Choosing the right small RV sink can transform your mobile living space, combining practicality with stylish design. Whether you’re outfitting a cozy camper or upgrading your van conversion, a well-chosen sink maximizes utility in compact quarters. This shopping guide will help you navigate options to find the perfect balance of function, durability, and aesthetic—making every journey cleaner and more convenient.
Small RV Sink Types, Applications & Key Characteristics
| Sink Type/Style | Mount Type | Common Materials | Typical Size Range | Key Features & Uses | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drop-In (Topmount) | Above Counter | Stainless Steel, ABS | 12–25” (length/width) | Easiest to install, visible rim, moderate cost | DIYers, quick replacements |
| Undermount | Under Counter | Stainless Steel | 14–18” (length/width) | Modern look, easier cleaning, needs sturdy base | Remodels, high-end builds |
| Molded Plastic (Lavatory) | Above/Undermount | ABS, Acrylic | 13–16” (length/width) | Lightweight, budget-friendly, variety of colors | Bathroom/compact spaces |
| Double Bowl | Above/Undermount | Stainless, Plastic | 17–25” (length/width) | Two compartments for washing/rinsing, more space | RV kitchens, families |
| Round/Corner | Above/Undermount | Stainless, Acrylic | 13–16” (diameter) | Space saving, fits tight corners | Small rigs, van builds |
| Integrated Cover (Combo) | Above Counter | Stainless Steel | 15–18” (length/width) | Glass cover for extra workspace, built-in faucet | Tiny kitchens, vanlifers |
Everyday Usage of a Small RV Sink
A small RV sink is a versatile and vital fixture that shapes the daily experience inside your motorhome, travel trailer, campervan, or tiny home. Whether installed in the kitchen or bathroom, it supports a range of tasks, including:
- Meal Prep & Clean-Up: Washing hands, rinsing produce, soaking cookware, and handling dirty dishes.
- Personal Hygiene: Brushing teeth, washing face, shaving, and filling up water containers.
- Pet Care & Utility: Quick rinses for pets, cleaning gear or clothes, and filling buckets for outdoor chores.
Due to space constraints, small RV sinks are designed for efficiency. Their compact bowls make water conservation easier, aid in controlling splashing within limited surroundings, and are easy to clean—ideal for travelers who need practical, quick solutions without sacrificing essential kitchen or bathroom functionality.
Typical Places You’d Use a Small RV Sink
- Kitchen: For cooking, washing dishes, and prepping ingredients.
- Bathroom (Lavatory): For brushing teeth, face washing, and hand hygiene.
- Outdoor Kitchen or Wet-Bar: Mounted in external kitchen units or standalone workstations.
Benefits of Installing a Small RV Sink
Choosing the right small RV sink elevates your mobile lifestyle. Key benefits include:
- Space Efficiency: Designed to maximize limited counter and cabinet real estate, allowing more workspace and storage elsewhere.
- Water Conservation: Smaller bowls and purposeful design help save water, crucial when relying on fresh tanks.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: Most small RV sinks use smooth surfaces and rounded corners for fast cleaning—vital in tiny areas where hygiene and odor control matter.
- Lightweight Construction: Especially for molded plastic and acrylic models, reducing total vehicle weight.
- Custom Fit and Styles: Available in various shapes (square, round, corner, double) and mounting types to fit every layout, from Class C motorhomes to pop-up campers and converted vans.
- Versatile Applications: Double as food prep stations, hand-washing spots, or even utility sinks for cleaning gear.
- Upgraded Aesthetics: With premium finishes (stainless, brushed, metallic, colored ABS), a new sink is a simple way to modernize an older RV.
How to Choose the Best Small RV Sink
Selecting a small RV sink involves balancing space, function, durability, and style. Here’s what to consider:
1. Size & Fit
- Measure cabinetry openings carefully, including width, depth, and counter overhangs.
- Consider bowl depth: Deeper bowls (6–9”) hold more utensils but may need extra clearance under the counter.
2. Mounting Style
- Drop-In (Topmount): Easier DIY install and commonly used in most RVs. Edge or rim sits on counter.
- Undermount: Seamless counter-to-bowl look and easier to wipe debris from counter into the sink. Installation is more involved, requiring strong counter material.
3. Material
- Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, heat, stain, and dent resistant.
- ABS/Acrylic Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, available in many colors, but can warp with heat or harsh chemicals.
- Granite Composite/Enamel: Sometimes found in luxury RVs, very stylish but heavier.
4. Bowl Configuration
- Single Bowl: More space for washing pots, easier to fit in tight layouts.
- Double Bowl: Allows for multitasking—washing and rinsing separately, but takes more cabinet space.
- Corner/Round: Great for van builds or irregular counter layouts.
5. Special Features
- Integrated Covers: Sinks with glass/metal covers create additional counter space when not in use.
- Noise Reduction: Look for models with undercoating or padding to minimize rattle and drain noise.
- Accessory Compatibility: Sound-deadening pads, grids, strainers, or workstation ledges.
6. Installation & Compatibility
- Faucet Holes: Check the number and placement—some sinks require specific faucet types.
- Drain Size: Standard RV drains are typically smaller (1.5–2”) than household sinks, so be sure fittings match your existing plumbing.
7. Budget & Brand
- Prices range from under $30 (basic ABS) to $500+ (premium stainless steel with cover).
- Consider known RV brands (Dometic, Lippert, Ruvati, Elkay) for better fit and reliability.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
- Plan Your Space: Map out your actual daily tasks to choose the right sink size and configuration (double vs. single, corner vs. square).
- Upgrade Faucets Simultaneously: If you’re upgrading your sink, it’s an ideal time to install a new faucet or sprayer suited to your needs.
- Insist on Easy Cleaning: Tight-radius (rounded inside corners) and smooth finishes simplify cleaning.
- Protect Your Plumbing: Install a strainer to prevent food particles from clogging RV waste systems.
- Water-Saving Practices: Use basin stoppers when washing dishes or hands and fill the sink only partially to reduce water usage.
- Accessorize Smartly: Add sink covers for more counter space and roll-up drying racks to increase versatility.
- Temperature Awareness: If using plastic sinks, avoid pouring boiling water directly to prevent warping.
- Maintenance Checks: Regularly inspect seals and gaskets for leaks—especially after bumpy road trips.
- Installation Prep: Test-fit your new sink before final installation. Always use RV-compatible caulk/sealant to prevent leaks.
Comparison Table: Popular Small RV Sink Models & Specs
| Model/Brand | Mount Type | Bowl Shape | Material | Exterior Dimensions | Bowl Depth | Weight | Special Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraus KHU101-14 | Undermount | Rectangular | 16-ga Steel | 14”x18”x8” | 8” | ~13 lbs | Soundproof coating, full installation kit | $150–$200 |
| Houzer CS-1105-1 | Undermount | Rectangular | 18-ga Steel | 9.25”x18”x5.5” | 5.5″ | ~5 lbs | Noise-dampening, SpecPlus edge, compact | $80–$130 |
| JR Products 95351 | Drop-In | Oval | ABS Plastic | 15″x13″ | 6″ | <3 lbs | Lightweight, easy install, low cost | $25–$35 |
| Kindred FBFS602NKIT | Drop-In | Square | 22-ga Steel | 15”x15”x6” | 6” | ~6 lbs | Full kit (sink, faucet, drain), easy install | $80–$120 |
| Ruvati RVH8215 | Drop-In | Square | 16-ga Steel | 15”x15”x9” | 9” | ~21 lbs | Ultra-thick rim, sound deadening, workstation | $200–$230 |
| Dometic VA8000 Series | Drop-In | Square | Stainless | 14.6”x16.6”x5.8” | 5.8” | ~8 lbs | Glass cover, compact, includes drain | $350–$550 |
| Lippert Double ABS | Drop-In | Double Oval | ABS Plastic | 25”x17”x6.6” | 6.6” | ~7 lbs | Double bowl, lightweight, easy for DIYers | $80–$150 |
| Elkay Dayton D225193 | Drop-In | Double Bowl | Steel | 25”x19”x6.5” | 6.5” | 7.5 lbs | Equal bowls, sound pad, easy installation | $70–$120 |
User Tips & Advice for Choosing and Using a Small RV Sink
1. Measure Twice, Buy Once
Before buying, double check all your dimensions, including cabinet space, counter thickness, and plumbing location. Double-verify the sink’s overall size and basin depth to prevent fitment issues.
2. Prioritize Function Over Fancy Features
While integrated covers and workstation ledges are nice, your primary need is utility. Choose a bowl size that matches your cleaning style (deep bowls for pots/pans, shallower for light dish duty).
3. Material Matters
Stainless steel is best for longevity and easy scrubbing. ABS or plastic works for light weight and lower cost, but be prepared for more careful use.
4. Mind the Plumbing
Confirm that your drain size matches existing plumbing to avoid installation headaches. Adaptors are available, but matching perfectly saves time.
5. Accessorize Thoughtfully
A sink grid, roll-up rack, or cutting board insert can double your available workspace, especially in a tiny kitchen.
6. Regular Maintenance
Clean your sink with gentle, non-abrasive cleaners. For stainless, avoid chlorine-based products to prevent discoloration.
7. Secure Installation
Use only waterproof RV-specific sealants to prevent water intrusion into cabinetry. Tighten mounting hardware after long travel days.
8. Lightweight Focus
If towing or driving a small RV, every added pound matters. ABS and acrylic models reduce weight but still provide needed utility.
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Conclusion
A small RV sink is more than just a compact basin—it’s a daily workhorse, supporting cleanliness, food prep, and overall comfort on the road. By understanding the various types, materials, features, and installation methods, you can confidently choose a model that delivers maximum utility and durability within limited space. Consider your unique habits, available space, plumbing setup, and cosmetic preferences. The right small RV sink will enhance your on-the-road experience, streamline chores, and integrate beautifully with your mobile lifestyle.
FAQ
-
What size sink fits most small RVs?
Most small RV sinks are between 13–18 inches in length/width and 5–8 inches deep. Always check your available cabinet opening and depth before purchasing to ensure proper fit. -
What’s the best material for a small RV sink?
Stainless steel is the top choice for durability, stain resistance, and easy cleaning. ABS or acrylic plastic is lighter and less expensive, best for lightweight builds or occasional use. -
Can I install an RV sink myself?
Yes, if you’re handy, drop-in (topmount) sinks are easiest for DIY installations. Undermount models are more complex and may require cabinet reinforcement and specialized tools. -
What’s the difference between single and double bowl RV sinks?
Single bowls offer more space for larger items and fit better in tight spots. Double bowls allow you to split tasks (washing/rinsing) but require more width and cabinet space. -
Do RV sinks use standard residential drains and faucets?
No. Many RV sinks have smaller drain openings (1.5–2”) and sometimes require specific RV faucets or adapters. Check compatibility or be ready to modify connections. -
How do I prevent odors in my RV sink drain?
Regularly flush the drain with a mix of hot water and RV-safe cleaner or baking soda/vinegar. Always use a strainer to catch food debris, and periodically check for leaks or blockages. -
What are sink covers, and do I need one?
Sink covers (glass or plastic) double as extra counter space when the sink isn’t needed. They are especially valuable in very small kitchens or van conversions for maximizing prep area. -
Will a deeper RV sink use more water?
Not necessarily—the amount of water you use depends on your habits. Deeper sinks allow easier washing of pots but monitor your filling and draining to conserve water tanks. -
Are small RV sinks noisy?
Basic models without soundproofing can be noisy—especially metal ones. Opt for models with undercoating, pads, or thicker gauge steel to reduce clatter during use. -
How often should I check my RV sink for leaks?
Inspect the sink, drain seals, and mounting hardware after every long trip, when you experience rough roads, and during regular cleaning—at least once a month is best for preventative maintenance.