Entertaining at home is one of life’s simple joys, but pouring a glass of wine or mixing a cocktail for your guests can be more practical with a wet bar sink. It’s an area where you can keep tools and ingredients within reach while touching it up with a stylish flair.
Modern wet bar sinks are available in different shapes, sizes, and materials. In this guide, find out what exactly a wet bar sink is, what types there are, and which wet bar sinks fit your layout at home.
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Shop All SinksWhat is a Wet Bar Sink?
If you think a wet bark sink is a small, dedicated sink installed within a wet bar (i.e., a bar area with plumbing) to support drink prep, cleanup, and glass rinsing, you think correctly. The purpose is to make things readily available directly in your entertaining zone, rather than having to rely on a distant kitchen sink.
Here are some of the things you can do with it:
- Prepare drinks
- Drain cocktail shakers
- Clean your tool
- Wash and rinse glasses
- Keep the area tidy
Even a small wet bar with sink can elevate your home’s functionality, keeping a smooth flow to your preparation. Plus, it enhances the bar area’s aesthetics with a useful, well-equipped feature.
As for the wet bar sink size, here is a quick guide to their sizes and dimensions:
- Width: Most wet bark sinks range from 12 to 18 inches in width, although wider ones also exist. Square models (like 12 x 12 inches or 15 x 15 inches) are popular for compact spaces.
- Length: Models with rectangular shapes usually have widths between 14 and 18 inches, with extra room for glasses or prep work. (Lengths may differ depending on the sink’s shape and design).
- Depth: Most bowls are 6 to 9 inches deep, having enough depth for rinsing while keeping things at easy reach.
If you're considering setups like a wet bar sink with cabinets, there are modular units that include storage, a small sink footprint, and even space for mini-fridges. However, for very limited areas, a small wet bar sink (e.g., 12 to 15 inches of width) is the ideal compact size for maintaining functionality.
Further installation tips you should pay attention to are:
- Leave about 2 to 4 inches of clearance beyond the sink edges for mounting hardware and plumbing. For example, a 14 x 14-inch sink would fit best in a base cabinet opening of around 18 x 16 inches.
- The slightly rectangular opening allows more room for the sink lip, mounting clips, and any sealant used. You also need front-to-back clearance if you also install faucets, soap dispensers, or backsplashes behind the sink (which can be vital for top-mount and undermount installations).
- Despite sink basins mostly being square, most sinks have a wider rim or flange on the sides. This makes the total size slightly larger than what it says on paper. A rectangular cutout makes up for these differences and ensures a proper fit.
- Always verify the exact cutout dimensions from the sink manufacturer’s installation guide (they may vary between models).
- Make sure the cabinet has enough structural support under the cutout area, especially if the sinks are heavier (made from cast iron, stainless steel, or granite composite).
WDC Kitchen & Bath Center carries a selection of bar sinks from various trusted manufacturers, such as Premier Copper Products, Nantucket Sinks, Barclay, and Alno. These names are known for their durable build, stylish designs, and material variety from hammered copper to stainless steel.
Moreover, some don't only carry kitchen sinks. Alno, for example, also carries bathroom lines while its bar and prep sinks models remain dependable choices.
Types of Wet Bar Sinks
Two main factors should guide your choice of a wet bar sink: the material and the installation type. These factors will be influential in determining whether your basement wet bar with sink, for instance, can serve you purposefully.
Choice of Materials
The material determines the sink’s durability, maintenance needs, and visual appeal. Here’s what you should know about them.
➥ Stainless Steel Wet Bar Sinks: Durable, affordable, and easy to maintain, stainless steel is the most common choice for wet bars. It resists stains, heat, and corrosion. Look for 18- or 20-gauge steel for better sound insulation and fewer dents.
➥ Copper Wet Bar Sinks: Copper or bronze sinks are warm, standing out in rustic or traditional bar designs. They naturally develop a patina over time, although they demand polishing occasionally. Cleaning these materials should be done with non-acidic products to preserve the finish.
➥ Granite Wet Bar Sinks: Composite granite sinks are usually made from crushed stone and resin. They are strong, heat-resistant, and don’t chip easily. Quieter than stainless steel, they come in slightly muted colors to give a refined appearance. Keep in mind, though, that darker tones can show water spots; dry them properly.
➥ Quartz Wet Bar Sinks: These materials bring a classic appeal often seen in farmhouse or vintage bar settings. They resist stains but can chip easily if glassware or metal tools are dropped. Handle them gently and use non-abrasive materials for cleaning.
Installation Types
The sink style affects installation, maintenance, and how it meshes with your countertop or cabinetry. Learn more about the styles below:
➥ Undermount Wet Bar Sink: This type of wet bar sink is installed beneath the countertop, where the rim is hidden. Spills can be wiped straight into the basin, but they work best with solid surfaces like granite or quartz. It usually requires a professional installation.
➥ Drop-In Wet Bar Sink: Drop-in wet bar sinks are placed from above the counter with the rim resting on the surface. They’re simpler to install if you want to try a DIY project. They also work on laminate counters, although the exposed edge may collect dust and debris.
➥ Integrated Wet Bar Sink Station: A wet bar cabinet with sink and fridge is an integrated station that combines the basin with different essentials (drainboard, prep area, cutting surface, or cooling storage). This setup works well in smaller spaces, but check the electrical and plumbing access before installing one.
6 Wet Bar Sink Options to Explore
Eager to find a wet bar sink for your entertaining purposes? Check out these six gorgeous yet practical sinks.
Barclay Symone 13'' Square Bar/Prep Sink-Hammered Pewter
This bar sink, available as either a drop-in or undermount installation, brings artisan charm and smart functionality to a wet bar. Crafted from copper/brass with a hammered finish, this Barclay Symone piece resists fingerprints and doesn’t discolor easily. At 13 x 13 inches overall (the interior bowl is 10 ¾ inches with a depth of 6 ¼ inches) and a 3 ½-inch center drain, it fits into compact spaces yet still freely handles bar prep. It’s no boring square; it’s a timeless, stylish piece.
Premier Copper Products 16'' Gourmet Rectangular Terra Firma Brass Bar/Prep Sink in Polished Brass w/ 3.5'' Drain Size
Versatility is the name of the game for this brass bar/prep sink from Premier Copper Products. You can install it as either an undermount piece or a drop-in one, but what’s impressive is how it resists warping thanks to its construction using 10-gauge brass with Terra Firma texture. With a rectangular shape measuring 16 x 14 x 8 inches, plus a 3.5-inch center drain, its polished brass finish gleams under bar lights, delivering durability and visual impact in one refined package.
Alno Medium Round Bar Sink. Riatta Pattern, Undermount and Drop In
Looking for anything other than blocky shapes? This Alno medium round bar sink carries elegance with a Riatta pattern and antique brass finish. The textured finish helps hide water spots and adds visual warmth. Compatible with both undermount and drop-in fitting, it’s a compact but usable basin with a 7-inch rim height and roughly 6 ¾ inches of bowl depth. The sink’s refined style and sturdy metal build make it look beautiful in a vintage-inspired wet bar setup.
Hamat Aspect 14'' Undermount Medium Bowl Bar/Prep Sink, Bulk Pack
This Hamat Aspect model may be an exclusively undermount model only, but it does have the space (bowl depth is about 7 inches) for rinsing wine and cocktail glasses without overwhelming small bar areas. Crafted from 18-gauge stainless steel, it also includes sound-dampening coating that minimizes noise. Its clean lines and brushed finish allow it to blend smoothly into any wet bar setup, making it a safe and durable choice for entertaining at home.
Nantucket Sinks 16.5 Inch Square Hammered Stainless Bar Sink
Nantucket Sinks mixes artistry and utility in this 16.5-inch square hand-hammered stainless steel sink that has a 13.5-inch interior bowl with 6.5 inches of depth. It’s an amazing sink that supports your drink prep, while the dual-mount design brings versatility in installation. The hammered finish catches light in a lively way and helps mask water spots; only a quick polish is required to bring back its shine. Make a bold statement with this one.
Rohl Allia™ 18'' Fireclay Single Bowl Bar/Food Prep Kitchen Sink
The Rohl Allia 18" Fireclay Single Bowl Bar/Food Prep Kitchen Sink is a beautifully built fireclay piece with a strong performance. With dimensions measuring 17.88 x 17.5 x 9 inches, it has an off-center 3.5-inch drain to preserve usable bowl space. The fireclay surface is dense and sealed, resisting everything from stains and scratches to thermal shock. Finished in classic white, this sink fits cleanly into vintage or transitional wet bar designs with its timeless appeal.
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A wet bar sink adds practicality and polish to your home's entertaining area. Here’s a quick recap of why it’s worth having:
- Convenience: It makes mixing drinks, rinsing glasses, and cleaning up faster and easier.
- Variety in style: Available in stainless steel, fireclay, copper, and brass to match any décor. Also choose from drop-in, undermount, corner, or integrated installations.
- Size options: From compact models for small spaces to full setups with cabinets and fridges.
- Different setups: Great for kitchens, dining areas, or even a basement bar.
WDC Plumbing & Fixtures has everything you need to create your wet bars with sinks. Visit your nearest WDC Kitchen & Bath showroom to explore wet bar sink cabinet options and get expert guidance on your perfect setup.
Wet Bar Sink FAQs
Start by cutting the countertop opening to match the sink’s template. Connect the water lines, drain, and faucet before securing the sink with clips or adhesive sealant. Always check for leaks and ensure proper alignment. Hiring a plumber is recommended if you’re not confident with plumbing work.
Choose a location near water and drain lines, then design your layout to include counter space, cabinetry, and storage. Install the sink base first, followed by plumbing connections and countertop cutouts. Add finishing touches like backsplash and lighting for a polished look.
Proper venting lets air into the drain system and prevents gurgling or slow draining. You can connect the sink's drain line to an existing vent stack. If that's not possible (like a basement wet bar), installing an air admittance valve (AAV) under the sink is the simplest solution. Always check your local plumbing codes before installation.
Turn off the water supply and disconnect all plumbing lines. Then, loosen mounting clips or cut through the sealant holding the sink in place. Carefully lift it out, taking care not to damage the countertop or nearby fixtures. Finally, clean up the old sealant before installing a new sink.
You can find the best wet bar sinks at WDC Kitchen & Bath. Explore a broad range of bar sinks, faucets, and cabinetry combinations at our stores.
Why Trust WDC?
At WDC Kitchen & Bath Center, we’ve been proudly serving Southern California since 1981. What began as a small family business has grown into one of the largest independently owned kitchen and bath showrooms in the region, rooted in family values and exceptional service. With locations throughout Ventura, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara counties, our team of knowledgeable professionals is dedicated to helping you bring your dream kitchen or bath to life.
Our expansive showrooms feature live kitchens, beautifully curated displays, and products from the industry's most trusted brands. At WDC, we believe every customer deserves personalized attention, high-quality products, and a trusted partner every step of the way.
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Have questions about choosing the right kitchen appliance for your home? The WDC team is here to help! When you're browsing for wet bar sinks or planning a full remodel, our friendly staff is ready to guide you. Visit one of our showrooms or call us at 888-487-2298.
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