When you renovate a bathroom or kitchen, choosing the tap is an essential step. There are two main options: the two-handle tap and the mixer tap. Although both types of tap do the same job, they differ in how they work, how comfortable they are to use and in their design. For the bathroom, single-lever models are gathered in our bathroom mixer taps.
The two-handle tap: two controls for hot and cold water
How does a two-handle tap work?
The two-handle tap is a tap fitted with two separate handles: one for cold water, the other for hot. You have to adjust each control by hand to get the temperature you want.
Advantages of the two-handle tap
- Independent control of the two water supplies
- Traditional look, popular in retro bathrooms
- Easy to repair if it leaks, because the components are simple
Drawbacks of the two-handle tap
- Less precise temperature adjustment
- Less practical to use, especially in the kitchen
- Risk of wasting water while you find the right temperature
Discover our collection of kitchen taps and bathroom taps if you prefer classic models.
The mixer tap: a single control for everything
How does a mixer tap work?
The mixer tap has a single lever that controls both flow and temperature. Moving it from left to right adjusts the heat; up and down controls the flow. This adjustment works through a cartridge that wears over time: see the lifespan of a mixer tap.
The different types of mixer tap
Mechanical mixer tap
This is the most common. It allows smooth, quick manual adjustment.
Ideal for the kitchen and the bathroom alike.
Thermostatic mixer tap
It keeps the temperature constant, even if someone draws water elsewhere in the house.
Perfect for the shower or the bath.
Find all our kitchen mixer taps and bathroom mixer taps to make the right choice.
Kitchen or bathroom: which model should you choose?
In the kitchen: comfort first
A mixer tap is strongly recommended for a kitchen sink. It lets you adjust the temperature quickly, even with one hand, which is handy when you are cooking.
A mixer tap with a pull-out spray adds even more everyday comfort.
In the bathroom: it all depends on the mood
- For a modern bathroom, the mixer tap wins with its clean design and efficiency.
- For an authentic or vintage bathroom, the two-handle tap can bring a very popular retro touch.
So, mixer tap or two-handle tap?
The mixer tap wins on comfort, efficiency and water saving. It now fits out most modern homes.
The two-handle tap, more traditional, remains a good choice for certain decor styles or tighter budgets. To choose all the taps and mixers in the room (basin, shower, bath), see our bathroom tap guide.
Either way, choose a model suited to how you will use it: basin, sink, bath or shower. And to go further, explore our full collections of kitchen taps, kitchen mixer taps, bathroom taps and bathroom mixer taps.
