Single vs Double Sink Bathrooms: Which is Better?
Trying to choose between single and double sink bathrooms?
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each.
Single Sink Bathrooms
Single sink bathroom vanities vary greatly in size, anywhere from 16 inches to 72 inches. They also come in various shapes, sizes, styles, and colors, and can be either freestanding or wall-mounted.
Given their size, they’re usually great for guest bathrooms, small baths, and half baths. Double sink bathrooms usually don't fit in these types of spaces.
Pro: Installation and Cost
Besides being a better fit for smaller spaces, single sink bathrooms are easier to install. Since there’s only one sink and one faucet to worry about. As such, the cost of installation is also cheaper. Usually the single sink itself is cheaper, too.
Pro: Cleaning
It should go without saying, but one sink is easier to clean than two.
Pro: More Room for Amenities
Bathrooms tend to be the smallest room in your home. Extra space to separate your shower and tub, or more available storage space[1] can be hard to come by. Since single sink bathroom vanities take up less space, you have more to play with.
Pro: More Counter Space
Depending on the size and style of your single sink, you may have extra free space to space your toiletries or install risers or shelves. No one wants to feel cramped, especially in their bathroom.
Con: Not for Master Baths
Single sinks are great for bathrooms between 40 and 100 square feet. However, if your master bathroom is 110-200 square feet or larger, a single sink can appear awkward and leave unnecessary empty space.
Con: Sharing
If you and your partner or roommate are getting ready simultaneously, you may have to share the single sink. This can make some early morning tasks difficult, and leave you wishing you had your own sink.
Double Sink Bathrooms
Double sink bathroom vanities have two sinks installed into the cabinet. Two sinks require two faucets and a large enough countertop to comfortably accommodate them. You’ll rarely encounter a double sink bathroom vanity that’s any smaller than 48 inches. Even that is pushing it.
Pro: A Sink to Call Your Own
Are you and your partner or roommate getting ready at the same time? No problem! You can shave, brush your teeth, apply makeup, and fix your hair all while over your own personal sink. It’s a liberty many of us don’t often think about, but appreciate when we have it, like a dishwasher or an in-unit washer and dryer.
Pro: Independent Counter Space
If two people share a single sink, they usually have to divide up the counter space. It can make the right and left side of the single sink look like East Germany and West Germany. With two sinks, you can place whatever items you’d like on either side of your own individual sink.
Con: Installation and Cost
Naturally, double sink bathroom vanities tend to cost more, roughly $750 to $3,200 for the new unit and installation. The price varies greatly based on the type of material, size, and various other factors. Also, an extra sink means additional plumbing costs.
Con: Less Counter Space
Depending on the size of your double sink vanity, you might end up with less counter space than a single sink. The sinks themselves take up a lot of space, so if you choose between a 60-inch single sink and a 60-inch double sink, you’re going to have less counter space.
Which is Better?
As you probably guessed, it all depends on the size of your bathroom(s) and your personal preference. If you’d like more insight, check out our products!