How To Choose A Bathroom Sink Faucet

Faucet-to-sink Size Ratio

A faucet is to the bathroom sink, what a solitaire is to a party gown. An oversized or undersized faucet could create a functional and aesthetic mismatch. Measure the sink from edge to edge for the length and breadth dimensions, and from top to bottom for its height. For correct depth, measure the insides from top to bottom. Then choose the faucet of matching size.

Sink and faucet shapes

Sync the shapes; being too adventurous will create an oddity that can mar the bathroom outlook. What's the point of choosing a heavy, oversized stainless steel faucet for a finely tapered oval in-built sink? 

Tip: For an ideal match, take a picture of your sink and check the faucet's compatibility with it before making the purchase.

Sink and faucet finishes

Harmonization will pay off in a big way. If you have a drop-in white sink with light marble texture, opt for a brushed nickel faucet with gentle curves. Likewise, these are the faucet finishes to consider for compatibility with your sink:

• Neutral finishes that can match most bathroom aesthetics: Chrome, nickel, or stainless finishes.
• Brushed metal will suit subdued bath spaces where nothing is loud or glossy. 
• Gold finish is for the elitist bathroom where everything is white or gray, with the gold faucet accentuating the sink and bathroom chic. The same is true for the brass finish. 
• Black finish is an evergreen classic that harmonizes with a wide range of bathroom decors. An ideal matte black is achieved by epoxy coating on metal. 

Faucet handles

They can be in-built as part of the faucet, suitable for single-hole sinks. Another type is separate faucet body and handles, which suit 3-hole sinks. These are the handle types:

• Single-handle, which is on top of the faucet. You can manage hot and cold water flow by turning the handle left or right, respectively. 
• Cross-handle. They are the old-school designs that operate by turning the crosses anti-clockwise to open and clockwise to close. They can be in-built or separate from the faucet body. 
• Knob handles are the design variants of cross-handle faucets. You have a knob instead of a cross in this option. 
• Swivel handles. They swivel forward to turn the water on and recede to turn it off. You can choose between horizontal or vertical swivel motions. You can also opt for single or double-handle faucets in swivel type.

Faucet installation

Make sure that the faucet you are considering to buy can be installed on your existing sink. Consulting a qualified contractor is the best way to go about it. For your ready reference, these are the main faucet installation types:

• Single-hole meant for single-piece faucets on compact sinks
• Center-set. It is a 3-hole fitting ideal for single-hole as well as 3-hole sinks. Its holes have 4" faucet centers, which is a universal fit for faucets.
• Widespread or spread-fit, with 8" to 16" faucet center holes. It is a popular installation for both sinks and countertops. 
• Wall-mounted faucets. They are installed about 6" above the sink. They need separate drain and wall-mounted valve and call for plumbing as well as masonry work.

You have these popular types to look at:

Bridge faucets

They typically fit sinks with three holes. As the name suggests, they "bridge" the faucet body with the two side handles. They can be either single-piece or have separate bodies for the faucet and two side handles. 

Bridge faucets are meant for the top-mount and under-mount styles of sinks. Their benefits:

• They are installed on the sink counter, which makes cleaning easy and hygienic
• The two handles offer efficient water-flow apart from its temperature control

Bridge sink faucets have a period look and feel, with curved bodies and cross handles. They will suit your bathroom with traditional décor. Avoid them if you have a sink of contemporary design.

Deck-mounted

These faucets are installed on the sink counter and not on its body. They can be either single, double, or 3-hole type. They have either a long, arc-shaped faucet body or a protruding angular one, and they can be operated with cross handles or knobs. 

Deck-mounted faucets will match both the classic and contemporary bath decors. The wide range of designs makes them even more versatile, so buy it with confidence. They will not be an eyesore in your bathroom.

Touchless

They are the high-tech and high-end handles that have a touch-less operation. Fitted with motion sensors, the faucet releases controlled water-flow when it senses your hand under it, and stops the flow as you withdraw it. Advanced models have microchips to program the flow and temperature. 

Touchless sink faucets are ultra-modern fittings. They will find a home in bathrooms with other gadgets such as a digital shower, voice-activated mirror, or an electronic defogger. The sinks to go with them are white rectangular, oval, or round ones. 

Tip: If Eco solutions are important to you, opt for this handle since it turns off water-flow when you recede your hands.

Vessel

These are faucets designed for vessel types of sinks that are placed on the sink countertop. They are mostly single-body faucets with either single or double handles. Their installation is concealed behind the vessel sink. 

Vessel sink faucets usually have a tall, gracefully curved body. They will match bathrooms and sinks with white elegance. For enhanced aesthetic, opt for a finish that contrasts the sink, for example, a black faucet for a white or marble vessel sink.

It's worth considering the following features as they bring considerable benefits:

• Anti-scald valve. It regulates water temperature by mixing the right amounts of hot and cold water. It is especially useful for families with children and senior citizens. 
• In-built filter, which provides pure and hygienic water that is safe for your hands and skin. 
• Adjustable water flow. It is an excellent way to save water.

Look for the WaterSense label. It is a water efficiency program initiated by the US Environment Protection Agency (EPA). 

Apart from this, you can check the performance standards the manufacturer complies with. 

Bathroom sink faucets are no longer essentials, but adornments for your bathroom. Choose the right one with the help of this guide.