You may need to cut an additional hole in your stainless steel kitchen sink to install a faucet, soap dispenser, filtered faucet, or sprayer. Because stainless steel is a strong and durable material, cutting a hole requires the proper tools, techniques, and safety precautions to avoid damage.
Measuring tape & marker – for precise hole placement.
Center punch – to mark the drilling point and prevent slipping.
Drill with variable speed.
Carbide or cobalt drill bit – strong enough for stainless steel.
Hole saw (bi-metal or carbide-tipped) – for larger holes (e.g., faucets).
Cutting oil or lubricant – prevents overheating and extends tool life.
Safety gear – gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.
File or deburring tool – to smooth sharp edges after cutting.
Determine where the faucet or accessory will go.
Use a marker and template (if included with your faucet) to outline the hole size.
If possible, remove the sink from the countertop.
Place it on a stable workbench with wood or padding underneath to avoid scratches.
Use a center punch and hammer to create a small dimple at the center of your mark.
This prevents the drill bit from wandering.
Start with a small drill bit (⅛ inch / 3 mm).
Use low speed and apply steady pressure.
Add cutting oil to reduce heat and protect the bit.
Attach a bi-metal or carbide-tipped hole saw to your drill.
Place the pilot bit into the starter hole.
Drill slowly, applying firm and even pressure. Keep adding cutting oil to prevent overheating.
Once the hole is complete, remove burrs with a file, deburring tool, or sandpaper.
Clean the surface thoroughly before installing your faucet or dispenser.
Always wear gloves and eye protection. Stainless steel shavings are sharp.
Do not rush—high speed can overheat bits and warp the steel.
Use cutting oil generously to prolong tool life and reduce sparks.
Ensure the sink is firmly supported to avoid vibration or bending.
A homeowner in Texas needed an extra hole for a filtered water tap. Using a 1⅜-inch carbide hole saw and drilling slowly with lubricant, they cut through their 18-gauge stainless steel sink cleanly in under 10 minutes. The hole edges were filed smooth, and the new tap was installed without issue.
Cutting a hole in a stainless steel kitchen sink is straightforward if you use the right tools (carbide or bi-metal hole saw, cutting oil) and take proper safety steps. By drilling slowly and smoothing the edges, you can create a professional finish ready for faucet or accessory installation.
