How to choose the best shower head in Australia

There have been huge advances and innovations when it comes to shower heads in recent years. This is great for us all but it has also made the process of purchasing one slightly more complicated and challenging. Let's take a look at the things to consider for you to buy the best shower head for you and your family.

Before we get too deep into how to choose a shower head, let's talk about the different types out there. This will give you a good idea of what you want to install for the best shower experience for you.

Wall-mounted unit

One type to consider is the wall-mounted shower head. They consist of a shower arm that's mounted to the wall. Wall-mounted units come in various designs and styles. However, one feature that these units don't provide is mobility, given that it's a fixed apparatus.

Handheld shower head

If you enjoy taking a hand shower where you can easily manipulate the flow of water, then a handheld shower head is for you. These can be removed from their mount, making it easier for you to control the direction of water. These are great for people who have limited mobility as they can easily move them around where needed without having to adjust their body positions. They are also great for washing kids too which can sometimes be challenging.

Rain shower head

Have you ever gone to a spa and been treated to a shower with a rainfall effect? For many, it’s the feeling of ultimate bliss. These gentle showers are usually flush with the ceiling or mounted from a rail. Either way, this type of shower is known as a rain shower head. They offer much more gentle spray patterns, making for a more relaxing shower experience. If you love the rainfall effect then these are the way to go. Positioned overhead rather than on the wall, they can be suspended from a pendant rail or flush-mounted to the ceiling.

Aerating shower head

Last but not least are aerating shower heads. These devices mix air with water, resulting in a high-pressure shower. If you enjoy strong pressure in a shower, it’s hard to beat this as a choice. They also help conserve water, as the air infusion allows for a satisfying shower experience with less water consumption. They can also reduce the buildup of limescale, keeping your shower head cleaner for longer.

Related article: Common types of shower heads - pros, cons and pricing

With the types of shower heads covered, there are a few other things to consider before you make your final decision.

Know who you're buying for

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to showers, so knowing who you're purchasing for is crucial. Think about the main users of the shower and what their needs will be. For example, you might prefer a rain shower but others may need a handheld option. It's a matter of balancing priorities in some cases but you can also explore the option of dual shower heads in such situations.

Think about the spray settings

The spray pattern, flow rate, and special settings can all drastically change your shower experience since they're useful for different needs. For instance, a shower with a high water flow works perfectly for deep cleaning your hair. Or, if you want a relaxing full-body experience, you might want a shower with a massage setting. Think about what types of options you want from your spray settings to help you choose a shower head that suits your needs.

Don't forget convenience

If you're planning to renovate your bathroom on your own, you'll need to make sure you find a shower head that's easy to install. Otherwise, you'll struggle to get it into your bathroom in the first place or you’ll get an unexpectedly high bill from your plumber and/or shower installer. On top of that, make sure to consider how easy to clean your new shower head will be. Some designs are harder to maintain than others, so you'll want to bear this in mind when making your choice.

Related article: Renovating small bathrooms: the dos and dont's

Remember the colour and finish choices

Shower heads come in a wide range of different colours and metals. Chrome, white gloss, black matte, brushed gold, brass, gunmetal - you name it, there’s a good chance it exists as a colour or finish. Be sure to consider any such choice in the context of the colour of your bathroom and how it will fit in with that. Try to choose one that matches the other design features in your bathroom.

Related article: Our 5 favourite bathroom colours for 2024

Don't forget about saving water

When you choose a shower head you also need to remember that your choice will impact how much water you use. By finding one that is more water-efficient, you can reduce your environmental impact and save yourself some money. The good news is that you don't have to sacrifice quality to find a water-efficient shower head. There are plenty of products that offer great quality showers without wasting water. In fact, you can find many that adhere to the WELS scheme water rating. Devices with better WELS ratings provide better water efficiency and help you preserve water that’s becoming increasingly precious in Australia and the wider world. There are also rebates and incentives available in some Australian states for purchasing a water-efficient shower head which makes it even more appealing.

1. Tono Twin Showers 

The Tono Twin Showers by Fienza combine style and functionality, offering a luxurious shower experience with a versatile design. Featuring both an overhead shower and a hand shower, users can enjoy independent or simultaneous use to customise the intensity of their shower. 

2. Perrin & Rowe Classical example shower set 2C

A timeless design with advanced functionality is the Perrin & Rowe Classical Example Shower Set 2C,  which features a ceiling-mounted shower rose controlled by a pressure-balanced shower mixer. Available in various sizes to suit different ceiling heights, it ensures a consistent and safe water flow, even when water pressure fluctuates elsewhere in the home.

3. The Isabella Twin Half-Rail Shower 

The Isabella Twin Half-Rail Shower by Fienza offers a modern, stylish solution for any bathroom with its polished chrome finish and sleek design. Featuring a Starry Overhead Shower and a multifunctional Michelle Hand Piece with five adjustable water flow settings, this shower ensures a luxurious and customisable experience. The set includes a 1.5-metre flexible hose and an optional rail support bracket, making it both practical and aesthetically pleasing for contemporary spaces.

4. Round Ceiling Shower Arm 300mm 

Offering a stylish and minimalist design the Round Ceiling Shower Arm 300mm by Meir is ideal for creating a contemporary look in any bathroom. Its durable construction and sleek matte black finish ensure both elegance and functionality, making it a perfect addition for those seeking a high-quality ceiling-mounted shower arm.

5. Empire Slim Curved Shower Arm Set 

The Empire Slim Curved Shower Arm Set by Fienza combines a sleek, modern design with practical features for an enhanced shower experience. Its slim 8mm shower head and brass swivel joint offer excellent water flow and easy adjustability, while the easy-to-clean TPR nozzles and durable lead-free stainless steel ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.

Now that you know how to choose the best shower head, there’s nothing to stop you from creating your shortlist for your final purchase. It's an important decision that will impact your daily life so take your time and be sure you find one that works best for you.

This article was updated on 16th December 2024

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