The size of the laundry sink you are installing in your home requires thoughtful considerations. Our goal for writing this comprehensive post is to share our thoughts on how big a laundry sink should be. Our team consulted wisely and brainstormed on this subject before we compiled this post.
How big should a laundry sink be? A laundry sink should be as tall as the countertop in your laundry. Most countertops are 36 inches tall, so that height should be okay. The depth of the laundry sink’s basin should be at least 15 inches and should be big enough to hold about 10-15 gallons (minimum). However, there are smaller basins with 10 inches in depth. There are also bigger, 24-inches deep basins that can accommodate 20 or more gallons.
As you can see, there are several sizes of laundry sinks available. Some are small while some are large. Some laundry sinks even have double tubs. The size of the laundry sink you will install in your home depends on a few factors, as you will soon see in this post. Read on to learn more about laundry sink sizes and the factors that should determine the size you choose for your home.
What is the Ideal Laundry Sink Size?
The typical laundry sink is 36 inches tall, the same height as the standard countertop. It is also about 15 inches deep and has a volume of about 15 gallons. But this typical laundry size may not be ideal for every home. The ideal laundry sink size depends on the size of your laundry room and what you intend to do with the laundry sink, among other factors.
Laundry sinks can be used for so many things. So, you should consider the different purposes it would serve for you before you decide on a size. For instance, any sink that is less than 15 inches deep may only be able to soak just a few clothes. But if the basin is 15 inches deep or more, you can even bathe your pet in the laundry sink.
If you want to do more with your laundry sink and you have space, you can install a double-basin laundry sink. These laundry sinks feature two bowls, and each bowl is usually at least 16 inches deep. The standard double-basin laundry bowl has a full width of 40 inches. For more information, you can check out this article titled, what sizes do utility sinks come in?
How Deep Should a Laundry Sink Be?
Anything from 10 inches deep upwards is good for laundry sinks. But that’s just a simple laundry sink. Simple laundry sinks are about 10-15 inches deep, but they can only perform simple tasks. If you require more functionality, your laundry sink should be at least 15 inches deep.
What is the Ideal Laundry Room Sink Height?
The ideal laundry room sink height is the same as the countertop in the laundry room if you have one there. The standard countertop height is 3 feet (or 36 inches).
How to Choose Your Laundry Sink Size
The first factor to consider in deciding your laundry room size is the size of your laundry room. You should compare the size of your laundry room with how much workspace you desire to have. Look at how much space you have left and install a laundry sink that your space can accommodate. Also, consider what you intend to do with the laundry sink. Make sure to install one that’s big enough for your intended purposes.
The following are factors you should consider while choosing your laundry sink size:
The Size of Your Laundry Room
If you have a large space, you can install a big, multipurpose laundry sink. But if you have a compacted space, you should go for a small-sized laundry sink. The sink might be quite shallow, but you can at least perform some basic functions with it. If you can wash your hands and other grimy items in the laundry sink, it’s good enough. You can also check out this article that we have shared titled, what is a good size laundry room? We have shared the different sizes of laundry rooms that you can have for your home.
How Much of Workspace You Need
If you want spacious countertops, you should get a small-sized laundry sink. The laundry sink should not gobble space, but it should also maximize functionality. Make sure that by the time you install the laundry sink, you still have enough workspace to do all you need to do in the laundry room.
What You Intend to Do With the Laundry Sink
You might want to use the laundry sink also as a bathtub for your pet. If this is a requirement, you should get a deeper and bigger laundry sink. You might need more than just a sink for laundry but other utilities also. So long as you have enough space and budget, nothing stops you from getting a versatile and massive sink.
How Frequent You Will Use the Laundry Sink
If you will use the sink rarely, all you need might be a small bar-size sink. You don’t have to spend a fortune on installing a big, expensive sink that you will use only once in a while.
Who Will See the Laundry Sink
Deeper laundry sinks are better for places where more people will see your laundry sink. If the laundry sink is shallow, anyone passing by will easily see whatever you have out inside it. If you have soaked some clothes in your laundry sink, you don’t want anyone passing by to see what’s inside. So, if the laundry sink will be in an open or high-traffic area of your home, get a sink with a deep washbasin.
Your Height Should Determine Your Laundry Sink Size
If you are very tall, you might need a tall and deep laundry sink. And if you are short, you should get a shallow laundry sink. While washing in the sink, your hand should be able to reach the bottom of the basin.
✅ Video – DIY Utility Laundry Sink Install
This Home remodeling video shows you the nitty-gritty of installing a laundry sink where there was none before. Both the assembly and installation are quite easy and you can do it by yourself. Check out the process in this video and see for yourself.
How to Maximize Space With a Big Laundry Sink
If you have a big laundry sink, you can maximize your workspace by installing one with a foldable sink board. The board should have a hinge that you can extend as need be. You can also create a storage cabinet over and under the laundry sink. This will make additional room where you can keep laundry and cleaning products among other things.
Add a Foldable Board to the Laundry Sink
If the laundry sink leaves little to no room for a countertop, you can install a sink with a foldable sink board. When not in use, the board will be over the sink’s basin. And when you need a workspace, you can extend the board and use it. If you are making a DIY laundry sink, you can make your foldable board with plywood.
Add Storage Space Around the Sink
You can install an upper cabinet above the sink and a lower cabinet beneath it. These storage spaces are good for stowing cleaning buckets, sponges, brushes, cleaning products, and laundry supplies. This will help maximize space in your laundry room if you have a large laundry sink.
What is the Standard Size of a Laundry Sink?
Laundry sink sizes start from 10 inches to about 25 inches. This size is measured by the depth of the basin. This is much bigger than the typical bathroom sink, which is only about 6-8 inches deep.
Should a Laundry Room Have a Sink?
Laundry sinks are not compulsory, but if you need one you should get one. If you are planning to sell your home, you don’t have to remodel your home to install a laundry sink. Most buyers don’t notice the absence of laundry sinks. So, a laundry sink might not add to the resale value of your home. Read this article that we have shared titled, what is the purpose of a laundry sink for an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Can You Wash Your Hands in a Utility Sink?
You can wash your hand in some utility sinks, but not in all. According to the Food Code, you should not wash your hands in food preparation sinks, ware-washing sinks, mop sinks, and service sinks. So, if you are using your utility sink for any of these purposes, it is forbidden to wash your hands in the sink. You can check out this article titled, can you wash your hands in a utility sink for more information.
Conclusion
Generally, the depth of laundry sink basins varies from 10-25 inches, and the height is usually 36 inches. We believe that the guide in this post will help you choose the best size for your available space, convenience, budget, and required functionality.