When you’re having a new kitchen installed, one of the first things you’ll start to miss (besides a proper brew) is your kitchen sink.

It’s surprising how central it is to daily life — until it’s gone.

Whether your renovation lasts a week or three, here’s how to make living without a kitchen sink during renovation manageable, practical, and far less stressful.

1. Set Up a Temporary Washing Station

Dishes still need cleaning. Veg still needs rinsing. Hands definitely still need washing.

So your first priority is setting up a proper washing alternative.

Utility Room Sink

If you’ve got a working utility sink, protect it at all costs. If possible, delay renovating that space until the kitchen is complete. Future-you will be grateful.

Bathroom Sink or Bathtub

Not glamorous — but very effective.

• Use a rubber bath mat to protect the surface.
• Raise your washing-up bowl on a board to save your back.
• Add a tap hose or use a shower attachment for easier rinsing.
• Use a wire rack inside the bath to avoid soggy towel chaos.

Portable or Camping Sink

A self-contained camping sink can be a game-changer. Basin, tap, waste container — simple but effective.

If you’ve got space, create a small temporary kitchen corner with:

• Your washing station
• Microwave or air fryer
• Compact drawer unit for essentials
• A fold-up prep surface

Keep all washing supplies together so it feels intentional, not chaotic.

2. Embrace Disposable (and Eco-Friendly) Options

Without a sink, washing up enthusiasm drops fast.

This is the moment to simplify — without feeling guilty.

• Eco-friendly disposables – compostable plates and cups reduce workload.
• Easy-clean reusables – melamine, stainless steel, picnic-style sets.
• Wash little and often – avoid the “bath full of mugs” situation.

Temporary shortcuts are allowed. This isn’t forever.

3. Keep Meals Simple

Now is not the time for ambitious cooking.

• No-cook meals – wraps, salads, overnight oats.
• Minimal-cook options – microwave rice, couscous, soup.
• Small appliances – microwave, air fryer, slow cooker = heroes.
• The occasional takeaway – absolutely acceptable.

The goal isn’t culinary brilliance. It’s keeping everyone fed without creating chaos.

4. Keep Calm and Communicate

Living without a sink can test patience — especially when you’re washing cereal bowls in the bath.

• Talk to your installer if something’s unclear.
• Coordinate with trades to avoid delays.
• Set expectations at home — agree who’s on washing-up duty.

Clear communication turns “renovation meltdown” into “manageable inconvenience.”

5. Keep the End Goal in Mind

When you’re deep into microwave dinners and balancing washing bowls on laundry baskets, it’s easy to forget why you started.

But picture it:

• Soft-close everything.
• A proper sink again.
• Space that works for your family.
• A kitchen that feels like the heart of your home.

The inconvenience is temporary.

The result will last for years.

Hang in there. You’re nearly there — and it’s going to be worth it.