If you’ve read any of our other blogs, then you know how many options you have when selecting bathroom fixtures. From the functionality to the faucet material color, there are many options to consider – so how do you choose the right one for your bathroom?

Faucet Functionality

When selecting a new faucet, you must first choose the type of handle configuration that works best for you. Some people prefer the simplicity of a single-handle faucet, while others are more comfortable with a traditional two-handle faucet.

Second, you will want to measure the countertop. The countertop size and design will help you make the right decision about the type of faucet to install. If the countertop is long, having a small, lonely single lever faucet may not look as nice as having more handles and hardware to compensate for the large surface area.

You will also want to think about the spout height. Do you want a high spout or a low spout? Also, the throw of the spout – how far does the water come out into the sink? These are all considerations that need to be addressed when selecting your bathroom faucet.

Single Handle vs. Double Handle

Single-handle faucets will provide your bathroom with a sleek, modern look. Single-handle faucets operate by combining the hot and cold water through one lever, with the single handle governing the amount of hot or cold water dispersed through the faucet spout.

The two-handle faucets will provide your bathroom with a more traditional look. Two-handle faucets provide a lever for both the hot and the cold water supply. The desired water temperature is achieved by adjusting each handle to increase or decrease the amount of hot or cold water flowing through the spout.

Vessel Faucets

If you’re dealing with a vessel, which is a sink above the counter, pay close attention – if the faucet is going to be mounted on the counter, it will need to be tall enough to reach over the top of a vessel. Again, you will also want to make sure that the spout is throwing the water in the right spot in the sink so it’s not splashing over the side.

Depending on the height of the vessel, this may limit your selection. Be sure to check the specifications to make sure the spout will clear it. The specifications will give you measurements from the center of the spout to the center of the sink. Occasionally, a vessel faucet will be mounted to the vessel itself. In that case, you have a lot more flexibility because you’re not trying to beat the sink, instead, you’re actually on top of the sink.

If you are a little tight on space, we suggest a four-inch spread, rather than the separate eight-inch spread. In this scenario, the faucet is on the countertop providing a great alternative for smaller bathrooms.

Wall-Mount Faucets

Wall-mount faucets do not take up any space on the countertop as they are coming out of the wall. This makes them great for vessels or small countertops. The only concern with wall mount faucets is that they have a separate valve that goes in the wall making repairs more difficult. Additionally, they’re on the pricier end of the spectrum.

Colors

The first thing to know is that because of the high demand, the more popular colors will also come in more styles. A few of your options include:

Polished Chrome is the most popular of all the finishes, with a shiny surface that makes it stand out. Because of its popularity, it is generally the least expensive of faucet finishes. It is durable and easy to clean, although you may be cleaning it frequently. It also matches with other fixtures easily and complements other accessories. If you’re not keen on the shininess of polished chrome, they used to make some brushed chrome, but they don’t make much of it anymore.

Brushed Nickel is a metallic finish with a warmer tone that continues to be a favorite amongst homeowners. It’s arguably the most durable of faucet finishes and keeps its smooth, metallic finish longer than chrome or an oil-rubbed metal. Easy to clean and easy to match with different accessories and other fixtures make it one of the most popular options. Polished Nickel presents a smooth, shiny finish that is also highly durable. It can appear to be different colors under different lighting, which is helpful if you like to change up accessories or accent colors frequently because it will easily adapt.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze is a great alternative to chrome or brushed nickel and a complement to traditional style and design.

Gold finishes are also making a comeback. However, there are still a lot of limitations in terms of the styles that they’re being offered in.