Whether you're planning a total bathroom renovation or simply an overhaul of your existing units, finding the right tap can add so much to the final feel of the space. For a period scheme, you might want to opt for classic cross-head pillar taps, while a minimalist bathroom might be better served by a wall-mounted mixer tap - see below for a quick overview of the three main styles of basin tap.
And then there are a variety of finishes to choose from - eye-catching matt black and brushed metallics have become especially popular in recent years, although polished chrome and stainless steel remain timeless favourites for their versatility. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find it in our round-up of the most stylish bathroom basin taps on the market right now...
And if you're still in search of the perfect sink, check out our pick of the best bathroom basins, too!
Types of bathroom tap
Mixer tap: the most common choice in contemporary bathrooms, a mixer tap is a single tap connected to both hot and cold water pipes, meaning the user can set the flow to their preferred temperature, usually via a lever handle.
Pillar taps: still a common sight in older bathrooms or in Victorian or Edwardian-inspired schemes, pillar taps consist of two separate taps for hot and cold water. The downside of this arrangement is that if you want warm water, you'll need to use the plug and mix both flows in the basin - but if you love a period bathroom then the traditional aesthetic will be worth the slight inconvenience.
Wall-mounted: wall-mounted taps, as the name implies, are plumbed into the wall above the basin rather than the basin itself. While they require more effort to install - and to access if they require servicing - wall-mounting taps offer a clean and sophisticated finish to a modern bathroom scheme.
Best bathroom taps to buy in the UK
Best mixer taps
GROHE Eurosmart Cosmopolitan Bathroom Single-Lever Basin Mixer - Midnight Black
Matt black bathroom fixtures are all the rage right now, and if you want to embrace a dramatic dark bathroom, this contemporary Eurosmart Cosmopolitan mixer tap in Midnight Black could be the right option for you. Boasting GROHE's SilkMove ceramic cartridge for super-smooth operation, the tap also comes with a matching pop-up waste controlled by a discreet lever at the rear. And if you're conscious of water waste, the built-in EcoJoy flow control technology could reduce your water consumption by up to 50%.
GROHE Eurocube basin mixer tap with waste
With its distinctive chunky profile, GROHE's Eurocube mixer tap is guaranteed to become a focal point within your bathroom scheme. Made of sturdy brass with a scratch-proof chrome coating, the flow and temperature is controlled by an ultra-smooth lever and comes with a matching waste, activated by a rod at the rear. The Eurocube mixer tap also comes with a five-year parts and labour guarantee.
Revamping your kitchen too? Read our guide to the best kitchen taps.
Hemington Single Lever Compact Mono Basin Mixer Tap - Matt Anthracite
If you're looking for a matt tap with a slightly off-black finish, we think this brass mixer tap by Hemington in dark grey Anthracite is a stylish option. The sleek brushed finish and smooth, rounded lines combine to create a sophisticated and chic design that will look at home in a contemporary scheme. Also available in chrome.
Tabor Chrome Mono Waterfall Basin Mixer Tap - Tabor
Waterfall taps, which contain a channel within the spout so the water appears to flow from it like a waterfall, make for a lovely standout feature in a bathroom renovation. This mono basin mixer from Tabor is made of solid brass and comes with a five year warranty for peace of mind.
Best pillar taps
Bristan K 1/2 C Colonial Basin Taps - Chrome
For a traditional bathroom scheme, look no further than these cross-head pillar taps from Bristan, available on Amazon. They're made of sturdy chrome-finished brass, with retro-style hot and cold labelling on the handles. The perfect finishing touch for a Victorian or Edwardian-inspired bathroom!
Deva Georgian Taps Basin Pillar
If you're looking for pillar taps, but prefer modern-style level handles to knobs, check out this elegant set of taps from Deva. With a polished chrome finish and ceramic-look handles, they offer a Georgian look with the rather more recent convenience of lever flow control - particularly easy to use for kids.
Bristan Cobalt black basin pillar taps
Square, sturdy and finished in matt Cobalt Black, these pillar taps by Bristan definitely make a statement. Fitted with life-long ceramic cartridges to ensure easy and precise lever operation, they have been tested over 20,000 times before sale and come with a 10 year manufacturers' guarantee. Offering a truly modern look, we love the use of graphic symbols for hot and cold, too.
Ebb Flo Pentle Taps Basin Pillar
When you're in need of simple and stylish pillar taps that won't break the bank, Ebb Flo is a great option for budget-friendly sanitaryware. Just £37.98 at the time of writing, this set of two lever handle taps is made of durable brass and zinc, all with a polished chrome finish that will complement any colour scheme.
Best wall-mounted taps
Camden Wall Mounted Brass Double Lever Basin Mixer Tap
Wall-mounted taps are already a classy addition to a bathroom, and the luxurious brushed brass finish on these Camden pillar taps only adds to the elegance. Combining vintage design elements like cross-head handles with clean modern lines, the finished product is a timeless design that would feel at home in a traditional or contemporary scheme. Also available in matt black and polished chrome
VitrA Origin Built-In Wall Mounted Basin Mixer Tap - Brushed Nickel
For a contemporary twist on the wall-mounted tap, this mixer tap by VitrA boasts clean, minimalist lines and trendy brushed nickel finish. The flow and temperature are controlled via a shower-style single lever control, while the built-in aerator helps cut down on water waste, too. To install, you'll need the VitrA Origin Concealed Valve for Built-In Wall Mounted Basin Mixer Taps.
Arissa Wall Mounted Black Basin Mixer Tap
We loved the simple but arresting curved shape of the Arissa wall-mounted tap. The ideal complement to a modern monochrome bathroom scheme, the tap body is cast in brass and the handle in zinc, both finished in deep matt black. If you prefer a polished finished, the same design is also available in chrome and brass.
Mode Spencer round wall mounted rose gold basin mixer tap
Rose gold has become a glamorous go-to for fixtures throughout the home, but this metallic finish looks particularly effective twinkling invitingly under warm bathroom lighting. The Spencer model from Moda is made from solid brass with a premium-look PVD plated rose gold finish, and comes with a five-year guarantee.
How to clean bathroom taps
'Taps and other bathroom brassware can quickly start to look a little lacklustre after some time, and if you’ve splashed out on a smart brushed, matt finish or chic rose gold design for your Instagram-worthy bathroom, you’ll want to keep it looking new for longer,' says Paul Bailey, Leader of Product Management for GROHE UK and LIXIL EMENA.
'Many of today’s on-trend graphite and metallic finishes are manufactured using the latest PVD technology – a process which involves using a vacuum to add a layer of thin film across the surface of the metal. This creates a hardwearing finish designed to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday life, but it still needs a delicate approach to cleaning.
In most cases, regular cleaning with a little gentle soap, warm water and a microfibre cloth is all that’s needed to keep dirt at bay. Rinse off and dry with a soft cloth.
Steer clear of harsh chemical cleaners which can damage the finish, as well as being harmful to the planet. Abrasive scourers are best avoided too. Although natural remedies such as lemon juice or vinegar may seem safe to use, it’s always best to check with the manufacturer, as they contain acid which can dull certain finishes.
Try to avoid applying cosmetics over the basin, as the dusty particles can leave unattractive marks – especially on taps in matt finishes. If it’s unavoidable, keep a cloth handy to carefully wipe off any residue straight away.
If you want to keep your new taps pristine, it’s also important to avoid scratches, which can easily be caused by metal rings and bracelets. Removing them before cleaning to help avoid any accidental damage.
