Guide to buying bathroom taps

Basin taps come in a range of styles and configurations to suit different basins, plumbing systems and bathroom designs. When choosing one, consider installation, tap hole compatibility, water pressure and everyday use, as well as appearance, to find a tap that offers the right balance of practicality, efficiency and style.

• Basin mixer taps
• Pillar taps
• Wall-mounted basin taps
• Sensor taps
• Waterfall basin taps
• Tall basin taps

Mixer taps

Mixer taps have become the most popular type of basin tap in modern homes because they combine hot and cold water into a single spout. This allows users to achieve their preferred water temperature quickly and easily while reducing water wastage. Basin mixer taps are available in numerous styles, from minimalist contemporary designs to more traditional models with decorative handles. Their versatility makes them suitable for almost any bathroom, whether you're updating a cloakroom, family bathroom or luxury en-suite.
 

Monobloc taps

A monobloc tap is one of the most popular forms of mixer tap. Designed to fit through a single tap hole, a monobloc tap houses both the hot and cold water controls within one compact unit. Single-lever monobloc taps allow users to control both water flow and temperature using one handle, while dual-lever versions feature separate handles for hot and cold water. Their streamlined appearance makes them an excellent choice for contemporary bathrooms, and they are particularly well suited to modern basins designed with a single tap hole.

Pillar taps

Pillar taps are supplied as a pair, feature separate controls for hot and cold water and are installed in basins with two tap holes. They have been a common feature in bathrooms for many years and remain a popular choice for period properties and traditionally styled interiors. Although hot and cold water cannot be mixed within the tap itself, many homeowners continue to appreciate their timeless appeal and straightforward operation.

Wall-mounted basin taps

Wall-mounted basin taps provide an elegant alternative to traditional basin-mounted models. Installed directly into the wall above the basin, they create a sleek, uncluttered appearance by keeping the countertop free from tap fittings. This style is particularly effective when paired with countertop vessel basins, where the tap appears to float above the sink. Wall-mounted taps also make cleaning around the basin easier, as there are fewer fixtures collecting dust and limescale. However, installation is more complex because the plumbing must be concealed within the wall, making them best suited to new bathroom installations or major renovations.

Sensor taps

Sensor taps have become increasingly popular in both commercial settings and residential bathrooms thanks to their touch-free operation. Using infrared technology, these taps automatically detect the presence of hands beneath the spout and activate the water flow without the need to touch any handles. This improves hygiene by reducing contact with potentially contaminated surfaces while also helping to conserve water by shutting off automatically when no longer required. Although sensor taps generally cost more than manual alternatives and require batteries or an electrical supply, many homeowners appreciate their convenience and water-saving benefits.

Waterfall basin taps

Waterfall basin taps have become increasingly popular in contemporary bathroom design. Featuring a wide spout that produces a cascading sheet of water, rather than through a conventional aerated outlet. This creates a calming visual effect while adding a touch of luxury to the bathroom. Waterfall taps are available in both standard and tall designs, making them suitable for a variety of basin styles. To achieve the best performance, they should be matched with a basin of sufficient depth to minimise splashing.

Tall basin taps

Tall basin taps are designed for countertop vessel basins that sit above the worktop. Their increased height provides sufficient clearance to direct water comfortably into the basin while complementing modern bathroom designs.

Bath taps are an essential feature of any bathroom, providing both practical functionality and an opportunity to enhance the overall design of the space. Available in a wide range of styles, sizes and installation types, bath taps are designed to suit different bath configurations, plumbing systems and interior aesthetics. Understanding the different types of bath taps will help you choose the most suitable option for your home.

• Bath mixer taps
• Pillar bath taps
• Bath shower mixer taps
• Deck-mounted bath taps
• Wall-mounted bath taps
• Waterfall bath taps
• Thermostatic bath taps

Bath mixer taps

Unlike traditional pillar taps, a bath mixer tap combines hot and cold water within a single fitting, allowing you to achieve your preferred bathing temperature before the water enters the bath. This makes filling the bath quicker, more convenient and more comfortable. Bath mixer taps are available in both modern and traditional styles, making them suitable for a wide variety of bathroom designs. Many models also feature ceramic disc technology for smooth operation and long-lasting, drip-free performance.

Pillar bath taps

For more traditional bathrooms, pillar bath taps remain a popular choice. Supplied as a pair, these taps have separate controls for hot and cold water and are typically installed on baths with two tap holes. Their timeless appearance makes them particularly well suited to period properties and classic bathroom suites. Although users must mix the water within the bath itself, pillar taps are valued for their simplicity, reliability and authentic traditional style.

Bath shower mixer taps

Bath shower mixer taps combine the functionality of a bath filler with the convenience of a handheld shower attachment. In addition to filling the bath, these taps feature a diverter that directs water either through the main spout or to a shower handset connected by a flexible hose. This makes them an excellent choice for family bathrooms where the bath is used for both bathing and showering.

Deck mounted bath taps

Deck-mounted bath taps are the most common installation type and are fitted directly onto the rim of the bath. Available as pillar taps, mixer taps or bath shower mixers, they are suitable for many standard acrylic, steel and cast-iron baths with pre-drilled tap holes. Deck-mounted taps are generally straightforward to install and maintain, making them a practical option for most bathroom renovations and replacements.

Wall-mounted bath taps

Wall-mounted bath taps offer a sleek and contemporary alternative to deck-mounted designs. Installed directly into the wall above the bath, they create a minimalist appearance by concealing the pipework behind the wall and leaving the edge of the bath free from fittings. This style is often chosen for luxury bathrooms and freestanding baths positioned against a wall, creating a clean, uncluttered finish. However, wall-mounted taps require concealed plumbing and careful planning during installation, making them better suited to new bathroom projects or major refurbishments.

Waterfall bath taps

Waterfall bath taps provide a distinctive and luxurious bathing experience by allowing water to flow from an open-top spout in a smooth, cascading sheet. The gentle flow creates a spa-like atmosphere while adding a contemporary design feature to the bath. Available in both deck-mounted and wall-mounted versions, waterfall taps are often selected for high-end bathroom renovations where visual impact is just as important as functionality. To achieve the best effect, they are typically paired with modern bath designs featuring clean lines and minimalist styling.

Thermostatic bath taps

Thermostatic bath taps are designed to maintain a consistent water temperature throughout the filling process. By automatically balancing the hot and cold water supplies, they help prevent sudden temperature changes caused by pressure fluctuations elsewhere in the home. This makes thermostatic taps an excellent choice for family bathrooms, providing greater comfort and reducing the risk of accidental scalding. Many bath shower mixers also incorporate thermostatic controls for added safety when using the shower attachment.

Bathroom taps include a range of features designed to improve convenience, performance and efficiency. Understanding these features can help you choose a tap that's best suited to your bathroom and everyday needs.

Bathroom tap handles

Taps have one or two handles to turn the water on and off, and some have handles that control the temperature too. There are many different types of tap handles available. Here are some of the most common:

• Cross head: these handles have four metal rods protruding from the centre, creating a cross shape. They operate using a twisting mechanism, and they can turn the water on and off and increase/decrease its flow.  

• Lever: these handles have a single lever which can operate either by moving them up and down or side to side. Some lever handles only turn the water on and off and increase/decrease its flow. While levers on a mono mixer tap move up and down to control water flow and side to side to adjust the temperature. 

• Push button: these handles consist of a knob, which pushes down to turn the tap on. They have a self-closing mechanism, so the knob slowly rises on its own to turn the water off after a set amount of time. Push button handles are a feature of some commercial taps designed to stop people from leaving taps running.

• Round head: these handles have a knob-shaped head, sometimes with subtle indentations around the sides to help with grip. They operate using a twisting mechanism, and they can turn the water on and off and increase/decrease its flow.

• Sensor: taps with sensors don’t have any handles. Instead, they have an infrared sensor built into their neck. When someone’s hands are placed under the tap's spout, the sensor detects the movement and turns the tap on. Sensors are usually found on commercial taps, and their touch-free operation is designed to curb the spread of germs.

• Square head: these taps have a square-shaped knob head which operates using a twisting mechanism to turn the water on and off and increase/decrease its flow. Some square head taps have a lever on the head and operate by turning the lever left and right.

Bathroom tap colours

The colour and finish of your bathroom taps can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your bathroom. While the style of the tap determines its shape and functionality, the finish is what ties the design together, complementing your basin, furniture, tiles and accessories.

• Chrome taps: remains the most popular choice for bathroom taps. Its bright, reflective finish suits almost any bathroom design, from traditional to contemporary, making it an incredibly versatile option.

• Matt black taps: have become one of the biggest trends in modern bathroom design. Their bold, understated finish creates a striking contrast against light-coloured basins, marble surfaces and neutral wall tiles, making them a popular choice for minimalist and industrial-inspired interiors.

• Brushed brass taps: add warmth, elegance and a touch of luxury to any bathroom. Unlike polished brass, which has a bright, highly reflective finish, brushed brass has a softer, satin appearance that feels more subtle and contemporary.

• Gold and copper taps: introduce warmth and individuality into bathroom design. Their distinctive metallic tones create a luxurious focal point and work particularly well with white marble, dark cabinetry and soft pastel colour palettes.

For a cohesive finish, it's worth matching your tap colour with other bathroom fittings wherever possible. Coordinating shower valves, toilet roll holders, flush plates and cabinet handles in the same finish creates a balanced and professionally designed appearance.