Bathroom renovations: How to choose the right showerhead for you

It’s more than just a shower, it’s the launching pad to your day. The right showerhead can massage aches away and improve mood. Here’s how.

The old adage that you can’t function without a strong coffee in the morning is simply not true.

It’s actually the morning shower that will determine how the rest of your day will rate.

The right showerhead can massage aches away and improve mood. The wrong one, with low water pressure, will leave you with flat hair and sourcing a hat to wear for the rest of the day.

Kramer had big problems choosing his new showerhead. Picture: Seinfeld/Binge

Methven’s Head of Design and Innovation, Andy Grigor, says COVID-19 has squarely turned the focus onto the home, and the bathroom, specially, has become our haven to rest and recuperate.

There is an emerging trend of bold colour combinations with the use of “tonal harmonies” according to Andy.

The Institute of Sustainable Futures at UTS has reported a residential bathroom boom is likely in 2021, with water efficiency the key concern when it comes to choosing a showerhead.

Our bathrooms have become havens to rest and recuperate. Picture: Kohler

Studies estimate that Australians could save approximately 185 billion litres by 2026 by using water efficient products, and save more than $2 billion by 2030. With an average saving of $175 per household each year, it is no wonder why three in five consumers are looking for water saving bathroom products.

“Bold colour highlights on fixtures will add personality in architecturally balanced spaces and will invite a pop of colour to your bathroom,” Mr Grigor said.

Wallmounted showers are the most popular. Picture: MeirAustralia

Andy says when it comes to designing your ideal bathroom, you have lots of important decisions to make, but the showerhead will depend very much on your personal needs as opposed to architectural style.

“For example, you may like a lot of water pressure to create a massaging feeling or you may want to be able to adjust the shower pattern according to your mood.”

A handheld showerhead is great for families as it is more flexible, and relatively inexpensive. It is also very handy if you have to give your kids a bath or wash your pets.

Ceiling showerheads with a wide expanse give the experience of rain, and then there’s fancy LED showerheads that lights up in various colours.

WALL MOUNTED SHOWERHEADS

One of the most popular options by far, the fixed-arm wall mounted showerhead models are easy to install and operate. This category probably has the biggest variety of designer styles that suit every bathroom from budget basic to art deco and contemporary.

Handheld showers offer great flexibility for adults, children and pets. Picture: MeirAustralia

Pros

The fixed-arm means kids can’t drop the showerhead and as it’s fixed at a height the spray is consistent.

Cons

It doesn’t offer the opportunity to shower small children and pets in a gentle manner without forcing them into the spray of water.

HANDHELD SHOWERHEADS

The go-to for parents with young children, these models many not be as designer-friendly but they offer flexibility, which trumps.

Pros

Adjustable for all heights of people since their use is not dependent solely on the main plumbing connection. Perfect for people in wheelchair, young children or those wanting to simply shower their hair separately.

Cons

Retailers will tell you handheld shower heads do not last as long as fixed models because of the wear and tear on the connections.

RAIN SHOWERS

Designed to make you feel like you’re having a shower in the tropics, rain showers are typical and luxe accommodation.

Rain shower heads are the ultimate in luxury. Picture: Rogerseller

Pros

They look exquisite and turn an average looking shower into an inviting space.

Cons

Rain shower heads are much wider than a standard shower head. This means, you need to ensure your shower space is wide enough to allow the spray of water.

Originally published as Bathroom renovations: How to choose the right showerhead for you