depends on your personal preference and needs.
For example, if you have a dishwasher, then a single basin sink would be sufficient. However, if you do not have a dishwasher or if you cook frequently, then a double basin sink would be a better choice. Even with that one, it would come down to personal preference.
Some people may find that a double basin kitchen sink is too big and bulky while others may love the extra space.
The bottom line is that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between a single or double basin kitchen sink. The best way to decide is to think about your own needs and preferences.
To help you decide which is better for you, let’s examine the pros and cons of both single and double bowl sinks.
Pros Of Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
- Ideal for smaller spaces: Single bowl kitchen sinks are a better choice if you have limited space. They come in sizes as small as 14 inches and can fit into your space if you have a small kitchen.
- Ideal for washing larger utensils: Ironically, single basin kitchen sinks are great for washing larger utensils. With single basin kitchen sinks, you do not “bump into” any divider while washing. As such, depending on the size of the basin, you can be able to wash bigger utensils with more ease.
- Less expensive: For the most part, single bowl kitchen sinks are less expensive. This is also however based on the material used to make it. In addition, the cost involved in installing a single basin kitchen sink is relatively lower as it requires a single drain.
- Easier to clean: Another reason why people may choose a single basin kitchen sink would be that it is easy to clean. This is largely based on the size and your perspective though. I mean, if you do not like to clean, the size of the sink will not change that.
Cons Of Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
- Not for multi-use: Washing, rinsing, and draining in a single basin kitchen sink can be difficult. Because the sink space can be limited, you cannot wash, rinse and drain your dishes simultaneously. You must do it one at a time.
- Not ideal for “busy” kitchens: If your kitchen will be used regularly and by several people at the same time, then a single basin kitchen sink is not for you. It will just make the kitchen too chaotic. One person may need to wash their hands while the other may want to wash a plate and they may not be able to do that at the same time.
Pros Of Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
We have already discussed why the need for a double basin sink. These reasons are also the benefits. Just to reiterate the pros:
- They provide more space for washing dishes, which can speed up the process.
- They are more efficient because two people can work at the sink at the same time.
- They can accommodate large pots and pans, making it easier to wash them.
- They are helpful for food preparation because it allows for multiple tasks (e.g. vegetable prepping and cleaning) to take place at the same time.
- They can create a more visually appealing kitchen by providing a focal point in the room.
Cons Of Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
- Take up space: Mostly, double basin kitchen sinks are larger and thus take up more counter space. Therefore, if you have limited kitchen space, a double basin kitchen sink is not for you. More so, a double basin sink reduces the space under the sink. This means the cabinet space beneath a double basin kitchen sink could be smaller as they tend to be deeper.
- More costly: Double basin kitchen sinks are more expensive than their single basin counterparts. This is because they take up more space and require more materials. In addition, the installation process is more complicated and thus, costs more.
- Can have less space for washing large pots: Sometimes, the basins of a double basin kitchen sink can be too close together. This could make it difficult to wash large pots and pans in the sink. Also, the second basin may be too shallow or small to be of any use.
Final Thoughts
Double bowl sinks are very much available on the market but they may not be the best option for everyone. Outdated? I will say no. Preferable? I will say that is a matter of opinion.
It depends on your kitchen and sink needs. If you have a small kitchen, then a single basin sink would be a better choice. If you entertain often or have a lot of people in your kitchen at one time, then a double basin sink would be more efficient.
Another thing to keep in mind is the overall style of your kitchen. If you have a more traditional kitchen, then a double bowl sink might not look out of place. However, if your kitchen has a more modern aesthetic, then a single bowl sink might be a better option.
FAQs
What are some of the things to consider before installing a double basin kitchen sink?
Before installing a double basin kitchen sink, consider the size of your kitchen, how many people will use the kitchen at the same time, and how often they will use it. Also, consider your budget and your maintenance culture.
Is it easy to maintain double basin kitchen sinks?
It depends. The material used for the sink and how frequently you do not mind cleaning will dictate if it is easy or not to maintain a double basin kitchen sink.
Generally, because double basin kitchen sinks are bigger, they will have a higher chance of dirt and debris accumulating in them.
If you are someone who likes to clean often, then a double basin kitchen sink will not be difficult for you to maintain. However, if you do not like cleaning or do not have the time to clean often, then a double basin kitchen sink might be more difficult for you to maintain.
Also, if the sink is made from a material that is prone to water spots, scuffs, and scratches, it will be more difficult to maintain regardless of if it is a double basin kitchen sink or not.
