Showerheads Buying Guide

There's nothing like a warm shower  after a hard day at work, but not all showerheads are created equal.  To make sure you're getting the most out of your shower experience, check out some of these bathroom  basics that will have you saying "Ahh" in no time.  

The Models

There are two basic types of showerheads: 

The Basics
Fixed Showerheads  These models are mounted permanently to the wall of the shower unit. Fixed showerheads can be mounted in such a way that that they can be adjusted to accommodate for people of different heights.	Hand-held Showerheads  These models are connected to the wall by way of flexible tubing, which allow for wide a range of motion. Hand-held showerheads often hang on a fixed bracket that is mounted to the inside wall of the shower. This design is especially useful for making bath time with children and pets easier. Hand-held showerheads make cleaning the shower easier as well.

Pressure and Flow

The pressure and flow of the water dispersed by your showerhead can have a big impact on your body and your budget.

• For energy savings, it's best to look for a low-flow showerhead,  since these models use less water than their older, more traditional counterparts. 
• Having a low-flow showerhead also helps to reduce your carbon footprint, but be wary of models that aren't specifically designed for low-pressure water flow.  You may think you're helping to save the world, but it might be hard to see that world with all the shampoo that's left in your eyes from a less-than satisfying rinse.
• Different spray patterns help to massage the body or cover a wider area of skin. 
• Wide, round showerheads  produce a soaking rain effect.
• Massaging units  offer different patterns and pressures, most using a fine mist.
• Jetted sprays  offer a sharp, concentrated stream.
• Oscillating shower panels  can offer a range of different patterns and pressures, as each head or spout can be programmed differently.  Some shower panels feature rain shower and waterfall simulations, as well as mists, jet sprays and full sprays.

Installation

If you do opt for a less expensive showerhead, be prepared to install it yourself.  Many installations require that you have a large enough area to ensure that water remains inside the shower and/or tub  at all times. This is especially true for rain-simulating shower heads, which work the best if they are placed directly over the tub, and jet heads, which stream your water horizontally.  Check the packaging to determine whether any plumbing changes that require professional help need to be made in order for the product to work properly.  

Major Manufacturers

When it comes to bathroom hardware, it's always best to bank on the largest budget possible.  Being thrifty can often mean you get a product that doesn't perform effectively, won't last long or is hard to install.  Stick to the popular industry names for quality products that are guaranteed to hold up over time while functioning just as well as the day you bought them.

• Danze 
• Delta 
• Grohe 
• Kohler 
• Moen 
• Opella 

Related Guides

Bath and Shower Accessories	Body Wash and Shower Gels	Bath and Body	Home Spas

External Links

• HomeInstitute.com:  Intro to showerheads, toilets, bathroom sinks and more.
• Lowes.com:  Buying and installation advice for all your bathroom appliances.

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
NL: Douchekoppen Shopgids