Choosing a bathroom tap is about more than design. It has to meet your everyday needs, be compatible with your basin or bath, and blend in with your decor. With so many options available, it is essential to understand the key criteria before you make your selection. The whole range is gathered in our bathroom taps section.
Which tap for which use?
The first step is to define the main use of the tap. To equip a basin, a basin tap is the most classic solution. It comes as a single-hole model with two handles or as a mixer tap. If you have a bath, look at a bath tap, which can include a shower handset and a diverter.
For a shower, a wall-mounted shower tap makes it easy to control the flow and temperature of the water. You can also opt for a complete shower column with built-in mixer for optimum comfort.
Mixer tap or two-handle tap: which to choose?
The basin mixer tap is the most common today. It lets you control temperature and flow with one hand, which improves ergonomics and limits water waste. The two-handle tap, for its part, has separate handles for hot and cold water. It is still appreciated for its retro look but is less practical day to day. The two technologies are compared in detail in our article on mixer taps versus two-handle taps.
Which tap style for your bathroom?
The style of the tap should match the mood of your bathroom. Chrome remains a timeless, go-with-anything choice. For a modern touch, black or gold finishes are very fashionable. Rounded lines bring softness, while angular shapes fit perfectly into a contemporary decor.
Also make sure the spout height suits your basin. A spout that is too low splashes easily, while one that is too high can overflow if it is not well centred. Basin mixer taps are available in different heights to suit your needs.
Installation: wall-mounted or deck-mounted?
The choice between a wall-mounted and a deck-mounted tap depends on your installation. Models that sit on the basin are the simplest to install, particularly on countertop or built-in basins. The wall-mounted tap is built directly into the wall. It is ideal for small bathrooms, as it frees up space on the vanity top.
This type of tap requires a more technical installation but gives a clean, high-end look. It is an excellent choice to go with a large basin or a freestanding bath.
Extra features to consider
Some bathroom taps include features that improve your comfort:
- Ceramic cartridge: for greater precision and durability.
- Anti-limescale system: reduces upkeep and extends the life of the tap.
- Temperature limiter: extra safety for children or older people.
These options are common on modern mixer taps and are an excellent long-term investment.
Compatibility with your fittings
Before buying, check that the tap is compatible with your basin or bath. The distance between the fixing holes, the hole diameter and the spout reach are key factors. For a bath, choose a high-flow tap with a diverter to switch quickly to the shower handset. For a basin, the details of the checks (hole, height, connections) are in our article on compatibility between taps and basins.
In a shower, a thermostatic mixer is strongly recommended for precise temperature control, especially if several people use the bathroom every day. For a basin installation, the classic solution remains the single-hole basin tap, which offers a good compromise between design and function.
Materials and build quality
The choice of materials directly affects how long the tap lasts. Brass is the benchmark for its sturdiness and resistance to corrosion. It is often coated with chrome plating or an epoxy treatment to strengthen its finish. Avoid cheap plastic models or ones made of alloys that are too light, which wear out quickly.
Quality taps often come with a guarantee of several years, proof of their reliability. Do not hesitate to invest in a solid model, especially if it will be used frequently.
