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Stainless Steel Sinks Buying Guide
Choosing the right commercial sink is about more than simply selecting the largest bowl size. Bowl configuration, drainer layout, available wall space, workflow, hygiene requirements and the type of venue all play an important role in selecting the right stainless steel sink.
Whether you're operating a café, restaurant, bar, bakery, takeaway shop, butcher, hotel or commercial kitchen, this guide explains the key differences between commercial sinks and helps you choose the most suitable model for your business.
Commercial Sink Types Explained
Commercial sinks are available in a range of layouts to suit different washing, rinsing and preparation tasks. Choosing the correct layout helps improve workflow and keeps kitchen operations running efficiently.
Single Bowl Sinks
Ideal for: Cafés • Small kitchens • Bars • Food prep areas
A practical choice for compact spaces where a dedicated washing or preparation area is required.
Double Bowl Sinks
Ideal for: Restaurants • Bakeries • Takeaway shops • Commercial kitchens
Provides separate areas for washing and rinsing, making it a versatile option for busy food service environments. Double bowl sinks are commonly available with left or right hand drainer options to suit different kitchen layouts.
Pot Wash Sinks
Ideal for: Restaurants • Hotels • Butchers • Heavy-duty kitchens
Extra-deep bowls provide more space for washing large pots, pans, trays and bulky kitchen equipment. Pot wash sinks are designed for heavy-duty washing where maximum bowl space is required.
Choosing the Right Bowl & Drainer Layout
The number of bowls and the position of the drainer should match your kitchen workflow. Consider whether staff naturally work from left to right or right to left, and where clean and dirty items are handled.
Left Hand Drainer
Best for: Kitchens where dirty dishes are loaded from the left side before washing.
A left hand drainer can improve workflow where benches, dishwashers or preparation areas are positioned to suit left-side loading.
Right Hand Drainer
Best for: Kitchens where dirty dishes are loaded from the right side before washing.
A right hand drainer is often preferred where the washing area is positioned near a dishwasher, wall or preparation bench on the right side.
No Drainer
Best for: Pot wash sinks • Large cookware • Heavy-duty washing
No-drainer pot wash sinks maximise bowl space, making them suitable for washing large pots, trays and bulky commercial kitchen equipment.
Installation & Space Requirements
Correct installation helps maintain hygiene, improves workflow and ensures the sink is safe and practical for daily commercial use.
Commercial sinks require:
- Suitable water supply
- Correct drainage connection
- Level installation surface
- Adequate wall and floor clearance
- Space for staff movement and dish handling
Consider the full width of the sink, bowl position, drainer direction and tap location before installation.
General recommendations include: allow enough space for loading and unloading • ensure waste outlets align with plumbing • keep the sink stable and level • allow access for cleaning underneath and around the unit.
Always follow local plumbing requirements and installation instructions for your specific model.
Features Worth Considering
When comparing commercial sinks, look for features that improve durability, hygiene and ease of daily operation.
Look for: Stainless steel construction • Welded bowl design • Left or right hand drainer options • Deep bowls • Splashback • Adjustable feet • Undershelf storage • Pre-punched tap holes where applicable • Rounded internal corners • Easy-clean surfaces • Commercial-grade frame
CKS Pro Tip: If space allows, choosing a larger bowl or an additional drainer can make washing, rinsing and handling large cookware much easier during busy service periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of commercial sink do I need?
Choose a sink based on your workflow, available space and washing requirements. Small cafés may suit a single bowl sink, while restaurants and busy kitchens often benefit from double bowl or pot wash models.
Should I choose a left hand or right hand drainer?
Select the drainer side based on your kitchen layout and how staff move items through the wash area. The best option is usually the one that keeps dirty and clean items flowing in one direction.
What is the benefit of a pot wash sink?
Pot wash sinks have extra-deep bowls designed for large pots, pans, trays and bulky kitchen equipment, making them ideal for heavy-duty commercial kitchens.
Do commercial sinks need a splashback?
A splashback helps protect the wall behind the sink and makes cleaning easier, especially in food preparation and dishwashing areas.
Are stainless steel sinks best for commercial kitchens?
Yes. Stainless steel is commonly used in commercial kitchens because it is durable, hygienic, easy to clean and suitable for frequent daily use.
Do I need a plumber to install a commercial sink?
Commercial sinks should be installed in accordance with local plumbing requirements. A qualified plumber is recommended for water supply and drainage connections.
Need Help Choosing?
If you're unsure which commercial sink is best suited to your business, our team can help.
Browse our range of commercial stainless steel sinks or contact CKS for personalised advice on selecting the right sink based on your kitchen layout, washing requirements and available space.
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