Find the right shower head

Baffled by the range of options out there? Use our guide to find your perfect design

Take your pick

Fixed head
Screwed to the wall or ceiling, these give a designer look and, as the spray is fixed, there's no danger of accidentally soaking the rest of the room. It's not the handiest for cleaning, though (or washing a squirming child). Also, it can be costly to install and repair as the pipework should be hidden in the wall.

Hand held
Slots into a bracket that's either fixed to the wall or on a riser rail so you can adjust its height, connected by a flexible hose. They don't look as sleek or streamlined as fixed heads, but the great advantage is that you can detach them for focused rinsing and easy cleaning of the shower enclosure.


What's the style?

Rose head Stylish option with a wide head and lots of small holes, giving a raindrop pattern spray – perfect for those who like a gentle shower.

Ceiling head Similar spray to a rose head, but requires more water pressure than usual and is the most complicated head to fit. Good choice for wet rooms.

Multifunction head Twist the head to alter the flow rate and pattern of the spray. Try out the twist action in the shop, remembering that you'll have to move it with wet, soapy hands.

Single mode head The most common type, this one is smaller than a rose head and doesn't have an adjustable spray, but it's cheaper and more water-efficient.

Double head Either two sprays on one unit, an overhead spray plus a side spray, or a fixed head and a hand held. Very luxurious, but not water efficient.


Ask the right questions

Do water systems make a difference?
Not all systems are compatible with every type of shower head. Generally, gravity-fed and combi-boiler systems work best with single mode or multifunction heads; mains pressure systems suit all types of shower heads.

What spray options are available?
A raindrop spray gives a gentle drenching effect with large droplets; a jet spray gives a strong, invigorating stream. Mist patterns (fine drops) and champagne sprays (small drops – the standard type) give a relaxing shower.

How much water will it use?
Some shower heads are more water-efficient than others. Single mode heads are the best option due to the smaller size of the head and the more economical champagne spray pattern.

Can I fit a new head to my old shower?
Most hand-held heads can have the head and hose replaced, but check before you buy. Fixed heads can't be swapped without ripping out the pipework.


Shop for it

Bristan 0870 442 5555
Grohe 0871 200 3414
Ideal Standard 01482 346461
Matki 01454 322888
Mira 0845 600 6472
Roman Showers 01325 311318
Swadling 01454 322888
Triton Showers 024 7634 4441

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