Bathroom Faucets: The Heart of Your Bathroom: Best Bathroom Faucets 2019
The bathroom faucet is more than just a functional fixture; it’s a statement piece that can elevate the style and functionality of your entire bathroom. From the sleek, modern lines of a minimalist design to the intricate details of a traditional style, the right faucet can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. But beyond aesthetics, choosing the right faucet is crucial for ensuring durability, water efficiency, and a comfortable user experience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Faucet
Choosing the best bathroom faucet involves a careful consideration of several factors, including:
- Style and Design: The faucet should complement the overall design aesthetic of your bathroom. Consider the style of your sink, cabinetry, and other fixtures to ensure a cohesive look.
- Finish: Faucet finishes range from classic chrome and brushed nickel to more modern options like matte black and oil-rubbed bronze. Choose a finish that complements your existing hardware and creates the desired ambiance.
- Functionality: Consider the type of sink you have and the desired functionality. Single-handle faucets offer easy temperature and flow control, while two-handle faucets provide more precise adjustments. Some faucets even feature sprayers or pull-down spouts for added versatility.
- Durability: A good bathroom faucet should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand daily use and resist corrosion. Look for faucets made from brass, stainless steel, or ceramic, and choose finishes that are resistant to scratches and tarnishing.
- Water Efficiency: Water-efficient faucets use less water without sacrificing performance. Look for faucets with a WaterSense label, which indicates that they meet EPA standards for water conservation. This can significantly reduce your water bill and environmental impact.
Key Features to Consider
Choosing the right bathroom faucet is a crucial step in creating a functional and stylish bathroom. It’s more than just a fixture; it’s a statement piece that reflects your taste and enhances the overall aesthetic. When selecting your ideal faucet, consider these key features:
Style
The style of your faucet plays a significant role in shaping the overall look and feel of your bathroom. From sleek and modern to traditional and ornate, a wide array of styles cater to diverse preferences.
- Modern: Characterized by clean lines, minimalist designs, and often featuring geometric shapes. Modern faucets are perfect for contemporary bathrooms with a focus on simplicity and functionality.
- Traditional: Embracing classic elegance, traditional faucets often feature intricate details, curved lines, and vintage-inspired designs. They complement bathrooms with a timeless and sophisticated ambiance.
- Contemporary: Blending modern and traditional elements, contemporary faucets offer a unique aesthetic that is both stylish and functional. They feature clean lines, subtle curves, and often incorporate innovative materials like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze.
- Transitional: This style seamlessly bridges the gap between traditional and modern designs, offering a versatile option for bathrooms with a blend of styles. Transitional faucets often feature subtle curves and clean lines, making them suitable for a variety of bathroom aesthetics.
Finish
The finish of your faucet adds a final touch to its aesthetic appeal and contributes to the overall ambiance of your bathroom. Consider these popular finishes and their characteristics:
- Chrome: A classic and timeless choice, chrome offers a sleek, reflective finish that is easy to clean and maintain. It is resistant to scratches and tarnishing, making it a durable option for high-traffic areas.
- Brushed Nickel: Providing a warm, sophisticated look, brushed nickel has a slightly textured finish that masks fingerprints and water spots. It complements both modern and traditional bathroom styles, adding a touch of elegance.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze: Known for its rich, antique appearance, oil-rubbed bronze adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to any bathroom. The unique patina that develops over time creates a distinctive and rustic aesthetic.
- Matte Black: Offering a modern and minimalist look, matte black provides a sleek and sophisticated finish that contrasts beautifully with white or light-colored bathroom fixtures. It adds a touch of drama and elegance to the space.
Functionality
Beyond aesthetics, functionality is crucial when selecting a bathroom faucet. Different spout types, handle types, and installation methods cater to various bathroom layouts and user preferences.
Spout Types
- Single-Hole: Designed for a single hole installation, these faucets are compact and ideal for smaller sinks or vanities.
- Widespread: Featuring two separate holes for the faucet base and handles, widespread faucets offer greater flexibility in placement and are suitable for larger sinks or vanities.
- Centerset: Requiring three holes for installation, centerset faucets are a classic option that offers a traditional look. They are often found in older bathrooms and can be a good choice for those seeking a vintage aesthetic.
Handle Types
- Lever: Offering ease of use, lever handles are popular for their ergonomic design and smooth operation. They are particularly well-suited for individuals with limited mobility.
- Cross: Featuring a cross-shaped handle, cross handles provide a traditional and elegant look. They are often found in bathrooms with a vintage or farmhouse style.
- Knob: Offering a classic and simple design, knob handles are often found in traditional bathrooms. They can be more challenging to operate than lever handles, especially for individuals with limited dexterity.
Water Efficiency
Water conservation is a growing concern, and bathroom faucets are no exception. Water-saving technologies like aerators and flow restrictors can significantly reduce water consumption without compromising performance.
- Aerators: These small devices are installed at the spout’s end and mix air with water, creating a larger, more forceful stream. This reduces water usage while maintaining a satisfying flow rate.
- Flow Restrictors: Flow restrictors limit the water flow rate, reducing water consumption without affecting the pressure. They are often incorporated into the faucet’s design, ensuring water efficiency without requiring additional installation.
Durability, Best bathroom faucets 2019
Investing in a durable bathroom faucet is essential, as it will be subjected to daily use and exposure to water and moisture. High-quality materials contribute to longevity and performance.
- Brass: A common material for faucet construction, brass is known for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to withstand high temperatures. It is also highly malleable, allowing for intricate designs.
- Ceramic Cartridges: These cartridges are responsible for controlling water flow and temperature. High-quality ceramic cartridges are known for their smooth operation, durability, and resistance to wear and tear.
Top Bathroom Faucet Brands
Choosing the right bathroom faucet brand can significantly impact your bathroom’s functionality, aesthetics, and longevity. Several brands dominate the market, each offering unique features and price points. Let’s delve into some of the most popular and trusted brands, examining their key features, price ranges, and pros and cons.
Popular Bathroom Faucet Brands
The following table provides an overview of some of the most popular bathroom faucet brands:
| Brand | Notable Features | Price Range | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moen | LifeShine Finish, MotionSense Technology, Spot Resist Finish, Magnetic Docking, Smart Faucets | $50 – $500+ |
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| Delta | Touch2O Technology, Diamond Seal Technology, TempSense Technology, H2Okinetic Technology, Magnetic Docking | $50 – $500+ |
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| Kohler | Vibrant Finish, Kohler Konnect Technology, Smart Faucets, High-Arc Spouts, Cast Iron Construction | $100 – $1000+ |
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| Grohe | StarLight Finish, SilkMove Technology, Water-Saving Features, EcoJoy Technology, Smart Faucets | $150 – $1500+ |
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Best Bathroom Faucets for Different Needs
Choosing the right bathroom faucet can significantly impact the look, feel, and functionality of your space. With countless options available, it’s essential to consider your bathroom’s type and purpose to select a faucet that perfectly complements your needs.
Bathroom Faucets for Different Bathroom Types
Each bathroom serves a unique purpose, influencing the desired faucet features. Here’s a breakdown of the best faucet types for different bathroom spaces:
| Bathroom Type | Faucet Type | Recommended Brands | Reasons for Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master Bathroom | Widespread or Centerset Faucet with a Variety of Finishes | Delta, Kohler, Grohe | Master bathrooms are often larger and require a faucet that offers both style and functionality. Widespread or centerset faucets provide ample space for handwashing and offer a wide range of finishes to match your bathroom’s design. |
| Guest Bathroom | Single-Hole Faucet or Wall-Mounted Faucet | Moen, Pfister, American Standard | Guest bathrooms prioritize efficiency and practicality. Single-hole faucets are compact and easy to install, while wall-mounted faucets offer a sleek and modern look. These options are also budget-friendly, making them ideal for guest bathrooms. |
| Powder Room | Wall-Mounted Faucet or Vessel Sink Faucet | Kohler, Grohe, Hansgrohe | Powder rooms often feature smaller sinks and limited space. Wall-mounted faucets free up counter space and offer a minimalist aesthetic. Vessel sink faucets are also popular choices, as they add a touch of elegance and sophistication. |
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a bathroom faucet may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a DIY project many homeowners can tackle. Proper maintenance also ensures your faucet functions smoothly and lasts for years to come.
Installing a Bathroom Faucet
Installing a new bathroom faucet requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather the necessary tools: You’ll need a wrench, adjustable pliers, channel-lock pliers, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, plumber’s tape, and a basin wrench.
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water lines to your faucet. Turn them clockwise until they’re completely closed.
- Remove the old faucet: Unscrew the old faucet’s mounting nuts using a wrench. If they’re stubborn, use a basin wrench for easier access. Disconnect the water supply lines.
- Prepare the installation area: Clean the sink’s mounting holes and the faucet’s base plate with a damp cloth. Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the faucet’s supply lines and mounting nuts.
- Install the new faucet: Align the faucet’s base plate with the sink’s mounting holes and screw the mounting nuts into place. Connect the water supply lines to the faucet and tighten them with a wrench.
- Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to allow water to flow. Check for leaks and tighten any loose connections.
Maintaining a Bathroom Faucet
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your bathroom faucet. Here are some essential tasks:
- Clean the faucet: Wipe down the faucet’s surface with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the finish. For hard water stains, use a vinegar solution.
- Clean the aerator: Unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout and soak it in a vinegar solution to remove mineral buildup. Rinse it thoroughly and reattach it to the spout.
- Troubleshoot leaks: If your faucet leaks, check the faucet’s cartridge, O-rings, and washers for wear and tear. Replace them if necessary. You can also check the supply lines for leaks.
- Replace the cartridge: Over time, the faucet’s cartridge can wear out, leading to leaks or reduced water flow. To replace it, turn off the water supply and remove the handle. Locate the cartridge and unscrew it. Install a new cartridge and reassemble the faucet.
Tips for Extending Faucet Lifespan
Here are some helpful tips for keeping your bathroom faucet in top shape:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Use mild detergents and avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the faucet’s finish.
- Clean the faucet regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mineral buildup and ensures smooth operation.
- Address leaks promptly: Small leaks can escalate into bigger problems. Fix them immediately to prevent further damage.
- Replace worn parts: Don’t wait for parts to fail completely. Replace worn cartridges, O-rings, and washers as needed.
- Use a water softener: If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral buildup and extend the life of your faucet.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect bathroom faucet is an investment in both functionality and style. Your bathroom is a space for relaxation and rejuvenation, and the right faucet can elevate the experience.
By carefully considering your needs, preferences, and budget, you can find the perfect faucet to transform your bathroom into a sanctuary.
