July 28, 2025
Do plumbing fixtures really matter? Absolutely. They may not be the flashiest part of your remodel, but the right fixtures can make your kitchen and bathroom look better, work smoother, and save you money in the long run. This guide breaks down how to choose fixtures that match your needs, style, and budget, without getting overwhelmed in the process.
Back To All BlogsWe’ll be honest—going out and buying plumbing fixtures won’t be the most exciting part of home remodeling, but it will be the most essential. Sinks, faucets, shower heads, and toilets may not incite the same level of joy as choosing paint colors, sofa sets, or curtains, but they do play a big role in how your home looks, feels, and functions every day.
High-quality plumbing fixtures can transform your bathroom into a serene space and turn your kitchen into a well-organized cooking hub. Whereas low-quality options will leave you wasting water, shelling out money to pay for repairs, and wondering why you didn’t just spend a bit more on better fixtures. The good news is, you don’t have to feel overwhelmed—we’re here to help you choose the right kitchen and bathroom plumbing fixtures without the stress.
Before heading out to your nearest store, take a moment to walk around your home. As you do, ask yourself several questions, such as:
Asking these types of questions will help you gain a deeper understanding of your style and your needs. For example, if you are someone who loves taking relaxing showers, buying a rain shower head would be a more sensible choice than purchasing a fancy faucet. Whereas for the kitchen, getting a pull down kitchen faucet would be more practical than a whole new kitchen sink.
Remember: Always pick something that fits your needs, not just fixtures that look amazing.
Now that you have what you need, here’s the fun part: picking a style.
Do you prefer a sleek, modern look with clean lines and matte black finishes? Or are you drawn to the timeless charm of warm brass fixtures often found in rustic farmhouse designs? Whatever your taste, there's a style to match. Here are some popular options and the design themes they complement best:
The characteristics of traditional fixtures are a mix of polished brass, classic handles, and vintage shapes.
For this style, oil rubbed bronze faucets with cross handles are common features and are often paired with large apron front sinks.
A transitional style is a blend of old and new designs, offering flexibility regardless of the type of home you live in.
Remember: Your fixtures don’t have to match, but they should complement each other well.
Once you have chosen the style for your fixtures, the next step is choosing the right finish. This is an important step because the finish you choose will significantly impact the look and feel of your fixtures. Here’s a quick list of common finishes:
A finish that is super shiny, easy to find, and budget-friendly. It easily shows water spots and fingerprints.
This has a warm silver finish. It is also very durable (though not entirely scratch resistant), and can hide light stains and fingerprints well.
A matte black finish is modern, bold, and easy to clean, but can also be easy to scratch (something you will have to keep an eye on over time).
This finish is characterized as dark brown with coppery highlights. It is the perfect finish to get those vintage or farmhouse vibes.
This type of finish is currently trending. A polished and brushed brass finish has a warm color, is quite stylish, and also eye-catching.
Remember: Always try to match your finishes across all fixtures in a room to achieve a clean and cohesive look. Mismatched finishes, although possible, require careful planning.
Yes—water efficiency matters. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later when you see how much you’re saving on your water bill each month.
When selecting plumbing fixtures, look for designs bearing the WaterSense label. This is the EPA’s mark of approval for fixtures that use at least 20% less water while maintaining performance. Consider the following:
As the name implies, dual flush toilets offer two different flush options, which can help you save gallons of water every day and a significant amount of money every month.
Low flow shower heads use less water without affecting your showering experience. Look for shower head models rated 2.0 GPM (gallons per minute) or less.
Faucets with aerators help reduce water use will improving water flow. Additionally, a faucet aerator can help filter debris from your water.
Low-volume bathtubs use less water to fill, but still provide a relaxing soak after a long day. There are also space-saving models available, making them a great option for smaller bathrooms.
Remember: Yes, water saving fixtures may be a little more expensive up front, but they will save money on your water bill every month moving forward.
Now, snap back to reality.
You have your wonderful fixtures, all in the same style, and matching in finish. The next step is to install them—but who will do it? Sure, some bathroom and kitchen fixtures are so easy to install, but the same can’t be said for others. So, you must ask yourself:
Remember: A simple replacement is fine as a DIY project, but if you're planning a full remodel, best to call in the pros. One mistake, no matter how simple, can lead to leaks, water damage, or worse.
And TRY to stick to it.
Fixtures fall in all price ranges. Some can be purchased for a reasonable price, while designer pieces typically cost much more. Yes, it's tempting to buy that fantastic kitchen faucet, but if you blow your budget on it, you'll have to settle for a boring shower head until you save enough for another remodel.
The best approach is to set a reasonable budget per room and then compare prices while shopping. This way, you can look for quality brands at lower prices during a store or online sale.
Remember: Factor in installation costs if you plan on hiring someone to help you.
You can never be too careful.
Before you purchase something, be sure to do some research first, especially for items you’ve set your sights on. Before you swipe your card or smash the “add to cart” button, you should:
Remember: Having the right information helps you find the best deals for your bathroom and kitchen remodel. It also saves you from stress and costly mistakes in the future.
Choosing plumbing fixtures doesn’t have to be a stressful or overwhelming experience. Focus on what you need first, then pick something that suits your home’s style. It’s okay to mix beauty and function, because even a sleek faucet will work just as well as it looks.
Remember: plumbing fixtures are things you will use every day. A little extra effort now will result in long-term comfort, savings, and perhaps a few compliments from your friends. So, don’t hesitate—get that brass faucet that excites you or choose that water-saving dual flush toilet.
Be sure to plan everything out carefully before making a purchase.
