UFI-India

Let's face it—picking a bathroom faucet isn't the most exciting home project, but it's one you'll deal with every single day. After 15 years working with bathroom fixtures, I've seen how the right faucet can make or break a bathroom's look and function. Whether you're building from scratch or just updating an old, leaky fixture, understanding your options will save you headaches down the road.

Why Your Faucet Choice Really Matters

I always tell my clients that skimping on a faucet is a bad idea. I've had to replace too many cheap faucets that didn't even last two years. A good faucet should last at least 10-15 years of daily use. Most plumbers I work with recommend spending at least $65-100 for a basic model, and more for main bathrooms that get heavy use.

The faucet you pick affects:

• How easy your sink is to use every day
• How often you'll need repairs
• How much water you'll use (and waste)
• The overall look of your bathroom

Let's break down the three main types you'll run into when shopping.

Single-Hole Faucets: Clean and Simple

What They Are

Single-hole faucets are exactly what they sound like—they need just one hole in your sink or counter for installation. They usually have one handle that moves up and down for water flow and side to side for temperature. You've probably seen these in many modern homes and hotels. They have a sleek, no-fuss look that works great in smaller bathrooms.

What's Good About Them

I've put these in countless powder rooms and smaller bathrooms because they don't take up much space. They're super easy to clean since there aren't gaps between parts where gunk builds up. Most of my clients like how modern they look, and plumbers like them because they're straightforward to install.

The single handle makes them easy to use—you can even bump them on with your elbow when your hands are messy. For kids' bathrooms, they're perfect since there's no confusion about which handle is hot or cold.

Where They Work Best

If you've got a small bathroom or just want a clean, simple look, single-hole is the way to go.

They're perfect for:

• Powder rooms and guest bathrooms
• Kids' bathrooms (no scalding risk from turning just the hot handle)
• Modern, minimalist designs
• Pedestal sinks where space is tight
• Rental properties where you want something reliable but not too expensive

I recently installed one in my own half-bath, and the counter space it freed up was enough to add a small plant and soap dispenser that wouldn't have fit otherwise.

Widespread Faucets: Classic and Sturdy

What They Are

Widespread faucets have three separate pieces—a spout in the middle with hot and cold handles on either side. They need three holes in your sink or counter, usually 8 inches apart (though some are adjustable). These are the classic bathroom faucets you probably grew up with.

What's Good About Them

I recommend these for master bathrooms because they're built to last. Having separate handles means if one side develops a problem, you can often fix just that part instead of replacing the whole thing.

The space between components makes them easier to clean around than center-set models (those two-handle faucets on a single base). Plus, they just look more high-end and custom. Most of my clients who choose these say they like how substantial they feel when turning the water on and off.

Another real advantage is flexibility with handle placement. I've set them up for left-handed clients who wanted the hot water on the right instead of the traditional left side.

Where They Work Best

Widespread faucets shine in:

• Master bathrooms where you want something substantial
• Larger vanities with plenty of counter space
• Traditional or transitional style homes
• Double sink setups
• When you want to match other fixtures in an older home

My sister has arthritis in her hands, and she finds the separate hot and cold handles much easier to grip and turn than a single lever. It's worth considering these practical matters when choosing.

Wall-Mounted Faucets: Eye-Catching and Space-Saving

What They Are

Wall-mounted faucets break all the rules by coming straight out of the wall above your sink instead of sitting on the counter or sink edge. All the plumbing is hidden inside the wall, which creates a really distinctive look. They've been around forever in utility sinks, but now they're trendy in high-end bathrooms.

What's Good About Them

The biggest win with wall-mounted faucets is counter space—there's nothing cluttering up the area around your sink. This makes cleaning a breeze since you can just wipe straight across without navigating around a faucet base.

They create a real wow factor too. Whenever I install one, it's always the first thing people notice in the bathroom. They work especially well with vessel sinks (those bowl-style sinks that sit on top of the counter) or trough sinks.

The Downsides You Should Know

I have to be honest—these look amazing but come with headaches. They're much harder to install, especially in an existing bathroom. You'll need to open the wall to run plumbing, which means this is really a remodel project, not a simple faucet swap.

You also need to get the height and reach just right. I've seen poorly planned installations where the water stream hits too close to the edge of the sink and causes splashing, or too far back so you have to reach into the sink awkwardly.

The biggest drawback? If something goes wrong years later, accessing the valve might mean opening up your wall again. That's why I always install an access panel when possible, though that's not always an option depending on what's on the other side of the wall.

Where They Work Best

Consider wall-mounted faucets for:

• Complete bathroom remodels (not simple updates)
• Modern or industrial style bathrooms
• When paired with vessel or undermount sinks
• When counter space is at a premium
• Statement bathrooms where you want something unusual

One of my clients converted an old warehouse into living space and used wall-mounted faucets throughout to honor the building's industrial past. They look fantastic there.

Making Your Choice: Practical Stuff to Consider

When I'm helping someone pick a faucet, here's what I tell them to think about:

What Sink Do You Already Have?

If you're keeping your current sink, check how many holes it has. You can't put a widespread faucet in a single-hole sink without major surgery. You can go the other way (using a single-hole faucet in a three-hole sink) by adding a deck plate to cover the extra holes, but it won't look as clean.

Think About Who Uses the Bathroom

For older folks or people with hand strength issues, lever handles are usually easier to use than knobs that need gripping and turning. If kids use the bathroom, single-lever faucets prevent them from turning on just the hot water.

Consider Your Cleaning Habits

Be honest with yourself. If you hate detailed cleaning, skip the ornate faucets with lots of nooks and crannies. Wall-mounted or simple single-hole designs will be much easier to keep looking good.

What's Your Real Budget?

A good rule of thumb is:

• Basic single-hole faucets: $65-150
• Quality widespread faucets: $100-300+
• Wall-mounted faucets: $200-500+ (plus installation costs)

Remember to factor in installation if you're not doing it yourself. Wall-mounted faucets can easily add several hundred dollars in labor costs.

Bottom Line

There's no perfect faucet for everyone. The single-hole models offer simplicity and modern style. Widespread faucets bring classic good looks and durability. Wall-mounted options create a dramatic focal point while saving counter space.