DIY Kitchen Soap Dispenser Install for Your Sink

Hey there! You’ve probably looked at your kitchen sink and thought, “How do I get rid of this cluttered soap bottle?” or “Where can I put a built-in soap dispenser to make my kitchen look better?” Messy bottles are a hassle, and you want a cleaner, more organized space. A built-in dispenser is the way to go.

Good news: I’ve got you covered. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from picking the right spot to keeping it working perfectly for years.

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Before we dive into the how-to, let’s quickly talk about why a built-in soap dispenser is such a smart addition to your kitchen. For me, the biggest benefit is always the decluttered countertop. Imagine: no more unsightly plastic bottles taking up valuable space next to your faucet. It creates a much cleaner, more streamlined look. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient. You get easy access to soap without fumbling with bottles, and it reduces the risk of accidental spills.

Preparation is key to any successful DIY project. I always say, “Measure twice, cut once,” and that applies here too!

You’ll need a few basic items to get started. Most of these are common household tools:

• Pliers
• Wrench(a basin wrench can be very helpful for tight spaces under the sink)
• Dish Soap Dispenser Kit(make sure it includes the pump, straw, and soap bottle )
• Foam or Rubber Washer(often included in the kit)
• Plumber’s Putty(Optional, but I highly recommend it for a watertight seal)
• Drill(Optional, only if you need to drill a new hole)
• Funnel(Optional, but very useful for refilling without spills)
• Safety Glasses(Crucial if drilling!)
• Gloves(Optional, but good for grip and keeping hands clean)
• Bucket or Towel(To catch any drips under the sink)

I always make sure my sink is empty and the surrounding countertops are clear. You’ll also want to clear out any items from underneath your sink to give yourself plenty of room to work. Trust me, trying to maneuver in a cramped space is no fun.

This is a crucial step, especially if you don’t have a pre-drilled hole. The material of your sink or countertop dictates the type of drill bit you’ll need and how challenging the drilling process will be.

• Stainless Steel: Relatively easy to drill.
• Porcelain or Ceramic: Can be very difficult and prone to chipping or cracking.
• Granite, Quartz, or Other Stone: Extremely hard and requires specialized tools. Metpure advises calling a professional if you have a porcelain or stone sink and no existing hole. I agree with this advice if you’re not comfortable with specialized drilling.
• Solid Surface (e.g., Corian): Generally easier to drill than stone.

If you’re unsure about your material, I recommend doing a quick online search or consulting a home improvement expert. Knowing your material upfront saves a lot of headaches!

Go over to your sink and see if there’s already a pre-drilled hole. Many modern sinks come with an extra hole specifically for a  kitchen soap dispenser or other accessories. If you have one, great! Your installation will be much simpler. If not, don’t worry, we’ll cover drilling a new one.

Before you even start, I think it’s helpful to consider the different types of dispensers available. Most built-in dispensers are “top-fill,” meaning you refill them from above the counter by simply lifting the pump. This is incredibly convenient.

You’ll also find variations in:

• Finish: Chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, bronze – choose one that matches your faucet and kitchen decor.
• Material: Plastic, metal, or a combination. Metal dispensers tend to be more durable.
• Bottle Capacity: Larger bottles mean less frequent refilling.
• Pump Mechanism: Some are smoother than others. Read reviews!

Consider your kitchen’s aesthetic and how often you want to refill. For example, if you have a busy kitchen, a larger capacity dispenser might be a better fit.

When placing your new kitchen soap dispenser, consider both function and looks.

• Single-basin sinks: Placement is usually simple—just install it to the right or left of your faucet, ideally in a pre-drilled hole.

• Double-basin sinks:

  • Between the basins: A practical and balanced option, giving easy access from both sides.

  • Near the faucet: Keeps everything in your “wet zone” together.

  • On the more-used side: Great if one basin gets more action than the other.

My tip: Mock up the placement first. Set the dispenser on your counter and check for clearance—make sure it doesn’t block faucet handles or other accessories. Aim for about 7–8 inches from the faucet for easy use.

Installing a kitchen soap dispenser is usually an affordable DIY project, especially with a pre-drilled hole. Dispenser kits range from $20 to over $100, depending on brand and material. If you need a drill or special bits, that adds to the cost.
Hiring a pro to drill and install can run $100–$300+, according to Metpure». Consider your comfort level and your sink’s material before deciding.

Now, let’s get to the actual installation! I’ve broken this down into two main scenarios: with a pre-drilled hole, and if you need to drill a new one.

This is the simpler path, and I find it’s usually quite quick!

• Remove the Hole Cover: If your sink has a cover over the dispenser hole, you’ll need to remove it. I typically use pliers to unscrew the mounting clamp that secures the cover from underneath your sink.

• Assemble the Dispenser: Your dispenser kit will come with several parts: the pump, the straw, and the soap bottle. I always start by inserting the straw securely into the base of the pump.

• Insert and Position: Now, insert the assembled pump and straw into the hole in your sink or countertop. I make sure the pump is perfectly centered on the hole.

• Add Washer and Seal: Once the pump is positioned, I add a foam or rubber washer to secure it and close any gaps. If you’re using plumber’s putty, I apply a small bead around the base of the dispenser on the top side of the sink before inserting it, then wipe away any excess after tightening. This helps create a watertight seal.

• Secure from Underneath: From underneath the sink, I secure the dispenser using the mounting nut that came with your kit. First, I tighten it by hand. Then, I use a wrench or channel lock pliers to fully fasten the nut. Make sure the dispenser is still straight and centered from the top before you fully tighten it.

(via.Magic Gadgets»)

• Attach the Soap Bottle: I fit the soap bottle into the housing under the sink and tighten it slightly until it’s securely in place.

• Fill with Soap: Finally, I lift the pump straight up to remove it from the dispenser body. Then, I slowly pour in your liquid soap. Using a funnel can really help prevent spills. Once filled, I twist the pump back onto the dispenser.

This scenario requires a bit more care and the right tools. I always prioritize safety here!

• Measure and Mark the Hole:
• • Placement: Lowe’s suggests an ideal position of 7 to 8 inches from your faucet. I find this creates a comfortable space for washing hands without the dispenser getting in the way.
  • Test Position: Before drilling, I recommend positioning a disposable soap dispenser in different spots to determine the best layout for your sink.
  • Marking: Once you’ve chosen the perfect spot, use a marker to clearly mark the center of your new hole.
  • Hole Size: Your dispenser is likely designed for a standard hole diameter of 1 3/8 inches or 35 mm. Always double-check your dispenser’s instructions for the exact size.

(via.Fort Knox Co.»)

• Drilling the Hole (Material-Specific Guide):

  • Safety First: I always wear safety glasses and gloves. Make sure the area is clear and you have a stable surface. Check under the sink for pipes, wires, or obstructions before drilling.

  • Stainless Steel Sinks: I use a bi-metal hole saw for metal. Start with a small pilot hole, then switch to the hole saw. Apply steady pressure and use cutting oil or water to keep the bit cool and reduce friction.

  • Porcelain or Ceramic Sinks: These are tricky. I use a carbide-tipped masonry bit or diamond-tipped hole saw. Go slowly, use light pressure, and keep the area wet to prevent cracking or overheating. If unsure, I recommend calling a professional.

  • Granite, Quartz, or Stone Countertops: I use a diamond core drill bit and wet drilling—constantly applying water to cool the bit and remove debris. I build a small dam with plumber’s putty to hold water. Go slowly and let the bit do the work.

  • Solid Surface Countertops: I use a standard hole saw or Forstner bit. Steady pressure and clearing debris are key.

  • Important Note: Drilling may affect your sink or countertop warranty. I always suggest checking your warranty before starting.

(via.Fort Knox Co.»)

• Clean the Hole: Once the hole is drilled, I carefully clean away any debris or sharp edges.

• Proceed with Installation: Now that your hole is ready, follow steps 2-7 from “Scenario 1: You Have a Pre-Drilled Hole” above.

Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go perfectly. I’ve seen these issues come up often, and here’s how I usually tackle them:

Once your dispenser is installed, a little ongoing care goes a long way to keep it working smoothly for years. I always recommend these simple maintenance tips:

• Regular Exterior Cleaning: I keep the exterior free of soap residue by rinsing it with water and wiping it with a soft sponge. Avoid using scouring pads or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish. Just use soap and water, then polish or dry with a clean, soft cloth.
• Dilute Your Soap: As I mentioned, Blanco recommends diluting soap with water using a 70/30 proportion (70% soap, 30% water). I find this helps prevent clogs and makes the pump work more smoothly, extending its life.
• Avoid Certain Soaps: This is a big one! I strongly advise against using dish soap or hand soap that contains extra agents like bleach or acidic cleaners. Also, never use soap with beads or sparkles, as these can easily clog the pump mechanism.
• Hot Water Flush: If you notice the performance slowing down, I fill the dispenser with hot water and run it through the pump to clean out any buildup.

If you’re a business, brand, or looking to source custom kitchen soap dispensers, consider LuxuryHome». They offer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services, allowing you to tailor products specifically for your brand. This means you can create unique, high-quality soap dispensers that perfectly match your brand’s aesthetic and functional requirements, offering exclusive designs and features to your customers.

While I believe most people can install a soap dispenser themselves, there are definitely times when calling a professional is the smartest choice.

• Difficult Materials: If you have a porcelain or stone sink/countertop and no existing hole, and you’re not comfortable with specialized drilling tools and techniques, I highly recommend hiring a professional. They have the right equipment and expertise to prevent damage.
• Complex Plumbing: If your under-sink area is unusually cramped, or if you encounter unexpected plumbing issues while clearing out the space, a plumber can help navigate these challenges safely.
• Lack of Confidence: If at any point you feel overwhelmed or unsure about a step, it’s always better to call in an expert than risk damaging your sink or injuring yourself. Your peace of mind is worth it!

You’re now ready to install and maintain your kitchen sink soap dispenser. When choosing the right one, consider your specific needs:

• For DIYers with Standard Sinks: If you have a stainless steel sink with a hole or you’re comfortable drilling, you have many options. Focus on aesthetics and pump quality.
• For Stone Countertops: If you have granite or quartz with no pre-drilled hole, invest in a quality diamond core drill bit and take your time—or hire a professional. Choose dispensers with strong metal pumps for durability.
• For Busy Households: Pick dispensers with large bottle capacity to cut down on refills. Top-fill designs offer added convenience.
• For Eco-Conscious Users: Think about the soap you’ll use. Refillable dispensers are more eco-friendly than disposable bottles.

A built-in kitchen soap dispenser is a small upgrade that adds big value to your kitchen’s function and look. I hope this guide gives you the confidence to take on the project and enjoy a cleaner, more organized space!