There’s no shortage of home improvement stores selling showers online, each offering a wide range of brands, styles, and features, all promising top-quality performance. But with so many options, how do you know which ones are actually worth it? What should you really look for to ensure you’re getting a high-quality, durable, and functional shower head?
If you want to choose showers like a pro, take a look at what plumbers look for before making a pick!
1. Type of Shower Head
Fixed Shower Head
A fixed shower head is mounted to the wall and remains stationary, providing a steady and reliable water flow. It’s a popular choice for those who prefer a simple, no-fuss shower experience. With easy installation and minimal maintenance, it’s an ideal option for bathrooms of all styles.
Handheld Shower Head
A handheld shower head is connected to a flexible hose, allowing for greater mobility and control. It’s ideal for rinsing hard-to-reach areas, washing kids or pets, and making shower cleaning easier. This versatile design offers convenience and flexibility, making it a favourite among homeowners.
Rain Shower Head
A rain shower head is a large, overhead fixture designed to mimic the sensation of rainfall. It provides a gentle, even water flow for a relaxing and spa-like shower experience. Typically mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a luxurious and immersive shower.
Wall-Mounted Shower Head
A wall-mounted shower head is a fixed shower head attached directly to the wall, providing a steady and consistent water flow. It’s the most common and easy-to-install option, offering a simple, reliable, and low-maintenance showering experience for any bathroom.
Ceiling-Mounted Shower head
A ceiling-mounted shower head is installed directly into the ceiling, allowing water to fall straight down for an even, rain-like flow. Unlike wall-mounted options, it requires in-ceiling plumbing, which may involve additional installation costs. This type of showerhead provides full-body coverage and a sleek, modern aesthetic, making it a popular choice for luxury bathrooms. However, it works best in homes with sufficient water pressure to maintain a consistent flow.
Handheld Rain Shower Head
A handheld rain shower head combines the large, gentle water flow of a rain shower head with the flexibility of a handheld shower. You can remove it from the mount and direct the water as you wish.
2. Shower Head Spray Nozzle Type
When choosing a shower head, the type of spray it offers can make a big difference in your shower experience. Some spray patterns provide a soft and relaxing flow, while others offer a strong, concentrated stream. Understanding these spray types will help you select the right one based on your needs and preferences.
A spray setting is the most common and balanced option. It evenly distributes water across multiple nozzles, creating a steady and comfortable flow. This type of spray works well for daily use, providing enough pressure to cleanse without feeling too harsh. If you prefer a simple and effective shower without any strong preferences, this is the go-to option.
For those who enjoy a gentler shower with full-body coverage, a wide spray is ideal. This setting disperses water over a larger area, making the flow feel softer. It mimics the sensation of light rainfall and is perfect for people who want a more soothing, spa-like experience. Because the water is spread out, the pressure is typically lower than other settings, which can be a plus for those who find strong streams too intense.
On the other hand, a targeted spray is designed to focus water into a smaller, more powerful stream. This setting is useful for rinsing out shampoo, especially for those with thick or curly hair. It also works well for relieving muscle tension, as the stronger flow can function like a gentle massage. If you need a shower head that provides deep cleansing or helps with post-workout recovery, a targeted spray is a great option.
A rinse spray offers a direct and efficient water flow, making it perfect for quickly washing off soap and shampoo. Unlike the wide spray, which spreads the water out, this setting keeps the flow concentrated, ensuring a fast and thorough rinse. It’s particularly useful for people who prefer a no-fuss shower or need to remove body wash and hair products more effectively.
Since many modern showerheads allow you to switch between these spray types, you don’t have to commit to just one. If you’re looking for versatility, choose a showerhead with multiple spray options so you can adjust the water flow based on your needs - whether that’s a relaxing soak, a strong rinse, or a quick shower before heading out the door.
3. Shower Mixer
A shower mixer is a bathroom essential that controls both the water temperature and flow by blending hot and cold water into a single stream before it reaches the shower head. Unlike separate hot and cold taps, a mixer allows you to adjust the temperature precisely with a single control, making it easier and more convenient to get the perfect shower experience.
When buying an authentic shower online, choosing the right shower mixer is crucial to ensure compatibility with your plumbing system and avoid temperature fluctuations. Some mixers require high water pressure, while others work better in low-pressure systems, so selecting the wrong one could lead to weak water flow or inefficient performance. A high-quality mixer also prevents sudden temperature shocks, ensuring a consistent and comfortable shower experience even when other taps in the house are used. Checking specifications before purchasing guarantees optimal performance, safety, and long-term durability for your new shower.
4. Design
Square Showers
Best for: Small to medium-sized bathrooms
Square showers are one of the most popular choices in Australia due to their versatile and space-saving design. They typically come in standard sizes (e.g., 900x900mm) and fit well into corner installations, making them ideal for compact bathrooms. With a minimalist and modern look, square showers work with both framed and frameless shower screens, offering a sleek and functional shower space.
Rectangular Showers
Best for: Spacious bathrooms or luxury shower designs
Rectangular showers provide more room to move and are commonly found in modern or high-end bathrooms. Their elongated shape makes them perfect for walk-in showers or shower enclosures with dual showerheads, adding both comfort and luxury. These showers often range from 1000mm to 1500mm in length, making them great for those who prefer a spa-like experience with extra showering space.
Round Showers
Best for: Contemporary and open-space bathroom designs
Round showers create a sleek, modern look and are perfect for bathrooms with unique layouts. Unlike traditional square or rectangular showers, they lack sharp edges, making them safer and more accessible, especially in family-friendly or compact spaces. Their curved, seamless design works well with frameless glass enclosures, enhancing the bathroom’s overall aesthetic. Round showers are often paired with rain shower head for a luxurious, spa-like experience while maintaining a modern and minimalist feel.
Shower Colour Choices
When it comes to shower heads, some of the most popular colour choices include chrome, black, nickel, gold, rose gold, and silver. Chrome is a classic, offering a shiny, clean finish that suits almost any bathroom style, making it a go-to choice for many. Black has become a trendy option, giving a bold, modern look that works well in minimalist or industrial bathrooms. Nickel provides a warm, elegant tone that’s a bit softer than chrome, and it’s perfect for those who want a more refined touch. Gold adds a touch of luxury and is often used in high-end bathrooms to create a sophisticated feel. Rose gold has really caught on in recent years for its unique, warm, and stylish finish - ideal for those wanting something a little different. Finally, silver remains a favourite because it’s timeless, neutral, and easy to match with other bathroom features. These colours have become popular because they’re versatile and help create the right look and feel for any bathroom design.
Finding the right showerhead is making your shower work for you. Whether you want something luxurious, powerful, practical, or eco-friendly, a simple upgrade can make all the difference in how you start or end your day.
