What sink dimensions fit my kitchen unit
What dimensions of a sink fit into my kitchen line
Everyone who has ever replaced a sink or equipped a new kitchen has encountered the same problem: the kitchen line is already installed, the cabinet under the sink is in place, and now you need to find out which sink actually fits there. At first glance, a simple question – in practice, however, it causes no small complications, because manufacturers state dimensions in different ways, retail labels do not match the mounting holes, and customers confuse the overall dimensions of the sink with the cut-out size in the countertop. The result is often unnecessary returns, a rescheduled weekend, and in the worst case, a damaged worktop.
In this article, I will systematically cover the entire issue – from what exactly the numbers in the catalog mean, through typical cabinet and countertop dimensions, to concrete examples from practice. If you have not yet read our article How to choose the right sink for your kitchen: size, material and number of basins or How to choose a sink for your kitchen: granite, stainless steel or composite?, I recommend starting there – here we will focus exclusively on dimensions and geometry.
What do the numbers in the sink name mean
The first thing to understand: the numbering in sink names is not random, but also not uniform across manufacturers. When you see a name like granite sink Sinks BEST 780 Granblack, the number 780 usually refers to the total outer width of the sink in millimeters – that is, the dimension of the ceramic or granite body including any possible rim. It is not the cut-out dimension, not the basin dimension, and not the cabinet dimension into which the sink fits.
Similarly, in the model granite sink Sinks SOLO 560 Milk, the number 560 indicates the total width of the sink. It is a compact single-basin model suitable for narrower kitchens or corner units. These numbers are therefore useful for quick orientation, but for actual installation planning you need three more values: the cut-out dimension in the worktop, the basin dimension (or basins), and the depth of installation.
Three key dimensions you need to know
To avoid getting lost in numbers, remember the following triangle of values:
- Total outer dimension of the sink – width × depth of the entire body including the rim. This dimension must not exceed the dimension of the cabinet opening (i.e., the outer dimension of the sink must be smaller than the width of the cabinet into which the sink fits).
- Cut-out dimension – the opening that must be cut into the worktop. The manufacturer specifies it as a minimum and maximum – with a small tolerance of about 2–5 mm on each side. If the cut-out is too small, the sink won't fit; if it's too large, the rim won't seal properly and water will leak.
- Basin depth – usually 160–220 mm. It affects whether the trap and drain can fit under the sink without conflicting with drawers or piping.
Standard widths of kitchen cabinets and what follows from that
Kitchen cabinets – and with them the kitchen line – are manufactured in standardized widths. This applies to most domestic and foreign manufacturers. The most common modular widths are: 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800 and 1000 mm. A sink cabinet – the one into which you install the sink – is most often 600 mm, 800 mm or 1000 mm wide, occasionally 500 mm (for small kitchens or studio apartments).
The worktop usually overhangs the cabinets on both sides by about 20–25 mm (so-called overhang or overhang). In addition, a hole is cut into the sink that is smaller than the total width of the worktop above the cabinet. From this follows a practical conclusion: the width of the sink should be 40–60 mm smaller than the width of the cabinet into which it is installed, so that the rim has space to sit and be secured with clamps.
Concrete examples from practice
Cabinet 600 mm: a sink with a total width of about 540–560 mm fits here. It is a single-basin solution, such as the model SOLO 560. It is the minimum for a comfortable kitchen for one person or a couple, and in practice it is also used in rented apartments and smaller kitchens.
Cabinet 800 mm: here you have space for a sink 740–780 mm – that is, a single-basin with a wide drip tray or a 1.5-basin model. A classic choice for family homes and larger apartments. The model BEST 780 fits here.
Cabinet 1000 mm: allows the installation of a double-basin sink (2× basin without a drip tray, or 1 large + 1 small basin + drip tray). The total width of the sink is around 940–980 mm.
Cabinet 500 mm: the narrowest practical variant. Sinks for such a cabinet have a total width of 450–480 mm and are always single-basin models without a drip tray. The compact model SOLO 560 is too wide for this cabinet – in such a case you need to look for specifically 450–480 mm sinks.
Depth of the sink and depth of the kitchen unit
The kitchen unit almost always has a standard depth of 600 mm including the worktop. The cabinet itself is 560 mm deep, the worktop protrudes forward by 20–25 mm and rests against the wall with a small gap or a strip. Sinks are manufactured with a standard body depth of 430 to 510 mm. The cut-out in the worktop is usually 20–30 mm smaller on each axis.
In practice this means: a sink with a 500 mm depth (overall body) will fit without any problems into a unit with a 600 mm deep worktop. The cut-out will be around 450–460 mm, which is standard. Problems arise if you want to install a sink deeper than 520 mm – in this case the rim will protrude beyond the edge of the worktop either towards the wall or towards the user. Such sinks do not appear in standard units, they are specialities.
Sink depth vs. under-counter space
The depth of the basin is not the same as the depth of the sink body. The sink body includes the rim and the walls of the basin, which have their own thickness. If the sink has an overall body depth of 500 mm, the internal dimensions of the basin will be around 420–440 mm. This is important when evaluating spaciousness – the larger the internal depth of the basin, the more comfortable it is to wash larger dishes.
The depth of the basin (in terms of height, i.e. how far the basin extends downward under the worktop) ranges from 160 mm to 220 mm. This value is critical for the space under the sink. Under the sink, the trap (usually 150–180 mm in height), waste pipe, hot and cold water, and possibly also a hose filter or a small water heater must fit. If you have drawers under the sink in the cabinet (increasingly common in modern kitchens), you need to know exactly where the drawer slide tracks are and whether the sink basin intrudes into them. This is a tricky spot where problems often arise for customers who have replaced their sink with a deeper model.
Single-basin, 1.5-basin and double-basin solutions
The number of basins significantly affects the minimum width of the sink. This is perhaps the most important decision point right after the cabinet width.
Single-basin (1 basin)
The most compact variant. The overall width of the sink ranges from 400 mm (small special models) to 600 mm. The standard size range for common kitchens is 450–560 mm. The basin has an internal width of 330–490 mm and a depth of 380–430 mm – sufficient for washing standard dishes, less comfortable for larger pots. This type is suitable for a 500 mm or 600 mm cabinet.
1.5-basin (large + small basin)
A very popular combination. The large basin has standard dimensions, the small basin (half or three-quarter size) is used for soaking, rinsing or as a space for the trap in a double drain. The overall width of the sink ranges from 780 mm to 1000 mm, the minimum cabinet is therefore 800 mm. This is the golden standard for a family kitchen. The model BEST 780 is precisely in this category.
Double-basin (2 equally sized basins)
Used less frequently, but appreciated by people who spend a lot of time in the kitchen or have a large family. The usual overall width: 900–1000 mm, the cabinet is at least 1000 mm. Both basins have their own trap, which requires space under the sink.
Sink with integrated drip tray
In this case, the width of the sink includes the basin and the drip tray area. The overall dimensions are similar to those of 1.5-basin solutions, but the layout is different: the drip tray is a fixed part of the sink, not an additional accessory. If you prefer flexibility, you can choose a separate sink and purchase, for example, Sinks drip tray VARIO COMPLET black, which can be moved according to your needs, or Sinks drip tray black 450×200×102 mm for a compact option. More about accessories can be found in the article Drip tray, drainboard and shelf for sink: what fits with what.
How to measure the cabinet and worktop
Before you order any sink, you must have a measuring tape and measure four values. Do not trust estimates by eye or numbers from plans if you have not verified them yourself – in practice, it sometimes happens that the actual dimensions differ from the project documentation by 20–30 mm, which can be decisive for sinks.
- Internal width of the cabinet – measure from the left side to the right side inside the cabinet, without the doors. This is your maximum limit for the width of the sink body.
- Internal depth of the cabinet – from the front edge (behind the doors) to the wall. Typically 540–560 mm.
- Thickness of the worktop – standard 28 mm or 38 mm. Sinks are designed for both thicknesses, but the mounting clamps must match the thickness of the worktop.
- Height from the bottom of the worktop to the bottom of the cabinet – this is the space in which the entire basin depth + trap + waste must fit. Usually 600–650 mm for a 900 mm high unit.
Write down the results and compare them with the technical data sheet of the sink that interests you. Manufacturers usually list: overall external dimensions, cut-out dimensions (min. and max.) and basin depth. Look for these three numbers, not just the promotional dimensions from the product name.
Cutting into the worktop: tolerances and procedure
When you have the sink in your hand or have the technical specifications, you can determine the cut-out size. The manufacturer provides it as a specific number or as a range (e.g. 740×430 mm ±3 mm). The cut-out must be accurate – not only for aesthetics, but primarily for sealing. The silicone seal, which is part of the standard installation, will fill a tolerance of 1–3 mm, no more.
Procedure for cutting a hole in the worktop:
- Draw the outline of the cut with a pencil according to the template from the manufacturer (most sinks include one).
- Subtract the sealing margin – usually 5–8 mm from the drawn line is the actual cutting line.
- Drill corner holes with a diameter of at least 10 mm so you can start cutting with a straight saw.
- Cut slowly, support the board so it does not break off when the cut is completed.
- File and treat the edges with a suitable varnish or silicone – a laminated board absorbs moisture here.
This procedure is discussed in detail in the article Mounting a sink into a kitchen worktop: step by step and also in Sink installation: undermount, drop-in or wall-mounted – how to do it.
Special situations: corner cabinets, islands and non-standard lines
Not every kitchen is a straight line along the wall. Sinks are also mounted into corner cabinets (corner sinks with a special-shaped basin), into kitchen islands (where water supply and drainage are limited) and into atypical custom-made cabinets.
Corner cabinets have an internal space of up to 900×900 mm, but access to it is limited by the door opening. Special corner sinks have a basin rotated by 45° or have the basin placed off-center. When choosing such a sink, it is essential to obtain from the cabinet manufacturer the exact dimensions of the corner space and the location of the drainage installation.
A kitchen island is a special case. A sink in an island has no wall behind it, so the installation is more complicated. The waste pipe must go through the floor or through the island structure, and the supply pipes as well. As far as sink dimensions are concerned, the same rules apply as for a standard cabinet, but you must also consider that an island usually does not have a standard module – it is custom-made, so the cabinet can be of any width.
Sink accessories and their dimensions
A sink on its own is not enough. It comes with accessories that have their own dimensions and influence the overall solution. An example is Sinks shelf black 265×57(103)×65 mm – it is a spacious shelf that is attached to the edge of the sink or to the wall above the sink. Its dimensions of 265 mm width and 65 mm depth make it ideal as a storage space for cleaning products without taking up space in the basin or the draining board.
When planning the overall solution, therefore, consider not only the sink dimensions, but also where the shelf, draining board and strainer will be placed. A combination of a sink with a VARIO COMPLET draining board and a shelf can be more advantageous than a sink with a fixed integrated draining board – the flexibility of placement is greater here, and you can adjust the sink area to current needs.
Material of the sink and its influence on available dimensions
Different materials are produced in different dimensional ranges, which directly affects the selection according to the cabinet.
Stainless steel sinks are the most available material with the widest range of dimensions. You can find them from 360 mm to 1200 mm in width. They are flexible in shape, so corner stainless steel sinks are also commonly available.
Granite and composite sinks have a narrower dimensional range – typically 440 mm to 1000 mm in width. Production is more expensive and the molds are costly, so manufacturers offer fewer variants. On the other hand, granite sinks have a deeper basin and more robust walls, which gives a feeling of spaciousness even with a smaller external dimension. More about material comparison can be found in the article Granite vs. stainless steel sink: comparison of durability, maintenance and price or Granite vs. stainless steel sink: which is better and for whom.
Ceramic sinks are the heaviest and dimensionally most similar to stainless steel ones. Installation requires a more robust support frame, because some ceramic sinks weigh up to 25–30 kg.
Most common mistakes when choosing sink dimensions
Over the years of practice, I have repeatedly seen these mistakes:
- Mixing up the overall sink dimensions with the cut-out size – the customer ordered a 780 mm sink and wanted a 780 mm cut-out. Result: the sink lip had nowhere to rest.
- Ignoring the depth of the basin in the presence of drawers under the sink – kitchen drawers are now also mounted under the sink, but their rail points upward; a basin deeper than 190 mm will then hit the rail.
- Purchasing a sink without measuring the actual cabinet – relying on the "standard 60 cm cabinet" without verifying the actual internal dimensions. Some cabinets have a series of shelves or protruding elements inside that reduce the actual usable space.
- Ignoring the location of the waste outlet – the waste pipe comes from the wall or the floor in a specific location. If the sink's trap is 150 mm off where the pipe expects it, there will be a problem with the connection. Solution: a flexible waste hose, but it has its limits.
- Overlooking the thickness of the worktop – a sink with standard brackets for a 28 mm thick worktop does not hold properly on a 38 mm thick worktop. You either need different brackets or a sink with an adjustable mounting system.
Table: overview of typical sink dimensions according to cabinet width
| Cabinet width | Overall sink width | Cut-out size (width) | Recommended type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400 mm | 360–380 mm | 310–340 mm | Mini sink (studio apartment) |
| 500 mm | 450–480 mm | 400–440 mm | Single sink |
| 600 mm | 540–560 mm | 490–520 mm | Single sink (e.g. SOLO 560) |
| 800 mm | 740–780 mm | 680–740 mm | 1.5-basin (e.g. BEST 780) |
| 1000 mm | 940–980 mm | 880–940 mm | Double sink or large 1.5-basin |
* Values are approximate. Always check the technical specifications of the specific model.
Dimensional compatibility when replacing a sink
If you are replacing an existing sink (not reconstructing the whole kitchen), you have one advantage and one limitation. Advantage: the cut-out in the worktop is already done and you save work. Limitation: the new sink must have either the same cut-out size or a larger one (a larger sink will cover the old cut-out with its lip).
Reducing an existing cut-out is practically impossible without replacing the worktop. Therefore, when replacing a sink, proceed as follows: measure the old cut-out (the hole in the worktop) and look for a new sink whose cut-out size is the same or 20–30 mm larger on each side – then the lip of the new sink will cover the old cut line.
Never buy a sink with a significantly smaller cut-out than the existing opening - the seal will not hold and water will get under the countertop. If you want a smaller sink in a larger opening, the only option is to replace the entire countertop or install an undermount sink, where the opening does not have to be precise - read more about it in the article Installing a sink: drop-in, undermount or wall-mounted - how to do it.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I find out what cut-out size I need to cut into the countertop for a specific sink?
Every sink has the cut-out size specified in the technical documentation (technical sheet, product sheet) - usually as width × depth in mm, sometimes with a tolerance of ±2–5 mm. The manufacturer may also include a paper template directly in the packaging. If you don't have the technical sheet, ask the seller to send it to you before ordering. Never cut the opening based only on the outer dimensions of the sink - always use the "cut-out" parameter.
Can I fit a 780 mm sink into an 800 mm cabinet?
Yes, this is a common and correct combination. The total width of the sink must be smaller than the internal width of the cabinet - usually by 20–40 mm on each side. A 780 mm sink in an 800 mm cabinet fits tightly, but is standard. Make sure the rim of the sink sits correctly on the countertop and that the brackets can be screwed in the space of the cabinet.
What if my cut-out is 15 mm larger than recommended by the new sink manufacturer?
It depends on the placement - if the rim of the new sink sufficiently overhangs the cut-out and covers it completely around the perimeter, it is fine. Problems arise if the cut-out reaches the edge of the rim or exceeds it. In such a case, consider using a silicone seal with a larger tolerance, or ideally, replace the countertop. In the long run, it is not advisable to rely on the seal to fill a large gap.
What is the minimum depth of the cabinet under the sink from the perspective of the trap?
You need at least 200 mm from the bottom edge of the sink (bottom of the basin) to the bottom of the cabinet to fit the trap. In practice, you should plan for 250–300 mm to allow the trap to be comfortably installed and cleaned. The total free height in the cabinet (from the bottom of the countertop to the bottom of the cabinet) is usually 600–650 mm for a standard 860–900 mm line height, which is sufficient for sinks with a basin depth of up to 220 mm.
Can I install a sink into a custom countertop of a different thickness than 38 mm?
Yes, sinks are commonly mounted into countertops of thickness 20, 28, 38 or 40 mm. The key is the mounting brackets - they must match the thickness of the specific countertop. Most manufacturers provide brackets suitable for a range of 20–45 mm, but always check the technical specifications. With very thin countertops (e.g. 12–16 mm, as with some special materials), installation can be problematic and we recommend an undermount or cut-in installation.
Do the dimensions of the sink apply equally to granite and stainless steel sinks?
The principle is the same - total dimensions, cut-out size and basin depth. The difference is that granite sinks have thicker basin walls (8–12 mm), which reduces the internal volume for the same external dimensions. Stainless steel sinks have walls of 0.8–1.2 mm, so the internal space of the basin is relatively larger. When planning, therefore, with granite, take into account that for the same external dimensions, the inside of the basin will be 15–25 mm smaller on each axis compared to stainless steel.
Conclusion: step-by-step dimensional procedure
The entire selection of a sink according to dimensions can be summarized in a simple procedure. First, measure the internal width and depth of the cabinet under the future sink. Then check whether you have sockets or other elements in the cabinet that limit the free height. Based on the width of the cabinet, choose the type of sink - single, 1.5-basin or double - and look for models whose total external dimensions are 40–60 mm smaller than your cabinet. From the filtered models, check the cut-out size and compare it with the thickness of your countertop. Finally, check the depth of the basin against the free height in the cabinet, taking into account the trap.
If you follow this approach - and not by estimation or "the previous one had 80 cm, so I'll take the same" - you will avoid most of the problems that are common during sink installation. All key parameters can be found in the product sheets of the sink in the category Sinks and accessories. And if you are still unsure, consult the specific dimensions before ordering - it takes just a few minutes and will save you a whole weekend.
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