If you're building new, remodeling or simply replacing a worn out fixture, choose the best bathroom faucet from these top-rated fixtures.
Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
Buying a Bathroom Faucet
According to Michael Green of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, “if you’re looking to make a small, low-cost upgrades, installing a new faucet is a simple and economical way to refresh your bathroom.”
We consulted with Green, as well as Doyle James, president of Mr. Rooter Plumbing, to create the following list of factors to consider when choosing a bathroom faucet.
Water controls/handle style
Single-handle faucets are typically easier to install and more convenient to use one-handed, while double-handle faucets offer more styles, finishes and shape options. Also, smart faucets with hands-free (touchless) operation are gaining popularity.
Compatibility with sink
If you’re replacing a faucet but keeping the same sink, choose the same faucet/handle configuration for easiest installation. Centerset faucets are the most common and require three holes in the sink — one for the faucet and one for each handle. Many single-hole faucets come with a cover plate to cover any extra holes.
Maintenance and cleaning
Different faucet finishes are easier to maintain than others.
- Brushed nickel doesn’t show spots or fingerprints easily. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.
- Solid brass tends to show fingerprints and water spots, but is the most durable and holds up to hard water. Brass faucets typically cost more but can last a lifetime.
- Stainless steel lands somewhere in the middle. It tends to be more affordable. And though it can show fingerprints and water stains, it’s easier to maintain than brass.
- Chrome is typically the easiest to clean. It’s also affordable and doesn’t corrode.
Valve type
Make sure the faucet you buy has a ceramic disc valve. These valves last much longer than ball valves.
Installation
Most bathroom faucets can be installed by the average homeowner. If you don’t have the time, tools or interest, expect to spend around $70 to $175 to have it installed.
We kept our experts’ insights and considerations in mind when selecting the following bathroom faucets.
The Best Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet
The large, ergonomic handle of this faucet ($80) makes it easy to use one-handed. The center-set design, with the handles and faucet as a single piece, probably will fit your existing bathroom sink layout. Its four-inch footprint doesn’t take up much room, and the brushed nickel finish wipes down easily.
The ceramic disc cartridge valve ensures the internal components are durable enough to prevent leaks. If issues do arise, Moen includes a lifetime warranty. The color-coded hot/cold visual indicator is a nice touch as well.
The Best Waterfall Bathroom Faucet
The wide, trough-style spout of this Pfister faucet ($160) will add an elegant and sophisticated accent to your bathroom, and the lever-style handles allow for comfortable operation. Its durable, easy-to-clean brushed nickel finish also comes in chrome and bronze if you prefer a more contemporary look.
The center-set layout may be compatible with your current sink. If not, it’s available in an eight-inch wide spread option.
The Best Single-Hole Faucet
This single-hole design of this Vigo faucet ($125) makes it incredibly easy to install, and takes up just 1-3/4-in. of space on your sink. It’s good for smaller bathroom sinks, and installation should be easy for even a new DIYer. Its ceramic disc valve is rated to last for 500,000 uses. The chrome finish should be easy to keep clean.
The Best Touchless Bathroom Faucet
This touchfree faucet ($209) features a battery pack that will last seven years. It automatically shuts off after 60 seconds to cut down on unnecessary water and energy use. You can even set it to automatically flush itself periodically, as well as perform a thermal disinfecting procedure.
It installs easily via a quick-change mechanism, and an optional deck plate permits use on various hole configurations. Set your preferred water temperature on the low-profile control lever.
The Best Wall-Mounted Bathroom Faucet
This Vigo faucet ($160) combines the space-saving design of a wall-mounted faucet with the convenience of a single-handle. Its clean, classic design would look great in a modern bathroom. The brushed nickel finish features an extra layer of protection that won’t rust, corrode or tarnish like other options.
A ceramic disc valve increases its durability. Because of its waterfall-style spout, you’ll use less water than a traditional faucet.
Best Wide-Spread Bathroom Faucet
With eight inches between handles, this wide-spread Delta faucet (160) leaves plenty of open room on your sink. That creates a sophisticated look and a much easier layout to keep clean than a cramped and cluttered faucet layout.
A pull-down spout separates this faucet from the competition. Use it to easily spray down the sink to blast away toothpaste or shaving cream, or bathe a small pet. Its Spotshield technology also helps reduce potential odor-causing bacteria.
Best Center-Set Bathroom Faucet
This center-set faucet from Delta ($90) features a swiveling, high-arc spout within a small footprint, ideal for smaller sinks. It also includes a pop-up drain assembly that matches the finish of the faucet — brushed nickel, chrome or bronze.
Note: Like all center-set faucets, the proximity of the knobs to the spout makes that area less convenient to clean than a wide-set option.
Best Budget Bathroom Faucet
Just because you can’t afford a high-end faucet doesn’t mean sacrificing quality and functionality. Though costing significantly less than our other options, this Kohler faucet ($61) has a ceramic disk valve and features a scratch-resistant brushed nickel finish that makes it durable.
Its small footprint also makes it well-suited for bathrooms that don’t have a lot of counter space. Everything you need for installation is included with purchase.
Best Bathroom Faucet for a Vessel Sink
Vessel sinks can add a bold statement piece to your bathroom, but they require a special type of faucet to work effectively. At 10-1/2-in., this Vigo faucet ($198) should be tall enough to reach above and over your vessel, and the waterfall-style spout should help prevent unnecessary splashes and spills.
A seven-layer, corrosion-resistant chrome coating on the faucet and mineral resistant nozzle makes it durable and easy to clean. Plus, the manufacturer says the ceramic disc valve should last for up to 500,000 uses.
Best Splurge Bathroom Faucet
If money’s no object, this high-quality Kohler faucet ($320) and its durable brass finish could be just what you’re looking for. Its ceramic disc valves are rated to last twice as long as industry standards require, and the faucet itself resists water spots and fingerprints.
The elegant styling might not match your current bathroom style, though, so we’d recommend purchasing other pieces from the same collection to create a cohesive décor.
All prices and links were current as of publication.
