The 3-hole sink configuration is genuinely one of the most common and versatile setups found in kitchens across the country.
The best kitchen faucet for a 3-hole sink is fundamentally crucial, as it must be designed to perfectly fit this classic drilling while offering modern style and functionality.
Consequently, selecting the right faucet allows you to choose from a wide array of designs, from traditional two-handle widespread models to sleek single-handle pull-downs.
5 Best Kitchen Faucets For 3 Hole Sink
1. Best Single-Handle with Deck Plate: Delta Faucet Leland Pull-Down Faucet
- From Delta’s beloved Leland collection, this faucet is a top choice for its versatility.
- This is a single-handle faucet that comes with an optional 10.5-inch escutcheon (deck plate).
- Consequently, it can be installed as a sleek single-hole faucet or be used to perfectly cover the extra holes in a 3-hole sink.
- Actively provides a modern pull-down function for a classic 3-hole setup.
- Designed with Delta’s patented DIAMOND™ Seal Technology for a leak-free life.
- The valve uses a diamond-coated ceramic disc that is exceptionally durable.
- Also features MagnaTite® Docking, which uses a powerful magnet to keep the spray head secure.
- The high-arc gooseneck spout swivels 360 degrees for complete sink access.
- Ideal for users who want to upgrade their 3-hole sink with a modern, single-handle pull-down faucet.
- Also perfect for those who prioritize reliability and proven, user-friendly features.
- Known for its immense popularity, durability, and for being a perfect 3-hole solution.
- Represents the best and most popular way to adapt a single-handle faucet to a 3-hole sink.
2. Best Widespread (Two-Handle): Moen Brantford Two-Handle High Arc Kitchen Faucet
- From Moen’s elegant Brantford collection, this is a quintessential two-handle widespread faucet.
- Features two separate handles and a central spout, designed for an 8-inch widespread 3-hole drilling.
- Consequently, it offers a classic, high-end look with precise, separate control over hot and cold water.
- Actively provides a traditional and sophisticated aesthetic that is timeless.
- Designed with a graceful, high-arc spout that offers ample clearance for filling large pots.
- Engineered with Moen’s reliable Duralast® ceramic disc cartridge for lasting performance.
- This model comes with a matching side sprayer that is installed in a fourth hole.
- Many versions of this faucet are available without the sprayer for a clean 3-hole look.
- The solid metal construction ensures a durable, premium feel.
- Ideal for traditional, farmhouse, or classic-style kitchens with a widespread sink.
- Also perfect for users who prefer the distinct, precise temperature control of a two-handle faucet.
- Known for its beautiful, traditional styling and durable, reliable construction.
- Represents the best choice for a classic, elegant 8-inch widespread kitchen faucet.
3. Best Centerset (Two-Handle): American Standard Colony Soft Two-Handle Faucet
- From American Standard, a brand with a long legacy of creating durable plumbing fixtures.
- Features a two-handle design where the handles and spout are mounted on a single connected base.
- Consequently, it is designed for a 3-hole, 4-inch “centerset” sink configuration.
- Actively provides a simple, all-in-one unit that is very easy to install.
- Designed with a high-arc, swing-arm spout that provides excellent reach and clearance.
- Engineered with durable brass construction and a reliable ceramic disc valve.
- This ensures a long, drip-free life and smooth handle operation.
- The simple, transitional style works well in a variety of kitchen designs.
- Includes a color-matched side sprayer for added cleaning and rinsing functionality.
- Ideal for users with a standard 4-inch centerset sink drilling.
- Also perfect for utility rooms, laundry rooms, or as a reliable, budget-friendly kitchen upgrade.
- Known for its durable build, easy installation, and great value for a centerset model.
- Represents a solid, dependable, and straightforward choice for a 4-inch centerset sink.
4. Best Bridge Faucet (3-Hole): Kingston Brass Heritage Bridge Faucet
- From Kingston Brass, a brand that specializes in beautiful, traditional brass fixtures.
- Features a classic two-hole bridge design, which is often paired with a third hole for an accessory.
- Consequently, this setup creates a stunning, vintage look that is perfect for a 3-hole configuration.
- This faucet uses the two outer holes for the hot/cold inlets and the center hole for a side sprayer.
- Actively provides a historically authentic and highly functional layout.
- Designed with a solid brass body for maximum durability and a heavy, premium feel.
- Engineered with reliable washerless cartridges for a long, drip-free service life.
- The high, gooseneck spout swivels to provide easy access to the entire sink.
- Available in a wide variety of beautiful finishes to match a vintage aesthetic.
- Ideal for homeowners creating a true vintage, traditional, or rustic farmhouse kitchen.
- Also perfect for those who love the unique architectural charm of a bridge faucet.
- Known for its authentic traditional designs and its solid, heavy-duty construction.
- Represents a unique and beautiful way to utilize a 3-hole sink drilling.
5. Best Modern Pull-Down with Deck Plate: Kohler Bellera Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
- From Kohler’s sleek and versatile Bellera collection.
- This is a modern, single-handle faucet that includes an optional escutcheon (deck plate).
- Consequently, it can be installed cleanly on a 1-hole sink or a 3-hole sink.
- The deck plate covers the unused holes for a seamless, integrated appearance.
- Actively brings a sleek, contemporary style to the common 3-hole setup.
- Designed with a high-arc spout and a comfortable, easy-to-use pull-down spray head.
- The three-function spray head includes stream, Boost, and the powerful Sweep® spray.
- Engineered with Kohler’s DockNetik® magnetic docking system for a secure sprayer fit.
- The durable ceramic disc valve and tarnish-resistant finish ensure lasting quality.
- Ideal for contemporary or transitional kitchens being updated to a modern, single-handle design.
- Also perfect for users who want premium features and a sleek look for their 3-hole sink.
- Known for its graceful design, versatile spray head, and high-quality construction.
- Represents a premium, modern, and highly functional faucet for any 3-hole kitchen.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best faucet for your 3-hole sink genuinely means first understanding your sink’s specific layout; consequently, this guide will explain the different 3-hole configurations and the faucet styles that fit them.
Understanding Your 3-Hole Sink: Centerset vs. Widespread
A 3-hole sink is not a one-size-fits-all situation. You must measure the distance between the holes.
Centerset: This is a very common configuration, especially in standard or older kitchens. The three holes are drilled close together on the sink deck. The distance between the center of the two outer holes is 4 inches. A centerset faucet is a single, connected unit where the handles and spout are all mounted on one base plate.
Widespread: This configuration is typically found in larger or more custom kitchens. The three holes are drilled further apart. The distance between the center of the two outer holes is 8 inches or more (up to 16 inches). A widespread faucet has three separate, individual pieces: a spout and two handles, which are not connected above the counter.
Before you shop, take a tape measure and measure the distance between the center of your hot and cold water holes. This measurement will determine which type of two-handle faucet you can buy.
Option 1: The Modern Single-Handle Faucet with an Escutcheon
This is the most popular way to put a new faucet on an existing 3-hole sink. A single-handle faucet (like the Delta Leland or Kohler Bellera) is designed to be installed in a single hole. However, it comes with an optional deck plate, called an escutcheon.
This is a matching plate that the faucet sits on top of. It is long enough to completely and beautifully cover the two unused outer holes of a 4-inch or 8-inch 3-hole sink, subsequently giving you a clean, modern, single-handle look on a traditional sink setup.
Option 2: The Classic Two-Handle Faucet
If you prefer the traditional look and precise temperature control of two separate handles, you can choose a faucet that matches your sink’s drilling.
For 4-inch drillings: You must choose a centerset faucet. For 8-inch drillings: You must choose a widespread faucet.
These faucets provide a classic, timeless look and are a direct fit for their respective hole configurations without the need for any extra plates.
The Bridge Faucet: A Unique 3-Hole Style
A bridge faucet is a beautiful vintage style where an exposed pipe “bridges” the hot and cold handles above the counter. This design uses two holes for the handles. The third hole in your sink can then be used for a matching side sprayer, creating a complete and highly functional 3-hole setup, as seen with the Kingston Brass model.
Tips
Use Plumber’s Putty for the Deck Plate
When installing a single-handle faucet with a deck plate (escutcheon) on a stainless steel sink, apply a thin rope of plumber’s putty to the underside of the plate; Consequently, this creates a watertight seal and prevents water from seeping underneath.
Ensure Your New Faucet Covers the Old “Footprint”
If you are replacing an old, large faucet, measure its base; Consequently, make sure the base of your new faucet or its escutcheon plate is large enough to cover any marks or discoloration left on the sink from the old fixture.
Widespread Faucets Offer More Cleaning Space
An advantage of an 8-inch widespread faucet is that the handles are separate pieces; Consequently, this makes it much easier to clean around the base of the handles and spout compared to a connected centerset model.
Check for a Fourth Hole
Some older 3-hole sinks actually have a fourth hole off to the side; Consequently, this is the perfect spot for a matching side sprayer or a soap dispenser, so be sure to account for all the holes on your sink before you buy.
Tighten From Below
For all these faucets, the final tightening is done from under the sink with mounting nuts; Consequently, a basin wrench is a highly recommended tool to make reaching and tightening these nuts much easier in the cramped space behind the sink.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Type | Installation Style | Best For | Included Deck Plate? |
| 1. Delta Leland | Single-Handle Pull-Down | For 1 or 3-Hole | All-Around Versatility | Yes |
| 2. Moen Brantford | Two-Handle Widespread | For 8″ Widespread (3 or 4-Hole) | A Classic, Traditional Look | No |
| 3. American Standard Colony | Two-Handle Centerset | For 4″ Centerset (3 or 4-Hole) | Standard, Easy Installation | N/A (Integrated Base) |
| 4. Kingston Brass Heritage | Two-Handle Bridge | For 3-Hole (with Sprayer) | A Unique Vintage Style | No |
| 5. Kohler Bellera | Single-Handle Pull-Down | For 1 or 3-Hole | A Modern, Premium Look | Yes |
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FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a 4-inch centerset and an 8-inch widespread sink? A: It is the distance between the center of the far-left hole and the far-right hole.
Q: Can I install a single-hole faucet in a 3-hole sink? A: Yes, you can by using a deck plate, also called an escutcheon, which is often included with the faucet.
Q: Do I need a plumber to install a 3-hole faucet? A: Replacing a faucet is a common DIY project, but a plumber is always the safest option if you are not comfortable.
Q: What is an escutcheon plate? A: It is a deck plate that is installed under a single-hole faucet to cover up the extra, unused holes in a 3-hole sink.
Q: Is a one-handle or two-handle faucet better? A: It’s a matter of preference. One handle offers convenience, while two handles offer more precise temperature control.
Q: Can I put a widespread faucet on a 4-inch centerset sink? A: No, the handles and spout of a widespread faucet are too far apart to fit on a 4-inch centerset drilling.
Q: What does a “bridge” faucet mean? A: It’s a two-handle faucet where an exposed pipe above the counter “bridges” the gap between the hot and cold water inlets.
Conclusion
The 5 best kitchen faucets for a 3-hole sink genuinely demonstrate the incredible versatility of this classic setup.
These essential fixtures, from modern pull-downs with deck plates to traditional widespread models, provide a perfect solution for any style preference.
By correctly identifying your sink’s configuration and choosing a high-quality faucet from a trusted brand, you can ensure a beautiful and leak-free installation.
Ultimately, the abundance of great options for a 3-hole sink means you never have to compromise, allowing you to find the perfect faucet to complete your kitchen.