Not sure which bathroom tap you need? We explain the differences between different tap types, so you can work out which is right for you.
Bathroom taps come in all shapes and sizes, which may leave you scratching your head when trying to choose the correct one for your exact needs.
However large or small your bathroom project may be, it certainly pays to think long and hard about the type of taps you want, instead of simply letting your bathroom installer choose for you. In this expert guide, we'll carefully explain the differences between the different types of bathroom taps available, explaining the benefits of each one, before considering style.
Pillar taps
Pillar taps generally take the form of 2 separate taps. One draws hot water and the other cold, and the 2 flow separately into the bath or basin. It's as simple as that.
Traditional style Dulwich basin pillar taps
Mixer taps
Mixer taps also draw water from both the hot and cold pipes but mix the 2 flows before they emerge from a single spout. It's generally far easier to achieve the correct temperature using a mixer tap and they can help prevent drawing water that is scalding hot or too cold.
Some bath mixer taps also incorporate a shower mixer, allowing you to switch the water flow from the taps themselves to a shower attachment.
Mixer taps are generally better for those who use their baths frequently, as you can mix the flow to the desired temperature before allowing your bath to fill up. This is a safer option for families with small children, where filling the bath with scalding hot water first could be dangerous. To improve safety even further there is the option of a thermostatic bath mixer tap, ensuring a consistent water temperature.
The Wye waterfall bath mixer tap—a contemporary waterfall style bath mixer tap
Monobloc mixer taps
Some mixer taps come in a style that is known as a monobloc. Basically, this is a single built-up unit containing one or 2 tap handles and the spout. They're suitable for deck mounted taps on baths or basins that have a single hole for the taps. They can also be used with countertop basins.
The Wye waterfall basin mixer—a monobloc tap
Wall mounted taps
Some contemporary taps are wall mounted and protrude over the bath or basin. These can look incredibly stylish and striking but they can be slightly more challenging to install as the pipes and plumbing are hidden within the wall itself.
Wall mounted basin taps like the Tate can look incredibly stylish
Deck mounted taps
Deck mounted taps are attached to the bath, basin or unit itself through drilled holes. They can be pillar taps coming through 2 holes or monoblocs coming through a single hole. These are far more common than wall mounted taps as they are generally easier to plumb in.
A deck mounted bath shower mixer from the Derwent tap range
Freestanding bath taps
With the trend for freestanding, roll top baths on the increase, more and more of us are in need of guidance on taps. Generally, this type of bath cannot accommodate deck mounted taps, so a freestanding bath tap or standpipe has to be used. At Victoria Plum, there’s a wide selection of freestanding bath taps, from contemporary to traditional. Some also come with a shower mixer, giving you all the modern bath/shower options you could ever want.
The Eden freestanding bath filler is a contemporary mixer tap for freestanding baths, where taps cannot be deck mounted
Traditional or contemporary
Taps of all kinds are available in a wide range of styles to suit any taste. Many contemporary bathroom taps are more angular in their design and frequently have lever handles that can be lifted or lowered to control the water flow. Classic or traditional taps are often curved or arching.
Rotational handles can also come in different styles themselves. Cross handle taps, with the 4 distinctive knobs, can be easy to grip and bring a wonderfully classic look to any basin or bath.
The wide range of taps on offer can sometimes seem bewildering and there's no single type of tap that's right for every person, family or bathroom. However, by combining your own personal tastes with the functionality you require, you can find the bathroom taps that are perfect for you.
For more information, please see our taps buying guide.
Shop bathroom taps
Now you know the type of bathroom tap you need, why not browse our extensive range? We’re sure you’ll find the perfect design at a great price. Click on the image below to begin shopping.
