How to Choose the Right Size Farmhouse Sink for Your Kitchen
Bigger isn’t always better. (But sometimes it is.)
Choosing the right size farmhouse sink isn’t just about measuring inches—it’s about matching your kitchen’s layout, cabinet size, cooking habits, and even your cleanup style.
Whether you’re eyeing a classic 33″ fireclay apron-front or a compact drop-in copper sink, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before clicking “Add to Cart.”
Bonus: We’ve included a take-it-with-you downloadable checklist below to make shopping a breeze.
1. Start with Your Cabinet Size
Your base cabinet is the true MVP of your sink setup. Most farmhouse sinks are installed into a cabinet with no countertop support in front (since the sink’s apron will show). That means accurate cabinet sizing is key.
| Cabinet Width | Recommended Sink Width |
|---|---|
| 30″ Cabinet | Max 27″ sink |
| 33″ Cabinet | Max 30″ sink |
| 36″ Cabinet | 34″ Quick-Fit® sink or under 36″ traditional farmhouse sinks |
| 42″+ Cabinet | 36″+ sink |
| 42″ Corner Cabinet | Max 30″ sink |
Pro Tip: Don’t judge a sink by its label alone. While sinks are often marketed in whole-number sizes (like 33″ or 36″), the actual dimensions may be slightly smaller and that can make a big difference. Always check the spec sheet, typically available online or on the packaging, for exact dimensions—especially if you’re working with tight cabinet space. You might be pleasantly surprised by what fits!
2. Check the Depth and Front Clearance
Farmhouse sinks are famous for their bold apron-front style—but that signature look comes with a bit of extra depth. Most apron-front sinks are 9–10 inches deep, compared to the standard 7–8 inches of a traditional drop-in sink.
- Front clearance: This extra depth often means cabinet modifications are required, especially to the front-facing section where your cabinet doors live. But here’s the good news, Sinkology’s Quick-Fit® Easy DIY Drop-In farmhouse sinks are specially designed to deliver that classic apron-front look—without needing to cut or adjust your cabinet doors.
- Depth check: Deep sinks = fewer splashes, but more bending.
If ergonomics matter, consider a shallow-depth model for more comfort. Sinkology offers the Turner, also known as the “Feel Good Farmhouse Sink”, because your back will thank you for saving that extra inch or so of bending.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle
How do you actually use your kitchen? Your daily habits can help guide your perfect sink size.
| If You… | Then Consider… |
|---|---|
| Cook big meals or batch prep | A wide single bowl sink (33″ or larger) for oversized pots and pans |
| Have a small kitchen or tiny home | A 24 – 27″ compact farmhouse sink |
| Prefer washing and rinsing separately | A double-bowl farmhouse sink |
| Use a dishwasher for most dishes | A 30″ single bowl should be plenty |
| Have young kids helping in the kitchen | A shallower sink = safer and easier reach |
4. Material Matters (But So Does Size)
Size is step one. But your choice of material also impacts what “big” really means. Different materials not only impact the look and feel of your kitchen—they also influence the sink’s weight, durability, maintenance, and even installation requirements.
Here’s a breakdown of common kitchen sink materials and how they relate to size and function:
| Material | Pros | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Fireclay | Classic, durable, non-porous | Heavier; often thicker-walled, which can affect interior bowl space vs. outer dimensions. Fireclay sinks may require additional support like Sinkology’s LevelUp™ Undermount Sink Support |
| Copper | Naturally antimicrobial, rich patina, lightweight | Living finish evolves over time; may require extra care; often available in smaller widths—great for compact kitchens |
| Stainless Steel | Lightweight, proven, modern, affordable | May show water spots or scratches; thinner gauges can feel less sturdy |
| Granite Composite | Extremely durable, scratch-resistant, sleek look | Heavier; not all colors match every faucet or drain finish |
| Cast Iron | Durable and glossy with vintage charm | Very heavy—requires reinforced cabinet base and careful handling during install |
| Porcelain | Glossy, traditional appearance | Prone to chipping if heavy objects are dropped; best for light-use kitchens |
| Solid Surface / Acrylic | Seamless look, often lighter in weight | More prone to scratches or discoloration over time; may not handle high heat well |
Want form and function? Choose a Sinkology All-In-One Kit that pairs the perfect-sized sink with a matching faucet, drain, and Care IQ® Kit.
5. Don’t Forget Installation Fit
Size isn’t just about the sink itself. Ask these questions before buying:
- Will the sink fit inside my cabinet without major carpentry?
- Is the countertop cutout the right width/depth/shape—or will it need adjusting?
- Will my current plumbing line up with the new sink’s drain placement?
Need a visual walk-through? The BILT® App is your installation cheat code. It breaks down every Sinkology sink install into 3D animations and audio guidance. Know what tools you need and whether you’ll need an extra set of hands.
6. Download Your Farmhouse Sink Size Checklist
Take the guesswork out of shopping. Use this checklist at home, when browsing online or bring it with you to the store.
Download the Checklist: Choosing The Right Size Farmhouse Sink (PDF)
Or print this page to have the checklist below handy whenever you need it.
CHECKLIST: Choosing The Right Size Farmhouse Sink
Measurements to Take at Home
Current Sink Dimensions:
- Width (left to right): ___________ inches
- Depth (front to back): ___________ inches
- Bowl depth (top to bottom): ___________ inches
- Sink material: __________________________
Current Cabinet Base Dimensions:
- Cabinet width (outside): ___________ inches
- Cabinet width (inside usable space): ___________ inches
- Cabinet depth (front to back): ___________ inches
- Cabinet height: ___________ inches
- Distance from cabinet front to existing countertop edge: ___________ inches
Countertop Cutout Dimensions:
- Cutout width: ___________ inches
- Cutout depth: ___________ inches
- Is there a backsplash to consider? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Are cabinet doors flush with counter or inset? ___________________
Measurements & Info to Gather In-Store / Online
New Sink Brand, Model Name: _______________________
SKU#: _______________________
Material:
[ ] Fireclay [ ] Copper [ ] Stainless Steel [ ] Cast Iron [ ] Granite Composite [ ] Other: ___________
Marketed Width: ___________ inches
Actual Exterior Width (from spec sheet): ___________ inches
Bowl Depth: ___________ inches
Apron Height (if applicable): ___________ inches
Drain Location:
[ ] Center [ ] Rear-offset [ ] Side-offset
Mounting Style:
[ ] Drop-In [ ] Undermount [ ] Quick-Fit® [ ] Other: ___________
Faucet Compatibility:
- Number of faucet holes: ___________
- Fits single-hole faucet? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Deck thickness supported: ___________ inches
- Room for soap dispenser/sprayer? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Installation & Fit Considerations
- Will this sink fit my current cabinet without cutting the frame?
- Will I need to modify my cabinet doors or face frame?
- Do I need a support frame or extra bracing for this sink?
- Will my current countertop cutout work as-is?
- Will plumbing (drain + water lines) need to move?
- Does the material require special handling during install?
- Have I downloaded and reviewed installation steps in the BILT App?
Personal Preferences
- Single-bowl or double-bowl? ___________
- Deep basin or shallower profile? ___________
- Match sink finish to faucet and hardware? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Want a sink that develops a patina over time? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Prefer a scratch-resistant surface? [ ] Yes [ ] No
Final Reminders Before Purchase
- Double-check exact sink dimensions in the product specification sheet.
- Confirm cabinet fit (actual size vs. listed size).
- Ask about return policies or restocking fees.
- Take photos of your current setup for reference.
- Consider buying a sink kit with matched components to simplify shopping.
If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or crafted stainless steel sink, our Sinkologists™ are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok for more helpful tips and design ideas.