Showers Buying Guide

Taking a shower should be a comfortable, relaxing and pleasant experience. Besides having hot water, you should have the right shower head or system. It can make it a spa-like experience or a quick but efficient cleaning of your body. If you're looking to get shower heads or systems, here's what you need to know.

Types of Shower Heads

Fixed Shower Heads

The fixed shower head is the most affordable choice you'll find and is often used in dorms or renting homes where luxury isn't quite the priority. This shower head is typically installed high up in the front of the shower and points outward. If you're on a budget and aren't looking for luxurious showers, then this can be quite a great option.

Handheld Shower Heads

Handheld shower heads are another popular choice. They're typically installed high up at the front of the shower, pretty much in the same places as a fixed shower. The main difference is that you can detach the shower head from its base which makes it easier to wash off various parts of your body and clean the tub or shower.
A handheld shower is quite convenient because it offers an entirely different showering experience compared to showering with a fixed showerhead. Handheld shower heads are a bit pricier than fixed shower heads, but many people would rather invest in one because it gives more options.

Rain Shower Heads

If you're looking for a gentler shower experience, then a rain shower head is for you. This type of shower has a larger head and is installed directly above the shower to simulate the feeling of falling rain. Often this type of fixture is installed directly within the ceiling above the shower, and not the front like other shower heads.
This type of shower is more spread out so the water covers more space, while the water pressure is minimized, giving you a pleasant feeling of light raindrops on your head and body. This type of shower will give you a spa-like experience and will help you relax after a long day. If you're into high-pressure showers, this one might not be the best choice for you. And while you can find such showers for a reasonable price, most of these models are on the more expensive side.

Shower Systems

If you're looking to change your old shower into something more relaxing and spa-like, then a shower system is a perfect choice. It comes with many features and options so you can choose what works best for you. Many shower systems offer the rain option for when you feel like enjoying the gentle drops on your head.

You can always switch to a higher pressure when you need to properly wash your hair and body. These showers often include both a fixed rain shower head and a hand shower. Some models may come with fancy features such as a speaker when you want to listen to music in the shower. And yes, these can be quite expensive, but the experience and convenience are worth the money. You're practically investing in a home spa.

Types of Shower and Tub Faucets

Wall-Mount Faucets

Wall-mount faucets are the most common choice; they're installed on the wall at the front of the bathtub. Most models feature a faucet for the shower (installed further up) and a separate faucet for the tub, installed above the bathtub. If your tub doesn’t include a shower, you'll only need tub faucets.

Deck-Mount Faucets

Sometimes called Roman faucets, the deck-mount faucets are installed on the rim around the tub. Your plumber will drill holes into the rim of the tub; the pipes remain hidden within the tub deck. These faucets are most commonly used with drop-in tubs.

Freestanding Faucets

Used for freestanding bathtubs, the freestanding faucets are visible because they're placed outside the tub. They are perfect if you have a vintage bathroom (or at least are trying to build a bathroom with a vintage vibe). These faucets are generally used for tubs that don't have shower heads.

Things Consider

Comfort

Your shower should feel comfortable. No matter what type of faucet or head you choose, it should help you clean properly and relax. Consider what you're looking for - a spa-like experience or a simpler model to help you clean your body. Of course, everybody wants the best for themselves, but please make sure to choose a shower that matches the type of your bathroom, the water pressure in your home as well as your budget.

Ease of Use

Some showers are simpler to use than others. If you're into simple models then there's not too much to consider. However, if you're looking for a fancier shower system or shower head, then make sure that everybody in your household can use it. Sometimes more complex shower systems can be a challenge for the elderly or children.

Water Pressure

This is crucial. Proper water pressure can make showering a pleasant and easy experience. If the pressure isn't too strong, the shower can take forever and leave you frustrated. Make sure to check the water pressure level before you get a shower system or head.
If your home has a lower water pressure level, you can seek suitable shower heads that are designed to meet this thing; this way you'll have better control over the entire showering experience.

Spray Settings

Some showers have a spray setting which is a great thing. It gives you better control over the type of spraying you get. This is a perfect choice for homes where family members or flatmates have different desires when it comes to spray settings. Everyone can set it according to their needs.