A copper bar sink is an easy way to bring copper's warmth into a kitchen island, wet bar, butler's pantry, or outdoor kitchen without committing to a full-size copper sink. Here is what to check before you buy.
Common sizes and shapes
- Square or round: the classic bar sink look, often around 12 to 16 inches.
- Rectangular prep sinks: a bit larger, useful for rinsing vegetables or filling a pitcher.
- Depth: deeper bowls reduce splashing, but leave room in the cabinet for the drain and plumbing.
Always check the outside dimensions and the minimum cabinet width listed by the maker before you order.
Undermount, drop-in, or dual-mount
| Style | How it sits | Best with |
|---|---|---|
| Undermount | Attached under the counter for a clean edge | Granite, quartz, and other solid-surface counters |
| Drop-in (top mount) | The rim rests on top of the counter | Laminate counters, easy replacements |
| Dual-mount | Can be installed either way | Flexibility if you are still deciding |
The drain: the detail most people miss
Most bar sinks have a 2-inch drain opening, smaller than the 3 1/2-inch opening on a standard kitchen sink. That affects two things:
- Drain parts: buy a drain made for a 2-inch bar sink opening. Many copper sink makers sell matching drains in oil-rubbed bronze or copper tones.
- Garbage disposals: most standard disposals are designed for a 3 1/2-inch opening. If you want a disposal, choose a prep sink made with a full-size drain.
Faucets
Bar faucets are smaller than kitchen faucets. Check that the spout reaches the center of the bowl and is tall enough to fill a glass or pitcher. Some bar sinks have a faucet hole built into the deck, while others need the faucet mounted on the counter.
Gauge and finish
As with all copper sinks, a lower gauge number means thicker copper. Small bar sinks often come in 16 or 18 gauge. A hammered finish is popular because it helps hide small scratches and water spots. See our copper sink guide for a full gauge chart.
Caring for a copper bar sink
Bar sinks see a lot of lemon wedges, wine, and cocktail mixers, and acidic foods can cause temporary bright or dark spots. Copper sink makers such as Sinkology recommend:
- Clean with warm water, a gentle dish soap, and a soft cloth.
- Rinse after acidic foods and drinks, and do not leave dishes or food sitting in the sink.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbers.
- Remember that discoloration is normal. The patina protects the copper, and shiny spots usually blend back in over time.
Outdoor kitchens
Copper is a natural fit outdoors, but sun, rain, and air speed up the patina. Outdoors, copper can develop green or blue tones over time. That weathering is natural and part of copper's charm.
The bottom line
Measure your cabinet, match the mounting style to your counter, plan for a 2-inch drain, and choose a faucet sized for a small bowl. Then enjoy a sink that gets better looking with age. Read more in Copper Sinks: The Honest Pros and Cons and How to Care for Copper.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a copper bar sink?
Bar and prep sinks are much smaller than a main kitchen sink. Many are roughly 12 to 18 inches across. Always check the exact outside dimensions and the minimum cabinet size listed by the maker.
What size drain does a bar sink use?
Bar sinks usually have a 2-inch drain opening. A standard kitchen sink drain is 3 1/2 inches. Buy a drain made for your sink's opening.
Can you put a garbage disposal on a bar sink?
Usually not. Most standard disposals are designed to mount to a 3 1/2-inch kitchen sink opening. If you want a disposal in a prep sink, look for a sink made with a full-size 3 1/2-inch drain.
Can a copper bar sink go outdoors?
Yes, many people use copper sinks in outdoor kitchens. Outdoors the copper will weather faster and can develop green or blue tones over time. That is a natural patina, not damage.
Are copper bar sinks hard to keep clean?
Not really. Rinse after use, dry when you can, and avoid harsh chemicals. Rinse promptly after citrus, wine, or cocktails, because acids can cause temporary spots.