The 3 Main Types of Bathtub Faucet Handles Explained
When selecting a bathtub faucet for your bathroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right type of handle. The handle style impacts both form and function, from ease of use to coordinating with your decor. There are three main options for bathtub faucet handles: lever, cross, and comfort grip. Understanding the key features and differences between these styles will help you pick the perfect handle to suit your needs.
Bathtub faucet handles come in a range of styles, from traditional to contemporary to more ornate, decorative versions. Factors like finish, size, and ease of repair should be considered along with your bathroom's existing style.
Lever Handles
The most common and popular style of bathtub faucet handle is the lever handle. This type of handle operates by moving the lever up and down to control water flow and temperature. Lever handles offer several benefits that make them a versatile choice for many bathrooms.
One of the biggest advantages of lever handles is their ease of use. The lever provides a comfortable grip and makes it simple to adjust the water with just the push or pull of a hand. The lever mechanism is also relatively straightforward to repair or replace compared to other handle types. This makes maintenance easy if the handle becomes damaged or worn out over time.
Lever handles come in a range of styles, from traditional and minimal to more decorative, ornate versions. Traditionally styled lever handles have a timeless look that fits well with many decor aesthetics. Contemporary levers feature sleek, straight lines and geometric forms for a modern style. Decorative levers incorporate unique details and finishes for a touch of luxury.
When selecting a lever handle, take into account the size and style that best suits your needs. Larger levers can provide easier grasping and control. The finish should coordinate with the rest of your bathroom's hardware and fixtures. It's also wise to choose a model where the lever's internal cartridge can be easily replaced if needed down the road.
Cross Handles
Cross handles are an elegant and often eye-catching choice for bathtub faucets. The distinctive crossed design serves both form and function. Cross handles operate by turning the stem at the bottom of the crossed bars to adjust water flow and temperature.
While less common than lever styles, cross handles can make a stylish statement in a bathroom. Traditional cross handles have a classic look with decorative detailing on the stem and end points. Contemporary cross handles simplify the design with clean, straight lines to highlight the handle's x-shape. Elaborately styled crosses incorporate detailed metalwork and finishes for a touch of luxury.
One downside is that cross handles tend to be more difficult to repair or replace compared to other handle types if they become damaged. The intricate handles can be tough to match if a replacement is needed down the road. When choosing a cross handle, opt for finishes like polished chrome or nickel that resist corrosion and tarnishing.
Be sure to select a cross handle size and design that fits with your overall bathroom decor. Measure the space available to ensure the handle size is proportional. The cross shape makes a bolder statement than lever styles, so take aesthetics into account.
Comfort Grip Handles
If providing maximum ease of use is your top priority, a comfort grip handle is a great option. This style of handle features an extra-large, easy to grip design. The thick handle shape makes gripping and turning the faucet smooth and uncomplicated, even for those with mobility challenges or arthritis.
Comfort grip handles are commonly found on freestanding bathtubs. The large handle size provides stability when entering or exiting the tub. For a modern look, opt for an ergonomically designed handle contoured to fit the hand's shape. Decorative comfort grip handles incorporate unique shapes and details to provide both style and substance.
When selecting this handle type for a freestanding tub, stability is key. Ensure the handle has strong attachment points and sufficient clearance from the floor for ease of use. Grip materials like soft rubber coating further improve handling ability. Prioritize comfort and ease of grasping to make bathing safe and enjoyable.
New Innovations
Technology is also influencing bathtub faucet handle designs, bringing high-tech conveniences to the bathing experience.
Touchscreen Handles
On the cutting-edge of faucet innovation are handles with integrated touchscreen interfaces. Rather than physically turning a handle, users can adjust water settings like temperature and flow rate digitally through the touchscreen.
While still relatively uncommon, touchscreen faucet technology provides a sleek, futuristic look. The convenient digital controls allow for precision water adjustment at the tap - or swipe - of a finger.
Voice-Activated Handles
Voice activation takes touchless technology even further by enabling water control through voice commands. Users can give voice prompts to adjust temperature or activate pre-set preferences. This hands-free functionality allows for multi-tasking like washing hair or bathing kids.
Voice activation remains an emerging innovation still in development. But the potential convenience and accessibility of controlling water settings via voice makes it a technology to watch.
LED Lighting Handles
LED lighting integrated into faucet handles provides both form and function. LED-enabled handles include lights that illuminate the handle interior with a variety of color options. The colored lighting sets a desired ambiance or chromatherapy mood for bathing.
The LED lights in the handle also serve a practical purpose by increasing visibility and safety in the bathroom at night. No more fumbling in the dark for the faucet!
Wireless Charging
Some newer faucets have handles equipped with built-in wireless charging technology. This allows users to conveniently charge a smartphone or other compatible device simply by placing it on or near the handle.
Being able to easily top off your device's battery while enjoying a relaxing bath eliminates the need for untidy power cables at the tub. As reliance on personal electronics continues to grow, wireless charging handles provide a practical upgrade.
When it comes to choosing the perfect bathtub faucet handle, key considerations include your style needs, ease of use, and availability of replacement parts. Lever handles tend to be the most user-friendly and easy to install, while cross handles provide elegance and flair. For accessibility, comfort grip handles maximize support and stability.
Newer innovations like touchscreens and wireless charging offer high-tech convenience if you want to upgrade your bathing experience. Take some time to research the many handle options available and choose the one best suited to your priorities.
Adding beauty, relaxation, and an enjoyable bathing experience can be provided with the right handle. Understanding the key differences between the main handle types will help narrow your selection to the optimal choice.