Our readers had some strong feelings about the debate between one single basin and a split sink. While there were passionate arguments on both sides, one trend that popped up was that a larger farmhouse sink made it easier to soak and wash large dishes. Readers Rachel and Aleece’s large families appreciate the ability to stack more dishes into the deep basin and clean everything at once, which large families everywhere will agree matters greatly!
Single vs Double Kitchen Sink: 11 Things You Need To Know
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Published: January 17, 2026
Updated: January 22, 2025
When dreaming up kitchen renovation plans, we often spend most of our time on stunning aesthetics, such as countertops, backsplashes, and even cabinet hardware. Many of us fail to consider the functional components that mean the difference between a perfectly customized kitchen and one that you immediately want to change. In particular, research and investigate the different types of sinks and how each style can affect your daily routines.
Many of our readers have taken the time to provide advice from their own experiences. While many love a single large basin, others prefer a split bowl with a divide. Both sides offer their perspective and the benefits and drawbacks they see for both styles. Even better, they give their insights into the best materials for your stage of life and how to make the most of your current sink. Read on to see all their advice and learn from their experiences!
02 of Multi-tasking Possibilities
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On the other side of the fence, many of our readers espoused the benefits of having a double sink for its versatility. “You can rinse the dishes off on one side and use the garbage disposal while the other can be filled with soapy water and dishes are soaking,” explains homeowner Kerri. This can be especially valuable if you have a busy kitchen with lots of activity and must make every fixture as functional as possible.
03 of More Space With One Basin
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Reader Susan strongly advocates for a large, single sink. She says, “You always wind up with one side a mess, and one never used.” By dividing your sink, you’re limiting the amount of space you can use to hide dirty dishes or soak large roasting pans. Instead, one basin can hold more dishes if you know it might be a minute before you can start washing up.
04 of Different-sized Basin for Maximum Versatility
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What often comes to mind with a double basin sink is two equally-sized bowls, but that’s only one of many options. In fact, many of our contributors shared how much they love their sink with one larger bowl and one small. “I have a large divided farmhouse sink that is divided 1/3, 2/3, and I love it!” Says design aficionado Kim. “The smaller side comes in handy for quickly defrosting meat in hot water.” If you want the size of a larger farmhouse sink with the versatility of a split style, this might be the ideal solution.
05 of Select the Right Fixtures
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If you’re set on a deep, large sink, then you also need to think about the fixtures that will go along with it. With all the amazing customization possibilities out there, be sure to consider all the uses you may need throughout the years. “I like the versatility of the single,” writes homeowner Selene. “It’s easier for washing pots that don’t go in the dishwasher. Just make sure your nozzle spray on your faucet has a good extension for reaching the corners.” I love the spray nozzle on our faucet and can definitely recommend that you listen to this great piece of advice.
06 of Simplify Your Choice for a Smaller Space
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When your kitchen is tight on space, a large farmhouse sink may take up more space than you want to. A large sink takes up precious counter space, a sentiment that professional interior designer Tam Taggart echoed. “Ultimately, the decision should align with your lifestyle and needs. While a double sink promotes efficiency, a single sink may suffice for smaller kitchens, emphasizing simplicity and maximizing counter space. Tailor the choice to your daily routines and kitchen dynamics for optimal functionality.” A smaller footprint might simplify your choice if maximizing space is your number one concern.
07 of Save Water With Less Space
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One great component of a split basin is that you may use less water since you won’t need as much to fill the sink. According to contributor Brittney, she appreciates that she can fill one side to wash dishes while leaving the other side clean. Also noted by many of our readers is the durability of stainless steel sinks compared to white porcelain. “The thing we don’t like is how bad it scratches and stains,” complains Paul. Abigail agrees, saying, “A white farmhouse sink will always look dirty.” If that wasn’t a consideration before, you’ll certainly want to take it under advisement for your future kitchen plans!
08 of Substitute Bathtub for Little Ones
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Reader Jill shares how much she loves a single bowl, and especially for the benefits beyond washing dishes. “If your kids are still little, it makes the best bathtub,” she shared. As a busy mom of twins, I used our large sink with a special bath mat when they were newborns to help with bathtime. Not only did this make bath time more efficient, but it also saved my back from leaning over the tub when they were really little.
09 of Add a Washtub for Soaking Dishes
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What should you do if you already have a large basin but want the advantages of a divided bowl? Thankfully, there are some workarounds that can help you with this conundrum. “You can always add something to a single bowl to make it act like there’s two, but you can never take out a bowl to act like you have a single sink,” shares reader Teresa. A plastic washtub is also a great option and can be easily stored beneath your sink when not in use. With this simple strategy, you can still wash and soak dishes and leave the rest of the sink open for other uses.
10 of Fit Your Sink Style To Your Home’s Design
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With the continued popularity of the farmhouse style, some enduring style choices help you achieve this enduring design while still meeting your specific needs. “I’ve designed more single-bowl sinks than double-bowl sinks, maybe because a single bowl saves space when washing dishes,” writes expert interior designer Jennifer Clavano. “Also, the farmhouse and modern farmhouse look is trendy lately, and they often feature a single bowl sink with an apron front.” This look pairs so well with the butcherblock counters and classic subway tile backsplash, as seen in this rustic kitchen.
11 of Use Your Large Sink as a Drying Rack
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I detest a cluttered countertop, so I love that many readers recommend a large basin with space for a drying rack inside. This easy tip will help keep your kitchen looking more organized and clean and help you use your space more efficiently. Personally, I love this idea and plan to use our large basin as a drying space next time we have a large load of hand-washed dishes. With all the wonderful advice from our readers, we truly hope that it will help you make the best choice for your home and style. Consider all your normal routines as a family and what will make your lives even more functional, and go from there. We hope our readers’ insights help make the decision a bit easier!
