You might have heard the terms butler and Belfast sink being used interchangeably, as they so often are.
The butler sink dates back to the 18th century in large, wealthy households with domestic staff who required sizeable sinks to wash pots, pans, and cookware. This sink would have been found in the butler’s pantry (a small room between the kitchen and dining room for food preparation, household chores, and service tasks).
The Belfast sink originated in the city of Belfast, Ireland, around the same time. It was used in serviced households like the butler sink, but with one big difference. While the butler sink was designed with water conservation in mind due to the scarcity of fresh water in London at the time, the Belfast sink was larger, reflecting the different water availability on the northern coastline of Ireland.
The Belfast sink is deeper than the butler sink, and while you might not have a roster of staff to call on to do your washing up, its size still serves a purpose. It's ideal for washing oven trays, oversized pans, and think of how awkward it is trying to wash an air fryer crisper tray in a standard-sized sink!
The butler sink is shallower than the Belfast sink, but it’s also wider. While Belfast sinks are designed to fit a 600mm unit, butler sinks require a wider 800mm unit. And its size isn’t the only noticeable difference between the two sinks.
The difference between butler and Belfast sinks can be summed up as:
Modern butler and Belfast sinks have been modified to accommodate today’s tastes, blurring the lines between the two, which is why you’ll often hear these terms used interchangeably.
Like most things in the kitchen, the cost of your sink will be determined by factors such as its material and size. Both Belfast and butler sinks are made from durable materials like fireclay, ceramic, porcelain, and stainless steel, each offering unique benefits.
Butler sinks are typically undermounted, meaning the worktop overhangs the sink slightly. To fit a butler sink, you’ll need to cut a space in your worktop. If your countertop is made of marble or granite, enlist a professional to make this cut for you. Precise measurements are crucial!
If you’ve opted for a DIY install, consider how you’ll lift the sink on your own. Belfast sinks are heavy, particularly ceramic ones. It’s a good idea to have a second person on hand to help with the heavy lifting if required.
Bolstering your cabinet for the heavy job of supporting your sink is crucial. Consider adding extra bracing or support to the cabinet to prevent it from sagging or collapsing under the weight of the sink.
If you’re unsure about any part of the installation process, think about hiring a professional to do the job for you. Not only will it save you time and ensure everything is done correctly, but proper planning and attention to detail upfront will help avoid potential issues down the line.
Traditional butler sinks don’t have an overflow, but modern interpretations of the original design have included it. Most butler sinks today are fitted with an integrated overflow to prevent water spilling over the top when the sink is full.
Solid worktops like marble, granite, or quartz work best with a Belfast sink as they’re better equipped to take the weight of the sink and are much more durable than a laminate worktop. Though it is possible to use a laminate worktop, once it has been cut, it’s at risk of moisture damage. Ultimately, the best worktop for your Belfast sink will depend on your style, budget, and how you plan to use your kitchen.
Butler sinks are so-called because they were primarily used by butlers in large homes with domestic staff in the early 18th century. The butler’s role was to manage household tasks, including the washing up! While the actual washing would fall to other household staff, the butler sink was designed to accommodate the needs of the kitchen, requiring a large sink for washing crockery and cookware.
