Sink Size Guide for 33 Inch Cabinets
When undertaking a kitchen remodel or renovation, choosing the right sink size for your cabinets is an important decision. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine what size sink will actually fit and function best in a 33 inch wide base cabinet.
We'll cover standard cabinet dimensions, the most common sink sizes, factors to consider when choosing a sink, installation tips, and recommendations for maximizing the space.
Standard 33 Inch Cabinet Dimensions
Before selecting a sink, it's helpful to understand the actual interior dimensions of a typical 33 inch wide base cabinet. While cabinets are designed and advertised according to their external widths, it's the interior width that ultimately determines what you can fit inside.
Here are the standard interior dimensions for a 33 inch sink base cabinet:
- Interior Width: 32 1/2 inches wide
- Interior Height: 34 1/2 inches tall
- Interior Depth: 21 inches deep
These measurements can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but this gives you a good baseline for planning. Knowing the interior width is key - this is the maximum length your sink can be to fit properly within the cabinet.
Common Sink Sizes for 33 Inch Cabinets
Now that you know the interior width of your 33 inch cabinet, it's time to explore some of the most common sink size options.
Small Sinks
Small sinks range from about 25-27 inches in length. Here are some specifics:
- 25 inch sink: Fits with room to spare. Too small for some.
- 26 inch sink: Fits well. Still on the smaller side.
- 27 inch sink: Fits easily. Gives a bit more room.
Pros: Allow more countertop workspace around the sink. Easy to fit in the cabinet.
Cons: Limited basin capacity for washing larger pots and pans.
Medium Sinks
Medium sinks range from about 28-30 inches long:
- 28 inch sink: Tight fit but doable.
- 29 inch sink: Fits well with 1/2" margin on each side.
- 30 inch sink: Max length recommended; tight but fits.
Pros: Provide a good amount of basin space. Balance cabinet fit and capacity.
Cons: Little countertop space around sink sides.
Large Sinks
Large sink lengths start around 31 inches:
- 31 inch sink: Overhangs cabinet by 1/2 inch.
- 32 inch sink: Overhangs cabinet sides by 1 inch.
- 33 inch sink: Overhangs cabinet sides by 1 1/2 inches.
Pros: Maximum basin capacity for washing and food prep.
Cons: Requires custom cabinet modifications to fit properly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sink Size
When deciding what sink size is right for your 33 inch cabinet, keep these factors in mind:
Available Space
Consider the size of your overall kitchen and how much free countertop space you have around the sink area. If space is tight, a smaller sink may work better to maximize surrounding counter space. If you have an expansive countertop, a larger sink can be easily accommodated.
Kitchen Workflow
How you utilize your kitchen can help determine ideal sink size. Frequent cooks often opt for larger sinks with more capacity. Bakers may want more counter space around the sink for rolling dough. Analyze how you use your kitchen to find the right balance of sink and counter space.
Number of Users
Households with multiple cooks or bakers using the kitchen at once will appreciate a larger sink basin for ease of use. Single users or couples may find a smaller sink perfectly adequate.
Type of Sink Basin
Look for sinks with straight sides, flat bottoms, and 90 degree corners that maximize basin capacity. Curved sinks can sacrifice usable space.
Faucet and Accessory Requirements
Make sure your desired sink and faucet configurations - such as number of holes, faucet location, soap dispensers, etc. - are compatible.
Recommended Sink Sizes for 33 Inch Cabinets
Given the typical interior dimensions of a 33 inch sink base cabinet, combined with common sink sizes on the market, here are our recommended sink length options:
Best Small Sink Size
27 inches - Provides ample basin space while leaving countertop real estate on both sides of the sink.
Best Medium Sink Size
30 inches - Maximizes sink capacity for the cabinet size while still fitting with small side margins.
Best Large Sink Size
32 inches - Overhangs cabinet sides slightly but offers full sink function. May require cabinet alteration.
Tips for Installing a Sink in a 33 Inch Cabinet
Once you've selected the right sized sink for your 33 inch cabinet, follow these tips for proper installation:
- Prepare the cabinet by removing doors and drawers and cleaning interior surfaces.
- Make cutouts for plumbing drain and water supply lines.
- Secure the sink according to manufacturer instructions.
- Seal around sink edges with caulk or silicone for watertight finish.
Maximizing a 33 Inch Sink Cabinet
To really make the most of your 33 inch sink base cabinet, consider these tips:
Organizational Tips
- Install pull-out baskets for storing cleaning supplies and sponges.
- Add a sliding cabinet trash can or recycling bin.
- Use racks, pegs and holders to organize dishware and utensils.
Storage Solutions
- Convert cabinet dead space into shelf storage.
- Install corner lazy susans for access to back areas.
- Add roll-out trays or drawers for pots, pans and lids.
Accessorizing the Space
- Consider a matching apron-front sink base for style.
- Add functional accessories like cutting boards, colanders, soap dispensers.
- Include decorative accents like fresh flowers, ceramic containers, lighting.
Choosing the perfect sink size for your 33 inch wide kitchen cabinet relies on carefully measuring the cabinet's interior dimensions and selecting a sink that maximizes basin capacity without exceeding the available width. Consider how you use your kitchen along with the sink types, accessories and installation methods available. In most cases, a medium 30 inch sink offers the best balance for a 33 inch cabinet.
You can create an efficient and visually appealing kitchen workstation with the right techniques. Our tips and recommendations will help you achieve optimal function and style from your 33 inch sink base cabinet.