Which kitchen tap is best? A few points to bear in mind

Picking the ideal kitchen tap can be quite a challenge — the range of models on the market can feel overwhelming. What should you look out for when buying one so you won’t regret your decision? We’re happy to help! Read on to discover the aspects that will influence the functionality and look of your kitchen!

How your kitchen tap is mounted

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a kitchen tap is how it’s mounted. Even the most beautiful model will be of no use if it isn’t suited to your kitchen. In shops like ours, you’ll mainly find two options: taps mounted on the worktop or sink, and wall-mounted taps.

Your choice should depend on your kitchen’s setup. In many older buildings, the water pipes come out of the wall fairly high up, which dictates a wall-mounted tap. In newer builds, the pipes sit lower, allowing for a deck-mounted installation. And if you’ve a renovation ahead of you — consider which of these options appeals to you more.

Tap material and durability

Kitchen tap is one of those fixtures that gets heavy use. For that reason, it should be exceptionally durable. To achieve that, it needs to be made from high-quality materials.

The most common options are usually stainless steel, chrome, brass and bronze. Stainless steel, prized for its corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning, is an excellent choice for those seeking durability with a modern look. Chrome taps, known for their mirror-like shine, add elegance to a kitchen but may need more frequent cleaning to keep their sparkle. Brass and bronze are chosen for their unique character and robustness, though they’re often pricier.

Choose a material that not only suits your kitchen’s aesthetic but will also stand up to daily, intensive use. A good kitchen tap should resist scratching and abrasion and be easy to clean. Also pay attention to the quality of the internal components — valves and seals are just as important to long-lasting, reliable performance as the body material itself.

Functionality: the spout and handles of a kitchen tap

Another key aspect is the tap’s functionality, especially its two elements: the spout and the handles. How should you choose them for your kitchen? Remember that the spout should be matched to the size and depth of the sink to ensure comfortable use. A handy solution is a tap with a pull-out spout, which makes washing large pots and the sink much easier, offering greater reach and flexibility than classic models.

As for the handles, you can choose single-lever (mixer) models, which let you adjust the temperature and water flow easily with one hand, or dual-handle taps that give you precise control over hot and cold water separately. Single-lever taps are often more ergonomic and suit modern interiors, while two-handle taps may be preferred in more traditional schemes. Also note that a single lever most often appears on deck-mounted models, whereas two handles are common on wall-mounted ones — though that’s not a hard-and-fast rule.

Finish and style to suit your kitchen

When choosing the ideal kitchen tap, it’s crucial that its finish and style harmonise with your kitchen’s overall design. The tap’s finish can have a big impact on the look and atmosphere of the space. How do you pick the perfect model?

Match your kitchen tap to elements already in the room. Take a look around — which colour and style dominate? Have you got black appliances? Opt for a black kitchen tap. Or is silver king? A chrome tap will fit that space beautifully. In a modern kitchen featuring gold handles, a tap in a matching colour will be a lovely finishing touch.

Also pay attention to the style itself. Simple, geometric forms work brilliantly in modern schemes, while more decorative, classic models are better suited to traditional interiors. And don’t forget that taps can come with matt, gloss or brushed finishes, which will also influence the final look of your kitchen.

Gold or silver, matt or gloss — which kitchen tap will you choose?