November 2007
Showerheads: Go for the flow
For a quick rinse, any old showerhead will do the job. But if you want a pounding stream of water to jump-start your morning
or a gentle spray to help you unwind at day’s end, the right showerhead is a must.
With literally hundreds of models on the market, there’s bound to be a shower fixture to suit your style. Most sell for less than $100, though you can spend $1,000 for elaborate fixtures in expensive finishes. Considering the low cost and easy installation of most, getting a new showerhead is a great way to rev up a bathroom. Here’s our take on the latest trends:
More ways to spray. Showerheads with adjustable spray settings account for most purchases, but oversized rainshower fixtures are coming on strong. Both types come in wall-mounted and handheld models. Vertical shower towers that have body jets to complement a showerhead aim to offer a spa-like experience at home, but don’t expect much unless you spend a lot.
More style choices. Today’s shower fixtures come in a range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Chrome remains the best-selling finish, but brass, brushed nickel, and other trendy finishes are often available at higher prices.
More features. Flexibility is a major focus. Bendable and movable arms let you vary the angle of the head, while adjustable height settings accommodate the tallest to the smallest users. Levers, push buttons, and dials are designed to make it easy to change spray settings on adjustable models. Other improvements include dozens of spray channels for wide water distribution and anticlog nozzles to combat hard-water deposits.
Prices range from about $30 to more than $200. (Many also come in handheld versions and in other finishes, at different prices.)
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With literally hundreds of models on the market, there’s bound to be a shower fixture to suit your style. Most sell for less than $100, though you can spend $1,000 for elaborate fixtures in expensive finishes. Considering the low cost and easy installation of most, getting a new showerhead is a great way to rev up a bathroom. Here’s our take on the latest trends:
More ways to spray. Showerheads with adjustable spray settings account for most purchases, but oversized rainshower fixtures are coming on strong. Both types come in wall-mounted and handheld models. Vertical shower towers that have body jets to complement a showerhead aim to offer a spa-like experience at home, but don’t expect much unless you spend a lot.
More style choices. Today’s shower fixtures come in a range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Chrome remains the best-selling finish, but brass, brushed nickel, and other trendy finishes are often available at higher prices.
More features. Flexibility is a major focus. Bendable and movable arms let you vary the angle of the head, while adjustable height settings accommodate the tallest to the smallest users. Levers, push buttons, and dials are designed to make it easy to change spray settings on adjustable models. Other improvements include dozens of spray channels for wide water distribution and anticlog nozzles to combat hard-water deposits.
Prices range from about $30 to more than $200. (Many also come in handheld versions and in other finishes, at different prices.)
