5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Bathroom Taps and Mixers

Most of us don’t pay much attention to bathroom taps and mixers until it’s time for a new one. Then suddenly, you’re staring at all these choices. Shiny silver, gold-toned, brushed brass... do you mount it on the wall or on the sink? One handle or two? What starts off feeling like a quick update turns into a bit of a puzzle, and every decision feels more permanent than expected.

Before you click “add to cart” or walk out of the showroom with something shiny, here are 5 common mistakes you’ll want to steer clear of when buying taps and mixers for your bathroom.

1. Falling for Looks Over Function
Sleek designs and trendy finishes can be hard to resist. But what works in a showroom might not work in your bathroom. That ultra-modern tap you’re eyeing? It could end up splashing water everywhere if your basin is too shallow. Or worse, it might not fit at all. Always check how a tap will work with your basin in real life, not just how good it looks.

2. Ignoring Water Pressure
This one is easy to overlook, but it could seriously disrupt your morning routine. Not all taps are built for all water systems. Some need high pressure to work properly; others are happy with less. If your home has low water pressure and you go for a high-pressure mixer, you might end up with a dribble instead of a proper flow. Always check the pressure requirements before you buy. Your plumber will thank you.

3. Buying Without Measuring
It sounds boring, but measuring is everything. The height, the spout reach, and how much space you’ve got between the wall and your basin, these tiny details can make or break your choice. A tap or mixer that’s too tall might not fit under a shelf. One that sticks out too far could make washing your hands a splashy affair. Get the tape measure out before you start shopping.

4. Choosing the Wrong Finish for Your Lifestyle
We all love a matte black tap until we realise it shows every water spot, fingerprint, and smudge. Brass looks stunning but needs a bit of upkeep to stay that way. If you’ve got children or just don’t fancy wiping your taps every other day, go for something forgiving. Like brushed stainless steel or classic chrome.  Consider what you’re willing to live with long after the excitement of new fittings wears off.

5. Overlooking the Installation Side of Things
Some taps are a breeze to fit. Others, not so much. If you’re swapping like-for-like, you’re probably fine. But if you’re moving things around or choosing a wall-mounted mixer, that could mean extra plumbing work. It’s not just about what you can afford. It’s also about what’s practical. Having to rip tiles off just to get a tap in place is no fun, especially when the plumber hits you with the bill.

It’s easy to rush the decision when you’re trying to get your bathroom done and dusted. But slowing down and getting the basics right: pressure, fit, finish, and function can save you money and hassle later on. After all, you’ll be using those taps every single day. You might as well get it right the first time.