Double vs Single Bowl Kitchen Sinks: Which Is Best for Your Kitchen?
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, one of the most common questions I get at Ross’s Discount Home Centre is whether it’s better to go for a double kitchen sink or a single bowl kitchen sink. And I get it—the right sink can make all the difference to your daily routine, whether you’re cooking for the family or just doing a quick wash up after brekkie.
As someone who’s helped fit out more kitchens than I can count (including my own at home), I’ve seen just about every scenario. I’ve watched busy families struggle with the wrong-sized sink and single-person households realise they never use the second bowl. That’s why I’m sharing this guide—to help you make the right choice for your kitchen and avoid any regrets down the track.
In this guide, you’ll get the real lowdown on double and single bowl sinks:
- what each type is,
- their pros and cons,
- a side-by-side comparison,
- who they’re best suited for,
- and answers to the kitchen sink questions I hear most.
And yes—every sink you see at Ross’s is stainless steel. I’ll let you know why I think that’s the best option as we go.
What’s the Difference? Single Bowl vs Double Bowl Kitchen Sinks
When you start shopping for a kitchen sink, you’ll notice two main options: the classic double bowl kitchen sink and the streamlined single bowl kitchen sink. I get asked about the difference just about every week at Ross’s, so let’s break it down in plain English.
Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
A single bowl kitchen sink (sometimes called a one bowl kitchen sink or just a single sink) is exactly what it sounds like—one large, open space. You’ll spot these in a lot of modern homes, apartments, and smaller kitchens. They’re brilliant for washing big pots and trays, and because there’s no divider, you get the most usable space. At Ross’s, you’ll find both round sinks (for a softer look or retro vibe) and sharp square sinks (which are very on trend right now). If you’ve got a dishwasher doing most of the heavy lifting, a single sink is often all you need.
Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
A double bowl sink (or double sinks) gives you two separate bowls, side by side. Some have the same size bowls, while others are offset with one smaller than the other. It’s a bit of a multitasker’s dream—wash in one side, rinse or stack dirty dishes in the other. If you’re into batch cooking, hand-washing, or entertaining, double bowls make life easier. You can also get a double drainer sink (draining boards on both sides) or a double kitchen sink with drainer (one or two bowls plus a draining board).
And just so you know, every kitchen sink at Ross’s is stainless steel. Why? It’s hygienic, easy to keep clean, and takes a real beating without showing its age.
TL;DR: A single bowl kitchen sink is one large, open space—perfect for big items and smaller kitchens. A double bowl kitchen sink offers two separate spaces for multitasking and busy households. Every Ross’s sink is stainless steel for durability and easy care.
Benefits of a Single Bowl Kitchen Sink
When it comes to choosing a new kitchen sink, there’s a reason so many renovators and home cooks are drawn to the single bowl kitchen sink. It’s not just a space-saver—it’s a genuinely practical choice that suits the way a lot of Australians live, cook, and clean. Over the years at Ross’s, I’ve seen single sinks work wonders in kitchens of all shapes and sizes, especially in modern homes where simplicity and efficiency are king.
More Space for Washing Large Items
With a single bowl sink, you get an open, uninterrupted space—perfect for washing up big pans, baking trays, and oven racks. There’s no divider to get in the way, so you can tackle the mess from Sunday roast or a big barbecue without feeling cramped.
Streamlined, Easy to Clean
If you’re after a kitchen that’s easy to keep spotless, a one bowl kitchen sink really delivers. Fewer edges and joints mean less grime and fewer spots for food scraps to hide. That’s one less cleaning job you’ll dread.
Takes Up Less Bench Space
Bench space is precious, especially in smaller kitchens or apartments. A single sink makes the most of the available area and keeps your kitchen feeling open and uncluttered. If you’re short on bench space or just want a minimalist look, this is the way to go.
Ideal if You Use a Dishwasher
If your dishwasher handles most of the dirty work, a single bowl kitchen sink is usually all you need. It’s big enough for quick rinses, hand-washing a few delicate items, or filling the kettle—without taking over the kitchen.
Modern Aesthetic in Round or Square
The right sink can lift the whole look of your kitchen. At Ross’s, you’ll find single bowl stainless steel kitchen sinks in both tending round and square designs. Square sinks are especially popular for modern, architectural kitchens, while round sinks give a softer, classic touch.
It’s all about making your kitchen work for you—without the clutter or hassle. If you want to see the full range of single bowl options, drop into Ross’s and we’ll walk you through what’s possible.
TL;DR: A single bowl kitchen sink gives you loads of space for washing big items, is simple to clean, saves valuable bench space, and fits right in with modern Australian kitchens—especially if you’re using a dishwasher most of the time.
Benefits of a Double Bowl Kitchen Sink
When it comes to practicality and versatility, a double kitchen sink really stands out in busy homes and kitchens where multitasking is a must. This style is a classic for good reason—offering multiple ways to keep your kitchen running smoothly, no matter how hectic things get.
Multitasking Made Easy
With two separate bowls, you can wash in one and rinse in the other, or keep one side clear for prepping food while soaking pans in the other. If you do a lot of hand-washing, you’ll appreciate having options for different tasks at the same time.
Perfect for Hand-Washing, Food Prep & Defrosting
For those who don’t rely on a dishwasher—or who prefer to wash certain items by hand—a double bowl sink is a real lifesaver. You can dedicate one bowl to washing dishes and keep the other free for rinsing vegetables, prepping food, or even defrosting meat. This not only makes the workflow smoother but also helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps your food prep hygienic.
Drainer Options for Busy Kitchens
Many of our double sinks at Ross’s come with a drainer or as a double drainer sink. This gives you extra space for stacking, drying, or draining—great for bigger families or anyone who loves to entertain.
A Timeless, Family-Friendly Look
There’s a reason the double kitchen sink has been popular for generations. It looks right at home in family kitchens and brings a sense of tradition and comfort to your space, while still offering the modern performance of quality stainless steel.
Every double sink at Ross’s is crafted from durable stainless steel, so you’re choosing both function and longevity.
TL;DR: A double bowl kitchen sink is built for multitasking, hand-washing, and real family life—ideal if you need a hard-working kitchen that looks great and handles anything you throw at it.
Drawbacks & Considerations: Single vs Double Sinks
Every kitchen has its quirks, and I’ll be the first to admit there’s no such thing as a perfect sink for every space. Over the years, I’ve seen plenty of homeowners surprised by the little trade-offs that come with both single sinks and double sinks.
Here’s what you should keep in mind before you lock in your decision.
Drawbacks of a Single Bowl Sink
One of the main disadvantages of a single bowl sink is that you lose the ability to multitask as easily. If you’re the type who likes to soak pots while rinsing veggies or stack dishes on one side while cleaning on the other, you might find a single sink a bit limiting. You’ll probably end up using a bench draining tray, which isn’t a deal-breaker, but it can clutter up your benchtop if you’re not careful. Still, for a lot of people—especially those with a dishwasher or who don’t mind washing up in batches—the simplicity is worth it.
Drawbacks of a Double Bowl Sink
While double sinks are brilliant for flexibility, they do come with a few catches. They take up more bench space, which isn’t ideal if you’re already working with a tight layout. The bowls themselves are usually smaller than a single large sink, which can make it trickier to fit those oversized roasting pans or BBQ grills. There’s also a bit more cleaning involved—more edges and more plumbing underneath to keep an eye on.
A question I get a lot is, “Do double sinks need two drains?” The answer is yes—each bowl has its own drain, but they’re often connected to a shared waste trap, so it’s not double the plumbing, just a bit more complexity.
TL;DR: Single sinks are simple but not as good for multitasking. Double sinks are flexible but need more space, can have smaller bowls, and are a bit more work to clean and plumb.
Feature Comparison Table: Single Bowl vs Double Bowl Kitchen Sinks
With so many kitchen sink options out there, sometimes it’s easiest to see the facts side by side. Here’s a quick comparison of the main features, so you can work out which sink is right for your kitchen and your daily routine.
| Feature | Single Bowl Sink | Double Bowl Sink |
| Space Used | Takes up less bench space—great for smaller kitchens | Needs more bench space, suits larger layouts |
| Bowl Size | One large, open bowl—easy for big items | Two smaller bowls—best for multitasking |
| Multitasking | Less flexible—can’t soak and rinse at once | Excellent—wash, rinse, prep, or defrost separately |
| Ease of Cleaning | Fewer edges, easy to wipe down | More edges and plumbing—slightly more cleaning |
| Bench Space | Keeps benchtop open and clutter-free | Can take over more of your benchtop |
| Price Range | Generally more affordable | Slightly higher price for extra functionality |
| Best For | Apartment kitchens, small spaces, dishwasher users | Family kitchens, home cooks, hand-washing fans |
| Typical Style | Round or square (modern, minimalist look) | Rectangular, often with drainer, classic appearance |
TL;DR: If bench space is tight and you want a simple, fuss-free setup, a single bowl sink is the way to go. For multitasking, families, or anyone who loves to cook, a double bowl sink is worth the extra space and investment. Both styles are available in Ross’s stainless steel range, so you can’t go wrong on quality.
Best For: Matching Your Sink to Your Kitchen & Lifestyle
No two kitchens—or cooks—are the same. Over the years at Ross’s, I’ve seen just how much a sink choice can impact daily life. Here’s how to match the right style to your space, habits, and taste.
Small Kitchens & Apartments: Single Bowl Sink
If you’re short on bench space or fitting out an apartment, a single bowl sink like our Classic Round 15 litre multi-purpose sink or a compact double is usually the most practical. It keeps the kitchen feeling open and makes the most of every centimetre—especially important in modern units or small homes.
Family Kitchens or Home Cooks: Double Bowl Sink
For busy family kitchens or anyone who does a lot of cooking, a double bowl kitchen sink such as our Classic Standard 1380 – 2 Bowls & 2 Drainers Sink comes into its own. The ability to soak, rinse, and prep all at once saves time and makes cleanup feel less like a chore—especially when there’s more than one set of hands in the kitchen.
Frequent Entertainers or Batch Washers: Double Bowl Sink
If you love hosting, or you let the dishes pile up and wash in big batches, a double bowl sink such as our Sydenham Double Bowl Sink is the best bet. You can stack up dirty plates in one bowl and still have space to rinse glassware or prep food for the next round.
Dishwasher vs No Dishwasher Households: Single Bowl Sink
For homes with a dishwasher, a mid-size single bowl kitchen sink like the Nugleam 45L Utility Sink is usually all you need for the occasional hand-wash or rinsing veg. If you don’t have a dishwasher, or you often hand-wash pots and pans, a double bowl setup is far more versatile and efficient.
Style Preferences: Round vs Square, Modern vs Classic: Single Bowl Sink
Love a sharp, modern look? Go for a square single bowl sink like our Ardross Single Bowl Sink—these are very popular right now and suit new kitchens perfectly. Prefer something softer or a bit retro? Round sinks like our popular Classic Round 23 Litre Multi-Purpose Sink bring a classic feel, and both styles are available in our stainless steel range at Ross’s.
Whatever your kitchen needs, the best way to decide is to see and feel the options in person. Visit Ross’s showroom or browse online to find your perfect match—and if you’re not sure, our team is always ready to help with real, practical advice.
TL;DR: Choose a single bowl sink for small spaces, dishwashers, and a clean, modern look. Pick a double bowl for busy cooks, families, entertainers, and anyone who wants kitchen flexibility. You’ll find every style in stainless steel at Ross’s, ready for Aussie homes.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, there’s no single answer when it comes to the best kitchen sink—it all depends on your space, your lifestyle, and how you like to work in the kitchen. A double kitchen sink is perfect if you’re juggling lots of tasks or have a busy family, while a single bowl kitchen sink is ideal for smaller kitchens or those who want a streamlined, easy-care solution. No matter which way you go, you can’t beat a quality stainless steel sink for durability and hygiene.
If you’re still unsure, why not pop into Ross’s Discount Home Centre here in Perth? You can see the full range of round and square, single and double bowl kitchen sinks for yourself, get hands-on with the displays, and chat to our team for honest, practical advice. We’ve helped thousands of locals find their perfect sink—and we’re always here to help you make the right choice for your next renovation.
If you want more detail before making your decision, check out our How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Sink guide, where I share everything I know about picking the right sink for your kitchen.
FAQs: Double and Single Bowl Kitchen Sinks
If you’re still tossing up between a double bowl kitchen sink and a single bowl kitchen sink, you’re not alone. These are some of the most common kitchen sink FAQs we get at Ross’s, answered in plain English to help you decide.
