A Complete Guide to Different Types of Shower Heads for Your Bathroom
Choosing the right shower head for your bathroom seems like a small decision, but it actually plays a big role in how enjoyable your daily shower feels. You’ve likely come across terms like ceiling shower heads, shower hose, or shower arm, and wondered which setup will suit your space, plumbing, and style best. And if you’re shopping in the UK, you might also be exploring "shower heads UK"to see what local brands and designs are available.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the common types of shower heads, help you weigh their pros and cons, and show you how bits like the shower hose or shower arm tie in. At Jaquar UK, we have a wide range of shower heads and accessories. In fact, we even offer free design consultations, 3D design models, and over a dozen finish options to suit your bathroom’s personality.
Types of Shower Heads
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types you’ll run into and how they differ.
1. Wall-Mounted Shower Heads
This is your “classic” option: the shower head is mounted on the wall via a shower arm and stays in a fixed position. It’s simple, usually economical, and works well if you’re okay with that fixed height and spray direction. Many of Jaquar’s single-function square or round shower heads fall into this category.
Pros: Minimal plumbing fuss, easy to install
Cons: Doesn’t offer flexibility in direction if you’re taller or shorter
2. Handheld Shower Heads (with Shower Hose + Bracket)
A very popular choice. Handheld units come with a flexible shower hose (often 1.5 m or 2 m) and a bracket or slide rail. You can aim the spray where you like, clean the shower easily, or use it for bathing kids or pets. At Jaquar, we have a whole category dedicated to handsets and shower hoses to spoil you with choice.
Pros: Flexibility, easier cleaning, more accessible
Cons: Hose requires support or a bracket, and more parts to maintain
3. Overhead or Ceiling Shower Heads
These are the spa-style options people love. A ceiling shower head drops water from directly above, giving a “rainfall” feeling. They are often multifunctional, offering modes like mist, rainfall, and waterfall. These showers are often recessed into the ceiling for a clean, modern look.
Pros: Luxurious feel, strong visual impact
Cons: May require more plumbing work, ceiling support, and sufficient water pressure
4. Multi-Function Shower Heads
These systems combine a fixed unit, a handheld handset and multiple spray modes in one setup. For example, you might have a rain shower overhead plus a handheld on a slide rail. This gives you the best of both worlds. Jaquar’s shower systems, like Cloud, cater to this integrated approach.
Pros: Maximum flexibility, multiple spray modes
Cons: Higher cost, more plumbing complexity
5. Body or Side Jets
These aren’t shower heads per se, but additional wall jets that spray horizontally at your torso. They are often used in larger luxury showers in combination with overhead or handheld heads. We have a range of body jets in multiple finishes that you can explore to elevate your daily showering experience.
Pros: Maximum flexibility, multiple spray modes
Cons: Higher cost, more plumbing complexity
How to Choose the Right Type for Your Bathroom
When choosing shower heads (UK), refer to this simple checklist:
1. Space and Layout
Consider your bathroom size and configuration. Ceiling or recessed rain heads work best in larger walk-in showers, while wall-mounted units suit compact spaces.
2. Water Pressure and Plumbing
Check your water pressure and plumbing setup. Overhead and rain-style shower heads perform best with strong pressure, while handheld or wall-mounted units are more forgiving.
3. User Height and Flexibility
Think about who will use the shower. Adjustable arms or handheld units ensure comfort for people of different heights.
4. Style and Finish
Match your shower head and arm to your taps and décor. Jaquar UK offers over a dozen finishes, including chrome, black matt, gold PVD, and blush gold, giving you plenty of flexibility.
5. Budget and Installation
Factor in cost and installation complexity. Fixed wall heads are simpler and more budget-friendly, while ceiling or recessed rain units may require professional installation and higher costs.
Closing Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to shower heads. From fixed wall units to rain ceiling designs, and from handhelds to multi-function combos, each type has advantages and trade-offs. Key parts like the shower arm and shower hose matter just as much in how your shower feels and functions.
When browsing shower heads UK, be sure to stop by Jaquar UK. We offer a wide range of styles, multiple finish options, as well as free design consultation and 3D models so you can see your shower in action before installing.
