What Is a 3-Compartment Sink?

A 3-compartment sink is one of the most useful pieces of warewashing equipment in your commercial kitchen. Capable of washing and sanitizing dishes, pots and pans, these sinks will help ensure your cooking and serving wares are thoroughly cleaned. Check out more about 3-compartment sinks and how they can benefit your kitchen.

What Exactly Is a 3-Compartment Sink?

A 3-compartment sink is a type of manual warewashing sink that allows the user to wash, rinse and sanitize cups, plates, utensils and other wares in a commercial kitchen. The three compartments in this type of sink are designated for each step in the washing process, where one sink will be for washing, one for rinsing, and one for sanitizing. Additionally, 3-compartment sinks will often have a table incorporated into the unit so that dirty dishes can be placed there and within reach to wash. They’ll also usually have a table next to the sanitizing sink to allow dishes to air dry.

What Can You Wash in a 3-Compartment Sink?

3-compartment sinks are perfect for washing and sanitizing plateware, flatware, and cooking ware items. They’re especially great for washing large cooking items that don’t fit in a commercial warewasher, like stock pots, baking pans and more. Their deep sink design also means that you can wash multiple items at once for efficiency. 

What Should You NOT Wash in a 3-Compartment Sink

Your 3-compartment sink should never be used for handwashing or for dumping cleaning residue like mop water. The sink should be kept sanitary so your dishes can be washed in a clean environment.