What Features Define a True Wet Bar?
The dictionary says that it’s “a bar with running water for serving alcoholic drinks at home“. That’s the simplified definition. There’s much more… So what are the specific features that define a true home wet bar?
A Wet Bar Is More Than Just Running Water and Drinks:
First, a wet bar should include a sink with running water and a drain. The drink prep area should be designed to both prepare cocktails and contain spills. The bar top design should also prevent over spill on to the floor in the horrific event that someone tips over a full glass of precious beer, wine or liquor. This article will provide our take on proper home wet bar setup and give you plenty of links to related products that will accent and complete your project.
Our site also offers complete wet bar construction plans.
Wet Bar Features:
- Basic plumbing, faucets and sinks
- Proper drainage of the bar top and entire bar area
- Electrical Safety using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
- Drip Mats and Liquid Catches
- Floor Anti-Slip / Anti Fatigue Mats
- Beverage Dispensing Systems
- Beverage steps and speed rail racks
- Refrigeration Systems
- Let’s not forget the essential bar rag
Features Unique to a True Wet Bar
The dictionary says that it’s “a bar with running water for serving alcoholic drinks at home“. That’s the simplified definition. There’s much more… So what are the specific features that define a true home wet bar?
Proper Surface Drainage
What doesn’t make it’s way directly to a sink drain must be considered. In large part, spigot drains and spill catches define a true wet bar, one definitely located under your beer tapper, preferably made of stainless steel or brass. A beer gutter is also a key bar top design feature that allows you to mix drinks or dispense tap beer in a wet area with proper drainage. Beer gutters are absent on most other plans, but not ours. You can opt to skip these features without losing the wet bar function. Take a look at the following wet bar examples and notice the subtle liquid catchment edges and gutters.
Bar Faucets and Sinks
Basic plumbing is a wet bar essential. Of course basic plumbing consists of a hot and cold water source and a drain. The difference for home bar use is that wet bar faucet and sink sizes are typically scaled down to roughly half the size of a conventional kitchen sink, although use of large sinks and faucets are not excluded, if available space allows. The most popular wet bar sink and faucet option is an all-in-one drop in bar unit.
KINDRED Stainless Steel, Essentials All-in-One Kit 15 x 6-inch Deep Drop-in Bar or Utility Sink in Satin, FBFS602NKIT, Size
Flawlessly suited for a bar, laundry or utility room Chrome finish bar faucet and drain included 22 gauge stainless steel construction for top mount installation Safe and easy installation Template and hardware included Limited Lifetime
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
1512 18-Gauge Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Bar Sink
WET BAR STYLING -- A shimmering, rectangular, stainless steel gem for the home entertainment area with wide sweeping corners and a beautiful brushed-satin finish EXCEPTIONAL DURABILITY -- Constructed of premium-quality, 304-grade stainless steel at t... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Dekor Sinks 27199Q Duxbury Composite Granite Prep Sink with One Hole, 16", Black
Sink measures 16-inches by 16-inches by 7-inches deep; one pre-drilled faucet hole Dual mount installation; can be drop-in or under mounted; easy drop-in installation; no clips required Durable, hard, non-porous surface is heat, scratch and chip resi... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Houzer CS-1105-1 Club Series Undermount Stainless Steel Compact Bar/Prep Sink
Overall size 9.25" X 18", 18 gauge T-304 stainless steel SpecPlus edges for added strength and StoneGuard undercoating over Super Silencer pad Fits 18" cabinet One Basket Strainer included.5-1/2" depth
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lordear 15 Inch Undermount Sink Bar Prep Sink Deep Single Bowl 16 Gauge R10 Tight Radius Stainless Steel Sink
❤ Stainless Steel Hand Made Sink---Made from T304 16 Gauge durable stainless steel for superior strength and durability. Rust & Stain Resistance , Easy to clean and long-lasting. ❤ R angle design Easy to clean：R10 angle expansion design increases cap... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Houzer CS-1307-1 Club Series Undermount Small Bar/ Prep Sink
Overall size 12.5 inches X 14.375 inches, Bowl 12.06 inches X 10.125 inches X 6 inches deep 18 gauge T-304 stainless steel SpecPlus edges for added strength and StoneGuard undercoating over Super Silencer pad.Always rinse the sink after using any cle... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
STERLING B153-1 Secondary Sink 15-Inch by 15-Inch Top-mount Single Bowl Bar Sink, Stainless Steel
5-1/2" Basin depth 3-5/8" Drain opening One-hole faucet punching Made from 22 gauge stainless steel with a buffed basin finish and durable satin finish SilentShield, an exclusive sound-deadening system, reduces unwanted noise and vibration
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Moen 2200 Series 22 Gauge Single Bowl Drop In Sink, 15 x 15, Stainless Steel (G2245622)
Single bowl Stainless steel Features sound shield, assuring exceptional noise reduction and quiet dependability Drain opening size: 2", Integrated mounting rails: yes Mount type: drop in
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Houzer E-100 MIDNITE Quartztone Series Granite Dual Mount Bar/Prep Sink, Black
Dual Mount Bar/Prep Sink 8" Bowl Depth Non-Porous Surface, Silky To The Touch Quartz Tone Granite, Extremely Tough And Durable Surface With 80% Quartz. Limited Lifetime Warranty
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Basic Wet Bar
Even without a sink, this wine bar is considered a wet bar. Notice the perimeter containment of the bar top leading to the beer gutter, keeping liquid spills under control.
Outdoor Wet Bar
Poolside Patio Wet Bar with running water and draft beer tower. All this combined with the tile top and perimeter containment qualifies this as a great wet bar example.
Classic Home Wet Bar
This is a classic example of a complete home wet bar setup. It includes a fully functional bar sink and draft beer towers with spigot drains and even a dishwasher. Include a lower drink prep area and beer gutter.
Safety first! Install A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
Water and electricity are a deadly mix. In any wet bar area, proper electrical protection should be provided using GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protected electrical power outlets. This safety breaker device protects against dangerous electrical faults that could occur in drink mixers and other electrical devices. GFCI protection is recommended for outlets near any sources of moisture. Don’t forget, they now make power receptacles with USB charging plugs!
TOPELE 15 Amp GFCI Outlet 125 Volt Tamper-Resistant, Receptacle, Indicator with LED Light, Nylon Wallplate and Screws Included, White
EASY INSTALLATION--Only spend as short as 10 minutes. COMPLETE COMPONENTS INCLUDED--2 different styles of free wall plates, decora wall plate and screwless wall plate included. Meets different install requirements.Instruction, screws and stickers inc... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Leviton GFNT1-W Self-Test SmartlockPro Slim GFCI Non-Tamper-Resistant Receptacle with LED Indicator, 15 Amp, White
For an added layer of protection, the GFCI regularly conducts an automatic internal test to confirm that it can respond to a ground fault. Compatible with all Decora devices and wallplates Provides continuous ground fault protection detects and trips... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Outlet with USB High Speed Charger 4.2A Charging Capability,Duplex Receptacle 15 Amp, Tamper Resistant Wall socket USB Outlet,Child Proof Safety,2 Wall Plate Included,White
Easy installation, there is a detail specification included in the package. Compatible with back and side wiring. Include screw and two standard size wall plate 2 (4.2A) Duplex Receptacle USB Charging ports, high speed charging to 2 USB device at sam... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Leviton T5632-W 15-Amp Charger/Tamper Resistant Duplex Receptacle, 1-Pack, White
Smart; Built in Smart chip recognizes the individual device’s charging requirements to optimize the charge Powerful: Two high powered charging ports deliver a combined total of 3.6A charging current and 18 watts of power Convenient: No more searching... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Leviton T5632-HGW 15-Amp Hospital Grade USB Charger/Tamper-Resistant Duplex Receptacle, White
Compatible with USB 2.0 devices 3.6A, 5V DC dual balanced power USB ports Low vampire power Smart chip-powered USB ports recognize the requirements of attached device and optimize charge accordingly Back and side wired for easy installation
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
TOPGREENER USB Outlet with USB Type C/A Charging Ports 5V/4.8A, 15A Tamper Resistant Receptacle, Compatible with iPhone 11/11 Pro/XS/MAX/XR, Samsung Galaxy S9/S8/S7 & More, UL Listed, TU21548AC, White
USB wall outlet with ultra-high speed Type-A & reversible Type-C USB with total output 4.8A/5VDC, 24W. Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology Charge two devices simultaneously with a Type-A USB port and Type-C USB port, the reversible USB ... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
TOPGREENER TU2154A-W High Speed USB Charger Outlet, USB Wall Charger, Electrical Outlet with USB, 15A TR Receptacle, Screwless Wall Plate, for iPhone X, iPhone 8 / 8 Plus, Samsung Galaxy and more, TU2154A, White
Wall outlet with USB ports ensures all your devices stay charged while leaving room for other appliances. Charge two USB devices simultaneously without adapters 4.0A, 5VDC combined charging capacity; each USB port can reach up to 2.4A on a standalone... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Drip Mats and Catches
Counter tops should have glassware mats for proper drying and sinks should include drain filters to prevent stir sticks from clogging the trap. Mold and mildew are always a threat, remember to stock up on kitchen cleaning products designed to kill germs. Lysol or a simple bleach solution will prevent bar moisture from turning into bar mold.
Bang Tidy Clothing Bar Runner Welcome to Your Name's Bar Drip Spill Mat Personalized Bar Gifts
This bar spill mat measures 450mm x 250mm and is MACHINE WASHABLE making it a great alternative to bar towels. FAST SHIPPING on all bar runners from Bang Tidy Clothing PRACTICAL & STYLISH: This rubber bar mat protects any bar from excess spillages an... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Stella Artois Beer Professional Bar Mat Spill Mat Rail Drip Mat
Heavy Duty Commerical Grade Non-Slip Rubber Official Stella Artois beer merchandise Measures 14.75 x 7 inches 0.3" thick Professional Grade Bar Mat
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Maker's Mark Bar Rail Drip Mat
Commercial grade, anti-slip rubber 23.75 inches long 4 inches wide Perfect for any bar
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Jack Daniel's Bar Drip Mat by Jack Daniel's
Jack Daniel's Bar Drip Mat 23" L x 4" W x .25" D Black/White
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Jack Daniel's Whiskey Bar Drip Mat
Non-Slip Rubber Padded Stainless Steel Drip Tray with Tower Cutout by Proper Pour
KEEPS THE BAR CLEAN! Place it on top of bar countertops and position it under the faucet to collect excess beverage or liquids! The draft beer drip tray screen has punch holes that will surely provide you with a splash free, spill, mess, and stain fr... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Winco BM-327K 27-Inch x 3.25-Inch Bar Mat, Black,Medium
Winco products are made to meet the high demands of a kitchen Trusted and reliable Winco products range from tabletop to kitchen utensils to food preparation supplies Winco products are used by all foodservice and hospitality industry experts worldwi... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Bud Light Beer Professional Bar Mat Spill Mat Rail Drip Mat
Heavy Duty Commerical Grade Non-Slip Rubber Official Bud Light merchandise Measures 24.0 x 3.5 inches 1/4" thick Professional Grade Bar Mat
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Tito's Vodka Rail Runner Bar Drip Mat
Heavy Duty Thick Professional-Grade Rubber Mat Measures approx. 22" x 3.25" and 0.3" thick Easy to clean, dishwasher safe Perfect gift for any home bar, man cave, or Tito's fan
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Avoid Trench Foot:
The floor area behind the bar should be sloped toward the nearest drain with anti fatigue floor matting installed to reduce foot fatigue and prevent the bartender from getting trench foot standing in beer swill all night. They also prevent slips and falls.
A good carpet runner is suitable for most home bars, but if you lean towards wilder parties, rubber floor mats will last longer and are easier to clean. Rubber mats also provide additional electrical safety.
Genuine Joe Air Step Joe Anti-Fatigue Mat, Beveled Edge, 2 by 3-Feet, Black
HIGH QUALITY: 3/8" vinyl construction ensures higher durability and better resilience than ordinary vinyl sponge mats SUPPORT: Extra support is provided by the vinyl foam structure, this helps greatly reduce fatigue discomfort on your feet and joints... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Envelor Home and Garden Anti Fatigue Commercial Rubber Door Mat Durable Restaurant Kitchen Non-Slip Bar Drainage Utility Floor Mat Indoor Outdoor Wet Area Doormat 36 x 60 Inches
HEAVY DUTY, WEATHER-RESISTANT AND ECO-FRIENDLY Created with long lasting natural, recycled rubber and extremely durable. Designed to be tough and durable with drainage areas for water, snow, salt, and slush. This well-built rubber mat can be used as ... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
FCH Rubber Floor Mat, 36x60 inch Anti-Fatigue Drainage Mat, for Wet Areas, Non-slip Bar Kitchen Industrial Rubber Cushion, Bathtub Bathroom Bath Mat (Black)
SafetyCare Interlocking Rubber Drainage Floor Mat - Anti-Fatigue - 24 x 16 inches - 2 Mats
RUBBER MAT WITH DRAIN HOLES: The drainage holes allow liquid and waste to pass through, making this rubber matting easy to clean and stain resistant providing a clean, dry and safe work area ANTI-FATIGUE MAT: Anti Fatigue properties provide all-day c... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Rubber Door Mats Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat for Kitchen New Bar Floor Mats Commercial Heavy Duty Bath Mat Black 36" x 60"
Anti fatigue floor mat,The holes and perforated design of this all purpose entrance doormat traps dirt, preventing it from spreading. Simply hose the mat with water to clean up any dirt or grease Rubber Floor Mat,We use the good quality material ,Mad... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Heavy Duty Large Non-Slip Mat Bar Kitchen Industrial Multi-Functional Anti-Fatigue Drainage Rubber Non-Slip Hexagonal Floor Mat Black (60x35)
Built with large hexagonal drainage holes Reduce the amount of slippery liquids and oils left on the floor Made of high-grade, eco-friendly rubber, sustainable and durable Ideal for uses in bar, kitchen, restaurant, as well as warehouse or other indu... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Envelor Home and Garden Sturdy Rubber Anti-Fatigue Drainage Floor Mat - Anti-Slip Restaurant Bar Office Garage Utility Mat (Various Sizes) (47Wx32L)
Non slip doormat with rubber backing is safe to use in high traffic and wet areas Environment friendly (natural and recycled rubber) 32" long x 47" wide Ideal for home, restaurants, offices and commercial use Traps dirt and scraps from footwear
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
New Star Foodservice 54514 Commercial Grade Anti-Fatigue Rubber Floor Mat, 3-Feet by 5-Feet, Black
Anti Fatigue properties provide all-day comfort when standing for long periods of time. Perfect for in-plant applications including workstations, assembly lines and more The drainage holes allow liquid and waste to pass through, making this rubber ma... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Rubber-Cal 03_116_WBK"7/8-inch Dura Chef" Rubber Comfort Kitchen Rubber Mats, 7/8" x 38.5" x 58.5", Black
Padded flooring for extra comfort and protection from unsafe floors Excellent no slip flooring provides traction against wetness from spills of liquids, greases, and oils Drainage mats create a less hazardous surface by allowing liquids and debris to... read more
(as of May 25, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Beverage Dispensing Systems
Accurate beverage dispensing is not only neat and efficient, it’s downright fun! If bottles and cans are your thing, that’s fine, but nothing gets the real home bar atmosphere cookin like a draft beer tap tower. You’ll definitely impress your friends and family. If you want to take it to the whole next level, install a high tech SideBar Beverage Dispensing System. This electronic system can dispense both hard and soft drinks with the magical push of a button.
