Key points at a glance
- For most kitchens 1.4301 (V2A) is sufficient; where there is a lot of salt or acid, 1.4404 (V4A) is the better choice.
- The reinforcement under the worktop matters more than the sheet thickness.
- An upstand, a sturdy base frame with adjustable feet and clean welds are signs of quality.
- A made-to-measure table pays off for alcoves, sloping walls and combined furniture.
First clarify what the table has to do
A prep table has different tasks from a landing table next to the combi oven or a packing table in the dishwashing area. So clarify in advance: what will be done on it, what will stand on it and what should fit underneath?
This determines dimensions, load capacity and features. Standard tables often fit; in awkward rooms a made-to-measure table pays off.
The key features
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Material | 1.4301 (V2A) is standard. With a lot of salt or acid, 1.4404 (V4A) is the better choice. |
| Worktop | It is not just the sheet thickness that counts, but the reinforcement underneath. A well-reinforced top does not drum or sag. |
| Upstand | A rear upstand stops water and food from falling behind the table. At the sides it makes sense when the table stands against a wall. |
| Frame | Sturdy tubes, cleanly welded, with adjustable feet to level uneven floors. |
| Storage | Bottom shelf or intermediate shelf, or alternatively drawers, doors or a base unit for equipment. |
| Edges and seams | Rounded edges, no sharp burrs, ground and pickled welds. |
Typical depths are 600 and 700 mm, typical heights 850 and 900 mm. More on height in the working height guide.
What makes a table more practical
Basins and cut-outs
A welded-in basin or cut-outs for GN containers save steps. More in the Gastronorm sizes guide.
Mobile or fixed
Castors with brakes make the table flexible and make cleaning underneath easier. For heavy equipment a fixed frame is better.
Wall connection
If the table stands against the wall, a high upstand closes the joint. That leaves no gap where dirt can collect.
Standard or made to measure?
Made to measure pays off above all with recesses, slopes, pillars, or when table, basin and base unit are to be combined into one piece of furniture.
Questions about work tables
Which stainless steel is right for a work table?
For most kitchens, 1.4301 (V2A) is sufficient. Where a lot of salt, marinade or acid is involved, for example in fish processing, 1.4404 (V4A) is more resistant.
Why do some worktops drum?
Because the top is barely reinforced underneath. Reinforcement with profiles, and anti-drumming coating if needed, makes the top quiet and stable.
Do I need an upstand?
If the table stands against a wall, yes. It stops water and food scraps running into the gap by the wall.
Do you make work tables to measure?
Yes. We make stainless steel work tables and sink units in any size, with basins, drawers or base units. Find out more under work tables and sink units.
Sources and further information
As of September 2026. This information does not replace individual advice.
V2A or V4A? Choosing the right stainless steelWhich stainless steel suits your kitchen: differences, applications and how to recognise good quality.Read more
Stainless steel finishes explained: 2B, ground, brushed, polishedWhat the EN 10088-2 codes mean and which finish suits which purpose.Read more
Stainless steel wall cladding in the kitchen: when it pays offStainless steel or tiles, where cladding proves its worth and what matters during installation.Read morePlanning a project?
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