Taps Demystified: What Makes Kitchen, Basin, and Mixer Taps Different?
Taps may seem simple, but choosing the right one for your kitchen or bathroom can be confusing with so many types available. This guide will break down the differences between kitchen sink taps, basin taps, bathroom taps, extended basin taps, and mixers, helping you make the best choice for your home. Scroll to the end for a comprehensive comparison of the different types of taps.
1. Kitchen Sink Taps
Purpose: Designed for heavy use, kitchen taps are built for tasks like washing dishes, filling pots, and cleaning vegetables.
Features:
- Taller to accommodate large items like pots.
- Pull-out spray heads for added functionality.
- Durable finishes to resist stains and scratches, such as chrome or matte black.
Best Use: Kitchens where multitasking and flexibility are essential.
Recommended Products: K4000, K8220
2. Basin Taps
Purpose: Used for bathroom sinks, basin taps are designed for handwashing and general hygiene.
Features:
- Compact and available in single-handle or dual-handle designs.
- Focused on style and water efficiency.
- Typically shorter than kitchen taps to suit basin size and height.
Best Use: Bathrooms where aesthetics and functionality need to be balanced.
Recommended Products: X321GG, K321
3. Bathroom Taps
Purpose: Broad category that includes taps for basins and showers.
Features:
- Wall-mounted or deck-mounted options.
- Can include water mixers for tubs or showers.
- Designed to match the overall bathroom style.
Best Use: General bathroom use, tailored to specific fixtures like basins or showers.
Recommended Taps: G321BB, X321
4. Extended Basin Taps
Purpose: Extended basin taps are taller taps designed to pair with vessel sinks or basins that sit above the countertop.
Features:
- Provides added height to ensure water flows cleanly into elevated basins.
- Available in modern designs and finishes like polished chrome or matte black.
- Often includes single-lever mixers for convenience.
Best Use: Stylish bathrooms featuring vessel sinks or countertop basins.
Recommended Products: X321LGG, K321LBB
5. Mixer Taps
Purpose: Combines hot and cold water into a single stream, offering precise temperature control.
Features:
- Single-lever mixers are sleek and modern.
- Dual-lever mixers offer separate controls for hot and cold water.
Best Use: Suitable for both kitchens and bathrooms, depending on style and need for temperature precision.
Recommended Products: PP921GG (Bathroom), P7000 (Kitchen)
Key Differences at a Glance
| Type | Purpose | Best Feature | Common Location | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen Taps | Heavy-duty tasks | Taller design, pull-out spray options | Kitchen | Often includes swivel spouts and multi-functional heads for washing large items. |
| Basin Taps | Handwashing and hygiene | Compact and stylish | Bathroom sink | May include water-saving aerators and modern designs for style-conscious users. |
| Bathroom Taps | General bathroom fixtures | Wall-mounted or deck-mounted flexibility | Bathroom sink/shower | Includes options for tubs, showers, or bidet use, often matching the bathroom aesthetic. |
| Mixer Taps | Temperature control | Single or dual-lever temperature mixing | Kitchen/Bathroom | Precise control of hot and cold water for user convenience. |
| Extended Basin | Elevated vessel sinks | Taller design for above-counter basins | Bathroom sink | Ideal for vessel sinks, ensuring clean water flow without splashing over countertops. |
Conclusion
Choosing the right tap depends on where it will be used, your style preferences, and functionality needs. Zenzora offers a wide range of premium taps for every purpose, from sleek mixer taps to durable kitchen fixtures. Explore our collection today to find the perfect fit for your home.