The Bathroom Taps Buyer’s Guide

The quest for the perfect bathroom tap

Choosing new bathroom taps isn’t something to take lightly.

The very best bathroom taps will not only increase usability and practicality in your bathroom space but, when chosen carefully, can also enhance the look and style of your bathroom space.

In the extraordinary world of bathroom renovations or upgrades, the tap is an underrated hero.

Whether you’re renovating your entire bathroom or just updating certain elements, the kind of tap you choose plays a vital role.

This guide will navigate you through the ins and outs of bathroom taps, from how they’re made to how to pick the perfect one that complements your style and utility needs.

Important things to consider before buying new taps

Before you dive right in and purchase any new bathroom tap – be it for the basin, bath or bidet – it’s important to understand that how taps operate will depend on your home’s water pressure.

If you have a high pressure water system in your home, you should be able to quite happily purchase most modern basin and bath taps.

However, if you have low water pressure you should determine exactly what that pressure is in order to understand which taps are going to ensure a strong and welcome flow of both hot and cold water.

For more info on domestic water pressure, check out our water pressure FAQs.

How are taps made?

Good question!

Most taps are made from cast brass that’s either been plated in chrome or gold.

However, the manufacturing process is quite complex and can involve other processes such as injection moulding, drawing and sintering.

Chrome plating is by far the most popular finish and is extremely durable.

Taps can also feature a black, nickel or brushed steel finish.

The brass casting has a ceramic disc cartridge or standard valve screwed into it, and a handle is fitted to that valve or cartridge spindle to complete the tap.

So what exactly is ceramic disc technology?

The majority of taps, these days, use a ceramic disc cartridge instead of traditional rubber washers.

Taps that use ceramic disc technology mean an end to annoying drips and only a 90-degree rotation to turn the tap on and off.

A few years ago, taps used rubber washers to prevent dripping, which did work well until the washer began to wear out and the drips began to start.

Ceramic disc technology is the answer to this problem.

With taps that use ceramic disc technology, all that’s needed to switch the tap off is a quarter turn and the water instantly stops. Ceramic discs do not wear out and will keep on going.

A ceramic disc cartridge is made with two ceramic discs, each with two holes for mixer taps or a single hole for a tap with two handles.

One disc is fitted in place, whilst the other disc moves with the tap handle. When both discs are aligned, the water can flow through the tap, and when they aren’t aligned the water stops.

Don’t go forgetting those tap holes!

It may sound simple, but you’d be surprised just how often this is overlooked. 

When faced with the abundance of wonderful bathroom taps on offer, it is easy to forget that you must consider whether your existing basin, bath or bidet can accommodate certain types of taps. 

So, whether you’re purchasing a new full bathroom suite, or simply replacing your taps to upgrade the look of your space, take note of the number of tap holes on your bath, basin or bidet to be sure they match up.

Basin tap options

Most bathroom sinks come with 1, 2 or 3 pre-drilled tap holes. 

The modern way is usually to have a single hole to accommodate a more contemporary mono-bloc mixer tap.

More traditionally styled basins come with two holes for separate hot and cold taps, while 3-hole basins will fit both of those alongside a separate water spout.

Bath tap options

Many baths at Big Bathroom Shop are supplied without tap holes pre-drilled so you can choose what type you would prefer to install.

However, some baths will come with pre-drilled tap holes, so it’s important to keep an eye on the product listing so you know you’re making the right choice when chooisng your bathroom taps. 

Freestanding baths don’t have a space for tap holes, as their usual bathroom partners are freestanding or wall mounted taps, to help you create that stylish oasis you’ve been dreaming of.

Bidet tap options

Bidets are a little different, and almost always come with a single tap hole for a single monobloc mixer tap, so they’re usually a little easier to get right the first time!

The different types of bathroom taps

When it comes to bathroom taps, the choices are abundant and varied.

You can opt for standard pillar taps, monobloc taps, or even more specialised options like three-hole basin taps.

Then there are wall-mounted taps that offer a sleek, minimalist look, and bath shower mixer taps that provide both aesthetics and functionality in a single package.

Take a look at the various bathroom tap categories:

• Standard pillar taps – usually supplied in pairs for two tap-hole sinks and baths.
• Monobloc taps – designed for one tap-hole basins and also available for bidets and baths.
• Three-hole taps – four-hole are also available.
• Wall mounted taps – designed to create a sleek, streamlined look.
• Countertop/High rise mixer taps – designed for use with countertop basins that do not feature tap holes
• Bath taps – available as bath fillers and bath shower mixers.
• Freestanding bath taps – designed for use with freestanding baths.

Selecting your new bathroom taps

So, now you know about the different types of bathroom tap, let’s take a look at both the good and bad points of each range to learn a little more about them.

Standard Pillar Taps

Designed for use with two tap-hole sinks, basin pillar taps are available in a range of styles including modern and traditional.

These are supplied as a pair – one tap for the hot water and one tap for the cold water.

Pros

• Traditional and timeless design suitable for classic bathroom styles.
• Separate hot and cold taps prevent accidental scalding.
• Typically more affordable than other types of taps.

Cons

• Requires two tap holes, limiting compatibility.
• Not as streamlined as some contemporary designs.

Best for – Homes with traditional décor or those looking for a cost-effective solution.

Monobloc Taps

Basin mono taps are designed for one-tap hole bathroom sinks.

Available in an array of designs, basin mono taps feature an easy to use single lever handle that controls both the flow and temperature of the water. 

They allow the water to mix whilst flowing into the basin allowing for better temperature control.

Basin mono taps are also available in high rise, cloakroom and waterfall designs.

Pros

• Modern, sleek design, offering a contemporary look.
• Single-handle operation for easy temperature control.
• Suitable for basins, bidets, and baths with a single tap hole

Cons

• Requires precise water pressure balancing.
• Potentially more challenging to install than pillar taps.

Best for – Modern bathrooms with one tap-hole fixtures.

Three & four-hole taps

Available in a variety of designs, three/four hole bath taps feature two handles; one to control the hot water and one to control the cold water, the third hole is for the water spout and where there’s a fourth hole, this is for a shower head on a retractable hose.

Pros

• Elegant and sophisticated design.
• Allows separate temperature control with a distinct spout.
• Offers a unique aesthetic different from standard taps.

Cons

• More complex installation due to the number of components.
• Requires regular maintenance to keep all parts functioning optimally.

Best for – Bathrooms aiming for a high-end or luxurious feel.

Wall mounted taps

Wall mounted taps create a neat, streamlined finish and a minimal look.

They come in modern and traditional styles to suit any bathroom and are designed for use with countertop basins and baths without any tap-holes.

Pros

• Creates a clean, uncluttered look around the basin or bath.
• Easier to clean around, with no tap base to contend with.
• Offers a minimalist aesthetic.

Cons

• More complex installation; requires concealed plumbing.
• Maintenance can be more involved.

Best for – Both modern & traditional bathrooms seeking a minimalist or luxurious design.

Countertop & high rise mixer taps

Countertop basin taps come in a wide range of styles, each offering its unique touch to the bathroom’s design.

The right tap should not only match the aesthetics of your countertop basin but also provide the required functionality.

Pros

• Elegantly complements countertop basins due to their extended height
• Available in both single-lever and twin operation styles
• Both modern and traditional styles depending on taste

Cons

• Will require higher water pressure to operate effectively
• Could overshadow smaller countertop basins

Best for – Larger countertop basins in more contemporary bathrooms and en-suites.

Bath Taps (Bath Fillers and Bath Shower Mixers)

Bath shower mixer taps combine stylish looks with excellent functionality.

Available in a range of designs, bath shower mixer taps are supplied with a shower handset and hose, which allows you to shower in the bath.

The handset and hose also provides a quick and easy way to rinse and clean around your bath.

Pros

• Bath fillers offer a clean and streamlined look.
• Bath shower mixers provide added functionality, combining a bath tap and shower.
• Wide variety of installation options – including wall mounted, freestanding and deck mounted designs.

Cons

• Requires more plumbing work if integrating a shower.
• Potential for more wear and tear due to multi-functionality.

Best for – Those looking for multifunctional taps or aiming for a clean bathing area.

Freestanding Bath Taps

Freestanding bath taps are fitted to the floor and are designed for use with freestanding baths.

Available in various styles, as well as with and without a shower kit, freestanding bath taps provide a great way to create a designer look.

Pros

• Offers a statement piece for your bathroom.
• Ideal for freestanding baths, enhancing the bath’s aesthetic.
• Provides flexibility in bath placement and design.

Cons

• Typically more expensive than other tap types.
• May require careful planning for plumbing and installation.

Best for – Bathrooms with freestanding baths, aiming for a luxurious or boutique feel.

Modern or traditional bath taps?

When selecting bath taps for your home, it’s essential to align your choice with the overall design and style of your bathroom and your personal preferences.

Both modern and traditional bath tap styles offer unique benefits, and understanding these can assist in making a more informed decision – one that enhances your bathroom space and improves the overall look.

Modern bath tap styles

Benefits

• Sleek design – Modern taps typically boast a minimalist design, offering clean lines and a streamlined appearance.
• Innovative features – Many modern taps incorporate advanced technology, such as thermostatic controls, which help maintain a consistent temperature, preventing sudden changes that could lead to scalding.
• Space-saving – Modern taps, especially wall-mounted varieties, can save valuable space, providing a cleaner look around the bath area.
• Versatility – These taps come in a variety of finishes, from matte black to brushed nickel, allowing homeowners to match them with the contemporary aesthetics of their bathrooms.

Why choose modern bath taps?

• If your bathroom has a contemporary design, modern taps will seamlessly complement its aesthetics.
• Those who appreciate technological integration and advanced features might lean towards modern designs.
• If you’re looking for a minimalist or space-saving solution, modern taps often cater to such preferences.

Traditional bath tap styles

Benefits

• Timeless appeal – Traditional taps exude a classic charm that doesn’t go out of style. Their intricate designs and detailing stand the test of time.
• Robust construction – Often made of high-quality brass with ceramic disc technology, traditional taps are built to last.
• Elegant finishes – From polished chrome to gold to oil-rubbed bronze and copper, traditional taps offer finishes that add a touch of luxury and grandeur to bathrooms.
• Ergonomic designs – Traditional taps often feature crosshead handles or lever handles, making them easy to operate.

Why choose traditional bath taps?

• If your bathroom leans towards a classic, vintage, or period design, traditional taps will enhance its character.
• For homeowners who appreciate designs with rich histories and narratives, traditional taps evoke a sense of nostalgia.
• If durability and long-standing craftsmanship appeal to you, the robust nature of traditional taps might be your choice.

Making the final choice and choosing your bath taps

When choosing bathroom taps, it is important to consider factors like the overall bathroom style, water pressure, and your specific needs.

Always go for a tap that not only looks good but also offers durability and efficiency.

Whether you’re into the classic appeal of pillar taps or the modern sophistication of monobloc and wall-mounted taps, make sure your choice enhances both the function and aesthetics of your bathroom.

In conclusion, bathroom taps are more than just functional fixtures; they are essential elements that contribute to the overall aesthetics of your bathroom, so choose wisely and choose well!