When remodeling or updating your bathroom, selecting the right fixtures is key to achieving both style and functionality. Bathroom fixtures include faucets, sinks, showerheads, and other hardware that contribute to the overall aesthetic, efficiency, and performance of your space.

With so many styles, finishes, and features to choose from, finding the best options can feel overwhelming. However, with a little research and careful consideration, you can make informed decisions that enhance both the beauty and practicality of your bathroom.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best bathroom fixtures—faucets, sinks, showerheads, and more—by focusing on important factors like style, material, durability, water efficiency, and budget.

1. Choosing the Best Bathroom Faucets

Style Considerations

When it comes to faucets, style is a big consideration. Faucets come in various designs, including modern, traditional, transitional, and vintage. Consider your bathroom’s overall aesthetic to select a faucet that complements it. For example:

• Modern faucets tend to have clean lines and a sleek, minimalist appearance.
• Traditional faucets feature more ornate designs, often with curved spouts and vintage detailing.
• Transitional faucets combine elements of both modern and traditional styles, offering versatility.

Features to Look For

• Water Efficiency: Opt for a WaterSense certified faucet, which uses less water while maintaining strong performance. This can help reduce your water bills and conserve water.
• Material and Finish: The finish you choose will influence the faucet’s durability and how well it complements your bathroom’s decor. Popular finishes include:
  • Chrome: Classic and affordable, chrome is easy to maintain and complements most bathroom styles.
  • Matte Black: Adds a modern, bold touch to any bathroom.
  • Brushed Nickel: Known for its resistance to fingerprints, brushed nickel is both practical and stylish.
  • Polished Brass or Gold: Offers a luxurious, vintage look, often used in traditional or retro bathrooms.

2. Selecting the Right Bathroom Sinks

Types of Sinks

There are various types of sinks to choose from, each with unique benefits and design implications:

• Undermount Sinks: Installed beneath the countertop, undermount sinks provide a clean and seamless look. They’re easy to clean since there’s no lip around the sink to trap dirt.
• Vessel Sinks: These sinks sit on top of the countertop and often become the focal point of the bathroom. They come in a wide range of materials and designs, from sleek glass to elegant stone.
• Drop-In Sinks: Drop-in sinks fit into a hole cut into the countertop, offering a simple and cost-effective installation. They’re easy to replace and maintain.
• Pedestal Sinks: Ideal for smaller bathrooms, pedestal sinks offer a classic look while saving space. They’re often used in more traditional or vintage designs.
• Console Sinks: These sinks are supported by legs and combine the elegance of a pedestal with the added benefit of shelf storage underneath.

Considerations

• Size and Space: Think about your bathroom’s layout and choose a sink that fits the space. If your bathroom is small, a pedestal or wall-mounted sink might work best, while larger bathrooms can accommodate double vanities with larger sinks.
• Material: Sinks come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone. Each material offers different aesthetics and durability, so choose one that suits both your style and practical needs.

3. Finding the Best Showerheads

Type of Showerhead

Showerheads are available in a variety of designs and types, with features to cater to different preferences:

• Rain Showerheads: These large, overhead showerheads mimic the feeling of standing in the rain. They’re ideal for a luxurious, spa-like experience.
• Handheld Showerheads: These offer flexibility and are perfect for cleaning or for people with mobility challenges. Handheld showerheads also make it easier to rinse off shampoo or soap.
• Multi-function Showerheads: These showerheads have multiple settings, such as massage, mist, or jet, allowing you to adjust the water flow for different needs.
• Low Flow Showerheads: These eco-friendly options are designed to conserve water while still delivering a satisfying shower experience.

Features to Consider

• Water Efficiency: Look for a showerhead with the WaterSense label to save water and reduce your utility bills. These showerheads typically use no more than 2.0 gallons per minute (GPM), compared to standard showerheads, which use up to 2.5 GPM.
• Pressure: Some people prefer high-pressure showerheads, while others opt for a gentler, more relaxing flow. Consider the water pressure in your area and select a showerhead that matches your preference.

4. Choosing Bathroom Lighting Fixtures

Types of Bathroom Lighting

Good lighting is essential in the bathroom, not just for aesthetics but for safety and functionality. Some common types of bathroom lighting include:

• Ambient Lighting: Provides general illumination for the entire room. Ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lights, or large overhead fixtures are good options.
• Task Lighting: Focuses light where it’s needed most, like above mirrors or near the sink. Vanity lights or sconces on either side of the mirror work well for this.
• Accent Lighting: Adds decorative touches, such as spotlights or LED strips around mirrors or underneath vanities. Accent lighting can highlight design features like artwork or tilework.

Considerations

• Bulb Type: LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them an excellent choice for bathroom lighting. They also come in various brightness levels, allowing you to tailor your lighting to the bathroom’s needs.
• Size and Placement: Choose lighting that complements the size of your bathroom. For small bathrooms, a single overhead light might suffice, while larger bathrooms may need additional task or accent lighting.

5. Bathroom Hardware: Towel Bars, Hooks, and More

Choosing the Right Bathroom Hardware

Bathroom hardware, including towel bars, toilet paper holders, and hooks, plays a key role in both functionality and aesthetics. When selecting hardware:

• Match the Finish: Ensure that the finish of your hardware matches your faucets, light fixtures, and other metal elements in the bathroom for a cohesive look.
• Consider Functionality: Towel bars, hooks, and shelves should be placed at convenient locations. For instance, a towel bar should be positioned close to the shower or bathtub, while hooks near the sink can help keep hand towels accessible.

Features to Look For

• Durability: Bathroom hardware is exposed to high moisture levels, so choose options made from rust-resistant materials such as stainless steel, brass, or bronze.
• Space-Saving Options: For smaller bathrooms, consider space-saving options like towel rings or over-the-door hooks to maximize storage.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Bathroom Fixtures

Selecting the best bathroom fixtures is an essential part of remodeling or updating your bathroom. With so many options available, it’s important to focus on style, functionality, and durability when making your choices. Whether you’re updating your faucets, sinks, or showerheads, consider factors such as material, water efficiency, and your budget. By carefully selecting the right fixtures, you’ll be able to create a bathroom that’s both stylish and practical, providing comfort for years to come.