A Complete Guide to Basin Taps: How to Find the Perfect Fit for Your Bathroom

13th Feb 2025

Black rectangular countertop basin with matching matt black tap

When you're upgrading your bathroom, swapping out your basin taps can give your space a fresh new look and make daily tasks like brushing your teeth or washing your hands more enjoyable.

Whether you're replacing an old tap that's seen better days or installing a new basin, there are plenty of tap choices available to suit any bathroom. But picking a style can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming.

In this guide, we'll walk you through choosing the right taps for your bathroom. Plus, we've gathered expert tips from Brian Toward, CEO here at Wholesale Domestic, to make finding the perfect fit a breeze.

Types of bathroom basin tap
What to consider when buying basin taps
Frequently asked questions
The best basin taps for every bathroom

Types of bathroom basin tap

Finding the right basin taps is key to achieving your desired bathroom style – whether you're looking for a modern look or a more traditional feel. Your chosen taps not only enhance your bathroom's design and match your other hardware, but also improve how your sink functions day-to-day.

Let's explore some of the most popular types of bathroom basin taps to help you decide which style works best for your space.

Pillar taps

Pillar taps have two separate controls for your hot and cold water supply. Their handles can vary from classic crosshead valve styles to modern lever designs, offering more flexibility in their appearance and how easy they are to use.

Brian says: "Pillar taps are great if you're aiming for a more vintage-inspired bathroom. They're straightforward to install, and having separate hot and cold streams gives you full control over the temperature."

Spout taps

Spout taps feature a single outlet that blends hot and cold water, and they usually use an infrared sensor to activate the flow without any additional handles or dials. They come in various styles, from standard cylindrical shapes to bolder, angular designs.

Brian says: “Spout taps are a modern choice for smaller bathrooms, often featuring a sensor for hands-free control. This not only saves space but also adds a sleek, contemporary touch, with no lever or knob needed to turn the water on and off.”

Mono mixer taps

Mono mixer taps blend hot and cold water into a single spout. Designed as a compact, all-in-one unit, they require just one mounting hole in your basin, making them a great space-saving alternative to traditional designs.

Plus, they often have a single lever, meaning they’re easy to turn on or off. It’s a big plus for family bathrooms where little hands may struggle with separate valve handles.

3-hole taps

3-hole taps feature a spout and two separate handles for hot and cold water, requiring three holes to be mounted directly onto your basin or countertop. This creates a symmetrical look that’s ideal for larger basins.

They’re available in a range of finishes, from polished chrome to matt black, so it’s easy to pair them with your bath taps or shower head.

Wall-mounted taps

Wall-mounted taps are attached directly to the wall above your basin. They’re compatible with a wide range of sinks, as there's no need to worry about mounting holes on the basin itself.

Brian says: "Wall-mounted taps are great if you want a clean, modern look around your sink. They free up valuable counter space, perfect for smaller bathrooms where every inch of storage counts. Their wall-mounted design also makes deep-cleaning the area around your sink much easier."

Waterfall taps

Waterfall taps have an open spout design that allows water to flow in a waterfall-like shape. This creates a relaxing, spa-like experience. They use a lever to control the water flow, making them easy for people of all ages to use.

Brian recommends: "If you're looking for an easy way to add a touch of luxury to your bathroom, waterfall taps are a fantastic choice. They’re perfect for modern basins, and the open flow design makes tasks like washing your hands almost enjoyable."

High rise taps

High-rise taps (also known as tall basin taps) are fixed directly onto the counter behind your sink and are designed with extra height, making them perfect for countertop basins. This gives you more room when washing your hands or face, while their counter-mounted design frees up space on the edge of the sink for your toothbrush holder and soap dispenser.

What to consider when buying basin taps

While it can be tempting to buy the first taps you see, there's a lot to keep in mind when you're giving your basin a refresh. From the type of sink you have to the water pressure in your home, each factor can affect your tap's look, feel, and functionality.

Let's explore some of the most important considerations to help you find the perfect option.

1. Basin type

Some taps will suit your basin setup better than others:

Countertop basins – These pair well with wall-mounted basin taps, as they help keep the vanity surface clear for your toiletries.
Pedestal basins – These can work with all sorts of designs, from traditional styles like pillar taps to more contemporary mixer taps.
Inset and semi-recessed basins – These are generally compatible with mixer and 3-hole basin taps; just make sure your basin has enough holes for any fixtures.

See our basin buying guide for more advice on finding the right style for your bathroom.

2. Mounting options

Where and how you install your new taps can change your bathroom's overall look and feel. Wall-mounted taps save space and create a cleaner look, or if your basin has mounting holes, you can fit the taps directly onto your sink.

Alternatively, you might choose to mount them on the countertop behind your basin and free up the edge of the sink.

When selecting a tap, remember to think about your available space and whether your basin is compatible with the tap design you have in mind.

Brian says: "There are a wide range of mounting options available when choosing new taps. Before you settle on a tap style, ask yourself: do I have enough wall or counter space to install it? Is my basin already drilled for taps, or do I need a model that mounts elsewhere? Making these decisions early will save time and ensure you end up with the perfect fit."

3. Water pressure

Another critical factor is the water pressure in your home. Your water pressure affects how strong your water flow is, from a small trickle to a powerful gush. Some bathroom taps are designed to work with any water pressure, while others need a higher pressure to perform properly.

Homes with a cold water tank in the loft and a hot water storage cylinder in an airing cupboard (gravity-fed systems) tend to have lower pressure. In comparison, newer homes with combi boilers or unvented systems usually have higher pressure.

Brian explains: "If you're not sure about your home's water pressure, a quick check is often all it takes to find out. You can measure the flow rate from your taps using a special pressure gauge or simply measure the length of time taken to fill a jug with water. If it takes more than six seconds, you probably have low water pressure.”

4. Finish and style

You should also think about the overall look you want to achieve with your sink. Basin taps come in a wide range of finishes – from classic chrome that's easy to coordinate with your other hardware to more on-trend colours like matt black or brushed brass.

Brian says: "Finishing touches really pull a bathroom design together. While colour names usually stay the same between manufacturers, the shade can vary. If you like a cohesive style, it’s a good idea to get your taps from the same brand as your other fixtures. That way, your hardware is guaranteed to be a perfect match."

Frequently asked questions

What size are basin taps?

"Basin taps in the UK are usually designed to fit a standard 1/2-inch (15mm) connection, so they’ll work with most household plumbing systems. This means you shouldn’t have any issues swapping out an old tap for a new one," Brian says.

"That said, tap sizes can vary when it comes to height and reach, so it’s always worth checking the specs and measuring your basin before buying – it’s better to be sure than end up with something that doesn’t quite fit!"

Can I install new taps myself, or do I need a plumber?

Brian says: “Swapping out your taps is easier than you might think, particularly if you're replacing them with a similar style. If you already have some DIY know-how and can turn off your water supply, you should be able to handle the job yourself. But if you’re not 100% confident – especially if you need to adjust any pipework – it's always worth getting a plumber in to make sure everything’s fitted properly.”

What’s the difference between a single lever tap and a double lever tap?

A single lever tap, also known as a mono mixer tap, uses one handle to control the temperature and water flow. On the other hand, a double lever tap has separate hot and cold handles, giving you more precise control over water temperature.

What are basin taps made of?

Brian explains: "Most basin taps are made from solid brass, and there’s a good reason for that – it’s strong, resistant to corrosion, and handles high water pressure without any issues. Plus, it’s built to last, so you won’t need to replace your taps often."

"You’ll also find taps in other materials like stainless steel or zinc alloys, but brass is by far the most popular choice. It’s reliable and works in pretty much any bathroom."

Are certain taps good for saving water?

Brian says: "If you want to save water without losing pressure, an eco tap is the way to go. A lot of modern basin mixer taps have built-in flow restrictors or aerators, which mix air into the water so you still get a good, steady flow while using less."

"If cutting down on water waste – and your bills – is the goal, look for taps labelled ‘water-saving’ or ‘eco-friendly.’ They’ll do the hard work for you, and you won’t even notice the difference – except when it comes to your water bill!"

The best basin taps for every bathroom

Every bathroom is unique, and finding the perfect taps can make a world of difference in achieving your dream design and making your daily routine easier.

Here are some of our top picks to help you choose the right tap for your style, budget, and functional preferences.

Best budget basin taps

Bristan Value Lever Chrome Basin Taps

"If you're looking for an affordable option that still looks great and performs well, these Bristan basin taps tick all the boxes,” says Brian. “They come as a pair for just £37, making them a budget-friendly choice. They're also mounted directly onto your basin, saving wall and counter space.”

“These taps have a chrome finish that’s a classic choice for any bathroom style, while the lever design makes them super easy for those of all ages to adjust the temperature and flow.”

Best water-saving basin taps

RAK Compact Eco Round Mono Basin Mixer Tap

Brian recommends: "This RAK eco mixer tap is brilliant for households looking to lower their water usage. This eco-friendly design helps you use up to 50% less water without compromising pressure or flow.”

Brian adds: "It's affordable, too – you'll easily make back the cost in the long run through reduced water bills. Plus, the sleek lever design makes it simple to use – even when you’ve got soapy hands or you’re reaching around with your eyes closed when washing your face!"

Best modern basin taps

RAK Amalfi Matt Black Wall Mounted Basin Mixer Tap

"If you're upgrading your sink to fit a more modern aesthetic, this RAK wall-mounted mixer tap is an absolute showstopper,” says Brian. “The striking matt black finish adds a bold contrast to your walls, while its streamlined temperature dial gives you complete control without taking up too much room.”

Best traditional basin taps

Balmoral Traditional Brushed Brass Mono Basin Mixer Tap

Brian explains: "For a classic tap that looks and feels great to use, this Balmoral mixer tap offers the best of both worlds. It looks right at home in traditional bathrooms while providing all the benefits of a mono mixer, like easy temperature control and a fuss-free installation on top of your basin.”

Brian adds: "The luxurious brushed brass finish creates an authentic old-fashioned feel, while the single outlet delivers hot and cold water in a single spout. Plus, the labelled 'hot' and 'cold' dials are another subtle nod to traditional tap models."

Best taps for small basins

Cubix Polished Chrome Waterfall Mini Mono Basin Mixer Tap

Brian says: "If you're working with a bathroom that's short on space, the Cubix waterfall mini tap is a solid choice. With its compact 38mm width, it's a great option for smaller basins. And as a mono mixer tap, it only requires a single hole in your basin, combining both water flow and temperature control in one sleek design."

“It's also budget-friendly at just under £50 yet still feels luxurious – the waterfall flow brings a spa-like atmosphere that feels special every time you turn it on.”

Discover your new basin taps at Wholesale Domestic

Ready to give your basin the perfect finishing touch? Explore our wide range of basin taps at Wholesale Domestic, and complete your setup with our matching basin wastes, toothbrush holders, and soap dispensers.

If you're still not sure which taps are right for you, our team is always here to help. Contact us anytime. Or, take a look at our blog for more bathroom inspiration