Herman 610x459 Matte Black Farmhouse Fireclay Single Bowl Sink

Whether you're upgrading your kitchen sinks or laundry sinks, choosing the right one makes daily tasks easier and keeps your space looking great. Here's how to find a sink one that works perfectly for you.

1. Measure your cabinet and benchtop

Measure the internal width, depth and height of your base cabinet, plus the benchtop depth. Check the sink's cut-out requirements so you don't choose a model that won't fit. For laundries, also measure any overhead cupboards or shelving that might limit how deep your sink can be.

2. Choose your sink size

For kitchens: Pick a small kitchen sink for compact kitchens, apartments or a second prep zone where bench space matters. Choose a large kitchen sink if you cook often or wash big items like roasting pans and baking trays.

For laundries: Choose a small laundry sink for tight spaces or light use. Go for a large laundry tub if you do a lot of hand washing, soaking, or need room for washing pets or muddy boots.

3. Select your bowl layout

Single bowl: Go for a single bowl kitchen sink if you want one big, clear space and mainly use a dishwasher. In laundries, single bowls give you maximum room for soaking and washing large items.

Double bowl: Choose a double bowl kitchen sink or double laundry tub if you like to soak in one side while rinsing or prepping in the other, or if more than one person uses the sink at a time.

4. Choose the installation type

• Topmount (drop-in): Easier to install and good for tight budgets, but the rim can catch crumbs. Available for both kitchen and laundry sinks.
• Undermount: Cleaner look and easy to wipe straight into the bowl, but usually needs stone or solid surfaces and a pro install. Works beautifully in kitchens and laundries.
• Flushmount: Sits level with the benchtop for a seamless, modern look – mainly for kitchens.
• Farmhouse sinks: Strong feature piece and comfortable to work at, but needs custom cabinetry – perfect for statement kitchens.

5. Match the material to your needs and style

• Stainless steel: Tough, low maintenance and suits most kitchens and laundries. The most popular choice for good reason.
• Granite composite: Matte look that hides marks beautifully and works well in modern designs. Available in black, white and other colours.
• Fireclay: Glossy, classic finish perfect for farmhouse or traditional kitchens, but can chip if hit hard.
• Copper: Bold look that develops a natural patina over time and needs more care.
• Ceramic: Smooth, easy to clean, great for laundries – timeless and practical.

6. Think about colour options

While stainless steel is classic, you can add personality with black sinks, white sinks, brass gold, or gunmetal finishes. Match or complement your tapware and cabinet handles for a coordinated look.

7. Consider add-on accessories

For kitchens, add a sink protector grid to protect the base, and consider colanders, dishracks and drainboards, or chopping boards that fit your sink for easier prep and drying. For laundries, look at sinks with built-in tap landing or overflow features.

8. Set your budget

Most quality kitchen sinks and laundry sinks sit between $300–$1,200 or more, depending on size, configuration and material. Premium materials, larger sizes, or statement designs like farmhouse sinks sit higher. Allow extra if you need professional installation for undermount or more complex setups.

Need more help finding the right kitchen sink? 

Read our full guide to choosing the best kitchen sink. Or, head to our building and renovating tips blog for practical advice, renovation examples, and the latest kitchen design trends to help you plan with confidence.