A 3 compartment sink is meant to be used for rinsing raw food, preparing meals and managing dish clean-up. The different compartments allow safety standards to be followed while performing different jobs at once. These compartments also permit multiple people to use the sink at once, which may be beneficial in a hectic work environment. Triple basin sink is must-have for commercial kitchens.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison: Best Triple Bowl Kitchen Sinks
Top 7 Best 3 Compartment Sink Reviews:
1. GRIDMANN 3 Compartment NSF Stainless Steel Commercial Bar Sink
Highlighted Features:
- National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified
- Three basket strainer drains
- Brushed stainless steel
- 3 bay bar sink
- Easy installation
- Compartments of equal size
- Adjustable legs for height
- Reasonable price
The 3 compartment bar sink gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Small but mighty, this sink provides three deep bowls from which you can work every day. The brushed stainless steel construction offers strength and muted beauty.
Faucet holes are also provided so you won’t have to drill them. In addition, three basket strainer drains assemblies are included with this model. Each drain sits in the center of each bowl. All the bowls are equally proportioned so there will be no wasted space.
The surface of this sink has been treated to resist all scratches and stains. It is also certified by the NSF, which means that it repels bacteria and is easily wiped down and cleaned without much fuss. This model really delivers on function and durability.
Pros:
- Comes with three complete basket strainer drain assemblies, minus plumber’s putty
- Easy to assemble and light enough to maneuver into place without much trouble
- Brushed stainless steel has a more muted and understated look than a high polish
- Certified by the NSF which means it keeps food areas clean and is easily wiped down
- Deep bowls maximize its space and allow for more work to be done while accommodating larger items
Cons:
- Does not come with a warranty
2. Giantex Heavy Duty Stainless Steel 3 Compartment Sink
Highlighted Features:
- Wall mount style
- Made from chromium stainless steel
- Smooth front apron
- Easy to assemble
- Pre-cut faucet holes
- Compact 3 compartment sink
- Shallower bowls
- Sloped bottom
If you want a triple bowl kitchen sink that fulfills all your basic needs at a lower price, this may be the one for you. Able to be mounted on the wall, this sink comes with pre-drilled faucet holes for you to customize.
There are black rubber feet on the bottom of each leg to keep the sink steady and from moving around over time.
Though style and looks may not rate too high on your list when shopping for a commercial sink, this one packs in modern style. Its smooth apron front is made of the hardest chromium stainless steel. This material is resistant to just about anything you can throw at it, and it is extremely thick and durable. The clean lines of this sink keep it simple and easy to clean.
Inside each of the bowls, the bottom of the sink slopes toward the drain to ensure efficient drainage. All of the bowls are of the same dimensions.
While this sink is a tad shallower than some other models on this list, that may be what you’re looking for. Shallower bowls mean less bending over and easier cleaning.
It comes ready to be assembled, and can be ready to use in minutes after you receive the package. No drains or drain assemblies are included in this model.
If you are looking for an attractive 3 compartment sink for your kitchen at a bare bones price, this could be the one you’re looking for.
Pros:
- Bowls are slightly shallower than other models, which may mean less reaching
- Sloped bottom design improves drainage efficiency and sanitation
- Can be wall-mounted and a custom faucet chosen using the pre-cut faucet holes
- Solid front apron looks attractive and pleasing to the eye as one large piece
- Rubber feet keep this sink from bouncing around or moving around over time
- Chromium stainless steel means a thicker, more long-lasting sink that resists damage
Cons:
- Drain strainers and drain assemblies are not included
3. John Boos E Series Multi Bowl Commercial Kitchen sink, 3 Compartment
Highlighted Features:
- Name brand recognition
- Wide workstation drain boards
- 18 gauge stainless steel
- Large size
- Centered eight inch faucet holes
- Certified by National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)
- Certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
- Adjustable feet for uneven surfaces
This 3 compartment kitchen sink with drainboards is built to functionality. Boasting two large drain boards, this sink is equipped to meet with most health and safety standards a professional kitchen might require.
There are also two faucet holes that are pre-drilled. No faucet components come with this sink, however.
The bowls in this model are slightly shallower than the typical 3 bay sink. That might be surprising considering the price. Larger dishes and other items may not fit inside each individual bowl.
On the plus side, the entire sink is constructed out of sturdy and strong 18 gauge stainless steel. This steel will not rust or corrode, and it has a finish that will resist stains or marks.
This sink is also certified by the NSF and CSA. Both of these entities test the performance and capability of products to see if they are up to industry standards.
This 3 compartment sink has passed the test on both accounts. Adjustable feet at the bottom of this sink can be great if you have a slightly uneven floor or working area. Three basic basket drain strainers come in the package.
Another thing to consider when purchasing this product is size. Because of the drain boards that extend out to each side, it might have a tough time fitting into a smaller or compact space.
Pros:
- John Boos is a name brand that is well known in the industry for quality
- Massive size will accommodate almost any professional kitchen need
- Comes with spacious drying boards that allow sanitary practices to be followed
- Adjustable feet can allow the sink to sit evenly on any floor or surface
- Two pre-cut faucet holes are centered onto this sink an ready to be used
- Certified by the NSF and CSA for performance durability and sanitary handling
Cons:
- Shallower bowls mean less space to wash large dishes or other items
4. John Boos E Series NSF Certified Stainless Steel Deep Bowl 3 Compartment Sink
Highlighted Features:
- Attractive beveled backsplash
- Strong 18 gauge stainless steel
- Self-leveling feet
- Galvanized steel legs
- Shiny metal finish
- 3 tub sink with two faucet holes
- Extra wide bowls
- Deep and spacious interior
A good compromise on style and function, this John Boos E Series sink is made from premium 18 gauge stainless steel. The steel has a high polish finish, which makes it striking to look at and easy to clean.
All four legs of this sink are also made from galvanized steel for extra durability. Plastic bullet feet ensure traction on whatever surface it may sit upon.
The main feature of this sink is its interior size. If you do not want to mess around with shallow or narrow sink bowls, this sink may interest you. With an interior that is a whole foot deep, nearly anything can fit inside. The width and length are both a whopping 18 inches, and the bowls are equidistant to one another.
The John Boos name is well known in the industry as a maker of quality, high-end products that can be affordable. This commercial sink is no exception. The slightly beveled backsplash protects the wall behind from any stray splashing or spattering.
Two faucet holes come pre-drilled into this back edge for maximum convenience. Inside each bowl are centered drains. However, no drain strainers or assemblies are included.
This sink also has an impressive NSF certification. That means that the National Safety Foundation approved this model and decided it met its high standards for sanitation. Easy to clean and wipe, this sink can stay looking beautiful and clean for years to come with the proper care.
Pros:
- The shiny finish keeps this sink looking fresh and new for years
- Pre-drilled holes are easy to custom fit for faucets or to attach sink to wall
- Backsplash is high enough to reduce spatter and messy splashing
- Legs are made from galvanized steel for durability, and they have plastic bullet feet
- Each bowl is a foot deep, which gives plenty of room to wash large items
- NSF certified for quality and sanitation purposes, meaning this sink stays clean
Cons:
- May arrive dented if not handled properly
5. Elkay Foodservice 3 Compartment Sink
Highlighted Features:
- Drainboards for left and right sides
- Deluxe work area
- Discrete bowls with no apron front
- Two pre-cut holes for faucet
- High backsplash
- Thick 16 gauge stainless steel
- Rounded corners on work areas
- Average bowl width and depth
This Elkay 3 compartment commercial sink seems to be a luxury item for good reason. With all the bells and whistles you could ever want in a three compartment sink, this model delivers on style and durability.
Made from 16 gauge stainless steel, this sink is built like a fortress. Sixteen gauge steel is the thickest type of steel that is available on the commercial market, so you know you are getting the best. That might be important if you plan on using this sink heavily on a daily basis.
The biggest attraction of this sink is its spacious work area. With drainboards on both the left and right of the sink bowls, this sink offers plenty of room to lay items.
These drainboards have subtly curved edges that prevents items from rolling off or crashing to the floor. Because they are not sharp corners, they are easy to clean and do not collect debris.
With a high shine finish, this sink can really have that “wow” factor due to its size and impressive features. The steel is continued into the legs and all the way to the feet.
Two faucet holes are drill into the back board above the sink. This backsplash is higher than in other models, meaning it can contain messes better and prevent water or other things from slopping everywhere.
Though it is pricey, this sink definitely has so many great features that are all in one box. The drainboards are included, so you won’t have to run around trying to buy more accessories or items to satisfy any health codes. This sink is ideal for a busy commercial kitchen.
Pros:
- Extremely thick 16 gauge stainless steel will go the distance and is difficult to damage
- Spacious work area and drip-dry area with left and right drainboards
- Rounded corners on drainboards and work areas mean better and easier cleaning
- Shiny finish will stay looking nice no matter what kind of jobs it encounters
- Certified by the National Sanitation Foundation, so you know it is at a professional level
- Two faucet holes come pre-cut for ease of installation
Cons:
- This model is a little more expensive than others on this list
6. BK Resources BKS-3-1014-1015T 3-Compartment Sink
Highlighted Features:
- Wide 60 inch drainboards
- Smaller sink interiors
- Smooth apron front
- Strong legs with plastic feet
- 18 gauge stainless steel
- Brushed finish
- Drain basket strainers included
- Adjustable height
Perfect for commercial kitchens or convenience stores, this 3 compartment sink is durable and compact. The sink bowls are smaller than some other models featured on this list.
The ones for this sink measure 10 inches by 14 inches wide, and they are 10 inches deep. You may not be able to muscle large items into them, but they are certainly functional for most day to day tasks.
Balanced on galvanized steel legs, this sink’s height is completely adjustable. That may be useful to you if you have different height needs throughout the day.
Drain strainers are also included, though drain assemblies are not. No faucet is included in the package, but two faucet holes are already drilled and are ready for your customization.
The brushed finish of this sink offers a muted elegance that is not often seen in most commercial three bowl sinks. The smooth apron front allows the eye to travel easily over it without any skips or interruptions.
The massive work area extends on either side 15 inches. This distance is very spacious and will allow you to set items down or stack them up with ease. The edges of these drainboards have a lip that prevents any unexpected falls.
The walls between these sink bowls are thinner, which allows the maximum amount of interior space to be utilized. The backsplash can sit flush against the wall and is extra high at 9 inches. That will prevent messes from happening on the wall and floor surrounding the sink.
Pros:
- Extra high backsplash protects sink from extra mess or stray water droplets
- Large 15 inch drainboards provide plenty of room to stack up dishes
- Two holes come pre-drilled into the back board so you can customize your faucet
- Galvanized steel legs are sturdy yet adjustable for different working heights
- Smaller sink bowl interior may be helpful in a tighter space or if your items are small
- Basket drain strainers are included inside the package for convenience
Cons:
- May be small for some commercial kitchens or for larger items
7. Fenix Sol 18G-3C10X14-L12 Three Compartment Stainless Steel Sink
Highlighted Features:
- 18 gauge stainless steel
- Three basket drain strainers
- Median price point
- Wall mount style
- Holes for faucet are pre-cut
- Matching steel legs
- Left drainboard work area
- Rough finish
Of all the 3 bowl sinks on this list, this sink is the only one to come with a left drainboard only. If you have a small kitchen or work area, this model may work for you since it offers the best of both worlds.
You get a sink with bowls that are 10 inches deep, but you also get an extra foot of working area with the left drainboard.
Sporting a rough or rustic finish, this sink is meant to look like a workhorse. It has industrial appeal with its lighter gray finish that has a dull appearance.
The solid apron front has some interesting detail work that keeps this sink from looking entirely utilitarian. The legs are made from galvanized steel and match the rest of the sink in style and color. Plastic feet in a bullet shape keeps this sink sitting steady on any surface.
Overall, this sink is made from 18 gauge stainless steel. Each bowl has equal proportions and can handle heavy items. Basket drain strainers are included in the box, which saves you a trip to the hardware store.
You can also customize the type of faucet you want to accompany this sink. Two holes exist and are ready for faucet installation. This sink is also easy to set up and install right out of the box.
At a median price point, this sink can be a boon to anyone who has an awkwardly spaced kitchen but who needs a commercial sink. The drainboard may also help meet local or regional health department requirements. Easily mounted to the wall with screws that are included, this sink will get the job done without much muss or fuss.
Pros:
- Rough and rustic finish gives this sink industrial style and appeal
- Left drainboard area offers a place to work and stack up items as needed
- Three basket drain strainers accompany this package for easy installation
- Two faucet holes are drilled into backsplash and await separate faucet parts
- Good for small or awkwardly framed rooms where two drainboards may be too large
- Strong 18 gauge stainless steel will stand the test of time and endure daily use.
Cons:
- May look too unfinished or basic for the price
Triple Bowl Commercial Sink Buying Guide
Height
The height of your sink should be comfortable and easy to use. Remember, you will be standing while you use it, so the higher it is, the better. The interior of this kind of sink is generally much larger and deeper than a sink seen in a house or typical residential setting.
You will have to reach farther down into the sink to feel the bottom. That may mean more bending over. Because of this, 3 compartment sinks are often a little higher off the ground than the normal sink.
Compartment Arrangement
Though some sinks of this type have one main trough with three walls that create different spaces, other models have three discrete bowls that are unattached from one another.
If food safety is your main concern, you might consider the sink with the detached bowls since it gives you more separation. However, one continuous bay with walls maximizes the internal space. That may be handy if you want a very large sink interior to work with.
Some sinks may come with compartments that are smaller or larger. These sizes are meant to assist in different tasks, but you may find that an equally divided arrangement better suits your needs. You do not want any wasted space in your sink.
Additional Workspace
3 compartment sink often comes with extra accessories that make life easier. These accessories frequently include items or features that increase workspace.
That means more flat shelves above the bowls, or removable trays or boards that can be placed inside the upper opening of the sink. If you have a really small kitchen or work area, this workspace could be a major boon to you.
Conversely, you may not have the vertical space to accommodate extra ledges or shelving above the sink bowls. It’s always good to measure your kitchen area before you shop.
Style
When purchasing commercial industrial appliances, style may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Functionality is often the first concern. However, having a sink that looks sturdy, bright and unblemished can always help boost morale.
A sink that will stay looking shiny and clean can be inviting to use, so you want to consider finishes and materials when purchasing. If you already have other appliances installed in your kitchen, you will probably want to match your sink to those.
Bowl Depth
Most 3 compartment sinks are wide by nature, but bowl depth differs from sink to sink. A deeper bowl can hold more water or material, but smaller bowls are easier to clean.
The deeper the bowl, the more you may have to lean over or down to access it, especially if it is a shorter sink. A more compact 3 compartment sink might have shallower bowls.
What is 3 Compartment Sink?
A 3 compartment sink is usually used in commercial venues like professional kitchens or catering businesses. It can also be used in farms, garages, or anywhere where a large sink with maximum space is needed.
This kind of sink is meant more to be used than to be looked at, so most three bowl sinks do not have the grand finishes or elegant style that the typical outdoor kitchen sink has. They are also meant to last for years and years under heavy and repeated use, so they are often built with stainless steel.
Inside the sink are three discrete bowls. These basins are often deep and spacious for mass food preparation or other cleaning uses. Sometimes these bowls are of different proportions from one another depending on the model.
A drain is at the bottom of each compartment to allow water to drain out. Oftentimes these sinks sit a little higher than the average sink to accommodate the extra bend it takes to reach the bottom of the deeper basins.
Overall, a 3 compartment sink is a must-have for most commercial kitchens. It allows staff to wash and prep food, clean dishes or perform other routine and necessary tasks. Because these sinks are so large, more than one person can use it at a time without crowding.
How to Use a Three Compartment Sink
The Compartment or Sink 1
The first sink is for washing. That means you require water and washing detergent (for utensils). The water in this sink should be hot (minimum temperature 110°F(43.33°C)). Experts recommend that you have a dilution dispenser to mix the water and detergent equally.
However, if you don’t have it, make sure you read the detergent’s label’s dilution ratio. Sink 1 is for scouring the utensils.
Use a scouring pad or scrubbing brush to wash the wares. You must maintain the hot water temperature in this sink at 110 degrees Fahrenheit, but it should not exceed 120°F.
Whenever you notice the water is becoming dirty, please drain and replace it with clean hot water and detergent.
The Compartment or Sink 2
This is for rinsing the utensils. You need to fill this sink with warm water. Don’t add any detergent to this compartment.
The purpose of this sink is to get rid of the detergent on the cooking equipment andutensils. When sink 2’s water becomes so soapy, you should drain and add clean, warm water.
The Compartment or Sink 3
This is where sanitization takes place. You can either use boiling water (171°F and above) or use sanitization chemicals. Furthermore, you can mix the sanitization chemical with hot water in a dispenser or manually prepare the mixture but following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t confuse sanitizing and washing. They are two different words with different meanings.
The chemical used in this sink is meant to destroyany germs and bacterial still on the utensils.
Suppose you are using hot water without any chemicals. Make sure you maintain the temperature level.
The most used sanitization chemical include;
- Iodine
- Chlorine
- Quat
Also, be very keen when it comes to concentration levels. Ensure that you inform your employees to check the chemical’s label to avoid using it in-excess or less than the amount required.
Note:
- When washing utensils on such a sink, you should wear protective gloves to prevent skin damage by hot water, detergent, and sanitizing chemicals.
- When you finish the sinks and utensils preparation, it’s time to start cleaning the utensils.
- Scrap the food residue from the utensils before washing them on a three-compartment sink.
How to Clean a 3 Bowl Kitchen Sink
Materials:
- Rag or soft sponge
- Non-abrasive cleaner
- Water
- Bleach
- Dry towel
Step One:
First you will want to take your non-abrasive cleaner and spray down the interior of your sink. Be sure to get all the corners and hard to reach places. Be sure to also spray down the drainboards if you have them.
Step Two:
Next, take your rag or sponge and wipe down these areas. Use circular motions for efficiency and thoroughness. If you have a 3 compartment sink with faucet, remember to wipe down all the parts of the sink at the same time. That includes the faucet controls. The goal here is to remove any crumbs or stains.
Step Three:
After giving it a good wipe-down, turn on the water and rinse out all the cleaning material you used. After doing that, you can spray the sink interior with a bleach solution to disinfect it. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes for full disinfection. Then rinse again and pat dry.
Important to Remember:
It’s always best to scrub any gunk off before disinfecting the sink. The typical commercial 3 compartment sink is made of stainless steel because it is timeless and durable. It’s also easy to clean, but be sure to never use anything that will scratch the surface.
Triple Bowl Sink Must-Have Features
Efficient Drainage
Three tub sinks have a drain in each compartment, and good drainage is key in keeping your sink clean and free of debris. Look for sink bottoms that are slightly curved or sloped. These types of bottoms usher the water toward the middle of the bowl to be drained.
Sturdy Materials
Even the most compact 3 compartment sink should be able to endure daily use and heavy wear and tear. Most sinks of this type are constructed from solid materials like stainless steel due to its timeless nature. Be sure to check the stainless steel gauge. The lower the number, the thicker the steel.
Accessible Work Area
Many three compartment sinks come with a ledge or shelf attached that expand the work area. This could be extremely helpful in a tight kitchen. Work area can also be expanded inside each compartment with an off-center drain. The extra space at the bottom can allow you to set things down without encountering the drain.
Good Compartment Arrangement
Depending on your work needs, you will have to look out for how each individual bowl is sized and positioned. Wasted space will never be a good thing. This arrangement could be especially important in a 3 compartment sink with faucet. You will want the faucet to be able to easily reach all the bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use a Three Compartment Sink at Home?
I know you have been eagerly waiting for this part. Yes! But you must make sure that your kitchen is big enough to accommodate this type of sink.
Such a type of sink is the best for a home that uses farm produce daily. You can use the first sink to wash out the dirt from the produce. Sink two for rinsing purposes while the third for drying the crop. It would help if you mounted a drainboard to enable the produce drain water into the sink.
Which Type of Stainless Steel Should You Choose When Buying a 3 Compartment Sink?
There are two types of stainless steel sinks in the market. They include;
- 430
- 304
Many sink experts recommend the 304 for use as it is high-quality and resistant to rust and stain. However, it’s expensive than 430.It would be best if you did not think buying a 430 is low-quality and has a high probability of corrosion and stain.
What’s the FDA Status on Three Compartment Sinks?
According to the FDA, food services should consider having an alternative to their commercial dishwashers. This is in case it breaks. And according to them, the best substitute sink is the three-compartment sink.
Which Sink Gauges are the Best for a 3 Compartment Sink?
Due to the nature of work involved in a restaurant, you need a strong sink that will not dent by large cooking pots.
The sink should be thick, meaning the gauge should be small. For your information, the lower the gauge number, the thicker the sink.
So, as per experts, you need to go for a 14 gauge three-compartment sink. Although it’s expensive, it’s the most suitable and long-lasting.
A 14 gauge sink can withstand heavy usage, such as the one in a hotel.
Conclusion
It looks like the Elkay Foodservice 16 gauge Stainless Steel 3 Compartment Kitchen Sink could be the best commercial sink. Not only does it offer superior durability, this Elkay 3 basin commercial sink comes with a warranty, spacious bowls and a beautiful look that is sure to make any kitchen shine. It is built to last for years to come and provide non-stop service.
One big reason, this sink with drainboards makes our best list is its extra accessories. The drainboards comply with most health standards and will keep your kitchen looking top of the line. It is also certified by the National Sanitation Foundation to boot, so you can feel safe using the sink.
