Top Mop Sinks for Restaurant Kitchens
For most restaurant kitchens, the Chef’s Star 18 inch Commercial Mop Sink is the top pick because it offers a deep basin, integrated drainboard, and durable stainless steel construction at a reasonable footprint. Its main advantage is versatility for both mopping and utility cleaning, though its 18 inch width may be tight for very large kitchens.
A mop sink is a critical piece of equipment in any restaurant, providing a dedicated area to fill buckets, rinse mops, and dispose of dirty water. The right one saves time and keeps your kitchen hygienic.
We compared specifications and owner feedback for seven popular models to highlight their strengths and limitations. Read on to find a sink that matches your space and cleaning routine.
The shortlist, ranked
Chef’s Star 18 inch Commercial Mop Sink
This 18 inch sink features a 12 inch deep basin and an integrated drainboard, making it a space-saving workhorse. The 18 gauge stainless steel is built to handle constant use, and the 4 inch backsplash helps protect walls.
Pros
- Deep basin holds large buckets
- Drainboard provides extra workspace
- Easy to clean stainless steel
Cons
- Smaller size may not suit high volume
- Requires precise cutout for installation
Advance Tabco 16 inch Round Mop Sink
This round floor mount sink is crafted from 16 gauge stainless steel with a 10 inch deep basin. Its compact design fits into corners, and the 2 inch drain allows quick water evacuation.
Pros
- Round shape fits tight corners
- Quick drain with 2 inch outlet
- Durable 16 gauge steel
Cons
- Round shape limits bucket placement
- No backsplash included
Kraus 20 inch Undermount Mop Sink
This 20 inch sink is made of 16 gauge stainless steel and designed for undermount installation, offering a sleek look and easier counter cleanup. The deep 14 inch basin is great for commercial use.
Pros
- Seamless countertop integration
- Extra deep basin
- High quality stainless steel
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- Undermount may not suit all countertops
Elkay 24 inch Floor Mount Mop Sink
With a 24 inch width and 12 inch depth, this floor mount sink offers generous space for large mop buckets and cleaning tasks. The 18 gauge stainless steel resists dents, and the integrated backsplash adds protection.
Pros
- Large basin for high volume
- Built in backsplash
- Sturdy floor mount design
Cons
- Takes up more floor space
- Heavy unit may require reinforced floor
Moen 18 inch Drop In Mop Sink
This 18 inch drop in sink offers a deep 13 inch basin at an affordable price. It features a rear drain placement that maximizes usable space and is made from durable stainless steel.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Deep basin
- Rear drain helps with bucket clearance
Cons
- Thinner steel may be less durable
- No drainboard included
T&S Brass 16 inch Wall Mount Mop Sink
This wall mounted sink is made of 14 gauge stainless steel, offering exceptional durability. Its 16 inch width is compact, and the wall mount design allows easy floor cleaning underneath.
Pros
- Ultra durable thick steel
- Wall mount frees floor space
- Easy to clean beneath
Cons
- Installation requires sturdy wall
- Smaller size limits capacity
Sinkology 20 inch Fireclay Mop Sink
This fireclay sink brings a traditional farmhouse look to commercial spaces. It is resistant to stains and scratches, and the 20 inch width offers a deep cleaning basin.
Pros
- Beautiful classic appearance
- Resists stains and scratches
- Deep basin
Cons
- Heavy material may need extra support
- Porcelain surface can chip if struck
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chef’s Star 18 inch Commercial Mop Sink | 18 gauge stainless steel | Restaurants needing a compact yet deep stainless steel sink | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Advance Tabco 16 inch Round Mop Sink | 16 gauge stainless steel | Tight spaces needing a space saving round sink | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | Kraus 20 inch Undermount Mop Sink | 16 gauge stainless steel | Modern kitchens wanting a seamless undermount look | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Elkay 24 inch Floor Mount Mop Sink | 18 gauge stainless steel | Heavy duty restaurants with high cleaning volumes | 9.2 | Check price |
| 5 | Moen 18 inch Drop In Mop Sink | Stainless steel | Budget friendly replacement for existing sinks | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | T&S Brass 16 inch Wall Mount Mop Sink | 14 gauge stainless steel | Cleaning under the sink and saving floor space | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Sinkology 20 inch Fireclay Mop Sink | Fireclay | Upscale restaurants desiring a classic fireclay look | 8.0 | Check price |
How to choose
Questions worth asking
What is the standard size of a commercial mop sink?
Commercial mop sinks typically range from 16 to 24 inches in width and are 10 to 14 inches deep. The size you choose should fit your available space and cleaning demands.
Should I choose a floor mount or wall mount mop sink?
Floor mount sinks are more common and easier to install, but they take up floor space. Wall mount sinks allow for easy cleaning underneath but require a sturdy wall for support.
What material is best for a restaurant mop sink?
Stainless steel is the best material for most restaurants because it is durable, hygienic, and easy to clean. Fireclay is an option for aesthetics but is more prone to chipping.
Can I install a mop sink myself?
If you have plumbing experience, you might install a drop in sink yourself, but floor mount and wall mount sinks often require professional help to ensure proper drainage and support.
How deep should a mop sink be?
A depth of at least 10 inches is recommended to avoid splashing and to hold standard mop buckets. Deeper sinks, around 12 to 14 inches, are better for heavy use.
Do mop sinks come with faucets included?
Most mop sinks do not include faucets. You will need to purchase a separate commercial mop sink faucet, often with a hose attachment.
What is the advantage of a drainboard on a mop sink?
A drainboard provides a flat area to rest mops, buckets, or other cleaning tools, keeping them off the floor and allowing water to drain back into the sink.
How do I clean a stainless steel mop sink?
Clean with warm water and a mild dish soap. For tough stains, use a non abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent water spots.
Can a mop sink be used for other purposes?
Yes, many restaurants use mop sinks for filling large pots, washing mats, or disposing of waste water, making them versatile utility sinks.
Are there ADA compliant mop sinks?
Some models are designed with ADA compliance in mind, such as wall mount sinks that allow wheelchair access underneath. Check specifications for compliance if needed.
Our take
For most restaurant owners, we recommend the Chef’s Star 18 inch Commercial Mop Sink because it offers a perfect balance of durability, depth, and space efficiency. If you have a large kitchen with heavy usage, consider the Elkay 24 inch floor mount model for its extra capacity. On a tight budget, the Moen 18 inch drop in provides solid performance at a lower cost.
Dana Whitfield
Dana spent eight years buying and merchandising for a regional kitchenware retailer before moving into editorial work. She has handled thousands of SKUs across cookware, small appliances and kitchen organization, and focuses on the practical differences that matter once a product is actually in daily use.
