Basin Taps Explained: How to Choose the Right Tap for Your Bathroom
Let’s be honest, picking out bathroom tiles or mirrors feels exciting. But when it comes to basin taps? Most of us tend to overlook them. And yet, your bathroom tap is something you interact with every single day. The right one doesn’t just look good; it adds comfort, function, and a whole lot of style to your space.
Whether you're giving your bathroom a refresh or starting from scratch, choosing the right tap depends on how you use your space, what kind of basin you have, and of course, your personal style. From basin mixer taps to sensor pressmatic taps, there’s plenty to choose from.
That’s where Jaquar makes it easy, with a stunning range of tap designs, 12-14 colour finishes, and even Free design consultations (plus 3D models!) to help bring your bathroom vision to life. Let’s break down your options and help you find the tap that truly fits.
1. Basin Mixer Tap
A basin mixer tap is among the most popular and practical choices for modern bathrooms. Instead of separate taps for hot and cold water, a mixer combines both through a single spout. You can easily adjust the temperature and flow with either one or two handles.
Why choose it?
- Sleek, minimalist look
- Great for temperature control
- Compatible with most basin styles
If you're looking for style and substance, Jaquar’s Queen’s Prime and Florentine Prime ranges are must-sees. These aren't just taps, they’re design statements. Whether you prefer gleaming chrome, warm gold, or sleek matte black, you can coordinate your basin tap seamlessly with the rest of your bathroom.
2. Pillar Tap
Pillar tap is the classic option, especially in traditional-style bathrooms. It comes as two separate taps, one for hot and one for cold, and is mounted directly on the basin.
Why choose it?
- Ideal for vintage or classic interiors
- Easy to install and replace
- Gives that charming old-school feel
Jaquar’s Continental Prime and Opal Prime offer a variety of pillar taps that pair beautifully with pedestal basins. They are available in chrome, gold, and many more finishes. So, choose a finish that complements your taps, fixtures, lighting, or even adds an accent colour to your bathroom palette.
3. Tall Basin Tap
Designed specifically for vessel sinks (the ones that sit on top of your counter), a tall tap or high-neck basin mixer tap provides added height to comfortably reach over deeper basins.
Why choose it?
- Essential for above-counter basins
- Adds a dramatic focal point
- Available in contemporary designs
Pair these with Jaquar’s Ornamix Prime or Laguna bathroom taps to create an upscale vanity area. Their tall, graceful silhouettes are designed to complement above-counter basins perfectly, offering both functionality and visual drama.
4. Sensor Tap
If hygiene, tech, or water efficiency is a priority, sensor tap is worth considering. This type of bathroom tap uses infrared sensors to activate water flow only when hands are detected, no touching required.
Why choose it?
- Touch-free and hygienic
- Great for family bathrooms or guest areas
- Reduces water wastage
Jaquar’s sensor basin taps are thoughtfully designed to combine sleek looks with smart technology. You’ll find them in deck-mounted, wall-mounted, and high-neck types, and finishes like chrome and black matte. They’re also perfect for commercial spaces or high-use bathrooms where cleanliness and convenience really matter.
5. Pressmatic Tap
Pressmatic tap is the unsung hero of high-traffic washrooms. Designed with a built-in time-delay mechanism, this bathroom tap automatically shuts off after a few seconds of water flow, making it extremely water-efficient and ideal for commercial or public settings.
Why choose it?
- Great for saving water and reducing wastage
- Hygienic and hands-free after pressing
- Durable and built for heavy daily use
Jaquar’s range of Pressmatic basin taps blends performance with practicality. Whether you’re fitting out a hotel restroom, a school, or simply want a smart, water-saving feature at home, these taps offer reliability and eco-conscious functionality.
Choosing Based on Style: Modern, Classic, or Somewhere In Between?
Once you’ve decided on the type of basin taps, your next move is choosing a style:
Modern
Think smooth curves, geometric forms, and minimalist handles. Ideal for clean, contemporary bathrooms. Jaquar’s Opal Prime and Laguna collections nail this look.
Classic
If you love Victorian or heritage-style interiors, go for cross-handle pillar taps or those with ornate detailing–available in Jaquar’s Queens Prime or Florentine range.
Transitional
A perfect blend of old and new. Mix a basin mixer tap in a brushed bronze or matte black finish with vintage tiles for a balanced design.
Finish Strong: Chrome, Matte, Gold and More
Jaquar doesn’t stop at style and functionality; we also offer 12-14 unique finishes, so you can find the exact look to match your fixtures. From glossy chrome to matte black, rose gold, antique bronze and beyond, each finish is applied using advanced plating technology that resists corrosion and lasts for years.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right bathroom tap may seem like a minor detail, but it’s one that touches your everyday routine, literally. With so many options, from pillar taps to sensor taps, and styles ranging from ultra-modern to charmingly classic, there’s a perfect match out there for every basin.
Jaquar UK makes the journey easier, offering not just basin taps but inspiration, expert guidance, and a world of finishes that make your bathroom truly yours. Because great bathrooms begin with great details, and the right basin tap is the perfect place to start.
FAQs:
Q. What is the difference between a basin mixer tap and a pillar tap?
A. A basin mixer tap combines hot and cold water through a single spout, while pillar taps have separate controls for hot and cold–one on each side of the basin.
Q. Do sensor taps save water?
A. Yes, sensor taps only run when hands are detected, which means less wastage and more efficient water use–perfect for busy or family bathrooms.
Q. Where would a pillar tap be used?
A. Pillar taps are a great fit for traditional-style bathrooms and pedestal basins, especially if you want that classic, old-school charm.
Q. Which type of basin tap is best?
A. It depends on your needs! For everyday convenience, a basin mixer tap is ideal, but sensor taps, wall-mounted or pressmatic taps might suit better for hygiene, space-saving, or water-saving needs.
