The cramped space behind the toilet is a difficult portion of the bathroom to maintain, posing a challenge when it comes time to dust and an even larger one when repainting. A toilet tank situated not quite flush against the wall leaves very little room to operate a brush or paint roller but just enough that it would be noticeable to leave the color unchanged while the rest of the room gets a refresh. Fortunately, DIY-inclined homeowners and renters have two easy options for how to paint behind a toilet, neither of which require moving the bulky ceramic out of the way.

• Option 1: Cover your toilet with a trash bag and line the floor with drop cloths so that you can work without fear of mess. This option is ideal when you are repainting your entire bathroom or the full wall where your toilet sits.
• Option 2: Enlist a specialty tool called the Paint Behind to slide into the narrow space behind a toilet and pad on paint. Use it together with Option 1 to ensure a complete and flawless paint job or alone as a “quick fix” to correct discoloration on the patch of wall directly behind the toilet.

Before you begin, make sure to select the right primer and paint. Bathrooms, of course, are exposed to a lot of moisture and humidity, so your paint choice should be designed to withstand the combination. Consider a paint with anti-microbial additives, like Benjamin Moore’s Aura Bath and Spa collection, or an interior paint with semi- or high-gloss finish—this sheen repels moistures better than matte paints. And don’t forget to start with a top-quality, moisture-resistant paint primer. The right primer will prevent peeling and water damage for years.

OPTION 1: Cover the toilet with a trash bag, then brush freely.

When painting the entire bathroom, prep the toilet with a drop cloth before you start but save the actual painting of the tight space behind your toilet for last—it requires the most detailed attention.

Step 1: Ventilate the bathroom.

Bathrooms are often small, enclosed spaces with poor air circulation. Materials like shower curtains and towels that retain moisture also keep them consistently humid. To boost bathroom ventilation and minimize paint drying time, remove the shower curtain, floor rug, bath, and hand towels. If your bathroom has windows, make sure they are open. Run the ventilation fan or plug in a small circulating fan.

To prevent paint fumes inhalation, you may also wish you wear a painter’s mask.

Step 2: Clean and prepare the area behind the toilet.

Clean the walls, floor, wall, and toilet surfaces with a cellulose sponge dipped in a mixture of dish soap and water. This will help remove dust and dust and hair build-up. Dry the area thoroughly with terry cloths.

Next, cover the floor around the toilet with a tarp or plastic sheet secured with painter’s tape.

Then, cover the toilet with an extra-large plastic garbage bag. (Tip: You’ll find contractor clean-up bags at your local home improvement store in sizes of up to 50 gallons, and these resist accidental tearing.) Tape the bag in place around the toilet’s base. Take care to wrap any piping or trim that might be exposed with painter’s tape.

Tried-and-True Advice

“There’s no way to paint behind a toilet with it being a bit awkward. Removing the toilet is an option, but that adds a series of steps to the process that are difficult and best avoided unless you have plumbing skills. I find that removing the lid and covering the toilet with a trash bag is efficient, and it allows for full paint coverage when using narrow, spongy brushes. Look for long handle options to make the process easier.”

—Zach Lazzari, Contributing Writer

Step 3: Prime and paint the wall.

Start with one to two coats of primer to ensure the best paint adhesion. To reach behind the toilet and around pipes, you’ll want to do the following:

• Use a narrow paint roller to apply paint primer around the shape of the toilet, cutting in as best you can. Roll with the metal frame on the outside in order to get as close to the covered toilet tank as possible.
• Switch to a 3-inch-wide foam brush to paint behind the toilet. Carefully load one side of the foam brush with paint primer and, when you reach behind the toilet, keep the paint-covered side in direct contact with the wall. Apply in small strokes.
• Use a 1-inch-wide angled brush for detail work around the pipes.

Let the primer dry thoroughly before applying paint. (The paint’s drying time will depend on the temperature and humidity level in your bathroom, as well as the paint primer you choose; refer to the can for an estimated dry time between coats and before paint.)

After priming, clean your paint pan before pouring fresh paint into it. To apply your paint, follow the same tips. After the first coat, wait the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer (longer, if your bathroom is not well ventilated) so that the wall is completely dry before applying a top coat.

OPTION 2: Purchase a special painting tool to access the area behind a toilet tank.

Painting the wall behind the toilet tank can be less of a pain when you use a tool designed to fit the narrow gap between the toilet tank and wall. Sure, it may be that you only have a paint job like this once every five to 10 years (maybe more, if you are a renter who appreciates a fresh coat of paint when you move in and then often needs to repaint before you move out). There’s an innovative painting tool you can buy online to access hard-to-reach areas called the Paint Behind. It’s a flat, extendable-to-12-inches paint brush that can reach behind toilets, pipes, radiators, and other tight spots.

Step 1: Ventilate the bathroom, then prep for painting.

Proceed in establishing good bathroom ventilation and a clean slate for best adhesion, just as you would in Steps 1 and 2 of Option 1.

Clean the wall behind the toilet with a cellulose sponge dipped in a mixture of dish soap and water (you might also try dipping a microfiber cloth in the cleaning solution and wrapping it around the Paint Behind, and extending the tool to clean behind the tank). While the wall air dries, clean the stick and let it dry completely before painting.

Cover the bathroom floor with a drop cloth held in place with painter’s tape, but skip bagging the toilet. Keep a damp paper towel nearby to wipe up any marks.

Step 2: Dip the tool into primer, and glide it across the wall. Repeat the process with coats of paint.

Dip the Paint Behind’s applicator pad into the paint tray to get primer on pad. Then, glide the paint wand the wall behind the toilet, pressing firmly to make sure the entire paint-saturated surface meets the wall.

Apply two coats of primer this way, leaving time between them as recommended by the paint manufacturer. Then, clean the Paint Behind with water and let it dry. Repeat the process with two coats of paint using the Paint Behind.

The post How to Paint Behind a Toilet appeared first on Bob Vila.

People spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, so keeping indoor air healthy is a must. 

Mold is a fungus that’s plentiful in the natural environment and, when conditions are right, indoors as well. The bathroom is damp, and often warm, so it can be a favorite spot for black mold to grow. 

According to Donald Weekes, a certified industrial hygienist in Ontario, Canada, and a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Indoor Environmental Quality Committee, “there is something in the neighborhood of 200,000 different types of mold.” Since it’s natural, alive, and goes airborne, mold can happen just about anywhere, Weekes says. Read ahead to learn what conditions support mold growth in your home, how black mold can make you sick, and what to do about black mold in a bathroom.

What is black mold?

The black mold species Stachybotrys chartarum is an aggressive and highly toxic mold variety that might be best removed by a professional. It’s among the world’s 10 most hazardous fungi. “Black mold, in particular, produces mycotoxins,” says Kenny Key, CEO and founder of Lead and Mold Detectives in New York. Those can lead to health problems, especially in the respiratory system.

It can be difficult to tell whether a fungus in your bathroom is black mold vs. mildew or another mold variety. But even as you consider the health effects and identification markers of black mold below, note that the experts we consulted agree that you should address any signs of mold, regardless of type. ”If you spot any mold in your bathroom—whether black or not—it’s important to take action immediately,” says Laura Linn Knight, author of The Toxic Mold Solution: A Comprehensive Guide to Healing Your Home and Body from Mold. Leaving any mold in place too long, especially without addressing moisture, can increase the chance the problem will progress to black mold.

Black Mold’s Impact on Health

Exposure to any mold over time can lead to health effects. The type and range depend on “the type of mold, the level of exposure, and the individual’s sensitivity,” says Knight. Potential health effects of mold exposure and black mold symptoms include:

• Respiratory issues—black mold exposure can cause or worsen asthma. Other signs are wheezing, coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, and sinus infections.
• Allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, watery eyes, and even swollen eyes.
• Headaches, such as migraines
• Fatigue, dizziness, or vertigo
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Abdominal pain, nausea, bloating
• Mental health effects such as anxiety or depression.

The mycotoxins in black mold “can cause chronic fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and sometimes memory loss,” says Key. Knight says that mycotoxins can interfere with brain function, “contributing to mood swings, memory problems, and increased stress levels.” If you don’t address mold exposure like black mold in the shower, you can have “chronic, long-term health issues, including chronic respiratory problems and neurological effects,” says Knight.

How to Identify Black Mold in the Bathroom

Before knowing how to get rid of black mold in the bathroom, learn what conditions support mold growth. First, Weekes says to look for the three things mold needs to thrive: mold spores, a porous surface they can latch onto, and high humidity/moisture. Drifting through the air, mold spores eventually land on a moist surface amenable to mold, like cellulose, and “they’ll most likely land on that surface and grow,” says Weekes. 

To tell the appearance of black mold from other molds, look for a dark patch that forms in a circular pattern. “Black mold typically is darker in color, a black or greenish-black, and usually looks wet,” says Key. “Black mold also has a very distinct musty smell that can help in identification,” he says.

Still, black mold could lurk under bathroom floors or inside walls. The only sure way to identify black mold is to take a sample and test it—either by asking professionals to come in or by using a black mold test kit. Once you confirm the bathroom mold type and extent of the problem, you can learn how to remove black mold safely or seek professional help.

Before You Begin

Cleaning mold requires that you be near the spores. If you attempt to remove black mold, “you need to wear protective gear,” says Key. This includes gloves, goggles, an N95 respirator mask, and long sleeves. “Make sure you have proper ventilation in the area in which you’re working,” Key advises. Further, use similar caution when turning to various cleaning products; follow all instructions on the container and never mix chemicals, especially ammonia and bleach. 

Follow these protective measures to minimize exposure. If you notice any health effects from being near the black mold, it’s best to stop working and have a professional take over. Likewise, if you are uncertain about the type of mold or extent of the problem, notice significant water damage, or see that black mold covers more than 10 square feet of surface area, turn to a professional remediator instead.

How to Clean Black Mold From Bathroom Surfaces

SUPPLIES

N95 respirator mask
Rubber gloves or chemical-resistant gloves
Eye goggles
Distilled white vinegar
Detergent or antifungal cleaner
Hydrogen peroxide
Rags, sponges, or a scrub brush
BleachAmmonia

Without testing the mold, it can be difficult to know in advance what works best to kill black mold or another type. If uncertain and facing a small amount of stain, start with milder household products and move on to harsher ammonia if necessary. “Generally speaking, it’s the simplest product that works best,” says Weekes. When deciding how to eliminate mold in bathroom fixtures or walls, always consider the surface type, partly to avoid abrasive tools that might scratch the surface. In addition, porous surfaces can absorb all liquids, as well as the mold spores you can see.

How to clean hard surfaces, like ceramic tiles and bathroom countertops

Follow these directions for nonporous surfaces and fixtures include toilets, porcelain sinks, some shower or floor tiles, mirrors, and vinyl shower curtains. Unless they are sealed well, grouts and many types of caulk are porous. 

1. Spray the area with your preferred safe cleaner, such as distilled white vinegar or a mixture of vinegar and household detergent. You could also use undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide or a commercial antifungal cleaner (follow manufacturer’s directions.)
2. Let the cleaner sit for several minutes, then spray again just before wiping.
3. After wiping the cleaner on the surface, check your results.
4. If mold remains, spray again and scrub with a brush or abrasive scrubber. Dry the area thoroughly and assess whether the cleanup was effective.
5. If mold remains after cleaning, clean the area again with ammonia and water (10 percent ammonia to 90 percent water).
6. If the problem persist, you may need to call in the experts.

The easiest way to clean a vinyl shower curtain is to remove it and soak it in a large tub or container filled with water and about a cup of white vinegar (or bleach if the curtain is colorfast) for about an hour. 

Only turn to bleach if necessary when cleaning black mold in bathrooms. Biocides like chlorine bleach kill living organisms such as mold, but the EPA does not recommend them for routine mold cleanup, even on nonporous surfaces. Weekes says the suggestion for years has been to use “water and about a 10 percent solution of ammonia.” You also can opt for a commercial product designed to kill mold, but check it carefully for safety precautions for surfaces and ventilation.

How to clean porous surfaces such as grout, ceiling tiles, and walls

Porous materials allow moisture—and mold—to penetrate their surfaces. In a bathroom, this might include wood, walls, wallpaper, carpet, unsealed grouts, caulk, and ceiling tiles. According to Weekes, mold will latch onto surfaces “made up of cellulose, like paper and wallboard.” He says the porous materials are “soft and chewy, which is why most problems are in walls and ceilings.” Even moisture-resistant wall materials like greenboard can take in mold if a shower surround or wall was not designed or installed properly or if excess moisture and mold have been allowed to sit on the walls.

Again, although you might see advice about using bleach to kill mold, apply that only to nonporous surfaces. “You don’t want to use bleach on a porous surface,” says Key. It could make the problem worse, since water in the bleach will penetrate the porous surface and add to moisture. Plus, Key says “black mold has a protective outer layer that bleach doesn’t penetrate effectively.” 

1. Select your treatment option. As with hard surfaces, start with the simplest or mildest option. White vinegar can help kill mold since it penetrates porous surfaces, and its acid could help rid crevices of mold.You also can use a commercial mold cleaner designed for multiple surfaces—follow package directions. If you have a small patch of black mold, skip right to the 10 percent ammonia and water solution.
2. Spray the product on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. To avoid soaking the porous surface, wipe the area with a cloth or sponge, since a brush could harm porous surfaces.
4. To avoid soaking the porous surface, Wring out the cloth or sponge if you dip it in a solution or as it becomes damp from wiping. 
5. Gently wipe the wall again with a wrung-out sponge or cloth dipped in clean water.
6. To clean grout, dip a toothbrush in the cleaning solution and scrub the grout lightly before wiping with a cloth or sponge dipped in clean water and wrung out.
7. Help the porous surface dry quickly by opening windows or directing fans toward the cleaned area.
8. Let the wall dry for 24 hours if possible before checking results. 
9. If mold persists, repeat steps above or call in a pro.

According to the EPA, mold in ceilings and carpet can be difficult to impossible to remove since it fills the empty spaces and crevices of the porous materials. It is generally better to replace moldy ceiling tiles, carpet, or any large section of wall affected by mold.

When to Hire a Professional for Bathroom Mold Remediation

Tackling small spots of mold and mildew are easy DIY tasks and important bathroom maintenance to prevent black mold. But it’s important to know when you should call in a mold remediation professional instead. Professionals have the equipment and expertise to return your home to a safe state. They also can make recommendations on how to prevent mold from coming back in the future. 

“Times to call in a pro are when it’s more than 10 square feet of mold, or if there is structural damage like mold growing on the walls, ceilings, or floors,” says Key. If mold is hidden behind walls, under carpet, or in your HVAC system, he explains, you need a professional remediation. 

Your health and sensitivity also are factors, say Key and Knight. For example, those with asthma or allergies shouldn’t tackle black mold removal. “If you are sensitive to mold, I suggest hiring a professional to remove even a small amount of mold,” says Knight. Key adds: “If there is extensive water damage from flooding or minor damage in the bathroom from a leak,” you need a pro to treat that as well.

Key says to look for a licensed company in your state. All states have some type of certification for professional mold remediators. The AIHA maintains a list of industrial hygiene and environmental health and safety consultants. Mold inspection costs typically average around $656, but some companies will waive this fee if the customer hires them for remediation services. 

Black mold removal costs start at about $1,223 and average about $2,300. Homeowners insurance may cover mold remediation, depending on the circumstances.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Bathroom

The best way to address black mold in your bathroom is to prevent mold from growing and to address any mold or signs of moisture damage immediately. “Prevention is a matter of maintenance more than anything else,” says Weekes. This includes making sure your home is sealed from outside moisture, that you’re not seeing condensation on windows, mold on windowsills, or water activity on surfaces, and that your home has adequate ventilation.

Clean your bathroom regularly.

Thoroughly clean the bathroom weekly; this consistent regimen should keep mold spores from taking hold and running amok. If you see signs of bathtub mold or other mold or mildew, rotate an antifungal cleaner into the routine at least once a month. Store a spray bottle of vinegar in the bathroom, then apply it and let it air-dry after every shower or bath. And don’t simply paint over mold on walls; take steps to clean the spores first.

Keep bathroom surfaces dry between uses.

To prevent black mold in the shower, use a squeegee to remove water droplets from the shower walls, then towel down glass doors and tile to remove the remaining moisture from those surfaces. It’s even helpful to dry the floor, dry off shampoo bottles, and hang damp towels elsewhere. Prevent black mold in a bathroom sink by wiping the basin out after each use. If you see signs of black mold in a bathtub or around it, be sure to drain it completely, wipe down wet edges if necessary, and check for signs of cracks in or black mold in bathroom caulk around the tub, shower, windows, or sink.

Take steps to eliminate moisture from leaks or a poorly sealed home.

“One of the main contributors to mold growth is excess moisture,” says Knight. “Fix any leaks in your bathroom plumbing or shower as soon as possible to prevent water from pooling or seeping into the walls,” she says. When the weather allows, open your bathroom window after a shower. Add moisture-loving plants like orchids or peace lilies to soak up some of the moisture and green up the space.

Running an exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after fogging up the bathroom with showers or laundry if located there can help, but if you already have mold spores, use caution. “Most bathroom vents go directly up into the attic,” says Weekes. The attic probably has plenty of porous and cellulose surfaces for those spores to grow. If your exhaust fan vents to the outside, it can help. However, Weekes says, the best ventilation comes from your air conditioning system. 

Use mold- or moisture-resistant construction.

“When renovating or maintaining your bathroom, consider using mold-resistant products,” says Knight, who says that new products like mold-resistant paperless drywall, vapor barriers or retarders, are always coming on the market. Opt for nonporous surfaces when possible, and ensure that all caulks, grouts, and joints are properly sealed to prevent water from seeping through cracks. 

Final Thoughts

According to Weekes, cleaners and other efforts help control mold, but you can’t be completely free of this living organism. “Mold has survived for hundreds of thousands of years. Anything that you can throw at it will not be completely effective,” he says. Still, managing moisture, regularly cleaning spores from surfaces, and getting rid of any black mold with these steps or through professional remediation can help. If black mold returns or spreads after you try to kill it, turn to a licensed mold removal company to help eliminate existing mold damage and correct issues like moisture or poorly constructed shower walls that support its growth.

The post Cleaning and Preventing Black Mold in the Bathroom appeared first on Bob Vila.

Water-saving shower heads are not just environmentally sound choices but also budget-friendly ones. The average American family uses 40 gallons of water each day just from showering. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these families could save 2,700 gallons of water per year by switching to a certified low-flow shower head for the tub or shower. 

Low-flow fixtures are designed to efficiently use a smaller volume of water, either by aerating the water steam or using a high-speed oscillation stream. After reviewing dozens of highly-rated models and testing a select few, our top pick is the Kohler Forté 1.75 GPM Shower Head, thanks to its aerating technology, three settings, and multiple finishes.

We also asked Danny Pen, President of New Era Plumbing & HVAC in Dracut, Massachusetts, for his expert opinion on what consumers should look for in low-flow shower heads. Read on to discover some of the best water-saving shower heads on today’s market and key shopping considerations.

1. BEST OVERALL: Kohler Forté 1.75 GPM Shower Head
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2. RUNNER-UP: Lokby 1.8 GPM Handheld Shower Head
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: High Sierra’s 1.5 GPM Fixed Shower Head
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4. UPGRADE PICK: Pulse ShowerSpas 1.8 GPM Kauai III Shower Head
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5. BEST HANDHELD: Moen Engage Magnetix 1.75 GPM Handheld Shower Head
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6. BEST COMBINATION: Delta Faucet In2ition 1.75 GPM 2-in-1 Shower Head
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7. BEST SPRAY SETTINGS: Moen Attract Magnetix 1.75 GPM Showerhead Combo
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8. BEST HIGH-PRESSURE: Waterpik BodyWand 1.8 GPM Shower Head 
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Our Top Picks

Our recommendations for the best shower heads for water conservation consider flow rate, spray settings, style, and additional features—and of course, manufacturer reputation and overall product quality.

Best Overall

Kohler Forté 1.75 GPM Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Sleek, modern look; available in several finishes
• Aerating technology incorporates air into the water flow
• Great for low water pressure
• Has 3 flow settings

Cons

• Plastic parts may impact long-term durability

Specs

• Type: Fixed
• Flow rate: 1.75 GPM
• Spray settings: 3

The Kohler Forté is an aerating shower head that incorporates 2 liters of air per minute into the water flow, which results in fuller water droplets that replicate the feeling of being caught in a powerful rainstorm. Because of its low 1.75-GPM (gallons per minute) flow rate, the Forté standard shower head can even be used in states with particularly tight water restrictions, such as California. 

We appreciate the three flow settings on the shower head, which include full coverage, pulsating massage, and silk spray—each provide a unique sensation, and it’s easy to switch between settings by maneuvering the head’s thumb tab. It is available in a standard polished chrome finish as well as a few other finish options. Installation is a breeze because its washers come pre-installed, meaning the shower head can be up and running in minutes.

Get the Kohler water-saving shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Kohler.

Runner-up

Lokby 1.8 GPM Handheld Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Compressing silicone nozzles allow for excellent water pressure
• Adjustable shower head with 6 spray functions 
• Features a 59-inch shower hose and button control 
• Comes in multiple color options 

Cons

• Some users have reported poor water pressure

Specs

• Type: Handheld 
• Flow rate: 1.8 GPM 
• Spray settings: 6 

Anyone who wants to save on water consumption while enjoying a spa-like shower will want to take a good look at this model from Lokby. This option has compressing nozzles on its 5-inch head that increase the water pressure to provide up to 1.8 GPMs of water. It has over six spray modes including massage, rain, power rain, mist, and rain plus mist to accommodate virtually any user’s preference. This Lokby shower head also has a 59-inch hose, which is perfect for bathing children as well as pets. 

For added user-friendliness, this shower head has a button for turning the flow on and off. Need more? The Lokby shower head has silicone jets to resist any material buildup and is easy to install with the included bracket that has a 60-degree pivot, making this unit function as a fixed or handheld shower head. 

What our tester says: Kristen Mosier, a Bob Vila product tester and staff writer, notes in The Best Handheld Shower Heads that “this shower head is an excellent option for bathing young children. A convenient off button lets the operator turn the shower off from the head, while silicone jets keep this shower head functioning properly by resisting buildup from hard water. It was easy to install and features a bracket that attaches to the spigot with a 60-degree pivot.” 

Get the Lokby water-saving shower head at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

High Sierra's 1.5 GPM Fixed Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Surprisingly powerful spray emitted
• Features durable, contemporary design
• 4 flow rate options available

Cons

• Only has 1 spray setting

Specs

• Type: Fixed 
• Flow rate: 1.25, 1.5, 1.8, or 2 GPM
• Spray settings: 1

High Sierra’s fixed shower head produces a surprisingly powerful spray despite its affordable price. This low-flow model is available in four flow rate options (1.25, 1.5, 1.8, or 2 GPM), which allows households to choose the best option depending on their home’s water pressure.

Because all of this fixture’s parts are made from metal, it should be fairly durable and long lasting. One of the High Sierra’s only disadvantages is that it only has one spray setting, and it may be too powerful for some users (or for bathing young children). It’s available in polished chrome, nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished brass finishes.

What our tester says: Shannon Lee, a Bob Vila writer and product tester, notes in the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads, “The patented nozzle delivers a robust and full spray of large water drops for a powerful experience and minimal water usage. I found the installation to be a snap—no surprise, considering the simplicity.”

Get the High Sierra water-saving shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or High Sierra.

Upgrade Pick

Pulse ShowerSpas 1.8 GPM Kauai III Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Includes a rainfall shower head and handheld head
• High-quality and durable materials all come pre-plumbed 
• Heads can be used simultaneously or separately 
• Available in multiple finishes

Cons

• More pricey than other options

Specs

• Type: Combination 
• Flow rate: 1.8 or 2.5 GPM
• Spray settings: 5

There are many water-saving shower heads on the market, but most don’t come with the bells and whistles one may want for a luxurious shower experience. The Kauai III shower system from Pulse ShowerSpas, however, has both an 8-inch rain shower head and a multifunctional handheld head, which can be used together or separately. The hand shower has jet, wide, massage, and combination spray modes. What’s most impressive is that this fixture uses only 1.8 GPM. This shower is also available with a 2.5 GPM flow rate. 

Though the design may look complex and difficult to install, this shower head with hose comes pre-plumbed so it’s possible to install without remodeling the entire shower. Along with chrome, the Kauai III dual shower head is also available in brushed gold, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, and brushed nickel finishes. 

Get the Pulse ShowerSpas water-saving shower head at The Home Depot, Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, or Pulse ShowerSpas.

Best Handheld

Moen Engage Magnetix 1.75 GPM Handheld Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant
• Easy to use and store
• Has 6 spray settings

Cons

• Pressure can be low when using certain settings

Specs

• Type: Combination 
• Flow rate: 1.75 GPM
• Spray settings: 6

Handheld shower heads are a great choice for those with limited mobility, and this model from Moen complies with ADA specifications. With the Engage magnetic shower head docking system, gone are the days of trying to hook the shower head back on its dock while rinsing shampoo. Clicking the Moen’s head with hose attachment back into its magnetic base is super easy and requires minimal manual dexterity. 

We like this shower head’s impressive settings, including downpour, relaxing massage, regular massage, soothing massage, and rinse. With a 1.75 GPM flow rate, it complies with U.S. federal and state regulations. Because it only comes in brushed nickel and chrome finishes, it probably isn’t the best choice for those who want to coordinate with black, brass, or white fixtures in the bathroom.

Get the Moen Engage water-saving shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Target.

Best Combination

Delta Faucet In2ition 1.75 GPM 2-in-1 Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Features a handy pause function
• Available in 3 finishes
• Detachable handheld sprayer has a magnetic connector 

Cons

• Some users have reported manufacturing defects

Specs

• Type: Combination 
• Flow rate: 1.75 GPM
• Spray settings: 5

Finding a high-quality, water-saving combination shower head isn’t easy because lower-flow water pressure feels even lower when the water is diverted between two heads. This Delta In2ition chrome shower head, however, provides a satisfying sensory experience using just 1.75 gallons of water per minute. 

The handheld and fixed shower heads can be used simultaneously as one docked unit or separately, and the handheld piece is easily clicked into place using a magnetic connector. Spray settings include full body spray and full spray with massage as well as fast or slow massage. The fixture also has a pause function, which comes in handy when bathing kids or pets. 

In addition to a chrome finish, Delta’s combination shower head is also available in spotshield brushed nickel and Venetian bronze. 

Get the Delta Faucet water-saving shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Spray Settings

Moen Attract Magnetix 1.75 GPM Showerhead Combo

See It

Pros

• Has a magnetic handheld and rain shower head 
• Provides ample coverage
• Available in 4 finishes

Cons

• Reported issues regarding the handheld showerhead’s locking system

Specs

• Type: Combination 
• Flow rate: 1.75 GPM
• Spray settings: 1 rain shower option; 6 additional handheld settings

Just because a shower head saves on water doesn’t mean that it can’t provide high pressure. For those who love high water pressure in their shower, the Moen Attract rain shower combo delivers. This model has a rain shower function and a handheld option that provides six different spray patterns. 

The magnetic docking system on the handheld unit keeps the head in place when not in use and is easy to take on and off the dock. Plus, the handheld shower head comes with a pause button to cease the 1.75 GPM spray. The 6.75-inch rain shower head as well as the 3.75-inch handheld head are wide enough for ample coverage in the shower. 

Get the Moen Attract water-saving shower head at The Home Depot, Amazon, or Moen.

Best High-Pressure

Waterpik BodyWand 1.8 GPM Shower Head

See It

Pros

• Dual shower head construction accommodates multiple washing purposes 
• Easy-to-clean construction
• Soft comb, gentle rinse, and scalp massage functions 

Cons

• Some parts can squeak when moved

Specs

• Type: Combination 
• Flow rate: 1.8 GPM
• Spray settings: 7

The Waterpik BodyWand with PowerPulse massage option uses 1.8 GPM and offers seven different spray settings.

Rinse out shampoo and conditioner by using the body wand, which has soft comb and gentle rinse settings, then finish the hair regimen by engaging the scalp massage function. The rain shower head has four settings that will satisfy most sensory whims, from a gentle misting shower to powerful, pulsing massages—or a setting somewhere in the middle. Thanks to the fixture’s diverter, users can use the wand and rain shower head together or separately. 

Get the Waterpik water-saving shower head at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Target, or Bed Bath & Beyond.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Water-Saving Shower Heads

The best water-saving shower heads save on the bills while not skimping too much on water pressure. No one wants a disappointing shower that can’t provide a relaxing blast of water. As such, we have gathered our top picks in this category to provide shoppers with a range of options to choose from according to their preferences.

When curating our list of shower heads for water conservation, we looked at shower head types—such as fixed, handheld, and combination heads—and suggested our top picks in each category, which will ensure users get the best experience, no matter what type of head they’re looking for.

We made sure that our list includes only products that boast high-quality and durable materials, are easy to install and maintain, and have the ability to both save water and still provide a decent shower experience.

What to Consider When Choosing a Water-Saving Shower Head

A quality, water-conserving shower head should use less than 2 gallons of water per minute but still produce a powerful stream of water. It should be easy to install, and complement your bathroom’s decor. 

According to Pen, these bathroom fixtures not only save you money, but can protect your plumbing. “Lower water usage means your water heater cycles less frequently, reducing wear and extending its lifespan. But, you need to choose it wisely: cheap models can lead to uneven spray patterns or quicker mineral buildup,” he says.

Keep reading to learn about some of the most important qualities to consider when shopping for the best water-saving shower head.

Type

Though it’s easy to assume that all shower heads work the same, several characteristics can affect their functionality. Shower heads generally fit into one of three categories, each with its own advantages. 

• Fixed shower heads are mounted to the wall and vary in size and shape. They are usually the most affordable type of shower head, but they may or may not have adjustable spray settings. One type of fixed shower head is the rain shower head, which has a larger head than most and produces a gentle, sprinkling flow of water. 
• Handheld shower heads are attached to the wall via a mounting bracket. This type of detachable shower head has a long, flexible hose that can be unhooked from the wall and grasped in the hand, so the bather can direct water where they want it. When the head is kept in the bracket it functions as a fixed, hands-free shower head. Handheld shower heads are particularly useful for those with limited mobility, or those who want flexibility while bathing kids or pets. The price of handheld shower heads is usually higher than that of their fixed-head counterparts. 
• Combination, or 3-way shower heads, have both a fixed and a handheld shower head. A 3-way diverter allows each of the two heads to be used simultaneously or independently. Because of water-flow rate regulations, however, water pressure is reduced when both heads are used at the same time. 

Material

Most shower heads have both metal and plastic parts. Those made from stainless steel or solid brass are the most durable and resist rusting and corrosion; fixtures with a lot of plastic parts are typically lower-end models. When shopping for water-saving shower heads, keep an eye out for those that have solid brass or stainless steel connectors because these materials will hold up better over time. The one part of a shower head where plastic is preferred to metal is the nozzle. Silicone nozzles require little to no maintenance and do not clog as easily as metal nozzles. 

Whether your shower fixture contains silicone or stainless steel parts, it’s important to note that the materials the fixture is made of aren’t always obvious. Because metal and plastic parts can be finished with decorative coatings to complement various bathroom decor styles, plastic parts might look like chrome or brass parts like antique black. Be sure to research each model carefully to know what kind of quality you are getting.

Type

When it comes to water conservation, there are two main types of shower heads: aerating and laminar-flow. Though each uses less water than a regular shower head, they compensate for the reduced water pressure in different ways.

• Aerating shower heads mix water and air to mimic the sensation of higher water pressure. Most low-flow shower heads on the market use this method to conserve water. One disadvantage of an aerating shower head is the aeration process cools water slightly before it hits your skin, so bathers may end up taking hotter showers—and paying more to heat the water—than they would otherwise. 
• Laminar-flow shower heads use individual streams of water. They can be more expensive than aerating shower heads, but they’re ideal for use in humid climates because they create less steam and mist. 

Flow Rate

While standard shower heads are mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy to produce no more than 2.5 gallons of water per minute (GPM), low-flow shower heads are allowed to produce a maximum of 2 GPM. Products labeled with the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense logo are certified to use less than 2 GPM. 

The flow rates of most shower heads that limit water usage range from 1.5 to 2 GPM. Before you run out and buy the lowest-flow shower head you can find, however, think first about your home’s water pressure. The Environmental Protection Agency flow rates assume a water pressure of 80 pounds per square inch (PSI). If the water pressure in your home is lower than that, a low-flow shower head may not be the best option for you. Residences with water pressure issues might benefit from a high-flow shower head for low water pressure instead. 

Spray Settings

Most shower heads on the market feature a variety of spray settings that emit water in different patterns. These settings can be changed by an adjustment ring or lever on the edge of the shower head. 

• A massage or pulse setting eases muscle pain and tension. 
• A low-pressure spray function is gentle and safe to use when bathing infants. 
• A strong spray is useful for rinsing out shampoo and conditioner.
• A pause setting on handheld shower heads is useful when cleaning the shower, or when bathing children or pets.
• A combination setting mixes several spray patterns at once. 

Aesthetic

Shower heads come in a wide variety of different finishes. While the most basic models are only available with a stainless steel finish, many manufacturers make fixtures in oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and other finishes. There are advantages and disadvantages to the various finishes too: shower faucets and fixtures with matte finishes are less likely to show water stains and fingerprints, while metals with high-shine finishes tend to be more durable over time. Most buyers want their bathroom fixtures to match and will choose a shower head that matches the tub and sink faucets, drawer pulls, and towel racks. 

Installation

Though the idea of replacing or installing a shower head may sound intimidating, it’s actually an easy DIY project that requires fairly basic tools. A wrench, plumber’s tape and screwdriver is all you need to install most shower heads on the market; they don’t require drilling or installing mounting equipment.

Installing a low-pressure shower head is really no different from installing a standard shower head. Because the size of shower spigots is standardized to 1/2 inch, compatibility between models should not be an issue. 

If you’re after an easy shower head installation, Pen recommends paying attention to the connector. “Look for metal connectors, because they are more durable and with them you will not have a problem of cross-threading during installation,” he advises.

FAQs 

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about water-saving shower heads. 

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

The post The Best Water-Saving Shower Heads of 2025 to Add to Your Bathroom appeared first on Bob Vila.

Few things can transform your daily routine like finding the perfect shower head for low water pressure. If you’ve ever endured a shower that feels more like a drizzle, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, today’s shower head technology has come a long way, offering clever solutions that boost water pressure without increasing water usage. Whether you’re dealing with an older plumbing system, water-saving restrictions, or just want to elevate your shower game, the right shower head can make all the difference.

After testing a variety of models, we discovered some real standouts. Our favorite was the Speakman S-2005-HB, a budget-friendly option that surprised us with its size, power, and performance. This shower head delivered a truly invigorating spray that turned even the weakest water flow into a spa-like experience—all without breaking the bank. But it’s not the only option worth considering. From handheld models to rain-style heads, there’s something on our list for everyone. We even included a few units that we didn’t test ourselves, but that we think are excellent choices to add to our lineup nonetheless.

In the sections ahead, we’ll share the results of our hands-on testing, along with our top picks for the best shower heads for low water pressure, so stick around for some practical shopping tips to help you find the perfect match for your bathroom needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Speakman Hotel S-2005-HB Shower Head
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: SparkPod Power Pressure Shower Head
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3. BEST DESIGN: The Jolie Skin Co Filtered Shower Head
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4. BEST WITH FILTER: Afina A-01 Filtered Shower Head
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5. BEST RAIN: Grohe Euphoria Rain Shower Head
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6. BEST HANDHELD: H02ME High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head
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7. BEST CEILING MOUNT: SR Sunrise Ceiling Mount Shower System
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Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

We tested the best shower heads for low water pressure, and the following models stood out from the competition. From budget-friendly powerhouses to sleek rain-style designs, these picks will upgrade your shower game.

Best Overall

Speakman Hotel S-2005-HB Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Powerful massage spray, best in our testing
• Smooth and easy-to-use spray adjuster
• Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality
• Quick installation with included plumber’s tape

What We Don’t Like

• Limited to three spray settings

Specs 

• Material: Plastic
• Spray settings: Intense, massage, and combination
• Installation: Easy

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 4/5; Performance 5/5; Design 4.5/5; Value 5/5 

When we first took the Speakman Hotel S-2005-HB out of the box, we were surprised by its size—it’s bigger than we expected, but not in a bad way. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the thoughtful inclusion of a roll of plumber’s tape (a handy touch, especially since many shower heads don’t come with this). Within minutes, it was up and running, ready to transform our lackluster water pressure into something impressive.

The standout feature for us was the spray adjuster. It has a smooth, weighty feel that suggests quality, and its design makes switching between the three spray settings effortless. The massage spray, in particular, was a game-changer. It is incredibly powerful—by far the strongest spray we tested—and it’s perfect for rinsing out shampoo thoroughly or working out muscle tension after a long day. If you’re someone who craves a high-pressure spray, this one delivers in spades.

What we love most about the S-2005-HB is its simplicity. There are no unnecessary bells and whistles; it’s just a straightforward shower head that does its job exceptionally well. Despite its budget-friendly price, it doesn’t look or feel cheap, and it outperformed competitors that cost more than ten times as much.

What our tester says: “For anyone looking to improve shower water pressure, this shower head is an absolute steal. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a powerful, satisfying shower. I’m officially a huge fan.”—Paul Rankin, Product Reviews writer and tester

Get the Speakman shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Build with Ferguson. 

Best Bang for the Buck

SparkPod Power Pressure Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Noticeable improvement in shower water pressure
• Easy installation with included plumber’s tape
• Simple spray adjustment by rotating the head
• Durable high-quality plastic at a budget price

What We Don’t Like

• Limited to basic spray settings
• Plastic construction may not appeal to everyone

Specs 

• Material: Plastic (ABS)
• Spray settings: Rain, pulsating massage, rain massage
• Installation: Easy

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 4/5; Performance 4.5/5; Design 4/5; Value 4.5/5 

The SparkPod is another shower head that’s quick and easy to install thanks to the included roll of plumber’s tape—always a nice bonus. Despite its affordable price, the outer shell is made of high-quality plastic that feels sturdy and durable, not flimsy or cheap. It’s a great example of a product that balances cost-effectiveness with solid performance.

What stood out most to us was the noticeable boost in water pressure it provided. The spray settings were simple to switch between by rotating the base of the head, making it an easy-to-use option for anyone. If you’re dealing with low water pressure and want a no-fuss solution, the SparkPod is a straightforward, budget-friendly choice that delivers a satisfying shower experience.

Get the Sparkpod shower head on Amazon or SparkPod.

Best Design

The Jolie Skin Co Filtered Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Sleek, modern design elevates bathroom aesthetics
• Maintains strong water pressure despite filtration
• Gentle yet effective rainfall-style spray
• High-quality construction built to last

What We Don’t Like

• Higher price compared to other shower heads
• Limited spray settings for customization

Specs 

• Material: Plastic (ABS)
• Spray settings: Only one (rain)
• Installation: Easy

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 5/5; Performance 4/5; Design 5/5; Value 4/5 

The Jolie shower head is as stylish as it is functional, earning our top spot for design. Right out of the box, its sleek, modern aesthetic stood out, but what impressed us most was how well it maintained a consistent water pressure. Many filtered shower heads tend to reduce pressure, but the Jolie delivered a steady, rainfall-style spray that felt both powerful and relaxing. It’s a great option for anyone dealing with low water pressure but still wanting a luxurious shower experience.

While its filtration capabilities are a bonus, the real standout feature is how well it balances form and function. The gentle yet effective spray provides excellent coverage, and the water pressure felt consistent even in a home with typically lackluster pressure. This design makes the Jolie ideal for those who want to upgrade their bathroom’s style without sacrificing performance.

Though it’s priced on the higher end, the Jolie’s high-quality build, modern design, and impressive performance make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a shower head that combines powerful water pressure with eye-catching aesthetics, the Jolie is a clear winner.

Read our full review: Jolie Shower Head Review

Get the Jolie filtered shower head on Amazon or Jolie Skin Co.

BEST RAIN

Grohe Euphoria Rain Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Large surface area gives a wide spray
• Attractive design
• Decent price for the size

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t really improve water pressure

Specs

• Material: Metal with chrome finish
• Spray settings: Three
• Installation: Easy

Our Ratings: Installation 4.5/5; Appearance 5/5; Performance 4/5; Design 5/5; Value 4/5 

Grohe’s Euphoria rain shower head is a sleek and stylish upgrade for any modern bathroom. With its large 10-inch diameter, it delivers a true rain shower experience, covering you in a relaxing cascade of water. It’s available in chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel finishes, so you can match it to your existing fixtures, and it even comes with an optional extension arm if your current setup needs a little extra reach.

Installation was incredibly easy—we simply screwed it on with some of the included plumber’s tape, and it was good to go. The build quality is noticeably premium, and switching between spray settings is smooth and effortless. However, one thing to note is that this shower head seems to reduce water pressure rather than improve it. Our home’s water pressure is decent, but this model really needs high pressure to perform at its best. If you’re specifically looking to boost low water pressure, this may not be the right fit. But if you have solid pressure and want a luxurious rain shower feel, this one is worth considering.

Get the Grohe Euphoria shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Build with Ferguson.

Best with Filter

Afina A-01 Filtered Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Elegant design and large shower head size
• Boosts water pressure noticeably during showers
• Comes with three filters and replacement discount
• Includes wrench, instructions, and plumber’s tape

What We Don’t Like

• Lacks intense spray settings for deeper cleaning
• Spray settings feel fairly standard, not innovative

Specs 

• Material: Plastic with chrome electroplated finish
• Spray settings: Only one
• Installation: Easy

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 5/5; Performance 4/5; Design 4.7/5; Value 5/5 

We were immediately impressed by the Afina filtered shower head, which was one of the most stylish options we tested. It arrived in a sleek, well-designed box, and the shower head itself is quite large, making it a statement piece in the bathroom. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included wrench, detailed instructions, and a generous roll of plumber’s tape. Afina even threw in three filters to keep it going strong for months, plus a 50% discount coupon for a replacement filter, which is a thoughtful touch. Afina recommends replacing the filter every 90 days. 

When it came to performance, the Afina delivered a noticeable boost in water pressure, even with our whole-house water filter already in place. There’s only one spray setting, and it’s pretty straighforward—don’t expect an ultra-pressurized massage setting like our top pick. Still, the spray was consistent and comfortable, making it a solid choice for everyday use.

Overall, the Afina combines good performance with plenty of thoughtful extras, from the spare filters to the handy tools and discounts. If you’re looking for a stylish filtered shower head with practical features and solid pressure, this one checks a lot of boxes.

What our tester says: “For folks living in low water-pressure households who also want filtered shower water, the Afina should be their go-to option. It looks great, and the company makes it easy—and affordable—to replace its filters every 3 months.”—Paul Rankin, Product Reviews writer and tester

Get the Afina filtered shower head on Amazon or Afina. 

More Great Options

While we didn’t test these shower heads ourselves, they come highly recommended for their performance and features, making them worthy contenders for tackling low water pressure.

Best Handheld

H02ME High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Ergonomic handle is comfortable to use
• Long, flexible hose provides plenty of reach
• Sturdy chrome-plated plastic and steel build

What We Don’t Like

• Slightly heavy compared to other options

Specs 

• Material: Stainless steel hose with plastic head
• Spray settings: Powerful rain, massage, or mixed
• Installation: Medium

Using handheld shower heads with low pressure can produce a disappointing trickle that defeats the point of having a handheld model, but the HO2ME shower head with sprayer offers a solution with its turbocharging head. This internal structure compresses the water coming out of the nozzle, resulting in better pressure.

Its soft neoprene nozzles prevent buildup from hard water, and with its long ergonomic handle, the handheld unit fits comfortably in the hand for easy rinsing and washing. The durable stainless steel hose with brass fitting resists corrosion and wear.

This detachable shower head easily snaps on and off a bracket that connects near the water supply line, while a 79-inch-long hose provides enough slack for bathing a small child or rinsing those hard-to-reach spots. The large knob can toggle through three settings, including powerful rain, massage, and a combination “powerful massage” mode.

Get the H02ME shower head with hose on Amazon or Walmart.

Best Ceiling Mount

SR Sunrise Ceiling Mount Shower System

See It

What We Like

• Broad water coverage
• Includes handheld unit
• Durable brass-and-steel build
• Ultramodern design

What We Don’t Like

• Design is not adjustable
• Professional installation recommended

Specs 

• Material: Brass and stainless steel
• Spray settings: Rain shower head with additional handheld
• Installation: Difficult (professional required)

The luxury Sun Rise multi-head shower head offers a modern look and versatility, with a fixed head, a handheld unit, and even a valve body and trim. The large fixed shower head is 12 inches by 12 inches, creating a full rainfall experience. While this large fixture might seem like a luxury reserved for those with good water pressure, it’s not. This model features a high-pressure design that draws air into the valve to increase pressure.

The handheld unit attaches to the wall, providing a good option for rinsing conditioners out of hair. The valve body, shower arms, and handheld and fixed shower heads all sport a modern square look. All-metal construction and brass internal parts add durability, while the stainless steel housing with a brushed-nickel finish creates an elegant look. With its valve body and ceiling-mount shower head, installation for this set requires a professional.

Get the SR Sunrise adjustable shower head at Amazon or SR Sunrise.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Shower Heads for Low Water Pressure

To select our top shower heads, we started by researching more than 20 products from well-known and emerging brands. We focused on models that promised easy installation, strong water pressure, thoughtful design, and excellent overall value. We also carefully evaluated each product’s appearance, build quality, and extra features, such as adjustable spray settings and filtration systems.

All testing was conducted in the same bathroom to ensure consistent comparisons of water pressure and performance. We installed each shower head by following the manufacturer’s instructions and then tested each for at least one week. During testing, we assessed the ease of installation, the smoothness and functionality of spray adjustments, and overall water pressure and spray quality. We also considered the design and how well the product balanced form with function. Finally, we factored in value—examining whether each shower head’s price matched its performance and features.

Our picks represent the best combination of design, performance, and value across all the products we tested.

What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Head For Low Water Pressure 

Read on to learn about what factors to consider when picking the best shower head for a home with water-pressure problems. Considerations involve the shower head’s materials, spray settings, and efficiency, as well as style or taste.

Types of Shower Heads for Low Water Pressure 

There are two main types of shower head: fixed and handheld. Fixed shower heads attach directly to the shower supply line. They can support a wide variety of shower head shapes but have limited mobility. Handheld shower heads detach from a water supply line, adding versatility for rinsing hair, massaging sore muscle groups, or even bathing the family dog. Ahead, learn more about the two kinds of shower heads. 

Fixed 

A fixed shower head mounts directly to the shower faucet that extends from the wall. These types have a threaded opening that screws onto the arm either by hand or with a plumber’s crescent wrench. A ball joint between the head and arm allows the user to aim the water to meet different desired angles or water-flow needs. 

Most fixed shower heads have a knob or dial that makes it easy to switch between different spray patterns. Fixed models also come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes to meet a broad range of tastes. 

Handheld 

Handheld shower heads use a long hose, with one end attaching to a fixed head with a long handle and the other end connecting to the shower arm that extends from the wall. The end that attaches to the shower arm typically has a clip fixture that holds the head in place. When resting in the clip, the handheld type functions much like a fixed shower head. Unlike a fixed one, however, the handheld type can be slipped out of the clip fixture when you want to use it for more targeted spraying. 

Like fixed shower heads, handheld models have multiple spray settings and come in various designs and finishes. They are good options for parents needing to bathe young children or pets, for those with mobility issues, or for rinsing hair and washing up with a more precise stream.

Material

Most shower heads are made of a combination of metal, brass, and plastic. The internal parts typically consist of brass, which is highly resistant to corrosion and won’t rust. In most cases, the outer housing consists of either plastic or metal. 

While metal might seem like the more durable of the two, keep in mind that metal is more susceptible to water damage in the form of corrosion or rust than plastic is. That said, plastic is more likely to break if handled roughly. Metal finishes such as rubbed bronze and nickel are popular material options and hold up well in a wet environment. 

Most shower heads feature neoprene nozzles, which are easier to clean and do a better job of resisting hard-water buildup than metal or plastic nozzles. 

Style

Shower heads come in various shapes and sizes, including standard, rain, and handheld. 

• A standard style has a shape similar to a doorknob, with a broad face full of small nozzles from which water flows. The head mounts to the wall and sprays water at a downward angle. This type of head usually has a knob or dial to adjust the spray type. 
• Rain shower heads have a much broader round or square head that can be as big as 18 inches in diameter. They typically have long arms that allow the user to position them directly above one’s head. This large profile and overhead positioning mimic the feel of rainfall. A rain shower head provides more coverage than a standard one but at lower water pressure. 
• Handheld shower heads attach to a clip for removal and handheld use. They have a hose that is 5 to 6 feet long, capable of providing enough slack to let the user rinse their hair, apply high-intensity spray jets to sore muscles, or bathe a young child. The ability to fix these models in place or use them by hand makes them extra versatile.

Pressure

To get around issues of low water pressure, manufacturers have come up with multiple ways to create pressure in the shower head. One of the most innovative designs involves aeration, which draws in air from the surrounding environment to add pressure inside the head. This results in greater water pressure, albeit with a flow pattern more akin to mist than a true water stream. 

Other manufacturers use a series of plungers and channels inside the head that compress water flow to increase pressure. Some shower heads feature creative nozzle designs, using different spray patterns that feel intense even while using less water.

Spray Settings

Like standard types, low-pressure shower heads come with a wide range of settings that let the user adjust the water output for relaxation, massage, or hair rinsing. Common settings include rainfall, high-pressure jet, and blast, as well as a gentle spray setting and a fire-hose-like drench option. 

Basic models offer only one or two settings, though higher-end products can include up to six different flow patterns. Manufacturers may equip their shower heads with spray patterns that increase the intensity of the water for low water pressure.

Efficiency

The maximum flow rate for shower heads in the United States is 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) at a water pressure of 80 psi. However, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homes use products with a lower flow of 1.8 GPM. Some states, such as California, limit the maximum flow of shower heads to 1.8 GPM. 

These lower-flow shower heads are the best option for those living in homes with low water pressure. Although this type of shower head uses less water, manufacturers use innovative designs that increase water pressure, making the user feel like more water is flowing. Shower heads that use less than 2 GPM have a WaterSense label from the EPA. 

Filter

Often, older homes or those on well water have water pressure problems. These homes can have older pipes or hard water that is more likely to leave mineral and sediment deposits inside a shower head, inhibiting the water flow and reducing already low water pressure to little more than a trickle. 

A good low-water-pressure shower head will have a replaceable or cleanable filter that removes these sediments before they can enter the head’s inner workings, ensuring a steady flow of water. 

A separate filter canister between the shower head and arm goes a step further. These filters remove additional impurities, like chlorine and heavy metals, that can damage skin and hair. 

Aesthetic

The best shower heads for low water pressure are offered in different finish options to match the user’s decor. These finishes typically include brushed nickel, chrome-plated, silver, and stylized rubbed bronze and black finishes. Shapes also vary. Rainfall types, for example, have a wide diameter and can come in round form or a more modern square shape. 

Rainfall heads can reach as much as 18 inches wide, making them a more conspicuous feature in the bathroom. Compact shower heads can be as small as 3 inches in diameter. These minimalist choices offer a more streamlined look with simple lines and understated designs. 

Installation

Installing a shower head is one of the easiest bathroom upgrades one can undertake. DIYers typically can remove the old fixture and install a new one in about 15 minutes with just one or two simple tools. Installation typically involves unscrewing the old shower head from the supply line by hand or with a wrench and screwing on a new one. The required tools usually include a crescent wrench and plumber’s tape. 

Rain shower heads that extend from the ceiling of the shower typically require custom plumbing that only a professional is qualified to handle. 

FAQs

For those still wondering about how low-pressure shower heads work, read on for answers to some of the most common questions. 

Meet the Tester

Paul Rankin is a seasoned product reviewer with extensive experience in home improvement and bathroom accessories. His approach to reviews is detailed, thorough, and user-focused, ensuring readers get honest, actionable insights.

Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.

The post Testing the Best Shower Heads for Low Water Pressure in 2025 appeared first on Bob Vila.

Keeping a home organized can feel like a constant battle. Whether you live alone, share a space with roommates, or have a large family, time and space constraints can make it difficult to stop the clutter from creeping in. The best organizing products make it possible to develop a solution to tame the clutter and find a spot to keep your items easily accessible without making more of a mess. Continue reading to learn more about some of the top organizing products for the kitchen, office, closet, bedroom, bathroom, garage, and car.

Best Kitchen Organizers

1. Food Storage Containers

The pantry is often one of the most disorganized spaces in a home. This set of 24 airtight food storage containers are one of the best home organization products to help you regain control of a cluttered pantry. The set includes four different container sizes (2.5 quarts, 1.8 quarts, 1.5 quarts, and 0.7 quarts) to hold snacks, cereal, pasta, baking necessities, tea bags, and more. The containers are stackable and come with reusable labels, making it easy to keep everything organized and easy to find.

Get the Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers at Amazon for $36.99 (Save $5)

2. Refrigerator Organizer Bins

The refrigerator is another area of the kitchen that can often use some TLC when it comes to organization. These bins can hold fresh fruits and vegetables, condiments, snacks, soda cans, and other loose items that would otherwise get jumbled around in the fridge. Four medium and four large bins come in the set, providing plenty of space to store several items. The clear design makes it easy to see what is in each bin and helps prevent food waste. In addition to being used in the fridge, these clear bins can also help you keep the freezer, pantry, or countertops organized.

Get the Utopia Home Organizer Bins at Amazon for $16.99

3. Can Organizer

Canned soups, fruits, vegetables, and meats are a staple found in many pantries. However, when you have several cans in your pantry, it can be really difficult to find the one you need for a specific recipe—or to even know what you have when getting your grocery list ready. This can rack organizer has a three-tiered design to hold up to 36 cans. Customize the placement of the included plastic dividers to accommodate the cans in your pantry. If the space in your pantry allows, you can even purchase two sets of racks and stack them together to store up to 72 cans.

Get the Sagler Stackable Can Rack Organizer at Amazon for $19.99

4. Pots and Pans Organizer

Keep your pots and pans from taking over your cabinets with this organizer. It offers a customizable design to accommodate your specific storage and organization needs. Choose a horizontal layout to hold up to eight lids and frying pans, or opt for one of the two horizontal settings to hold larger cookware pieces.

Get the GeekDigg Pot Rack Organizer at Amazon for $23.99

5. Spice Organizer

This two-tiered spice organizer can hold up to 40 different seasonings and condiments, making it much easier to find exactly what you need for a specific recipe. There’s an adjustable top shelf and four different height settings to choose from, depending on the space in your cabinet and the height of your seasoning bottles. With the built-in lazy Susan, you can rotate the shelves 360-degrees to quickly grab the spice you want.

Get the Spice Spinner Two-Tiered Spice Organizer at Amazon for $19.99

6. Water Bottle Organizer

If you’re afraid all of your water bottles and tumblers are going to come crashing out of the kitchen cabinet every time you open it, consider picking up this water bottle organizer. It features four stacking trays, each with three deep wells to hold bottles of varying sizes. The organizer is made of shatter-resistant BPA-free plastic, so it’s built to last. In addition to helping you keep your cabinets organized, you can also place this product directly in the refrigerator to keep water bottles, sports drinks, and other beverages ready to go.

Get the ClearSpace Water Bottle Organizer at Amazon for $24.95

Best Office Organizers

7. Acrylic Desk Organizer

With the right home organization products, you can keep your pens, pencils, scissors, even craft supplies tidy on your desk. This clear acrylic desk organizer offers six compartments to corral your desk’s clutter, and spins 360 degrees on a lazy Susan so that you can see all with ease.

Get the Absonic Acrylic Pen Organizer at Amazon for $29.99

8. Desk Drawer Organizer

With 10-interlocking bins of varying sizes, this desk drawer organizer will help you neatly store pens, pencils, paperclips, scissors, staples, and other office essentials. The layout is completely customizable, allowing you to create a customized design based on your exact organizational needs and the dimensions of your desk drawer. The durable plastic bins are available in black or white and can also be used to organize bathroom drawers, junk drawers, and other problem areas in the home.

Get the Backerysupply Interlocking Desk Drawer Organizer at Amazon for $8.99

9. Cable Management Organizer

If you’ve had enough of the jumbled mess of cords and cables behind your computer, solve your problems with this handy organizer. This set of three cable holder clips can keep your charging cords, mouse cables, audio cables, Ethernet cables, and more from getting tangled or lost behind the desk. It’s made of 100 percent silicone construction to avoid interfering with any of your electronic devices. Plus, the base of the silicone strip has an adhesive to keep in place on a variety of surface types.

Get the Soulwit Cable Holder Clips at Amazon for $6.55

Best Closet and Bedroom Organizers

10. Over-the-Door Shoe Storage

Our favorite over-the-door shoe rack from testing is versatile in both how it hangs and what it can hold. Measuring 35.2 inches tall by 17 inches wide by 6.5 inches deep, these cubby-style shoe racks come in a two-pack that can either be hung separately or together. For added convenience, there are three hooks on the bottom where the racks can attach to each other to create one larger rack that holds 24 pairs of shoes. In testing, we found that each set had a row of deeper pockets that worked well for large or bulky shoes like trail runners and boots. Plus, the sturdy design can also hold toys, crafts, socks, clothes, tools, belts, or even cleaning products.

Get the StorageManiac over-the-door shoe rack on Amazon for $32.99

11. Drawer Organizer

With the best drawer organizers, finding clothing in your dressers is a lot easier. This set of four drawer dividers is perfect for clearing up space to keep underwear, socks, bras, and other delicate clothing items under control. Each bin offers cells of varying sizes to better accommodate each of your items. Choose from gray, dark gray, black, beige, brown, pink, and turquoise color options to better match your room’s decor and your preferences.

Get the SimpleHouseware Drawer Organizer at Amazon for $13.97

12. Hanging Closet Organizer

A hanging closet organizer allows you to maximize space in a tight closet and makes it easier to store bulkier items, such as sweaters, towels, and bedding. This organizer offers four shelves, a side pocket that will support up to 30 pounds, and hooks to hang it on a garment rod or to wire shelves. Made from a durable polyester canvas material, it’s also available in four different color options.

Get the StorageWords 3-Shelf Hanging Closet Organizer at Amazon for $26.99

13. Shoe Storage Boxes

These shoe storage boxes will keep your shoes dust-free in addition to keeping them organized and easy to find. The set includes 12 durable plastic shoe bins large enough to hold women’s size 10 shoes or men’s size 9 shoes. The bins are stackable and allow you to create a customized configuration based on the constraints of your space. Their clear front and side design makes it easy to quickly spot the pair of shoes you want, and the breathable back frame allows for enough airflow to keep them in good condition.

Get the Pinkpum Shoe Storage Boxes at Amazon for $29.99

14. Underbed Storage Bags

Store off-season clothes and extra linens under the bed with this three-pack of large storage bags. Each one has a clear top window, allowing you to easily verify the contents of each container. There’s 10 adhesive tags included for labeling the contents of each bag, and each bag is designed with a durable rip-resistant cloth, metal zippers, and reinforced handles. The set is available in gray,

Get the NestNeatly SmartCube Underbed Storage Bags at Amazon for $25.99

Best Bathroom Organizers

15. Shower Door Caddy

Keep shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other bathing essentials organized with this shower caddy. It offers three spaced out shelves, making room to store taller or smaller bottles. Two integrated hooks can hold pumice stones, loofas, and other hanging items, and the caddy hangs over shower doors using the built-in hooks. As a bonus, they also double as towel hooks.

Get the mDesign Over Shower Door Caddy at Amazon for $39.99

16. Styling Tools Organizer

Blow dryers, hair straighteners, curling irons, brushes, and other hair care products can take up a lot of space under the cabinet or on a bathroom countertop. This is one of the best organization products to keep these tools out of the way, but also easy to access when needed. It can be mounted on the wall or hung over a cabinet or shower door using the removable hooks.

Get the Simple Houseware Cabinet/Wall-Mount Hair Dryer Organizer at Amazon for $16.87

17. Wall-Mounted Toothbrush Holder

Upgrade your bathroom experience with this sleek and stylish wall-mounted toothbrush holder. It has four hooks to hold both manual and electric toothbrushes, while keeping them covered and dust-free. This bathroom organizer offers additional storage space for tubes, bottles, hair care accessories and more with its flat top shelf and small drawer. Plus, an integrated toothpaste dispenser offers convenience and reduces waste by releasing the right amount of toothpaste.

Get the Showgoca Wall-Mounted Toothbrush Holder at Amazon for $17.99

Best Garage Organizers

18. Wall-Mount Tool Organizer

Don’t let shovels, rakes, brooms, and other tools prevent you from keeping a tidy garage. Keep these items off of the floor with this wall-mount tool organizer. The system includes four 16-inch segments, 20 hooks, and 20 pegs, allowing you to create a layout that will work with your space and storage needs. Each hook can support up to 15 pounds, and each peg can hold up to 5.5 pounds.

Get the Horusdy Adjustable Storage System at Amazon for $14.99

19. Magnetic Tool Holder 

Mounting this magnetic tool holder above your garage workbench will help you keep screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and other tools within easy reach. The carbon steel magnetic bar can support up to 10 pounds, and packs of two or four magnetic bars are available to customize the length and layout based on your space.

Get the RamPro Magnetic Tool Holder Strip at Amazon for $27.99

20. 44-Drawer Plastic Storage Cabinet

Trying to find a place for small odds and ends like screws and batteries can be difficult; however, simple plastic storage cabinets like the ones from Akro-Mils can be an easy solution. There are numerous drawer options, ranging from 16 to 64 drawers, with additional drawer dividers included. They’re available in black, red, and yellow. The drawers are big enough to handle things like screws, drill bits, craft supplies, batteries, and other spare parts. The cabinet can be stacked and left freestanding or mounted for extra security. 

Get the Akro-Mils Plastic Storage Cabinet at Amazon for $48.35

Best Car Organizers

21. Trunk Organizer

Whether you’re bringing home groceries, heading to the beach, or driving the kids back and forth between sports practices, a trunk organizer can help you maximize the space in your trunk and keep items from sliding around inside the car. This trunk organizer from Miu is expandable to meet your specific storage needs; it can be configured with one, two, or three compartments. When you need to transport something bulkier in your trunk, simply collapse the organizer to get it out of the way.

Get the Miu Color Car Trunk Organizer at Amazon for $19.99

22. Backseat Organizer

Clear backseat clutter with this organizer that attaches to the back of the front seats. It has eight elastic pockets of various sizes to hold books, toys, snacks, and more. The front center pocket is large enough to hold an 11-inch tablet, which is perfect for keeping your kids entertained on longer drives. Made with a heavy-duty scratch-proof and waterproof oxford fabric, it attaches to the front seats easily with adjustable straps and quick-release buckles.

Get the One Pix Backseat Car Organizers at Amazon for $9.99

23. Car Seat Gap Filler Organizer

The gap between the front seats and the center console is not only wasted space, but it often causes problems with cell phones, crumbs, or other items that drop down and are difficult to reach. This gap filler organizer fills in that otherwise wasted space and provides you with a few additional compartments to hold your phone, keys, coins, and other small items. It has an adaptive sponge mechanism that expands to create a secure fit, allowing this organizer to work with gaps of varying widths.

Get the Paffenery Car Seat Gap Filler Organizer at Amazon for $25.99

The prices listed here are accurate as of publication on February 3, 2025

The post The 23 Best Organization Products Under $50 appeared first on Bob Vila.

A handheld shower head can be a handy bathroom upgrade for massaging aching muscles, bathing young children, or giving the family dog its monthly bath. While dozens of detachable shower heads are available for purchase, not all are created equal. To help you find the best, we extensively tested some of the highest-rated models.

We also interviewed an experienced contractor and expert plumber to learn what to look for and what to avoid. After heavy research and weeks of testing, we chose the Couradric Handheld Shower Head as our best overall because of its 2.5-GPM water output, six spray settings, and multiple finish options.  

If you’re hoping to purchase one of these versatile shower heads for your tub or shower but need help deciding which model is right for you, you’re in luck. Read on to learn about the various features of each, how they stood up to our standards, and discover some of the best handheld shower heads by category.

1. BEST OVERALL: Couradric Handheld Shower Head
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: AquaDance High-Pressure 6-Setting Handheld Shower
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3. BEST LUXURY: Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head
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4. BEST WITH RAIN SHOWER: American Standard Spectra+ Duo
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5. BEST FOR LOW PRESSURE: Lokby High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head
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6. BEST FOR MODERN BATHROOMS: Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray
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7. BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: AquaDance 7″ High-Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo
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8. BEST MASSAGING SHOWER HEAD: G-Promise High-Pressure Shower Head
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Our Top Picks

This curated list highlights some of the best handheld shower head options available, according to our own careful installation and testing. From traditional models to sleek rain shower head combinations, these reliable picks can upgrade your bathroom and bathing experience.

Best Overall

Couradric Handheld Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Long 70-inch hose allows better freedom of motion
• Includes 6 easily adjustable spray types
• 48 self-cleaning nozzles are easy to maintain

What We Don’t Like

• Not as water-saving as other shower heads

Specs

• GPM 2.5, available in 1.8 for California users
• Number of spray settings 6
• Finishes available Brushed nickel, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, and matte black

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Making the top of our list for its high-pressure output, durable metal and plastic construction, and easy-to-adjust spray settings, the Coruadric handheld shower head with hose is likely to please most users. The 5-inch-diameter spray head has six easily adjustable settings, including bubbling rain, bubbling water, shampoo rinsing, pulsating massage, and water-saving mode. All the modes worked effectively, with sprays to suit different user preferences. The fixture comes standard with a 2.5 GPM but is available in 1.8 GPM for California users.  

Easy installation and 48 self-cleaning rubber nozzles to prevent mineral buildup add to the value of this shower head. A 70-inch stainless steel hose gives this model a greater range of motion and mobility, while a copper wall-mounting bracket adds stability. Its rounded features and numerous finish options make it an attractive addition to any bathroom.

Get the Couradric Handheld Shower Head at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

AquaDance High-Pressure 6-Setting Handheld Shower

See It

What We Like

• Good value while still maintaining decent build quality
• 6 spray settings are easy to swap between
• 5-foot hose provides plenty of length

What We Don’t Like

• Buzzing sound on massage setting can be annoying

Specs

• GPM 2.5, available in 1.8 for California users
• Number of spray settings 6
• Finishes available Chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 3/5; Functionality 3.8/5; Value 3.5/5

Numerous spray patterns and an affordable price make this shower head with handle a great option for those looking to upgrade their existing fixture to a handheld model without breaking the bank. This small shower head packs a punch with plenty of water pressure. Six different settings range from power rain to mist, offering a nice array of options from a softer spray to an intense massage. One drawback we found was that the shower head began to buzz when it was switched to the pulsating massage setting. However, we also found that the setting was slightly too strong for a comfortable shower, with the other settings more preferable. 

A 5-foot hose provides enough length for bathing young children or even pets, while a mounting clip allows it to function as a standard shower head. It was simple to install without any tools and is available in chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze.

Get the AquaDance Handheld Shower Head at Amazon or Wayfair.

Best Luxury

Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Dual functionality—fixed and handheld sprays
• WaterSense certified; great coverage compared to similar models
• Available in multiple finishes to suit most needs

What We Don’t Like

• Lower pressure when both sprays are turned on

Specs

• GPM 1.75
• Number of spray settings 5
• Finishes available Chrome, black stainless, champagne bronze, stainless, matte black, polished nickel, and Venetian bronze

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 4/5; Value 4/5

Delta’s H2Okinetic shower with handheld combo has a lot to like, including its attractive appearance and robust build. The handheld works effectively with five powerful spray patterns, including kinetic power drench, full body, massaging, and full-body spray with massage. 

The hose can be stretched to over 6 feet, making it perfect for cleaning children and pets. When the outer overhead spray is turned on along with the handheld, coverage increases to a 7-inch diameter. The overhead spray gives off medium water pressure, characteristic of a rain shower. The regulator is built-in and not intended to be removed, so some users may crave more spray pressure. We thought the overall pressure was a little light but appreciate its water-saving qualities.

This shower head uses the company’s H2Okinetic technology, which allows its nozzles to create larger water droplets than a standard shower, designed to mimic a drenching rain forest shower. The technology provides ample coverage at 1.75 GPMs and earns a WaterSense certification. 

The H2Okinetic was simple to install and comes in seven finishes, including chrome, bronze, polished nickel, and black stainless.

What our tester says: “I love the innovative design that allows this fixture to function as both an overhead rainfall shower head and a handheld option, the latter of which is fitted inside using a simple magnetic connection, which felt snug and secure.” -Kristen Mosier, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Delta H2Okinetic In2ition at Amazon or Menards. 

Best with Rain Shower

American Standard Spectra+ Duo

See It

What We Like

• Rain shower head with handheld combo
• Wide spray pattern provides plenty of coverage
• Convenient magnetic docking

What We Don’t Like

• Gap in spray when handheld is removed
• Light pressure when used with regulator

Specs

• GPM 2.5, 1.8 available
• Number of spray settings 4
• Finish option Chrome, brushed nickel, legacy bronze, and polished nickel

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Appearance 3/5; Functionality 3.8/5; Value 3.3/5

For shoppers who enjoy the feel of a rain shower, the American Standard Spectra+ Duo provides this experience along with the bonus of a handheld shower head integrated into the center of the fixture. The unique design includes a 9.5-inch diameter that provides plenty of coverage with a comfortable, even spray. Our testing found the water pressure on the 2.5 GPM version to be light to medium when used with a regulator and medium to high without. There is also a 1.8 GPM model available for those looking to save water. 

The adjustable shower head was simple to install to our existing piping with just the use of a wrench. A magnet keeps the handheld securely attached but easily removable. Each of the four spray settings—drench, sensitive, massage, and power wash—were easily adjustable and comfortable, offering options for the different preferences of family members. At about 5 feet, the hose is plenty long for cleaning children and pets. 

We didn’t love the pattern of the overhead spray once we removed the handheld shower head with hose. While we appreciate that it can function with both sprays on simultaneously, the overhead has a wide gap in the rain shower without the handheld in place, leaving us craving better coverage. You can turn off the outer spray when using the handheld, which may be the better option.

Get the American Standard Spectra+ Duo at Amazon, Walmart (polished chrome only), or AmericanStandard-US.com.

Best for Low Pressure

Lokby High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Lower pressure allows for impressive water-saving
• Provides a soft and comfortable spray
• Features an “off” switch on the head

What We Don’t Like

• May be too little pressure for some users

Specs

• GPM 1.8
• Number of spray settings 6
• Finishes available Chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 3.8/5; Value 3.7/5

This handheld shower head uses nozzles that compress the water as it passes through to increase velocity, improving low water pressure. The flow rate is 1.8 GPMs, allowing users to save water while still obtaining a comfortable, even spray. This choice is well suited for those who want to save water or like a gentler spray. It also has several settings that boost the water pressure, including massage, rain, power rain, mist, and rain plus mist. 

Between the mid-level pressure and a lengthy 59-inch hose, this shower head is an excellent option for bathing young children. A convenient off button lets the operator turn the shower off from the head, while silicone jets keep this shower head functioning properly by resisting buildup from hard water. It was easy to install and features a bracket that attaches to the spigot with a 60-degree pivot, allowing this handheld to function as a standard-mounted shower head. 

Get the Lokby Handheld Shower Head at Amazon and Walmart.

Best for Modern Bathrooms

Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray

See It

What We Like

• Mounted and handheld shower head included
• Effective when using overhead and handheld simultaneously
• Large square shower head provides rain-shower experience

What We Don’t Like

• Diverter possibly out of reach in taller showers
• Unsuitable for textured tiles, frosted glass, or wood
• Mount cannot be reattached if removed

Specs

• GPM 1.8
• Number of spray settings 3 on each shower head
• Finishes available Chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 3.9/5; Value 3.8/5

This fixture combo combines the enveloping feel of a rainfall shower head with the versatility of a handheld one. This 8-inch-square shower head features 200 nozzles and mounts above your head, providing a true rainfall experience with a gentle, even spray. The handheld model, also with a square-shaped design, matches the modern styling of the rainfall shower head and can be attached to the wall with an included suction cup. 

Each has three spray settings, including massage, saturating, and combination sprays, as well as an on/off switch, making it suitable for bathing pets and children. A three-way diverter control, which is located on the overhead fixture, allows you to direct water flow from the faucet to the handheld shower head, the rain shower head, or both. 

What our tester says: “One thing I appreciated about this model is its performance when using both sprays simultaneously. Unlike other models, I found the shower heads worked just as well together as they did individually.” -Kristen Mosier, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Dual Shower Head

AquaDance 7" High-Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo

See It

What We Like

• Overhead and handheld combo covers most user needs
• Multiple setting combinations
• Provides good water pressure even with the regulator

What We Don’t Like

• Diverter possibly out of reach for some users
• Low water pressure when both sprays are used

Specs

• GPM 2.5 or 1.8
• Number of spray settings 6 on each shower head
• Finishes available Brushed nickel, chrome, matte black, and oil-rubbed

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 4/5; Value 3.8/5

Out of the box, this AquaDance fixture looks attractive and installs easily. The setup includes two separate shower heads, a 7-inch broad rainfall shower head, and a 4-inch handheld shower head that mounts alongside it. Leave the handheld shower head attached for maximum water coverage from both heads, or detach it and use it as a handheld. We found both sprays to have ample water pressure, even with the regulator in place. 

Several flow options allow you to run water through either head or both. The diverter is on the overhead spray, making it difficult to access if mounted out of reach. Each shower head features six effective and comfortable flow settings for massage, rainfall style, or standard. When using both simultaneously, the water pressure drops, especially in the handheld. The fixture is constructed of plastic with a chrome finish.

Get the AquaDance Rainfall Combo at Amazon or Wayfair.

Best Massaging Shower Head

G-Promise High-Pressure Shower Head

See It

What We Like

• Capable of supplying an impressive water pressure
• Multiple massage settings; ideal for multiple user preferences
• Lever allows for easy spray adjustment

What We Don’t Like

• Limited finish options available

Specs

• GPM 2.5
• Number of spray settings 6
• Finishes available Chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Functionality 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5

When it comes to massage, it’s all about a shower head’s spray settings, and this model from G-Promise has plenty of them. Its attractive round face can be rotated to access six spray settings, most of which are devoted to massage, including power massage, rainfall plus power massage, massage, and rainfall plus circular massage. Each mode offers a different spray pattern, but all work equally well and, in our opinion, with the perfect amount of water pressure.

An adjusting lever makes switching between the spray settings with wet hands easy. A long, stretchable 70-inch stainless steel hose gives this fixture plenty of length to massage hard-to-reach muscles and clean shower corners. 

The G-Promise feels durable and is easy to install using an included mini wrench tool. It is made from high-grade plastic and comes in three finishes. 

Get the G-Promise Shower Head at Amazon.

ALSO TESTED:

PureAction Luxury Filtered Shower Head with Handheld Hose

We also tested the PureAction handheld shower head with filter, and while we loved that the unit filters out chlorine, heavy metals, rust, sand, and sediment, unfortunately, it didn’t meet our functionality standards. We had some trouble adjusting the spray, which includes three settings—rain, massage, and combo. When turned on, the massage mode made a brief whining noise and didn’t produce the spray described in the manual. It also filled the bottom of our shower with water, causing us some concern about water usage.  combo. When turned on, the massage mode made a brief whining noise and didn’t produce the spray described in the manual. It also filled the bottom of our shower with water, causing us some concern about water usage.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Handheld Shower Heads

We tested all of the handheld shower heads on our awards list by wall-mounting each, taking note of the tools needed for installation and the level of difficulty. Each fixture was examined for its weight, feel, and durability. We tested each shower head a minimum of two times, adjusting spray patterns and shower head direction and taking note of the hose length and flexibility. We observed whether there was any leaking or sputtering, changes in water pressure, unusual sounds, and hot water longevity.

We logged how many spray settings there were and whether they all functioned equally well, taking note of the water pressure, coverage, and ability to distribute water evenly. For dual shower heads, we observed how they functioned while used separately and simultaneously. We considered the features for the price point as well as the shower head’s overall attractiveness and several finish options available. Our top picks were chosen for ease of installation, durability, good design, even and ample water pressure, and spray options to suit differing needs.

When choosing our product options for hands-on testing, we also took advice from Ross Kesterson, a licensed general contractor and vice-president of Southern Design Build Group in Hull, Georgia, who suggested that for some budget options, shoppers should be aware of build quality. “It’s not all about the looks, it’s what’s underneath. The interior parts are sometimes made with plastic, but should be made of brass. This helps the fixture last longer and not leak.” With this expert tip in mind, we made sure that our list of recommendations includes high-quality options with brass interior parts to ensure longevity, while also providing more budget-friendly options that still managed to stand up to our testing.

What to Consider When Choosing a Handheld Shower Head 

Good shower heads can make the bathing experience a more enjoyable one. On the other hand, a shower head that doesn’t deliver enough water pressure or lacks the desired spray pattern leaves a lot to be desired. There are several factors to consider before purchasing a handheld shower head, including material, flow rate, spray modes, and water pressure. 

Type

The typical handheld shower head sits in a cradle with a flexible hose attached. These shower heads come in several types, either as individual pieces or part of a set. 

• Combination shower heads have both a fixed and handheld shower head. Users can use one or the other or both while showering. A three-way diverter allows each of the two heads to be used simultaneously or independently. Due to flow rate regulations, however, water pressure is reduced when both heads are used at the same time.
• Water-saving shower heads control the amount of water usage to help conserve water. A water-saving shower head, according to the EPA, has a flow rate of no more than 2 GPM (gallons per minute). These water-efficient shower heads are available with flow rates as little as 1.5 GPM. 
• High-pressure shower heads provide a nicer rinse and a massage-like feeling on the body. They’re designed to increase the water pressure with air inside the head. While a high-pressure shower head may cost you more upfront, it’ll save you money in the long run by reducing your water bill.   
• Rain shower heads are a popular option for combination sets. Water flows down over the top of your head, creating a relaxing sensation reminiscent of a spa. They’re either mounted to the wall or ceiling and usually have a wider spray and lower pressure compared to standard fixed shower heads. 

Material

Most shower heads have a combination of metal and plastic parts. Stainless steel and brass are typically used for the threaded fittings to the shower spigot as well as the internal parts that direct water flow. The external components usually consist of high-grade plastic, which is not susceptible to rust or corrosion like many metals. 

Some showers use aluminum with a chrome, brushed nickel, or bronze coating. High-end shower heads are made of brass or stainless steel, which also resist rust and corrosion. Most handheld shower heads use silicone nozzles, which are clog-resistant and easy to clean. 

Flow Rate and Pressure

Energy consumption is directly related to the flow rate. The lower the flow rate, the less water the shower faucet uses, and the more you save on your water bill. The maximum flow rate for a shower head is 2.5 GPM, but some have outputs as low as 1.5 GPM, which can save you a significant amount of money.

Since the National Energy Act was passed in 1992, the maximum allowable flow rate for shower heads is 2.5 GPM, significantly less than older models with flow rates of 3.5 GPM or more. With the exception of high-pressure shower heads, flow rate typically dictates water pressure; the higher the flow rate, the higher the water pressure. 

WaterSense Certification

Water-saving shower heads that earn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year.

When shopping for an efficient shower head, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it. Look for the WaterSense label. These shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy and provide a shower of equal or better quality.

Spray Patterns

Most shower heads offer various flow patterns, with some featuring more than 40 spray settings. In general, flow patterns can be distilled into the following types:

• Broad spray patterns allow for maximum coverage. 
• Pulsating and targeting spray settings create a narrow, intermittent stream of hot water for massaging sore back and neck muscles. 
• High-pressure spray settings work well for rinsing shampoo and conditioner from hair and are common features of shower heads for low water pressure.
• Oversize rain-style shower heads offer maximum coverage while simulating the feel of rain. 

Aesthetic 

Handheld shower heads lack the sleek, minimal look of standard shower heads because of their long hoses, which give them a more utilitarian look. Unless you’re planning to redo the entire bathroom, you’ll likely want to match the new shower head to the current bathroom fixtures, including the finishes and materials. 

Some of the most popular finishes are chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless steel. Keep in mind that shiny finishes may show water spots, while matte finishes resist staining. The size of the shower head can play a role in design and style. 

If you have space in a nice stand-up shower and want a square rain shower head up to 18 inches, why not? It can add a modern look and provide a relaxing shower experience. Conversely, those with compact shower spaces may need to stick with something smaller. 

Additional Features

Some nice extras that you can look for when purchasing a shower head include:

• Filtered shower heads feature a built-in shower filter system that softens water and removes contaminants such as chlorine and lead. 
• Nonslip grip shower heads come with rubberized handles so that they don’t easily fall out of your hand while showering.
• LED lights add an extra level to the shower experience. Users can select from various colors depending on mood, or users can turn off the lights and just hide out if they need to ignore the world for a while.
• On/off switches allow users to pause the shower while shampooing or shaving to save water.
• Magnetic docking connects the handheld shower head to its cradle and is a relatively high-end feature.

Installation

Most handheld shower heads are easy to install. Our interview with expert plumber Roy Barnes, co-owner of Service Force Plumbing in Rockville Maryland, confirms this: “Pipes [for shower arms] are almost always ½” NPT, and with a wrench and a little Teflon tape to wrap the threads, it should be a pretty straightforward DIY job for just about anybody.”

Changing a shower head typically involves unscrewing the old shower head from the spigot, applying plumbers’ tape to the threads, and screwing on the new head. Depending on the type of shower head, installation may involve an extension arm, which attaches to the spigot on one end and the shower head on the other. 

Installing a shower head normally requires only a crescent wrench. Since virtually all shower spigots are a standard ½-inch size, you don’t need to worry about compatibility. 

You typically don’t need to worry about changing out the faucet or shower valve when switching shower heads.

FAQs

If you still have questions about handheld shower heads, read on for answers to the most common queries. use damage and dryness, including chlorine and chloramines.

Why Trust Bob Vila 

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag. 

The post We Researched Over 40 Handheld Shower Heads and Tested the Best Ones appeared first on Bob Vila.

Whether you’re planning a complete bathroom renovation or just looking to optimize your space, understanding different bathroom layout options is key for creating a functional and beautiful space. From compact powder rooms to sprawling primary suites, each bathroom layout design requires careful consideration when it comes to fixture placement, clearance requirements, and how it’s used in your household’s day-to-day life. Read on for tips on how to design a bathroom as well as bathroom layout ideas for a variety of spaces. 

Primary Bathroom Layout 

The primary bathroom often serves as a personal retreat and is typically the largest bathroom in the house. Most primary bathrooms have two sinks, a toilet, and a shower or tub—or sometimes both. But you don’t always need a tub in this bathroom. According to Houston-based architect Baraa Yakzan, “For spec homes, or young families, it is important that at least one bathroom is a full bath—primarily to shower little ones. The tub does not necessarily need to be in the primary bath.”

Yakzan adds that compartmentalizing your primary bathroom can make it more functional. She says, “If your space allows, try to have the toilet in a compartment of its own, with a door. This makes the bathroom a much more practical space as two people can comfortably use it at the same time.”

The average bathroom size for primary bathrooms is around 100 square feet. Here are three popular layouts that work well:

1. Split plan: Place double vanities (each 30 to 36 inches wide) along one wall, with a separate toilet room on the opposite wall. Include a walk-in shower (at least 36 by 48 inches) at the far end, with a freestanding tub (roughly 60 by 32 inches) next to it if space allows.
2. Galley style: Put vanities on opposite walls, creating a walkway between them. Place the shower and toilet behind a partition wall at the end for privacy. 
3. L-shaped: Position double vanities along the long wall, with the toilet and shower zone around the corner. This creates natural privacy and separate wet and dry areas.

Full Bathroom Floor Plan

A full bathroom floor plan incorporates all four main fixtures: toilet, sink, shower, and tub. When designing these spaces, let practicality guide your choices. As Yakzan advises, “If there is one tub in the house, I recommend making it practical and functional—as opposed to a freestanding bathtub that spills a lot.”

Standard dimensions for a bathroom that is a full bathroom are 40 to 100 square feet. Here are a couple of layout ideas:

1. Straight line: Place the vanity by the door, followed by the toilet, then tub/shower combo (typically 60 inches long) at the far end. This works well in rectangular rooms.
2. Compact square: Put the vanity and toilet on one wall, with a tub/shower combo on the adjacent wall. 

3/4 Bathroom Layout

A 3/4 bath has three main fixtures—usually a sink, toilet, and shower. This bathroom layout works great for many homes because it gives you everything you need without taking up as much space as a full bath.

For a 3/4 bath (which is usually 35 to 80 square feet), try these small bathroom layout options:

1. Corner shower: Place a corner shower unit (36 by 36 inches) at the far end, with the toilet and vanity on opposite walls. This maximizes floor space.
2. Wet room style: Position a walk-in shower beside the toilet, with a vanity opposite. Use a glass panel to contain water splash in a wet room.

Half Bath Layout

A half bath, also called a powder room, just has a toilet and sink. These smaller bathrooms are great places to try bold design ideas. “This is where homeowners are most likely to follow trends, as functionality is less of a priority,” says Yakzan. But don’t forget storage: “A small storage space goes a long way when it comes to hiding a couple of extra hand towels and toilet paper rolls.”

When placing fixtures in any bathroom, Yakzan shares a helpful measuring tip: “Keep at least 18 inches from the center of your toilet seat to the face of the wall next to it (on either side). This way you make sure you have ample space on either side of the seat.”

Half baths can be as small as 15 to 20 square feet. Here are smart compact bathroom layout ideas:

1. Door wall vanity: Mount a narrow vanity (18 to 24 inches wide) on the wall behind the door, with the toilet on the opposite wall. 
2. Corner sink: Install a corner sink to save space, with the toilet on the adjacent wall. 

Wet Room Bathroom Floor Plan

A wet room bathroom is a modern layout where the entire space is waterproofed and the shower isn’t enclosed, making it easy to clean. This bathroom layout design works especially well in smaller spaces where a traditional shower might feel cramped. Here are some small bathroom floor plan ideas:

1. Linear wet room: Position the toilet and vanity on the dry side of a glass panel, with the shower head and controls mounted on the far wall. Include a linear drain along the shower wall and nonslip floor tiles throughout the space for safety.
2. Open corner design: Create a spacious feel by positioning the shower area in a corner with a slight floor slope toward the drain. Mount the vanity on an adjacent wall and place the toilet on the dry side, using a partial glass wall for splash protection.

ADA-Compliant Bathroom Layout

Creating an accessible bathroom isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s about designing a space that works for everyone. A well-planned accessible bathroom layout combines safety features with comfort and style. These bathrooms need careful planning to ensure proper clearances while maintaining a welcoming feel.

1. Roll-in design: Create a spacious layout (36 by 60 inches minimum) with a curbless shower and grab bars mounted at 33 to 36 inches high. Install a wheelchair-accessible vanity so it has a knee clearance of 27 inches, making sure there’s 48 inches of clear floor space in front of each fixture.
2. Transfer shower layout: Design the space with a 36-by-36-inch transfer shower and position the toilet with 18 inches clearance on one side and 42 inches on the transfer side. Mount the sink on the wall for easy wheelchair access and place all controls within a reachable zone of 15 to 48 inches from the floor.

Important Building Codes to Keep in Mind

Following building codes ensures your bathroom is safe and functional. Building codes vary across the country, so be sure to check your local regulations before beginning your renovation project. If you hire a local pro, they should already be familiar with the local codes. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) also has some general code suggestions to follow: 

Bathroom Door

Bathroom doors should have a clear opening of at least 32 inches wide to allow easy access, especially for those with mobility aids. Make sure doors don’t block each other or interfere with bathroom fixtures. If space allows, consider increasing the width to 34 inches for added accessibility and comfort.

Tub

Leave at least 30 inches by 30 inches of open space in front of the tub for safety. Controls should be easy to reach from inside and outside the tub. 

Shower

Showers need to be at least 30 inches wide by 30 inches deep, but the NKBA recommends a minimum of 36 by 36 inches. Shower doors must open outward.

Toilet

Toilets are placed at least 15 inches away from walls or nearby fixtures to make sure there’s enough space for comfort and movement. A clear area of 21 inches in front of the toilet is required for safety. Mount the seat 15 to 19 inches above the floor to accommodate different users’ needs.

Sink

Position sinks at a height between 32 and 36 inches to fit most users comfortably. Ensure there’s at least 4 inches of space between the sink’s edge and nearby walls to avoid crowding. For added accessibility, plan a clear floor space in front of the sink for easy wheelchair access.

Exhaust Fan

Proper ventilation is essential in bathrooms to control moisture and prevent mold. Install an exhaust fan that vents directly outdoors, with a minimum airflow of 50 cubic feet per minute. Place the fan’s controls between 15 and 48 inches above the floor so they’re easy to find and use.

Lights

Provide good lighting throughout the bathroom, with task lighting near mirrors for grooming. Fixtures near tubs or showers must be rated for wet areas to ensure safety. Place light switches near the entrance at a height of 15 to 48 inches so they are easy to reach for all users.

The post The Best Bathroom Layout Ideas to Consider for Your Next Remodel appeared first on Bob Vila.

High-pressure shower heads reliably deliver one of the main elements of a pleasant shower experience: a steady, invigorating spray. For bathrooms with low water pressure, these simple devices can pump up a shower experience immensely. 

But we wanted to know how much oomph these products could add to an otherwise low-pressure shower, so we researched dozens and tested a host of different models with various designs and spray options. Our favorite was the Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head for its sleek appearance and even water distribution on all of its spray settings.

To help assess what makes a great high-pressure shower head, we also spoke with a licensed plumber to get his take on what to look for. Read on to learn more about how to find the best high-pressure shower heads and to find out how each of these bathroom fixtures fared in our hands-on tests.

1. BEST OVERALL: Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head 
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2. RUNNER-UP: Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head 
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4. BEST HANDHELD SHOWER HEAD: Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head
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5. BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head
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6. MOST EFFICIENT: High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head
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7. MOST UNIQUE OPTION: AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head
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8. BEST POWER WASH: AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash
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9. BEST RAIN SHOWER HEAD: Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head
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10. BEST SPRAY PATTERNS: Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head
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11. BEST FILTERED: Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head
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Product Comparison

	GPM	Handheld Included	Spray Patterns
Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head	2.5		3
Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head	1.75		3
Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head	1.8		4
Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head	1.75		6
Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head	1.75		5
High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head	1.5		1
AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head	2.5		6
AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash	2.5		6 + 2 for cleaning
Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head	2.5		2
Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head	2.5		4
Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head	1.8		1

Our Top Picks

We reviewed the top brands and the most popular products to find some of the best high-pressure shower heads available. After matching them up against one another and checking each one against our criteria, we narrowed the list to only the top choices for shower heads offering excellent water pressure. Those looking for a new shower head are likely to find it among our top picks.

Best Overall

Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 2.5
• Handheld included: No
• Spray patterns: 3

What We Like

• Multiple finishes to choose from 
• Comes with 3 different spray settings
• Easy to clean and maintain

What We Don’t Like

• Spray coverage is narrow compared to some other shower heads

This Speakman Hotel Anystream high-pressure shower head is a quality choice for new construction or as a replacement wall-mounted shower head. This premium high-flow shower head’s clean lines and sleek, simple design will enhance and complement any modern bathroom. Plus, it comes in four color options to match any bathroom’s current fixtures. 

Those who travel often might recognize this brand and perhaps even this particular model from hotels; it’s a delight for weary travelers to see a Speakman shower head, as it’s a sure sign of good water pressure.

Speakman’s patented Anystream system and eight massage jets evenly distribute water as it smoothly transitions through intense, massage, and combination spray settings. Our testing found that the ring to adjust the various settings moved easily, but not so easily that the shower head could slip from one setting to another without the user adjusting the setting. 

A proprietary plunger system controls the spread of water as it leaves the nozzle, allowing pressure to build and intensify. The plungers are self-cleaning, resisting hard-water buildup and sediment and making the shower head easy to maintain. 

What our expert says: “I found the installation to be as easy as it gets: I simply removed the old shower head and screwed this one into place without the use of tools.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester & writer

Get the Speakman high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart. 

Runner-Up

Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 1.75
• Handheld included: No
• Spray patterns: 3

What We Like

• Sleek, modern design
• Wide spray coverage
• Simple to switch between sprays
• Complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications 

What We Don’t Like

• May not fit some piping in older homes 

This multifunctional shower head from Kohler offers plenty of options for a customized look and feel in a contemporary design. An advanced spray engine increases low water pressure for a more pleasant shower, and the fixture provides three spray choices controlled by a simple thumb tab. There is a low-pressure option, and the Kohler can comply with ADA specifications.

Though this shower head feels surprisingly light out of the box, it packs a mighty pressure punch. In testing, it installed quite easily, and its spray options indeed proved unique. The wide coverage spray is excellent for general use, while the intense drenching spray is forceful (ideal for rinsing out shampoo). The focused, targeted stream can massage sore muscles—a welcome relief that delivers what a high-pressure shower head is all about. 

Get the Kohler Awaken high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Wayfair.

Best Bang for the Buck

Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head

See It

Product Specs

• GPM: 1.8
• Handheld included: Yes
• Spray patterns: 4

What We Like

• Easy to customize settings
• Very wide spray area
• Pulsating and slow massage functions
• Best budget shower head on this list

What We Don’t Like

• Frustrating packaging  
• Sits a little high on the base of the shower faucet 

Those shopping for an excellent yet affordable high-pressure shower head may wish to check out this Waterpik model. The handheld shower head is Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense certified for demonstrated water savings and shower performance. It features a 5-foot-long hose to provide plenty of range for bathing kids and pets while also making cleaning the shower easier. Four spray modes include full-body coverage, strong pulsating massage, slow massage, and full-body-with-massage combo. There is no click when turning the dial to change the spray settings, so it’s possible to set them “in-between” for even more customizable options.

The packaging, unfortunately, was frustrating to open; do so carefully in case returning the product becomes necessary. We found the shower head to feel very light and were concerned at first when we heard a rattling sound upon taking it from the box. However, that sound is due to a small part inside the shower head that creates the pulsing sensation of one of the spray settings—it is not a defect. We also found that the tubing requires some time to loosen up, as it is very stiff out of the package.

Get the Waterpik high-pressure shower head at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Handheld Shower Head

Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 1.75
• Handheld included: Yes
• Spray patterns: 6

What We Like

• Magnetic docking system
• Easy installation
• Multiple jet options 

What We Don’t Like

• Water pressure can vary 

Moen’s handheld shower head offers freedom and flexibility. The base features a magnetic docking system that allows the business end to be quickly detached for handheld use. When done using, simply put it back into the dock and let the magnet snap it into place. The magnet holds firmly, so a bit of force is needed to pull the shower head from the mooring, but once in hand, the weight feels balanced and comfortable—even when slippery with soap and water, it’s easy to hold on to.

A 5-foot interlocking spiral metal water supply hose provides ample reach. The 3.5-inch-diameter spray head features six unique spray functions to provide a customized shower experience and optimal force. Our testing found that the shower head offered everything from a gentle rain shower, perfect for bathing small children, to a high-pressure stream that leaves adults feeling squeaky clean and refreshed. The Moen complies with ADA specifications and boasts EPA WaterSense certification.

Get the Moen Engage high-pressure shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart. 

Best Dual Shower Head

Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 1.75
• Handheld included: Yes
• Spray patterns: 5

What We Like

• Huge diameter for wide, full-body coverage while showering
• Durable materials
• EPA WaterSense-certified shower system
• Offers 5 different user-friendly spray settings 
• Comes with a unique wave spray pattern

What We Don’t Like

• Water pressure can vary

A handheld and overhead all in one, this Delta dual shower head can be used in two basic ways—plus five spray choices make for a luxurious customized shower. The dual shower head can be securely docked overhead or easily detached for handheld use with a separate stainless steel hose. A powerful magnet holds the shower head precisely for easy docking, even if the bather’s eyes are closed. The flexible high-quality hose bends easily, the lever for changing settings moves smoothly, and installation of the unit is a breeze.

Delta’s H2Okinetic In2ition dual shower head provides three times more coverage than a standard shower head with a unique wave spray pattern and larger water droplets. This EPA WaterSense-certified dual shower head system offers four different spray settings plus a pause setting, which saves water by temporarily reducing flow rates to a trickle while lathering or shaving. The spray settings glide rather than click for a more customizable shower experience.

Get the Delta high-pressure dual shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Build With Ferguson.

Most Efficient

High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 1.5
• Handheld included: No
• Spray patterns: 1

What We Like

• Very simple to install
• Straightforward shower head is simple to operate 
• Angle can be adjusted to get water where it is needed

What We Don’t Like

• Only 1 spray setting
• Water pressure can have low flow rates 

Those looking for the best shower experience from the least amount of water will want to check out the High Sierra low-flow shower head. Aside from coming in a host of finishes, there are no bells and whistles with this model. It is a simple shower head with a strong, high-pressure spray even while maintaining a low flow rate of 1.5 GPM.

With its solid metal construction and clog-free nozzle, it’s one of the most rugged, dependable low-flow shower heads available. The patented nozzle delivers a robust and full spray of large water drops for a powerful experience and minimal water usage. We found the installation to be a snap—no surprise, considering the simplicity. The only caveat: This shower head has a small range of movement, but the spray pattern can be angled up or down slightly to suit the height of the user.

Get the High Sierra high-pressure shower head at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Most Unique Option

AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head

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Product Specs

• GPM: 2.5
• Handheld included: Yes
• Spray patterns: 6

What We Like

• 2 shower heads for enhanced full-body coverage 
• Easy to install with no tools 
• 6 spray settings on each for personalized experience 

What We Don’t Like

• Lower pressure when using both shower heads
• Sits high on the bracket
• Poor-quality Teflon tape included

The AquaDance high-pressure shower head is actually two shower heads; they can be used together for a fully immersive experience or separately for a more traditional shower. The larger shower head is 7 inches in diameter, providing a wide spray area, while the 4-inch shower head is a handheld wand with a 5-foot hose that allows for more ease in rinsing. Each shower head has six spray settings, so when using them together, it’s possible to combine settings for a truly personalized experience.

The click-lever dial is easy to move, even with slippery fingers. Our testing found that the water pressure dropped a bit when both shower heads were running, as might be expected when the same amount of water is being forced through more space. Those with low bathroom ceilings might have trouble with installation for this one, as the handheld wand sits higher than the larger shower head. Plus, though installation is simple and toolless, the shower heads come with cheap Teflon tape. To prevent leaks, we recommend buying quality tape separately for installation.

Get the AquaDance high-pressure shower head at Amazon or Target.

Best Power Wash

AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash

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Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5 
• Handheld included: Yes
• Spray patterns: 6 plus 2 cleaning spray patterns

What We Like

• Includes a high-pressure spray nozzle
• Nice variety of spray patterns  
• Has a durable feel

What We Don’t Like

• Rain settings don’t offer the same broad coverage

This clever handheld shower head isn’t just great for a terrific bathing experience—it also speeds up and simplifies the chore of cleaning the shower. That’s because there’s a tile-cleaning mode among the spray options on the nozzle. For luxurious showering, there’s a wide rain spray pattern for maximum coverage, massage settings, mist settings, two combination settings, and a pause setting. The cleaning nozzle includes two spray patterns: a point jet setting for maximum cleaning pressure and a wide fan for broader rinsing. 

During testing, we loved the versatility and performance of this handheld. Like most handheld shower heads, the AquaCare attaches to the shower spigot via a bracket. We found it to be easy to remove and replace, and we liked the broad range of adjustments on the bracket that allowed us to direct the spray for shorter and taller occupants. 

The wide range of settings provides plenty of pressure and good coverage for a handheld shower head, though it didn’t compare to the coverage from some standard shower heads we tested. The soft mist is a gentle alternative to the more powerful rain and massage settings, and the two mixed spray patterns offer pleasant variations. We particularly liked how the massage settings supplied enough pressure to soothe sore muscles with a water flow of 2.5 GPM. 

While we enjoyed the handheld spray patterns and water pressure, the cleaning functions are what set this handheld apart from other models. Both cleaning spray patterns produce a very high-pressure output that worked very well for removing soap scum, mold, and mildew. 

What our expert says: “I liked the solid construction of this handheld, which survived several drops on the shower floor with nary a scratch.”

Get the AquaCare high-pressure shower head at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Rain Shower Head

Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5 
• Handheld included: No
• Spray patterns: 2

What We Like

• Durable and beautiful all-metal construction
• Lever makes it easy to change between patterns
• Provides good coverage thanks  

What We Don’t Like

• Weak water pressure in the “calming” rain setting

Moen’s rain shower head not only offers great coverage; it’s one of the rare models to have all-metal construction. It measures a fairly wide 8 inches in diameter and offers a rain setting and a high-pressure rinse setting, with a lever on the side to switch between the two. The Moen rain shower spray head comes in a variety of finishes, including brushed nickel, brushed gold, chrome, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze. 

One of the most appealing aspects is the shower head’s all-metal construction, which gives it a higher-quality feel than models with plastic housing. Although this made it the most expensive shower head that we tested, we found the look and feel to be a cut above. 

Unfortunately, we were somewhat disappointed with its performance. We liked the coverage offered by the 8-inch diameter size, but the water pressure on the rain shower setting was disappointingly weak. Switching to the high-pressure rinse spray pattern increases the water pressure dramatically, but while we found this spray pattern useful for rinsing conditioner, its spray was too narrow for regular showering. Folks who like a gentle shower experience may be fine with the rain shower, but those who expect an invigorating spray may well be disappointed.

Get the Moen high-pressure rain shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Spray Patterns

Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head

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Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5 GPM
• Handheld included: No
• Spray patterns: 4

What We Like

• Koverage spray pattern produces a wide, soothing rain shower feel
• Komotion spray closely mimics the feel of a heavy rainfall
• Flip design makes it easy to move through spray patterns with 1 hand

What We Don’t Like

• Kotten spray pattern has limited coverage
• Massaging Kurrent spray pattern doesn’t target muscles well

Kohler’s Flipside is a unique take on the multi-spray pattern high-pressure shower head. Rather than move a lever to cycle through the shower head spray patterns, bathers rotate the shower head end over end to switch between its four spray options. Spray settings include a wide, broad spray pattern for coverage, one that mimics the feel of heavy rainfall, and two massaging spray patterns designed to soothe sore muscles. 

During testing, there were things we loved and things we didn’t like about the Kohler Flipside. One of its positives is its Koverage spray pattern: It lives up to its name by providing broad coverage yet feels soft and soothing on the skin, which is impressive. We also liked Kohler’s Komotion spray, which is a drenching spray that mimics heavy rainfall. We weren’t as enthused with Kohler Kotton, which has a soft feel but is such a narrow pattern that it doesn’t offer much coverage, or Kohler Kurrent, which is a massage spray but has a wide yet thin pattern that makes it difficult to focus its pressure on specific muscle groups. 

The flippable shower head design works quite well. Levers can be finicky, often requiring the bather to hold the shower head with one hand while working the lever with the other. With the Kohler, it was a breeze to flip the shower head with one hand to cycle through its spray patterns. 

We loved the look of the Kolher shower head. Its rounded appearance makes it one of the more attractive models we tested. And while it’s also one of the pricier shower heads we tested, it has a durable feel that suggests it will last a long time. 

Get the Kohler Flipside high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Filtered

Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head

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Product Specs 

• GPM: 1.8 
• Handheld included: No 
• Spray patterns: 1 

What We Like

• Comes with a built-in water filter
• Provides a steady and high-pressure flow  
• Over 6 sleek finishes offered  

What We Don’t Like

• Only comes with 1 rain spray pattern
• Water filters only last for 90 days 

Compact, clean, and simple, the Jolie filtered shower head offers high-pressure water flow without the hassle of tricky installation. Made with a built-in water filter that is capable of cleaning all harmful materials and bacteria from the dirtiest well water, we loved that this wall-mounted rain shower head offers relief to dry skin, hair, and nails and it comes in six sleek finishes to match any bathroom’s current fixtures. 

During testing, this model provided consistent and strong water pressure and a rainfall effect. But, our favorite moment with this model was when it was used for washing notoriously frizzy hair. It stood up to the test well, given that we felt the softness of the water immediately and there was a noticeable decrease in frizziness after we dried our hair.

We also loved that the Jolie came with everything required for installation, including a small wrench, plumber’s tape, and the first water filter. However, more filters will need to be purchased after 90 days. Users should also note that there is no filter indicator included. 

Read our full review: Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head

Get the Jolie high-pressure shower head at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads

Before getting our hands on our list of products, we reached out to Roy Barnes, a seasoned plumber and co-owner of Service Force Plumbing in Rockville Maryland, who gave us some expert insights. His main advice is to find a happy medium between coverage and pressure because, as he says, “the fairly universal application of flow restrictors in shower heads for environmental and economic reasons means that there’s a limit to how much water comes out of a modern shower head.” 

Adding to this, he says “the only way to make the flow more powerful is to put a mechanical ‘thumb’ over the shower output.” The tradeoff is that a more focused, pressurized stream will cover less surface area. With this in mind, we researched dozens high-pressure shower heads, chose a select variety, and put them to the test.

We tested them with hands-on trials, guided by a rubric that helped us keep the process fair and as objective as possible. We looked at the gallons per minute (GPM), the ease of installation and use, how suitable they were for the high-pressure needs in a typical shower, and how well they held up over time. 

We also checked out the little things that matter, such as the length of hose in a handheld shower and the ease of removing the product from its packaging. We took note of how the water streams felt on the skin: Does the shower head truly live up to its invigorating high-pressure promise? The results were calculated on our rubric and compiled to present the lineup seen here.

What to Consider When Choosing a High-Pressure Shower Head

There are several functional elements and design features to consider when shopping for a high-pressure shower head. Flow rate is the most important technical concern. In addition to aesthetic choices like appearance and finish, look for features such as spray patterns, energy-saving benefits, and other options. The following are the criteria we considered in making the picks in the above lineup.

Design

There are four basic high-pressure shower head designs: wall-mounted, handheld, rain shower head, and three-way. The model that works best for each person will depend on bathroom size and layout, along with personal preference.

• A wall-mounted shower head, also known as a fixed shower head, stays in place on a wall and may feature an adjustable spray pattern. It’s available in a standard size as well as larger models. 
• A rain shower head is a large fixed overhead shower head with a much broader coverage area and a sensory experience comparable to being out in a rain shower. The best high-pressure rain shower head gives a powerful, immersive shower experience.
• A handheld shower head connects to the water supply with a flexible hose and sometimes comes with spray pattern options. This simplifies tasks such as bathing young children, washing the dog, and cleaning the surrounding shower area. Doctors often recommend them for patients after surgeries that impair movement. A handheld shower head paired with a wall-mounted option is often called a dual shower head.
• A three-way shower head includes both handheld and fixed shower heads, with a three-way diverter that allows the user to choose one or the other, or both at the same time.

Finish

The finish on a shower head is a purely aesthetic choice, and options are surprisingly diverse, from shiny chrome to warm brass to trendy black matte. Finishes offer many opportunities to customize the look of the shower along with the rest of the bathroom. For cohesion, the shower head should complement (if not exactly match) other bathroom hardware: the sink faucet, toilet flush lever, drawer pulls, towel racks, etc.

The materials and application methods used in chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless finishes make them top choices for durability. Chrome is the most popular shower head finish by far, while polished brass is its golden-hued counterpart. These shiny finishes give a clean and classic look, but they also highlight every soap spot. Matte finishes like brushed nickel and stainless offer the same durability as chrome but resist spotting.

Spray Patterns

A high-pressure shower head provides plenty of force, but the spray pattern determines the comfort. Most shower heads have adjustable spray patterns, with some offering eight or more options. Choose from a pulsating massage, a powerful stream, a gentle mist, a soaking rain, or a combination spray pattern. To satisfy the whole family, consider buying a shower head with high pressure and plenty of spray pattern options.

Flow Rate

Flow rate is known as one of the most important considerations when selecting a shower head. Since the flow rate controls the overall water pressure coming out of the shower head, it is the key component users will want to consider if they have preferences about their shower experience. For example, for those who like massagelike water pressure, a shower head with a high flow rate should do the trick! 

Getting down to technical terms, the flow rate, shown in GPM, measures how much water flows through a shower head. Most standard shower heads are rated around 2.0 GPM, with the maximum flow rate being 2.5 GPM. These high-flow rate shower heads deliver 2.5 gallons of water each minute, or 25 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower.

Energy-Saving Certification

Governments regulate showerhead flow rates to help conserve water and energy. Water-saving shower heads that earn the EPA WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. The EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a low-flow WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year. (An incredible savings, considering that showering accounts for approximately 17 percent of home water use.)

When shopping for an efficient shower head, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it; look for the WaterSense label. EPA-certified WaterSense shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy.

Optional Features

Many modern shower heads come with unique features that enhance safety, comfort, and convenience—think lights, sound, and smart technology.

LED lights can simply brighten a dimly lit shower, but a model with colorful—or even color-changing—LED lights turns the shower into a fun oasis. Some shower heads include a Bluetooth speaker to listen to music or to keep up with a favorite podcast. Other shower heads available are smart models that turn on automatically, control water temperature, track water usage, play tunes, and answer incoming phone calls.

The Advantages of Owning a High-Pressure Shower Head

High-pressure shower heads offer an improved showering experience over conventional models. These powerful shower heads decrease the water flow rate while increasing water pressure by employing variable spray patterns or compression-chamber engineering. The increased pressure feels invigorating and cleans efficiently, while the decreased flow rate saves water. This is especially helpful in places where household water pressure is lacking.

High-pressure shower heads use about one-fifth less water-flow rates compared to their conventional counterparts. Because they use less water, there is not as much water to heat, so they save on energy consumption, too. Water and power savings translate to money saved every month after switching to a high-pressure shower head. In brief, high-pressure shower heads:

• Reduce water and energy bills.
• Conserve water.
• Upgrade the showering experience in homes with low water pressure.

FAQs

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag. 

Additional research provided by Mark Wolfe, Shannon Lee, and Stephanie Cronk.

The post Our Favorite High-Pressure Shower Head Can Totally Transform Your Shower—And Installs In Seconds appeared first on Bob Vila.

That inconspicuous toilet shut-off valve doesn’t see much action. In fact, that valve may sit for years without ever being closed. That’s not a good thing. After going unused for so long, the valve’s rubber washers begin to dry rot so that when you finally give it a turn, it leaks. And since the valve is usually only closed when the toilet isn’t working, a leaking shut-off valve often adds insult to a repair that’s already in progress.

This guide explains how to replace a toilet shut-off valve, and get your porcelain throne back in service as soon as possible.

Before You Begin

You need to assess the type of plumbing you have before starting a toilet shut-off valve replacement.

• If you live in a home built before 1980, chances are you have iron pipes. Corroded iron pipes can break and crumble when you attempt to remove an old shut-off valve, turning what was supposed to be an easy repair project into a DIY nightmare. For that reason, it’s best to hire a professional if you’re dealing with old cast iron plumbing.
• You may also encounter copper plumbing. Copper pipes are often joined to toilet shut-off valves through a process called sweating, which involves soldering the joint with a blowtorch. This isn’t necessarily an obstacle for DIYers. You can easily cut a sweated copper joint and replace it with a compression connection, avoiding the need to wield high-intensity flames and combustible gas. But, if you want to “sweat” the new joint, it’s best to hire a professional plumber.

Finally, keep in mind that once you begin the process of replacing a toilet shut-off valve, your home will be without water until you complete the repair. Make sure you have all the necessary plumbing tools and supplies before you start, so you can finish the repair as quickly as possible and turn your water back on again.

How to Replace a Toilet Shut-Off Valve

Step 1: Cut the water supply to the house.

The water main shut-off valve in a home is usually located in the basement, but may be found in various other locations, including the laundry room, under the kitchen sink, or in a bedroom closet. Once you’ve found it, tighten the valve to shut off the water.

Step 2: Drain the water lines.

Before you remove the toilet shut-off valve, you’ll need to drain the supply line to prevent the water remaining in the pipe from gushing out onto your bathroom floor. Open a faucet that is below the level of the toilet valve you’re replacing. This step allows excess water to drain out of the water lines above it, including the pipe that supplies your toilet with water.

Step 3: Disconnect the supply line.

The toilet supply line is the flexible metal hose that runs from the toilet to the valve. Place a small bucket on the floor under the valve to catch any excess water that escapes from the line before you remove it. Use a crescent wrench to remove the bolt that connects the supply line to the valve. Then disconnect the line from the valve.

Step 4: Remove the old toilet shut-off valve.

The process for removing the toilet valve varies depending on the type of connection:

• For compression joints, use a crescent wrench to unscrew the bolt connecting the pipe to the existing valve while holding the pipe with a pair of pliers. The pliers will prevent the pipe from being twisted or bent as you apply pressure with the crescent wrench to loosen the bolt. Once you’ve removed the nut, pull the old valve off of the pipe. Then remove and discard the nut and compression rings.
• For sweated copper joints, place a tube cutter over the copper pipe as close to the old valve as you can. You need to leave enough pipe extending from the wall to have room to install the new fitting. Tighten the pipe cutter and rotate until it cuts completely through the metal, and then remove the valve.

Step 5: Install the new shut-off valve.

If you’re installing the new valve to a copper pipe, use a deburring tool to remove the sharp edge created when you cut it. Push the tool into the pipe firmly and turn a few revolutions until the edge is smooth. Skip this step if you’re working with a PVC pipe.

Next, slide the compression nut onto the copper or PVC pipe with the threads facing towards you. Then push the compression ring onto the tube. Slide the new valve over the pipe until it stops, ensuring the valve’s outlet is correctly oriented upward to receive the toilet’s supply line.

Hand-tighten the compression nut onto the threading of the new valve’s input. Then use two crescent wrenches, one to hold the valve body in place and the other to engage the nut, to tighten the nut another half turn.

Tried-and-True Advice

“When I replaced a toilet shut-off valve in my older home, I struggled with loosening the compression nut due to years of buildup and corrosion. A trick that worked like magic was gently heating the nut with a hair dryer for a few minutes. The heat caused the metal to expand slightly, making it much easier to unscrew. Just be careful not to overheat the area, especially if you’re working near plastic components, and always wear gloves to protect your hands from any hot surfaces. This simple tip saved me from damaging the pipe, and reduced frustration.”

—Paul Rankin, Contributing Writer

Step 6: Attach the toilet supply line.

Connect the toilet supply line to the new shut-off valve. If the supply line includes a compression nut, you can remove and discard the nut included with the new valve. Thread the nut onto the valve output. Hand-tighten the nut, then use a crescent wrench to tighten it another half turn.

If you can’t get the supply hose to line up with the new valve, you’ll need to loosen the valve nut and reposition it, so it lines up with the supply line. Make sure you adequately tighten all nuts before proceeding to the next step.

Step 7: Turn the water supply to the house back on.

Open the water main in the house then loosen the toilet shut-off valve by turning it counterclockwise. As the water begins filling the toilet’s tank, check for leaks around the new valve.

If there is a leak, shut off the water, empty the lines, and unscrew the valve’s compression nut. Add plumbers tape or plumbers putty to the threads on the valve. Reinstall, making sure to tighten all compression nuts, and recheck the fitting.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a leaky toilet valve is a repair that most DIYers can complete in a few short hours. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your toilet valve replacement will go smoothly, eliminating the offending leak and allowing you to get your toilet back into service.

This project is one that most DIYers can handle, but remember not to bite off more than you can chew. Wrestling with old corroded iron plumbing is a recipe for DIY disaster. You can manage the PVC and copper repairs yourself, but call a plumber for the old stuff.

The post How to Replace a Toilet Shut-Off Valve appeared first on Bob Vila.

Covering your wall with a large floor-to-ceiling mirror seemed like such a good idea back in the 1980s, but a lot has changed in the past 40 years. Today, that expansive feature can really date an interior. Homeowners are even looking to do away with large, unframed mirrors in the bathroom that span the wall from countertop to ceiling for something with more shape and personality.

The good news is that, ripping out a glued-on wall mirror and patching the wall underneath is a DIY that patient homeowners can do so themselves. The wall repair work can range from patching divots to skim coating and sanding the entire wall, depending on how carefully you’ve removed the mirror and adhesive.

3 Ways to Remove a Mirror That’s Been Glued to the Wall

These are the three methods for taking down a wall mirror that’s been mounted with glue. The solutions range from slow and neat to quick but dangerous and messy:

1. Saw and slice.

Starting at an outside corner, you slide a wire saw between the wall and the mirror and work the saw back and forth to cut through the adhesive. This method requires a lot of physical effort and can be frustrating because the wire clogs easily with adhesive.

2. Smash and grab.

This method involves using a hammer to smash the wall mirror, and then using a hair dryer and a 3-inch putty knife to pry off the remaining adhesive portions. This is the the fastest removal method, but it’s also the most dangerous and leaves the biggest mess. Even with careful vacuuming and cleanup, you may find glass pieces in the room months after the fact.

3. Heat and pry.

This method involves heating the glass tile with a hair dryer in order to soften the adhesive behind it, then gently prying the tile off the wall. Though this method takes the longest, it results in the least glass breakage and removes the most adhesive.

We recommend using the hair dryer method because it leaves your wall in the best shape, and saves you time during the patching phase. See below for step-by-step instructions for removing a wall mirror using this method. Plan to set aside a full day for your work.

Using Heat and a Putty Knife to Remove a Wall Mirror

Step 1: Wear personal protective equipment and clothing to prevent injuries.

Dress in long sleeves, long pants, and work boots to protect skin and feet from any falling glass. Wear heavy leather work gloves and eye protection at all times, from start to final cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare your work area for easier cleanup later.

Spread a heavy canvas drop cloth below the tiles, extending it far as possible into the room to catch any shards of glass. Relocate a metal garbage can to your work area and plan to empty it often throughout this process—glass is heavy, so you won’t want to wait to haul it all out at the end!

Step 3: Cover the wall mirror tiles with self-adhesive contact paper.

Peel off the back of a self-adhesive shelf or drawer liner and apply the sticky vinyl film across the mirror, pressing it firmly against the glass. This should hold broken pieces together and greatly reduce the risk of flying glass. Plus, it provides a safer working environment and faster cleanup.

Then, if you are in fact dealing with tiles and not a single stretch of unframed mirror, slice around each tile with a utility knife to separate the tiles.

Tried-and-True Advice

“When I was removing a large, glued-on wall mirror, I realized how important it was to have extra support in case the mirror suddenly detached from the wall. Before starting, I positioned a sturdy step ladder sideways in front of the mirror, and put a thick towel over it to act as a padded barrier. This setup gave me peace of mind, knowing that if the mirror came loose unexpectedly, it wouldn’t fall to the ground and shatter.

I also asked a friend to help, which made a huge difference. Having an extra set of hands to steady the mirror as I worked made the process much safer and more manageable. Taking these precautions can save you a lot of stress and prevent potential accidents.”

—Paul Rankin, Contributing Writer

Step 4: Heat and pry the tiles off.

Start in an area (either a side or corner) where you will have the most room to wedge a large drywall knife between the wall and the mirror. Pick a side of the mirror that doesn’t butt up against a wall or countertop. Then, heat one entire glass tile or, on a large bathroom mirror, the area closest to the prying edge with your hair dryer set on high heat for a few minutes so that it warms the adhesive behind the mirror.

Slide a 3-inch putty knife behind the tile and move it around to help you locate the adhesive. Every installation is different, but glue typically goes on in five blobs per tile—one near each corner, and one in the middle of the glass—and not immediately around the edges because that would have risked adhesive bleeding out the seams. Once you’ve hit the patch of adhesive, then partially slip a 6-inch drywall knife slightly under the glass tile to start separating it from the wall enough to insert a small pry bar.

Carefully wedge the pry bar in near one adhesive area, and gently pry to force the tile out slightly. If you pry against the drywall knife rather than the wall, you’re less likely to scrape, scuff, or otherwise damage the wall behind the mirror with your tools. Add more heat to soften the glue as necessary.

Repeat at each adhesive location until you feel the entire tile has loosened. Once you pry it up enough to get your fingers under, you can grab its edges (carefully) with your hands and pop it off. From that point on, after you’ve established what pattern the glue went on in during the installation, heat the mirror only in the area directly above the adhesive. That’ll speed up the project.

Step 5: Remove adhesive that didn’t come off the wall with the mirror.

Inspect the wall that the mirror was on for remaining adhesive. Use the hair dryer and the 3-inch putty knife to scrape away all remaining adhesive, even if it tears off the drywall paper. You can patch that in the next step.

Step 6: Repair the wall.

Partially patch the drywall with lightweight, fast-setting joint compound like Easy Sand 45. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

Forty-five to 90 minutes later, after the setting compound has hardened, apply a layer of topping compound. Why switch? A topping compound is easier to spread or “feather out” with a knife and sand than fast-setting compounds. Again, apply and let it dry fully for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. Then, sand the wall in full.

If the surface looks terribly uneven, skim-coat the wall with a thin coating of lightweight joint compound and sand when dry.

With all mirror and adhesive removed and imperfections filled, your repaired wall is ready to prime the entire wall with a high-quality drywall primer and paint.

The post How to Remove a Wall Mirror appeared first on Bob Vila.

It’s never an ideal situation: A quick trip to the bathroom followed by a single flush and, boom, you’re dealing with a clogged drain or—much worse—a nearly overflowing toilet. If you find yourself without a plunger, you don’t know how to plunge a toilet, or if you’ve tried using a plunger and it didn’t work, you have a few options left before resorting to hiring a plumber. The good news is that you can usually take care of a clogged toilet or toilet overflow using items you already have in your bathroom or kitchen cabinets.

1. Pour in Some Hot (But Not Boiling) Water

When you notice a nasty clog or your toilet won’t flush, your best bet is to pour in some hot water. You can turn the tap in your bathroom sink or tub to the hottest setting or heat the water up a bit on the stove, but don’t let the water get to boiling point. Pour it down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes to see if it loosens the clog. You’ll know if your efforts were successful if you see the water start to drain. Then, give the toilet a flush or two. In many cases, hot water is enough to break up whatever is causing the backup.

Pro tip from a BobVila.com editor who recently used this technique: Cupfuls of hot water don’t help much, but larger quantities do. Fill a water pitcher, small bucket, or even your bathroom wastebasket with hot water, and pour the water from a standing position. Repeat, repeat, repeat.

2. Swish in Some Dish Soap

If you need to kick the unclogging process up a notch, fetch some dish soap from the kitchen and squeeze a generous amount, about a 1/4 cup should do, into the toilet bowl. Let the soap sit for 5 to 10 minutes so it has time to move down the drain and reach the clog. Then, add hot water (again, not boiling water) to the bowl and let the soapy mixture sit. In most cases, the dish soap will act as a lubricant and grease the clog in the toilet drain enough to get everything moving again.

Tried-and-True Advice

“This is going to sound ridiculous, but one strategy for unclogging a toilet without a plunger that Lucy did not mention is laying plastic wrap across the rim of the bowl. No lie, I’ve actually tried this.

The idea is to use the plastic wrap to create an air vacuum in the bowl, increasing the downward pressure on the flush to release modest clogs. The key step here is to make sure the plastic wrap is sealed tightly along the rim. Then you flush, and as the bowl fills with water, forcing the air inside to swell up against the plastic wrap, you press the plastic wrap down. The added pressure should be enough to drive the water down the pipe, hopefully removing the blockage. Of course, this method requires getting a little more…intimate with a clogged toilet than most people are comfortable with. If that includes you, just invest in a plunger. It’s worth it.”

—Chase Brush, Contributing Writer

3. Mix in Baking Soda and Vinegar

Who knew that something you learned in elementary school science would help with toilet troubles? Don’t try this hack if the water in your toilet bowl is already at the brim—you’ll want to either drain some of the water first, or wait until the water level recedes.

Here’s what to do: Pour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar down the toilet drain. When the vinegar and baking soda combine, the natural chemical reaction will bubble up and loosen the clog. After about 30 minutes, follow up with some hot water and see if it drains. If it does, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t, repeat the process.

4. Use the Toilet Brush

This may sound a little unpleasant, but if you’re really in a bind and there’s no toilet plunger in sight, grab a toilet brush and angle the bristles down the drain. Pumping up and down a few times should be enough to loosen things up so the clog clears in no time. (If you want a plunger handy in case your toilet clogs again, you’ll find some good options in our researched guide to the best plungers.)

5. Unwind a Wire Hanger

If you don’t have access to a drain snake, you can fashion your own using a wire coat hanger from your closet. Simply unwind the hanger so that it’s completely straight with the exception of the hook. Then, wrap a small rag around the hook to help prevent any scratches or damage to the porcelain and, while wearing rubber gloves, gently angle the hanger down the drain until you find the clog. When the water starts to drain, flush the toilet a few times to clear it out.

6. DIY Your Own Drain De-Clogger

Don’t run out to buy a commercial drain unclogging product. Instead, create your own DIY de-clogger by mixing together the following ingredients: 2 cups baking soda, 1/4 cup Epsom salt, and 8 to 10 tablespoons of dish detergent (add 1 tablespoon at a time). Pour the combination into individual muffin liners, then let them dry and harden overnight. The next morning, drop one into the toilet bowl, add 4 cups of water, and let it sit for a few hours to see results.

7. Bust Out the Shop Vac

As a last resort: Try to suck out the clog with a shop vac. If you don’t have one, you can rent a wet/dry vacuum from your local hardware store. Do not try this with a regular vacuum.

• First, use the shop vac it to empty the water from the bowl.
• Next, wrap the hose in an old rag to create a seal.
• Stick the wet/dry vacuum a few inches down the drain. When you turn on the vacuum, it should suck out the clog.
• Don’t forget to wear rubber gloves!

The post 7 Clever Ways to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger appeared first on Bob Vila.

Q: My bathtub sealant needs a refresh, and I’ve decided to re-caulk the tub myself. How long does caulk take to dry before it’s ready for use?

A: There’s nothing like fresh caulk—a waterproof filler and sealant, used in home construction and repairs—to give your bathroom a bright, clean look and feel. Over time, moisture can erode even the best sealant, allowing mold and mildew to form. Despite bleach and scrubbing, dinginess can persist, so replacing the caulk is a smart move. But if the caulk isn’t allowed to fully cure, it can more easily wash away, ruining your hard work and leaving joined surfaces susceptible to water damage. Keep reading to learn how long caulk takes to dry and cure, so your project is a success.

Factors That Affect Drying Times

Understand that there’s a vital distinction between “dry time” and “cure time” when it comes to caulking. Most products will become dry to the touch after several minutes, but won’t fully cure until days after application. Be sure to also factor in the following when determining how long it takes caulk to dry:

“Fast-drying” formulas still take time.

Some silicone caulks are advertised as “fast-drying,” claiming a 1-hour dry time, but read the fine print before planning your project based on this information: It may be that the ideal drying conditions for this rate are a narrow range of temperatures and humidity levels. Budget at least 3 to 12 hours for these products to dry and a full 24 hours to cure. For latex-based products, 24 hours is also recommended before water exposure. Polyurethane caulks can take up to 10 days to cure fully.

Some caulks are formulated to cure under a coat of paint.

If you intend to paint over caulk—for example, if you have tile molding in your bathroom, separating a tiled backsplash from a painted wall—you’ll find caulk that’s formulated to continue curing beneath a coat of paint. With these products, you can typically apply paint after 30 minutes, whereas with polyurethane caulk, you must wait 7 to 10 days until the surface is cured before painting. Whatever formula you choose, be sure to read instructions thoroughly, as each manufacturer has different formulas, with optimal methods for application and drying.

Each type of caulk responds differently to moisture.

An acrylic latex-based caulk dries as the water evaporates from the material, so placing a fan in the room will speed up the process. In contrast, silicone caulks actually need moisture to dry and cure—a humidifier in the room is an asset. Polyurethane caulk should not be exposed to any direct water or added moisture for at least 3 days to a week.

Temperature will impact the caulk’s drying time.

The ideal temperature for applying and curing caulk ranges between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so adjust your thermostat accordingly. If caulking in winter, when the air is often drier, it may take silicone longer to cure—but don’t try to speed the process by adding heat (e.g., with a hairdryer), as heat softens and can potentially melt silicone. Latex will freeze in extreme cold, and frigid air lacks enough moisture for proper polyurethane curing, so avoid using it in freezing temperatures.

You’ll always get the best results using fresh caulk.

Older silicone and latex caulks can deteriorate in quality, even inside a sealed tube, and never fully cure. Most companies will put an expiration date on the caulk tube, but if you have a tube of undated caulk lying around, you can play it safe and buy a new one or test a strip on a solid surface first. You should notice a firm “skin” begin to form within 30 minutes if the caulk is fresh. Polyurethane caulk should be used within 12 months of the manufacture date.

Types of Caulk and Their Curing Times

In general, silicone and acrylic latex caulk can be dry to touch within 30 minutes of air exposure, depending on how humid or well-ventilated your space is. But it can take 1 to 10 days, depending on the formula, for the caulk to fully set and become completely waterproof and ready for use.

Start with the right caulk for the job, which will have unique dry and cure times. There are three types of caulk for common household surfaces that receive a lot of moisture—like tubs, showers, and sinks:

Silicone Caulk

Silicone caulk works best with glass, metal, and ceramic because it adheres easily to smooth, nonporous surfaces, creating a flexible yet long-lasting bond. Silicone caulks are widely considered the best caulks for bathrooms and kitchens; some even contain antimicrobial additives.

Acrylic Latex Caulk

Acrylic latex caulk is best for filling small gaps and joints in wood, especially areas that will be painted and not exposed to much water. This is because acrylic latex caulks can shrink or crack over time, leaving surfaces open to water damage. Some acrylic latex caulks now have silicone additives to improve flexibility, durability, and water resistance, making them appropriate for caulking around showers, tubs, and sinks.

Polyurethane-Based Caulk

Polyurethane-based caulk is growing in popularity; these caulks are good for exterior use, particularly around windows. Polyurethane is paintable, provides greater elasticity, repels dirt, and creates a watertight seal. It does take longer to cure than silicone or latex caulks, however.

Final Thoughts

Caulk is one of the most versatile materials used in home improvement projects and repairs. As such, caulk applications, formulas, and cure times vary greatly. But considering several factors such as temperature, humidity and, most important, the product label, you can effectively estimate how long it takes caulk to dry.

FAQs

The post How Long Does Caulk Take to Dry? appeared first on Bob Vila.

Q: My bathroom sink isn’t draining very well, and it’s driving me crazy. While the water does eventually drain out, it takes a long time—and, in the meantime, it’s hard to use a sink full of dirty water. What can be done about the slow sink drain?

A: If by the time you finish brushing your teeth, you’re leaning over a sink full of water dotted with toothpaste foam, you face a very common problem: a partial sink clog. While frustrating, a slow sink drain is easy enough for most homeowners to remedy on their own. The culprit is generally a slimy mixture of soap scum, hair, hair styling products, and/or thick shaving foam that has accumulated on the drain walls. While you might be tempted to reach for commercial drain openers right off the bat, know that these harsh and corrosive chemicals can irritate your skin and eyes and even harm old pipes. Since removing the blockage often doesn’t require any chemicals at all, we suggest playing it safe and trying the natural solutions outlined here.

Clean the stopper.

Because of its position at the mouth of the drain and the metal “tail” that extends a couple inches into the pipe, the sink stopper—the small raised metal device used to plug the sink’s drain on command—tends to catch hair, soap, and other debris. Once this trapped ball of slime gets too big, you have a slow sink drain.

In many modern sinks, you can remove the stopper simply by unscrewing it. In some older sinks, a small tether holds the stopper in place. If your sink is the latter type, follow these instructions to remove the stopper for cleaning:

1. Look underneath the sink, right where the basin connects to the pipe, and you’ll typically see a small rod with a nut and clip attached to the pipe.
2. Turn the nut to detach it—you might need pliers if it’s tight—squeeze the clip to release the rod, and lift the stopper out of the drain.
3. If the stopper is covered in slimy grunge and hair, use a paper towel or rag to thoroughly clean off all of the residues.

Melt the sludge.

A slimy coating along the inside of the sink’s drainpipe will narrow the opening and slow drainage. Here’s an easy way to dislodge built-up residue in the pipe using only common household pantry items.

1. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into the drain followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar; the fizzing and bubbling reaction helps to break up small clogs.

2. Block the drain using a small rag so the chemical reaction doesn’t all bubble up out. Wait 15 minutes.

3. Now pour a kettle’s worth of hot water down the drain, and run hot sink water for several minutes to further flush out the melted slime.

Lift out debris.

If cleaning the drain walls didn’t fix the problem, fish out any accumulated debris with a small hair clog tool or drain snake.

Generally made of flexible plastic, drain snakes such as the FlexiSnake Drain Weasel feature long stems with a handle at one end and small barbs at the other; the barbs grab onto hair and other debris inside the clogged sink drain.

With the stopper removed, insert the plastic line down the drain, wiggle it around, and lift it out frequently to wipe off whatever you hook. Continue to do this until you can no longer pull up any blockage.

Use a plunger.

Sometimes the clog is further down the drain than even a drain-cleaning tool can reach. A sink plunger can help. For the best results:

1. Block the sink’s overflow hole with a small rag.
2. Place your cup-shaped sink plunger—not a toilet plunger, which has a flange for sealing a toilet’s outlet—over the sink drain.
3. Fill the basin with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup.
4. Now plunge up and down in short, quick movements to force as much air as possible down into the drain.
5. If the clog dislodges, you should see the water in the sink quickly drain away.

Snake the drain with an auger.

If you’ve tried all of the above steps but are still stuck with a slow sink drain, it’s time to get a bit more aggressive. Pick up a drain snake, also called a drain auger, from the home improvement store (or check out our roundup of the best drain snakes available for purposes like this). This metal cable extends anywhere from three to 25 feet long with a spiral catch at the other end so you can dislodge clogs located beyond the reach of a sink-cleaning tool or plunger.

With the stopper removed, insert the tip of the snake into the drain. Feed the snake further down the pipe, periodically retracting it to clean away any accumulated grunge. Keep a trash can nearby, because you’ll need somewhere to toss whatever comes out of the drain.

If you feel a block in the pipe, crank the drain snake’s handle to break through and wiggle the tool gently from side to side to catch the clog. Once the snake has a little give again, remove the snake and its contents and flush the drain with hot water.

Check the P-trap.

Look underneath your sink and you’ll see a U-shaped bend in the pipe. This is the P-trap, and while its purpose is to maintain a small standing pool of water to prevent sewer gas from backing up into your home, it’s also a prime spot for loose change, lost rings, debris, even lost toys to accumulate.

1. To clear your P-trap, start by turn off the water supply to the sink. While you’re at, remove any items store under the sink. Leave only a bucket placed directly underneath the P-trap to catch dirty water.
2. In most homes, the P-trap is held in place by slip nuts at each end of the curved pipe. These are usually plastic but can be chrome in older houses. Twist the slip nuts counterclockwise with your fingers or a wrench and, once the slip nuts are loosened, lift away the P-trap section of pipe.
3. Use your gloved fingers, a stiff brush, or an unbent coat hanger to push out any apparent blockages.

When the job is done, reattach the plumbing, tighten the slip nuts securely, and turn the water back on.

Keep things flowing with a little preventative maintenance.

Since a slow-draining sink is a problem that gradually escalates over time, you can minimize the chance of making a day of this by following a few basic precautions.

• When you see loose strands of hair in the sink, toss them into the trash rather than washing them down the drain. The same goes for gobs of toothpaste and soap: Better to wipe up than rinse away.
• If long hair often ends up in the sink, cover the stopper with a plastic or wire mesh shower drain hair catcher to collect hair before it goes down the drain during your grooming routine.
• Knock dirt and any other thick, heavy, or sticky materials into the trash before washing up.
• Make cleaning the sink stopper a part of your regular bathroom cleaning routine. Lift it out to wipe away hair, scum, and residue weekly.
• Regularly flush out the drain with very hot water to help melt away soap scum and sludge.
• Once each month or two, remove the stopper and pour 1 tablespoon of table salt and a 1/4 white vinegar into the drain, flushing the mixture away with hot water. This combination should loosen stubborn grunge before it builds into a clog.

The post How to Fix a Slow Sink Drain appeared first on Bob Vila.

There’s no such thing as a truly refreshing bathing experience in a shower that looks, or even feels, dirty. To keep the tub, tile, grout, liner and door impeccably clean, laborious scrubbing is rarely necessary. You can normally get by just fine with light cleaning, as long as you do so consistently, and after each use.

DIY Shower Cleaner Recipes

Homemade shower cleaner costs almost nothing to make and contains just a few simple ingredients you probably have on hand in your pantry. That said, no matter how dutifully you clean the shower, there are occasions that call for deeper cleaning. We have recipes to help you handle that, too.

1. Daily Cleaning

White vinegar is inexpensive, readily available, nontoxic and wonderfully effective when diluted in an everyday cleaner.

1. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water, and you should have enough to last at least a couple of weeks.
2. Spray down the shower after each time you use it, and the homemade shower cleaner will combat odors and prevent the growth of bacteria and the buildup of grime.

If you’re not fond of the smell of vinegar, add in a few drops of the essential oil of your choice.

2. Biweekly Cleaning

Even if you are consistent about using the daily homemade shower cleaner, chances are that you’ll need to deep clean the shower a couple of times a month to make it sparkle.

1. On those occasions, mix 1 or 2 cups of baking soda with a few drops of liquid dish soap.
2. Use a scrub brush or sponge to apply the cleanser, and run the shower to rinse the cleaner.

The baking soda acts as an abrasive agent to dislodge stubborn residue, while the soap breaks down grease and oils.

3. Mold Fighting Formula

With all its moisture, cracks, and crevices, the shower is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you get behind on your cleaning regimen and your shower starts looking a little murky, whip up this mix to get it back to rights.

1. In a large spray bottle or pump sprayer, combine 1/3 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup baking soda, and 7 cups of water.
2. Spray down the shower, then watch as the vinegar and baking soda together create a cleansing, bubbling foam.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe down the tiles and tub with a damp cloth.
4. Run the shower again to rinse away the cleaner.

4. Shower Door Cleaner

Cleaning shower doors is a two-stage approach, but the mixtures for each stage, just two ingredients each, barely count as recipes.

1. First, mix baking soda and water into a thick paste, then use a sponge to apply that paste to the glass.
2. After rinsing the paste, spray on a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar.
3. Finishing by wiping the glass with a soft cloth that won’t leave streaks.

The post How to Make Homemade Shower Cleaner appeared first on Bob Vila.

Most bathroom and kitchen faucets have fittings called faucet aerators. These fittings mix air into the water as it passes through the aerator faucet to create a smooth stream made up of numerous tiny water droplets. The sink aerator also acts to restrict the flow of water. This combination of air injection and low faucet flow helps to reduce overall water consumption.

However, the faucet screen in the aerator can become clogged with mineral deposits or coated in iron oxide residue, causing low water pressure and an erratic spray pattern. To resolve this issue, it helps to know how to clean a faucet aerator.

The first step is learning how to remove a faucet aerator without damaging the fitting. After removing the aerator, the next step is to learn how to clean the aerator on a kitchen faucet or bathroom faucet. It’s a relatively simple job that should take no longer than 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

Project Overview

Working time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Skill level: Beginner
Estimated cost: $0–$45

Before You Begin

Cleaning a faucet aerator is a basic task that novice DIYers can handle. The key is to be careful as you work—you don’t want to damage the aerator or lose any pieces of this fitting during disassembly or reassembly.

Keep a small bowl or container nearby to corral the parts after you’ve taken the aerator apart. It’s also a good idea to place a towel or plug in the bottom of the sink to prevent the small pieces from falling into the drain.

How to Clean a Kitchen or Bathroom Sink Faucet Aerator

If you’ve never dissembled the aerator before, you may want to take a few photos as you work to ensure that you put the parts back together in the correct order.

Step 1: Remove the aerator from the faucet.

An aerator will be attached to the end of your faucet. You can loosen the aerator by gripping it tightly and turning it in a clockwise direction. If the aerator doesn’t move when you try to hand loosen it, use a pair of tongue-and-groove pliers to gently grab the aerator and turn it in the clockwise direction. Keep in mind that the metal teeth on the pliers can damage the exterior of the aerator if you apply too much pressure.

To get a better grip on the aerator without damaging it, apply a strip of masking tape to the outside of the aerator. This layer of protection helps to prevent the pliers from scratching the finish.

If you cannot find the aerator, your faucet may not have one or it may be hidden inside the end of the faucet. You can remove a hidden aerator with a specialized tool known as a faucet aerator key wrench.

If you have not been able to remove the aerator from the faucet, the aerator could be seized due to mineral deposit buildup. You can still clean the parts by filling a small plastic bag with vinegar and tying the bag to the end of the faucet, submerging the aerator. After allowing the aerator to soak, try removing it again.

Step 2: Check for debris and disassemble the aerator.

With the aerator removed, inspect the inside for any hard water debris or built-up residue that could be binding the parts together. Use your finger or a small screwdriver to gently scrape away any mineral deposits to free the pieces of the aerator. Once free, you can disassemble the aerator, taking pictures as you disassemble the parts to ensure they are reassembled in the correct order. Keep the parts in a safe place to avoid losing them.

Faucet aerators are made up of several parts that sit inside the metal aerator body, including an outer housing, screen, bushing, mixer, flow restrictor, and washer. A toothpick or a similarly small and thin object can help to pop apart the pieces of the aerator and clean out any debris trapped in the threads or blocking the holes in the screen.

Step 3: Rinse away loose residue and soak the aerator in vinegar.

Carefully rinse and inspect each piece of the aerator for any signs of significant damage. If the internal pieces of the aerator are damaged, then it’s recommended to replace this fitting entirely. A simple cleaning will not be able to restore its proper flow or function. Some debris and grime will not be able to be rinsed off the aerator pieces. Instead, you should proceed as you would if you were learning how to clean a faucet head.

Prepare a bowl with enough white vinegar for the pieces of the aerator to be fully submerged. Place the pieces of the aerator into the container and allow the vinegar to break down the tough residue over the next 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Scrub the aerator clean with a toothbrush.

After soaking the aerator parts in vinegar, most of the grime and mineral buildup should be gone, but to ensure the fitting is completely clean, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub the individual parts.

Hold the screen and mixer up to the light in the bathroom to inspect the parts for any residual debris. The tough bristles of a toothbrush can get into small holes and crevices, allowing them to break apart any leftover fragments. Work slowly to avoid damaging the parts.

Step 5: Rinse, reassemble, and reinstall the aerator.

Run the faucet to rinse each part of the aerator before carefully reassembling this fitting. Use the pictures you took during disassembly to ensure the parts are put back in the correct order. With the aerator reassembled, you can reinstall it on the faucet.

Use your hands to carefully thread the aerator into the end of the faucet, turning counterclockwise to tighten the fitting. Turn the water on to test the flow of the water. You may only need to hand-tighten the aerator, but if any water sprays or gushes out of the side of the fitting, use a wrench to finish tightening the aerator.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning a faucet aerator is a simple, inexpensive job you can usually complete in less than an hour, which is a great incentive to tackle this task sooner than later. Make sure to check and clean the aerator at least twice a year to help prevent mineral deposits from building up. If work is being done on the plumbing system or the neighborhood water lines, you may need to clean the aerator more frequently.

During the inspection and cleaning process, you may encounter broken or worn parts. If this is the case, it’s time to replace the aerator for your faucet. Trying to use a broken fitting only creates more problems. A new faucet aerator isn’t expensive; make sure to take the old one with you to the store when looking for a compatible replacement.

The post How to Clean a Faucet Aerator appeared first on Bob Vila.

If you are your household’s designated bathroom cleaner (or if you pay attention to your surroundings when you’re in the shower or bath), you’ve probably seen your fair share of soap scum. It’s a sad irony of housekeeping that a substance that gets your body clean can make your shower or bathtub so grungy.

Soap scum forms when the fatty acids, talc, and other ingredients in bar soap react with the minerals in hard water, and builds up on your bathroom surfaces. Soap scum also contains body oil, dirt, bits of dead skin, and bacteria. When it’s left to harden, the buildup is incredibly difficult to remove from a shower or tub.

When it comes to how to get rid of soap scum, there are many successful methods and products that you can try to get the job done. Read on to find the approach that’s right for you.

Cleaning Soap Scum

Trying to solve the problem of what removes soap scum reveals no shortage of cleaning solutions, including both ready-made formulas and homemade soap scum remover recipes. Some of these substances and materials can be used simultaneously for particularly thick or tough buildup.

Store-Bought Cleaners

Some popular commercial cleaning products have cracked the code on how to clean years of soap scum. These two options are effective, easy-to-use, and readily available.

• Lysol Power Foamer Bathroom Cleaner is the top pick in our guide to the best shower tile cleaners, and a great choice for bathtub soap scum removal. Simply spray your tub and shower walls with the foam and give it a few minutes to cut through the greasy grime. Rinse and wipe down the surfaces with a sponge, scrub brush, or cloth. Follow up with a clean towel to dry all of the now-tidy surfaces, crevices, and fixtures. (You want to dry your showering space because moisture attracts yucky soap scum buildup, and can also lead to mold and mildew growth.)
• It’s commonly recommended to clean almost any bathroom surface, but can a Magic Eraser remove soap scum? The answer is, somewhat unsurprisingly, yes. Wet a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath or other melamine sponge, squeeze it a few times, and wipe away soap scum from shower door glass, tile grout, and the tub basin. Rinse and dry completely.

Tried-and-True Advice

“While I try to stick to natural, DIY cleaners in my household, when it comes to soap scum, I can’t deny it: nothing works quite like a Magic Eraser. With one of these nifty scrubbers, some water, and a helping of elbow grease, I’ve managed to remove even months-old soap scum buildup from my tub and shower walls. For the most severe soap scum cases, of course, you may need to call in additional cleaning solutions, but for more run-of-the-mill stuff it’s amazing what that little piece of Durafoam can do.”

—Chase Brush, Contributing Writer

Homemade Cleaners

Store-bought formulas aren’t the only solutions when considering how to clean soap scum in the bathroom. You may find that the best ways to remove soap scum are also some of the cheapest. Try these recipes and solutions for DIY soap scum removal that use materials you probably already have at home:

• Baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda into a small bowl and add enough white vinegar to make a paste. Once the mixture stops fizzing, use a sponge to apply it to your shower and tub, then let it set for about 15 minutes. Wipe the surfaces down again with a non-scratch sponge, rinse thoroughly with water, and dry with a clean towel.
• Vinegar and dish detergent. Another reliable cleaning mainstay, a soap-and-vinegar mix can also dissolve soap scum. Combine equal amounts of vinegar and water into a spray bottle, then add one tablespoon of dish detergent (or liquid dish soap). Spray the mixture directly onto the soap scum and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. When you return, scrub the area with a soft-bristle scrub brush and rinse it with hot water. Dry thoroughly.
• Pumice stone. When cleaning a porcelain tub—as this method should not be used for acrylic tubs or showers—you can use a wet pumice stone to remove thick soap scum buildup. However, you’ll need to work carefully; applying too much pressure when scrubbing or using a dry stone can scratch glass doors or tile. To give it a try, wet both the pumice stone and the surface you’re working on. Then, very gently rub the wet stone over the soap scum. As soap scum transfers to the pumice stone, use a stiff-bristle brush to clean off the stone before continuing to scrub, repeating this process until the residue is gone.
• Dryer sheets. Similar to the Magic Eraser method for how to clean soap scum from tile, grout, and shower doors, you can also remove soap scum with dryer sheets. Although best known for their fresh scent, dryer sheets typically contain fabric softener and other chemicals that make short work of soap scum. It’s about as simple as using a Magic Eraser, too: Wet a dryer sheet with water (and grab more as needed), scrub problem areas, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a clean towel.

Preventing Soap Scum

For soap scum, as it is with most cleaning tasks, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. These ideas about how to prevent soap scum can help you manage gross buildup in the tub and shower by preventing it from forming in the first place.

• Use liquid soap instead of bar soap. The talc and fatty acids in bar soap is what causes soap scum. While plastic bottles are less environmentally friendly, a switch to liquid body wash or shower gel should result in a significant decrease in the filmy residue that you see in the bathtub.
• Keep your shower and tub dry. Squeegee and/or towel dry your shower and tub after every use. You’ll be wiping away a good portion of the residue left behind each time you bathe, minimizing the level of soap scum that builds up over time.
• Soften your water. Soap scum thrives on hard water. One way to thwart its development is to install a water softener, which will remove the minerals in your tap water that react with soap to make soap scum. If you’re not up for purchasing a water softener, consider adding Epsom salts to bathwater to soften it and keep soap scum under control. As a bonus, the Epsom salts may also soothe your sore muscles.
• Use a daily shower cleaner. Regular cleaning is the best way to prevent soap scum in the shower and bathtub, whether you use a store-bought spray or use one of the aforementioned DIY solutions. Apply the cleaner to high-use surfaces with a cloth or sponge every day that the shower is in use. For optimal results, combine this cleaning regimen with any (or all) of the above advice on how to prevent soap scum.

The post How to Remove Soap Scum From Tubs and Showers appeared first on Bob Vila.

Winter may not seem like the best season to start a home project, but it’s the perfect opportunity to transform parts of the home’s interior with serious upgrade potential. In the colder months, we’re stuck inside anyway, and without vacations, outdoor activities, and other warm-weather distractions, we can often accomplish more in a shorter amount of time.

“Winter is a great time to focus on indoor projects that improve comfort and functionality,” says Margaret Kemmeter, kitchen and bath designer at renovation contractor Sims. ”With the colder weather, outdoor projects usually take a back seat and make it easier for us to direct our energy and resources toward improving the interiors of the home.”

Let’s face it: You need something to do besides binge-watching the latest hot series on Netflix. Get those DIY juices flowing by working on one or more of these home projects you can—and maybe should—tackle during the winter.

Done-in-a-Day Updates

Some deeply satisfying home updates can be completed in a single afternoon, or even just an hour. If the project involves swapping out items like light fixtures or drawer pulls, make sure to take accurate measurements. It’s super frustrating and a big time delay to have to go back to the home improvement center or return an online order that doesn’t fit properly.

1. Make sure your smoke detectors are working. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2023 one house fire was reported to a fire department every 95 seconds. December is the peak month for house fires, which is why you should kick off these colder months by evaluating and upgrading your home’s safety features, such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly and replaced every 5 to 7 years. Pay attention to the expiration dates on your detectors, and when it’s time to replace them, upgrade to a newer model with better safety features. Consider swapping the old units out for a combination smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector, like the X-Sense, the Best Overall winner in our hands-on tested guide to the best smoke detectors.

2. Refresh your home’s lighting design or fixtures.

“Shorter days can leave your home feeling dark and dreary. Adding lighting enhancements can improve both functionality and mood,” says Swannell Thompson, a handyperson with Frontdoor, a service that connects homeowners with skilled tradespeople. Whether you swap out one light fixture, add layers of battery-powered or plug-in fixtures, or just update light bulbs, you can ward off those earlier sunsets with lighting that can improve illumination—and your spirits.

“You can upgrade to layered lighting, such as under-cabinet lights or dimmable fixtures that can instantly transform the mood of any space while also improving functionality,” says Kemmeter. Consider installing battery-powered strip lighting like this dimmable and self-adhesive LED strip light under cabinets or around your favorite wall art. To add a layer of light in the dining room or family room without wiring, try battery-powered sconces that work for up to 72 hours on one charge. 

Be sure to choose energy-efficient LED fixtures or bulbs in a color temperature that suits the mood or function of each room. For example, light bulbs with a color temperature under 3000K emit a softer, warmer light, while a color temperature greater than 5000K is crisp and helpful for reading, crafting, or other detailed hobbies. Bulbs with a color temperature between those two are well suited for kitchen and home office lighting. 

3. Beef up your home tech and security system.

With temperatures dipping low and skies bringing snow and sleet, winter is not ideal for installing tech features or security cameras outdoors. Instead, focus on enhancing your tech game indoors and start using your home’s virtual assistant for more than just ordering toilet paper or checking the weather forecast.

“You can also install or upgrade smart home systems like thermostats and lighting as well as security cameras, which improve the functionality and comfort of your home. Smart thermostats are great for sustaining optimal indoor temperatures and energy efficiency,” says Jennifer Rogers, designer at BKC Kitchen and Bath.

4. Upgrade your kitchen cabinet pulls.

If you spend your winter cooped up in the kitchen, cooking big meals for family and cookies for Santa, you may be getting bored with your tired-looking kitchen. Dial up the style—without spending a lot of time or money—by replacing outdated drawer pulls and knobs on your cabinets. Consider modern pulls in on-trend matte black, like this 10-pack from Amerdeco.

Pro tip: Carefully measure your current pulls before selecting new ones. Ordering pulls that fit the existing holes will save you from having to drill new holes and fill and finish the old ones. 

5. Swap out bathroom faucets. 

The mess and disruption of a kitchen or bathroom renovation may be more than you want to deal with in the winter. Instead, focus on something small that makes a big impact—for instance, the kitchen or bathroom faucet. Whether it’s woefully out of style or suffering from hard water, rough use, and the passage of time, that faucet may be ripe for replacement.

A new faucet not only refreshes the space but, if you choose well, can also help conserve water and save money. This project takes no more than an afternoon and is perfect for tackling in the colder months, especially before holiday guests arrive. (Our tested guide to the best bathroom faucets has terrific options for all types of sinks and budgets.)

6. Test your water. 

If you’ve never tested your water, winter is a good season to make it happen. “More than half of Americans have never tested their water. Hard water negatively impacts your home by causing mineral buildup or scaling in plumbing, fixtures, and water heaters, driving significant repair and premature replacement costs,” says Chris Counahan, president of home improvement company Leaf Home. 

You can do it yourself with a kit like the Safe Home Drinking Water Test Kit, which earned the top spot in our researched guide to water test kits. Simply send in your water sample, which is then tested at an EPA-certified lab.

Once you’ve received a complete analytical report of your water’s quality, you’ll know what to look for when shopping for the best whole-house water filter for your home. And you’ll be confidently ready for your spring gardening.

Pro tip: Testing is just the first step. To improve the quality of your water, Counahan says, “It is highly recommended to have a water expert evaluate and test your water to provide a customized water treatment system to meet your unique water needs.”

7. Declutter closets and storage areas.

Americans are good at collecting extra stuff. Almost half of us report that our homes are cluttered with stuff we don’t need anymore. One in seven can’t use at least one room in our home because it’s filled with rarely used items, and nearly two out of five admit they haven’t decluttered in more than a year. Before holiday gift-giving adds to the clutter, it’s time to send the extra stuff packing. 

“Winter is a great time to tackle indoor spaces that may have become disorganized over the year. Plus, decluttering can make your home feel more spacious and manageable,” says Thompson of Frontdoor. “Go through closets, garages, and attics to donate or toss unused items. Consider installing shelving or storage bins to create a more functional system for your belongings.”

8. Organize the laundry room.

Though it’s central to a household’s day-to-day functioning, the laundry room might not be at the top of the list when it comes to organization and style. Make use of a winter weekend when you’re stuck indoors to refresh and reorganize the laundry room. Add some floating shelves or cubbies and a hanging rod for clothes. Even just a thorough cleaning, an infusion of baskets, and some well-placed hooks can help turn it into a spot where you’ll actually enjoy spending time.

9. Check the HVAC system.

“Your heating system is working overtime in the winter. Regular maintenance can extend its life and ensure it operates efficiently,” says Thompson. This is a project that shouldn’t be delayed, as it can help improve indoor air quality and help you avoid costly and inconvenient repairs or replacements.

“A one-time HVAC maintenance call costs about $99 on average, but repairs and replacement costs vary greatly based on what’s needed,” says Courtney Klosterman, home insights expert at home insurance company Hippo. “In addition to minimizing wear and tear, regular checks and maintenance help your HVAC system operate smoothly and maintain good air circulation in your home,” says Klosterman. Replace the filters yourself or hire a pro to clean the ducts or inspect the furnace.

Klosterman adds: “Getting everything squared away before you need it can keep your home warm and energy-efficient in the winter.”

Done-in-a-Weekend Upgrades

Some home-improvement projects are more involved and may require a full weekend or more to complete. If you aren’t an experienced DIYer, or aren’t confident about your skills in any of the following areas, consider hiring a local remodeler to take on these projects.

10. Seal drafty windows and doors.

“Energy Star estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by adding insulation and air-sealing their homes,” says Klosterman.

Since “cold drafts can sneak in through poorly sealed windows and doors, making your home colder and drive up heating costs, apply weatherstripping, caulk gaps, or install draft stoppers on doors,” advises Thompson. “Consider using plastic window insulation kits to add an extra layer of protection.” 

11. Update your kitchen countertop.

In the winter, prepping for parties and family gatherings keeps many of us in the kitchen more than usual. During those long hours in the kitchen, you may be more likely to notice damaged, stained, or drab countertops. Or maybe you’ve been craving a smooth, cool surface for rolling out dough for cookies or pies. Fortunately, winter is a fine time to treat yourself to a countertop upgrade. (Tip: Quartz and stone kitchen countertop materials are ideal for dough rolling.)

Beyond functionality, replacing the countertops can make a huge impact on your kitchen’s appearance, and the job doesn’t require a ton of kitchen downtime (though there may be some lag time between measuring for the new countertop and the actual install date). Note that a countertop swap-out is usually best handled by a pro, which means you’ll have more time to watch holiday movies with the family. 

12. Give your fireplace a facelift.

“If you have a fireplace, consider giving it a facelift,” says Rogers of BKC Kitchen and Bath. First, take a moment to sit in front of the fireplace and look it over with fresh eyes. Is it so dated that even Santa would call it retro? 

Maybe the fireplace would benefit from a more modern hue, such as Tricorn Black from Sherwin-Williams, or a sleek trendy mantel? Installing a French Victorian surround can transform an entire room from “1990s suburban fine” into a romantic retreat. While you’re at it, don’t forget to update the fireplace screen, too.

13. Paint the walls a fresh new color. 

Many homeowners like to take on interior painting projects during spring or summer, but winter may be a better time to change your wall colors. That same dry interior air that depletes the moisture in your skin during winter can help a fresh coat of paint dry more quickly. “Paint can refresh any room and enhance the overall aesthetic,” says Thompson of Frontdoor. “Whether it’s a full repaint or just refreshing trim, it’s an investment that brightens your space.”

Be sure to choose a no- or low-VOC paint and pick a mild day for painting so you feel more comfortable keeping windows open for proper ventilation. Even when using no-VOC paint, painting without adequate ventilation can cause headaches and respiratory issues. 

14. Replace worn-out carpeting.

“Winter weather can make carpets more damp and lead to mold,” says Klosterman. If your carpets have seen better days, the first few months of the year are prime for replacing threadbare, ripped, or bulging carpeting. You’ll probably even save money because carpeting prices are usually lower during the first quarter of the year. 

If replacement isn’t an option, try cleaning: “Proactively cleaning and protecting your carpet can help prevent weird home smells and an expensive replacement since carpets can cost $1 to $4 per square foot,” says Klosterman. “For a 160-square-foot living room (16 feet by 10 feet), you can expect to pay $640 to replace your carpet—not including the cost of installation.” 

Plus, after replacing—or even cleaning—the carpet, the room will feel cozier and the carpet may stand up better to the rest of the snowy season.

15. Insulate the attic and crawl space.

Protecting you from the cold is one of your house’s primary functions. One way of ensuring that your interior spaces stay as warm as possible, even in the coldest weather, is to reinsulate your attic or crawl space.

“A home update that is smart to do during the winter is to add or replace the insulation in your attic,” says Andrew Legge, CEO of Havelock Wool, manufacturers of high-performance wool insulation. “Most fibrous insulations are low-integrity fibers that break down over time. Adding more insulation will help it retain heat, promoting energy efficiency. Replacing older or damaged insulation will dramatically improve the benefits.”

When compared to other home improvements that just enhance one space, insulating the attic is a relatively easy project that can have a big impact on comfort in every room.

16. Upgrade kitchen cabinet fronts or interiors. 

“Another excellent winter project is upgrading cabinetry or adding custom storage solutions,” says Kemmeter of Sims. “Opt for pull-out shelves or drawer organizers in the kitchen to increase storage and keep the space tidy during the bustling holiday season.” 

Pro tip: Schedule kitchen updates for completion at least 2 weeks before a gathering, even if you think the project should take just a few hours. That way, if you need to pick up more supplies to finish or if something unexpected pops up, you won’t be stuck with a half-finished kitchen upgrade while you’re entertaining guests.

17. Put in a new kitchen backsplash.

The cold, dark days of winter make many of us crave colorful, warm spaces that distract us from the dreariness outside. A new kitchen backsplash is an excellent opportunity to amp up the color and playfulness indoors. This project packs a hefty visual punch and can be a productive activity for a bleak January weekend.

Pro tip: Consider using a tile adhesive mat to make the project a little bit easier. 

The post 17 Home Updates You Can (and Should) Do in Winter appeared first on Bob Vila.

Bathroom faucets are among the most relied-upon fixtures in a home. We often use them throughout each day, including first thing in the morning to wash up and last thing at night to brush our teeth. Even when these fixtures are so integral to our daily lives, it can be easy to overlook the importance of choosing the right faucet for your bathroom.

To aid you in the selection process, we researched dozens of options, comparing their ease of installation, flow rates, available finishes, and overall aesthetics. We also reached out to a plumbing expert with over 46 years of experience to ensure our picks met his standards for durable designs and useful features. Based on our research and our expert’s insights, we chose the Luxice Touchless Bathroom Sink Faucet as our top pick. It uses a long-lasting ceramic cartridge and features convenient, hands-free operation. Still, there are quite a few additional options we feel good about recommending. Any of the picks from the following lineup of the best bathroom faucets would be a worthy addition to your home.  

1. BEST OVERALL: Luxice Touchless Bathroom Sink Faucet
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Wowow 4-Inch Center-Set 2-Handle Bathroom Faucet
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Delta Faucet Cassidy Single-Hole Bathroom Faucet
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4. WIDESPREAD PICK: Phiestina 2-Handle 3-Hole Widespread Bathroom Faucet
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5. SINGLE-HOLE PICK: Pfister Jaida Single-Control Bathroom Faucet
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6. VESSEL PICK: Kingo Home Contemporary Tall Vessel Sink Faucet
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7. BEST FOR HARD WATER: Kohler Alteo Widespread Bathroom Faucet
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8. BEST MODERN: Moen Genta One-Handle Bathroom Faucet
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9. BEST LUXURY: Delta Faucet Trinsic High-Arc Bathroom Faucet
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Our Top Picks

Upgrading old bathroom sink faucets is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to boost a home’s look and value. Adding a good-quality faucet can cost as little as $40, yet it’s a home improvement project that can instantly benefit both bathroom ambience and functionality. Even better—midrange bathroom upgrades such as this also provide an average of 67 percent return on investment.

Best Overall

Luxice Touchless Bathroom Sink Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Motion sensor provides hands-free operation and saves water
• Battery power makes it easy to install
• Premium ceramic cartridge offers long-term durability

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t come with batteries

Specs

• Fitting Single hole with deck plate
• Flow rate 1.2 gallons per minute (GPM)
• Finishes Brushed nickel, brushed gold, polished gold, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze

Say goodbye to germ-ridden bathroom sink handles. With Luxice’s touchless bathroom faucet, you simply need to wave your hand beneath the tap, and a steady stream of water will flow. Even when performing a high-consumption task like brushing your teeth, the water stops as soon as your brush moves away and starts again when you move it across the sensor. This elegant spout is available in five finishes to suit most decors. 

Though this is a handle-free faucet, it comes with hot and cold hoses as well as a temperature mixer, allowing you to easily adjust how warm the water is. We love that the sensor is powered by four AA batteries (not included), so installation is possible without a professional. If you prefer, you can also plug this unit into a standard wall outlet for electric power. With its gorgeous design and high-tech ease of use, this touchless faucet is a standout.

Get the Luxice bathroom faucet at Amazon.

Best Bang For The Buck

Wowow 4-Inch Center-Set 2-Handle Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Center-set faucet with sleek, modern design
• Easy installation, lift-rod drain mechanism, and matching stopper
• Aerator is removable for cleaning
• Ceramic cartridges provide precise temperature control

What We Don’t Like

• Some reports of leaking

Specs

• Fitting 4-inch center-set
• Flow rate Not listed
• Finishes Brushed nickel, brushed gold, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black

Wowow’s gently curving center-set faucet is perfect for almost any aesthetic, from traditional to contemporary. It comes in five finishes, all corrosion-resistant and coated to minimize fingerprints. This classic faucet is designed for countertops and sink areas with three holes and a 4-inch spread. Though it comes with a lift rod and pop-up stopper, supply lines are sold separately. 

While we chose this model as a particularly budget-friendly pick, its aerator is made of durable ABS material, and its cartridges are long-lasting ceramic. Its design also reduces water consumption by 50 percent, which can save you even more money in the long run. It is a bit smaller than other options, however, so it may be a better fit for powder rooms, motor homes, cabins, or apartments. 

Get the Wowow bathroom faucet at Amazon,Wayfair,or Walmart.

Upgrade Pick

Delta Faucet Cassidy Single-Hole Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Traditional faucet from a brand with a 60-year reputation for outstanding quality
• 5 finishes with matching pop-up drains
• Meets EPA WaterSense and ADA requirements

What We Don’t Like

• Some retailers sell the deck plate separately

Specs

• Fitting Single hole (deck plate extra)
• Flow rate 1.2 GPM
• Finishes Polished nickel, chrome, stainless, champagne bronze, Venetian bronze

The Cassidy faucet by Delta reflects timeless beauty but has very modern benefits. Certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense label, this faucet is guaranteed to use at least 20 percent less water than the industry standard. It is also ADA compliant, meaning it meets the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

While the Cassidy is intended to fit single-hole as well as three-hole configurations, there is an optional deck plate that covers extra holes if necessary. If you need the deck plate, be sure it comes included with your purchase, as some retailers sell it separately. This gorgeous single-handle faucet is available in five easy-to-clean finishes and includes a matching pop-up metal drain. 

Get the Delta Faucet Cassidy bathroom faucet at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Build With Ferguson.

Widespread Pick

Phiestina 2-Handle 3-Hole Widespread Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Fits widespread sink or tub but also mounts in countertops
• Quick-connect pipework system makes installation easy
• Drain stopper has strainer to reduce clogging

What We Don’t Like

• Some complaints of dripping

Specs

• Fitting 3-hole widespread
• Flow rate 1.8 GPM
• Finishes Brushed nickel, brushed gold, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze

Phiestina’s faucet has an 8-inch spread, which is intended for a broad three-hole mount. All materials are certified lead-free, including the pure copper drain, which resists leaks (water hose not included). Instead of a traditional lift drain, it comes with an easy-to-install pop-up drain that features a clog-reducing built-in strainer. This faucet’s overall look is that of gentle curves coated in one of four finishes: shiny chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed gold, or brushed nickel.

Thanks to Phiestina’s quick-connect technology, installation is easy and doesn’t require a plumber. As a bonus, the customer support team offers remote help via email or phone for those with questions or issues.

Get the Phiestina bathroom faucet at Amazon, The Home Depot,or Phiestina.

Single-Hole Pick

Pfister Jaida Single-Control Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Spot Defense finish prevents fingerprints and water spots
• Proprietary technology guarantees leak-free perform
• Meets ADA certification and EPA WaterSense standard
• Includes optional deck plate

What We Don’t Like

• Some feel the finish scratches too easily

Specs

• Fitting Single hole with deck plate
• Flow rate 1.2 GPM
• Finishes Brushed nickel, Spot Defense brushed nickel, polished chrome, Tuscan bronze

A trough-style tap displays flowing water at its best, and this single-handle tap from Pfister is both beautiful and efficient. With a flow rate of 1.2 GPM, the Jaida is compliant with CALGreen and EPA WaterSense standards. Thanks to its height and the fact that you don’t need to twist or strain your wrist to turn it on, it is also ADA compliant.

The Jaida comes with everything you need for operation, and it can be installed in 3 minutes with only three pieces and no tools. It works with a single hole or three-hole spread and comes with an optional deck plate. Choose from four metallic finishes, including our favorite, Spot Defense brushed nickel, for extra-easy upkeep. If you’re looking to match your sink faucet to your shower faucet, the Jaida bathtub and shower faucet would create a complete set. 

Get the Pfister bathroom faucet at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Wayfair, Walmart, or Build With Ferguson.  

Vessel Pick

Kingo Home Contemporary Tall Vessel Sink Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Elegant faucet with plenty of clearance
• Easy-to-use single handle with ceramic cartridge
• Includes water lines for DIY installation

What We Don’t Like

• Drain fitting and deck plate are separate purchases

Specs

• Fitting Single-hole countertop
• Flow rate Not provided
• Finishes Black, oil-rubbed bronze

Strong, good-looking, and affordable, Kingo’s vessel faucet has an extra-long neck to provide the height to flow elegantly into a countertop basin. Made using solid brass construction, the single lever adjusts output and temperature control. The metallic finish on this contemporary sink faucet comes in two bold choices: black and oil-rubbed bronze. Both are corrosion resistant and use ceramic disc valves for drip-free operation.

Though hot and cold hoses come with purchase, neither a matching pop-up drain nor deck plate do. Those with a three-hole sink will need to buy a plate separately to cover exposed holes. Still, for the price, it’s a pretty good deal—and it looks beautiful, too.

Get the Kingo Home bathroom faucet at Amazon.

Best for Hard Water

Kohler Alteo Widespread Bathroom Faucet

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What We Like

• Smooth shape and premium tarnish-resistant finishes reduce hard-water buildup
• Highly durable ceramic disc valves offer precise control of flow and temperature
• Hidden lift rod for drain provides efficiency without impacting visual appeal

What We Don’t Like

• Faucet reach is limited, so it may not work on sinks with wide surrounds

Specs

• Fitting 3-hole widespread
• Flow rate 1.2 GPM
• Finishes Vibrant brushed nickel, polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze

It can be difficult to keep bathroom faucets clean in hard-water areas. Minerals in water mark surfaces and build up in crevices. The Kohler Alteo is engineered to combat these challenges. The widespread design and smooth surfaces give few places for hard water to collect. The finishes don’t just look good; they are tarnish-resistant and extremely hard-wearing.

Under the attractive skin, there are ceramic disc valves that provide smooth, leak-free performance and allow fine control over flow and temperature. A lift-rod drain assembly is included but, unlike many rivals, it’s cleverly concealed behind the main spout so it doesn’t detract from the sleek appearance.

Kohler is one of the world’s foremost faucet brands and problems are rare, but the brand’s products are not cheap. The reach on this model is relatively short, so it may not be appropriate for all sinks or countertops.

Get the Kohler Alteo bathroom faucet at Amazon, The Home Depot, Build With Ferguson, or Kohler.

Best Modern

Moen Genta One-Handle Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Combines renowned Moen quality with contemporary design
• Includes deck plate and lift-rod drain assembly
• Meets the eco-friendly EPA WaterSense standard
• ADA compliant

What We Don’t Like

• Some durability concerns regarding the matte black finish

Specs

• Fitting Single hole with deck plate
• Flow rate 1.2 GPM
• Finishes: Brushed nickel, bronzed gold, chrome, matte black

Few brands have a better reputation for quality faucet build and reliability than Moen, and their single-hole bathroom faucet is a fine example. The combination of straight lines and curves delivers a contemporary appeal that fits perfectly in modern and transitional bathroom settings.

The single lever is elegant yet functional, and the spout produces a unique twisted ribbon of water. Its ease of use complies with ADA specifications, and its flow rate of 1.2 GPM meets the EPA’s WaterSense requirements for conservation. The fixture is also easy to fit into sinks and tubs or through countertops. It also comes with a matching deck plate and a lift-rod drain assembly.

Moen Genta quality does come at a higher price than many competitors, and while customers are usually very happy with their purchase, there have been a few complaints about the durability of the matte black finish.

Get the Moen Genta bathroom faucet at The Home Depot or Walmart.

Best Luxury

Delta Faucet Trinsic High-Arc Bathroom Faucet

See It

What We Like

• Patented Diamond Seal technology tested for up to 1 million uses
• Handle complies with ADA requirements and allows precise control
• Innoflex PEX supply lines resist cracks, kinks, and corrosion

What We Don’t Like

• Deck plate is extra

Specs

• Fitting Single hole (deck plate extra)
• Flow rate 1.2 GPM
• Finishes Chrome, stainless, champagne bronze, Venetian bronze, matte black

The fact that Delta is the only brand to appear twice on our list says something about its quality. With a choice of five lustrous finishes, the Delta Trinsic doesn’t just look good; it also has outstanding performance. While the industry standard for bathroom faucet durability is 500,000 operations, the Trinsic’s patented Diamond Seal technology achieves twice that amount.

Its diamond-encrusted ceramic disc requires no lubrication yet virtually eliminates wear, ensuring the faucet remains leak-free throughout its life. Potential leak points are further reduced via preinstalled Innoflex PEX supply lines, meaning only the household supply needs to be connected. Our one complaint is that, while it comes with a matching pop-up drain, it is a little disappointing that the deck plate is a separate purchase.

Get the Delta Faucet Trinsic bathroom faucet at Amazon,Lowe’s,The Home Depot, Walmart, or Build With Ferguson.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Bathroom Faucets

Whether you’re installing a new shower, freestanding tub, and bathroom sink and need all new fixtures, or you’re simply upgrading an old sink faucet with a better one, the choice is vast. Style is obviously a key factor, and our picks cover everything from vintage to modern designs. We also chose models that suit the wide range of hole patterns while factoring in price (though never at the expense of durability). To ensure we only recommended long-lasting faucets, we spoke with Kelly Russum, owner of KC’s 23½ Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning, to get his 46-year expert opinion on which materials and finishes are built to last. 

While this article focuses on the best bathroom faucets, remember there’s nothing saying you can’t use kitchen faucets in this space if there’s a model that fits your specific needs.

What to Look for When Choosing a Bathroom Faucet

Many homeowners desire bathrooms that feel understated and a bit luxurious—and updating your bathroom faucets is one of the easiest ways to make that happen. With so many options to choose from, knowing the features that improve functionality and aesthetics is a big help. 

One or Two Handles

As Kelly Russum points out, “Design of the handles is one of the most important features to consider. They’re not just about style—the design of the handles plays a big role in how well the internal components, like cartridges, hold up over time. From my experience, the optimal choice for most homes is a single-handle faucet with a ceramic cartridge. Single-handle designs are easy to use, require less force, and minimize strain on the cartridge, making them more durable over time.”

Still, whether you opt for one or two handles may depend on the number of holes already drilled into the counter, sink, or vanity. If there are three predrilled holes, you’ll likely need a center-set or widespread faucet, while those with a single hole can go with a simple, elegant single-handle faucet. If you prefer the single-handle look but have a three-hole setup, you can simply install a deck plate to hide the extra holes.

Another handle consideration involves cleaning and maintenance. Widespread and single-handle sink faucets are typically easier to keep clean than center-set versions. Center-set faucets are more likely to become grimy over time since there’s not much room on the metal base, causing soap scum to build up in small crevasses.

Spread

The space between the faucet mounting holes indicates a faucet’s spread. These holes are drilled into the countertop, sink, vanity, or wall. 

• Single-handle and vessel faucets have only one hole (so no spread). 
• For center-set faucets, the spread is 4 inches. 
• Widespread faucets have a more extensive range—from 6 to 12 inches. 
• Wall-mounted faucet spread varies depending on whether the fixture has one or two separate handles.

Finish

In most cases, the faucet’s finish matches other bathroom fixtures, including door handles and shower heads. Coordinated finishes provide a sense of cohesiveness and thoughtful design, though we aren’t at all against using mixed metals.

Many faucets come in a range of colors, from dark, oil-rubbed bronze to light metallic hues, such as gold, nickel, chrome, and stainless steel. Matte black is particularly popular among those looking for contemporary bathroom faucets. Some faucets combine different metals, allowing buyers to mix and match with other bathroom fixtures.

You also need to choose between shiny, brushed, and matte finishes. Polished finishes, especially chrome and stainless steel, have been used for years and are a traditional and affordable choice. However, more contemporary and luxury homes have brushed metal and matte fixtures. For those considering a stylish upgrade, a brushed finish may be a good option.

Style

There are two main options when considering faucet style: traditional or contemporary. A cross-handle bathroom faucet will create a more familiar look, while more modern bathroom faucets will be sleek and angular, with a preference for minimalism rather than ornate details. 

While traditional faucets can look good in contemporary settings, the reverse is not always true. The key is subtlety—plumbing fixtures aren’t designed to stick out but rather blend into and enhance their surroundings.

Water Savings

One of the best ways to keep water bills low is to upgrade plumbing fixtures, including choosing one of the best bathroom faucets. While fixing leaks is a great place to start, newer faucets, especially those certified by WaterSense, can cut a tap’s water use by 30 percent without sacrificing performance. 

Look for low-flow faucets that bear the blue WaterSense label on their product specifications. Knowing how to choose a faucet aerator is also beneficial, as aerators can lessen water use without overly reducing water pressure or cleansing power. 

Optional Features

Some faucets come with additional features that can simplify installation and streamline your daily bathroom routine. 

• Deck plate: If you have a three-hole sink but prefer a single-lever bathroom faucet, don’t despair! All you need is a deck plate, an elongated metal plate that covers additional handle holes. Some faucets come with optional deck plates, but they aren’t always included, so be sure to double-check the specifications if a deck plate is something you need.
• Touchless activation: While public restrooms have used touchless technology for some time, they’re not only now making their way into homes. Touchless faucets use motion sensors that allow you to control water flow without turning handles or lifting levers. Touchless activation is a bit more expensive (expect to pay at least $50 more), but it cuts down on germs, cleaning, and water waste.
• Drain hardware: All sinks need drains, which require a device to cover and control the water flow. However, not all faucet kits come with drain hardware, so double-check specifications to determine if you need to purchase a drain stopper separately.

Types of Bathroom Faucets

The best faucet for your bathroom depends on several factors, including the size and style of the sink, vanity, or countertop. Whether you have an under-mount or vessel sink will also influence which type of faucet you should choose. The number of holes drilled into the sink area (one or three) and how far apart those holes are positioned (the spread) are also significant considerations.

Center-Set Faucet

For sinks with three holes and a 4-inch spread, a center-set faucet will be a perfect fit. These fixtures combine a spout and two handles on a single metal base. However, if you prefer a single-handle option, you can cover the extra holes with a deck plate (see below).

Center-set faucets are often more affordable than other styles and work well for smaller basins and vanities. One drawback may be cleaning, as grime may build up in the joints where the faucet attaches to the counter and the handles and spout attach to the base.

Widespread Faucet

Similar to center-set faucets, widespread faucets are compatible with sinks that have three holes. The spacing, or spread, between these holes is more extensive and ranges from 6 to 16 inches. Widespread faucets come in three separate pieces: a spout and two handles.

These faucets provide a more effortless cleaning experience than center-set models thanks to the flat counter space between the handles and faucet, which is easy to wipe clean daily. This style also looks more luxurious and contemporary than center-set designs, making widespread models slightly more expensive than comparable center-set or single-handle faucets, starting around $90 and rising.

Wall-Mounted Faucet

A wall-mounted bathroom faucet can be an elegant option if you have a freestanding pedestal sink or an above-the-counter vessel. Just remember that you’ll need a separate wall-mount valve and drain for installation. The spout must also be long enough to channel and contain the water correctly without splashing it onto the counter and floors. 

Wall-mount faucets come with either one or two handles for adjusting water temperature. You’ll want to avoid selecting wall-mounted faucets for basins with predrilled holes. Be prepared to spend more money, too, as wall-mounted faucets are at least double the price of comparable in-sink fixtures.

Vessel Faucet

Vessel faucets have extra-long necks to accommodate vessel-style sinks, which sit on top of counters (as opposed to under-mount options, which are installed below the sink). Vessel faucets can be found starting around $40 and rising to $70 and more. They typically have a single handle to control water flow and temperature.

FAQs

There’s a lot to consider when searching for the right bathroom faucet, so it’s to be expected that you may have a few lingering questions. Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below.ns below.

The post After Researching 20+ Bathroom Faucets, Our Favorite Offers Hands-Free Operation and is Easy to Install appeared first on Bob Vila.