Bath taps

Choosing a bathtub faucet? Consider this before buying

Many people choose a bath faucet mainly based on appearance. While design is important, it’s not everything. Before making a decision, it helps to answer a few simple questions – it can save you installation trouble and inconvenience later.

Think about whether:

• You are replacing an old faucet or installing one in a completely new bathroom?
• You only want to bathe in the tub or also use it as a shower?
• Who will use the bathroom (children, seniors, the whole family, someone with limited mobility)?
• Do you want a simple solution or higher comfort?
• Is the overall bathroom design important to you?

TIP: If you are simply replacing an old bath faucet with a new one, take a photo of the original installation. 

Types of bathtub faucets by installation

The installation method affects not only the look of your bathroom but also how demanding the installation will be and how easy it will be to replace the faucet in the future. That’s why it’s best to choose a bathtub faucet based on the stage of your bathroom project.

Wall-mounted bath faucets

This is the most common solution in many bathrooms. A wall-mounted bath faucet is installed directly onto the water outlets in the wall and is ideal when replacing an old faucet.

This solution makes the most sense when:

• you are replacing an old faucet and do not want construction work,
• your wall tiles are already finished,
• you want quick and affordable installation.

NOTE: Before ordering a new bathtub faucet, carefully measure the distance between the water outlets. Incorrect spacing can complicate installation unnecessarily.

Concealed bath faucets

Concealed bath faucets have their technical parts hidden inside the wall, leaving only the control elements and spout visible. If you want to learn what a concealed faucet is and how it works, it’s worth understanding this solution before planning your bathroom. The result is a clean, modern appearance without distracting elements.

This solution makes the most sense when:

• you are building or fully renovating a bathroom,
• you are planning water connections during the design stage,
• you prefer a minimalist design.

SANITINO TIP: If your bathroom is already finished and you do not want to cut into the walls again, consider a wall-mounted faucet instead.

Deck-mounted bath faucet

A deck-mounted bath faucet is often found in modern or designer bathtubs. This type of faucet is installed directly on the rim of the bathtub. The hose and hand shower are usually hidden and pulled out only when needed, creating a very elegant and clean look.

This solution makes the most sense when:

• you are purchasing a new bathtub and planning for it in advance,
• you want minimal visible elements around the tub,
• bathroom design is important to you.

NOTE: A deck-mounted faucet requires a bathtub designed for this type of installation. Not every model supports it, so always check compatibility before ordering.

Freestanding bath faucet

Freestanding bath faucets stand independently next to the bathtub and are typically used with freestanding bathtubs. They function as a distinctive design feature in the bathroom.

This solution makes sense when:

• you have a freestanding bathtub,
• you are planning a spacious bathroom,
• water connections in the floor are planned during construction or renovation.

SANITINO TIP: Freestanding faucets look great, but installation is more demanding – it’s best handled by a professional.

Controls: classic or higher comfort?

The control type mainly affects how comfortable the faucet is to use daily. It’s less about design and more about habit, simplicity, and precision.

The most common control types for bath faucets:

• Single-lever control – the most common option. One lever controls both temperature and water flow. It is quick, intuitive, and suitable for most households.
• Two-handle control – classic rotary valves for hot and cold water separately. Often used in retro or traditional bathroom styles.
• Push-button control – a modern solution where water flow is activated by buttons, often combined with concealed or designer faucets.

TIP: If you want a simple and universal solution, a single-lever bath faucet is a safe choice.