Buying Guide: Commercial Stainless Steel Sinks
A commercial kitchen runs on efficiency, and stainless steel sinks play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness, workflow, and compliance with health codes. Whether you're setting up a new restaurant or upgrading your existing space, choosing the right commercial sink is essential.
This guide will walk you through key factors to consider, different types of commercial sinks, and top recommendations from Chefs’ Toys to help you make the best decision.
Why Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is the industry standard for commercial sinks —and for good reason:
- Durability – Resists corrosion, dents, and scratches.
- Sanitation – Easy to clean and meets food safety requirements.
- Longevity – With proper care, stainless steel sinks can last decades.
- Aesthetic Appeal – Professional, sleek, and modern for any kitchen.
- When selecting a sink, the gauge (thickness) of stainless steel matters. The lower the gauge, the thicker and stronger the material:
- 16-Gauge: Best for heavy-duty use.
- 18-Gauge: Ideal for general-purpose kitchens.
- 20-Gauge: Budget-friendly but less durable.
Types of Commercial Stainless Steel Sinks
1. Compartment Sinks
Best for warewashing, food prep, and sanitation, these sinks come in one-, two-, three-, or four-compartment configurations:
- One-Compartment Sinks – Ideal for rinsing or prep work in small kitchens.
- Two-Compartment Sinks – Great for washing and rinsing dishes in medium-sized operations.
- Three-Compartment Sinks – The most common for dishwashing: wash, rinse, sanitize.
2. Underbar Sinks
Designed for bartenders and beverage stations, these compact sinks fit in tight spaces and often come with built-in drainboards.
3. Hand Sinks
A health code requirement in all commercial kitchens, hand sinks must be placed in key areas for easy access.
4. Mop Sinks
Used in janitorial areas, mop sinks allow staff to dispose of dirty water easily while keeping the floor clean.
Key Features to Consider
When selecting a commercial stainless steel sink, consider these factors:
- Bowl Depth & Size – Deeper bowls accommodate larger pots and pans.
- Drainboards – Help streamline dishwashing by providing extra drying space.
- Faucet Type – Choose from deck-mounted or wall-mounted faucets for flexibility.
- Legs & Bracing – Adjustable legs for stability, cross-bracing for durability.
- NSF Certification – Ensures compliance with sanitation standards.
Essential Sink Accessories
Pair your stainless steel sink with the right accessories to maximize efficiency:
- Pre-Rinse Faucets – Speeds up dishwashing.
- Sink Strainers & Drains – Prevents clogs and backups.
- Splash Guards – Keeps surrounding areas clean.
- Wall-Mounted Soap Dispensers – Encourages handwashing compliance.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right commercial stainless steel sink will improve your kitchen’s workflow, sanitation, and efficiency. Whether you need a heavy-duty three-compartment sink, a compact bar sink, or an ADA-compliant hand sink, Chefs’ Toys has industry-trusted options for every foodservice operation.
Need help choosing the best sink for your kitchen? Visit one of our 11 Chefs’ Toys locations or browse our full selection online.
