The Best Shower Heads for 2022
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Best Shower Head
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A new shower head is an easy way to quickly refresh any bathroom, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. There are a lot of things to consider when selecting a particular model including water use, material finish, and overall design. Fixtures such as bathroom faucets and shower heads are used daily so it is important to find one that is both durable and efficient. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best shower heads currently available.
UPDATED: April 27, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Hydroluxe Shower Head because it features five spray settings, a chrome-plated surface finish, and a five-foot flexible stainless steel rust-resistant hose.
Low-Flow Shower Heads
Shower heads are considered low-flow when they use less than or equal to 2.0 gallons per minute (7.6 liters per minute ). This can be achieved by using several different methods including, high-speed oscillation, water aeration, or altering nozzles. When these water techniques are used, the perceived flow is that of a higher volume fixture while saving water.
Note to California residents: the California Energy Commission (CEC) prohibits the sale of shower heads that exceed 1.8 GPM. So some fixtures may not be available in your area.
RELATED: The Best Tankless Water Heaters
Adjustable Spray
Some of the shower heads listed below have adjustable sprays. This allows you to twist the head or lever to change the water distribution, creating a range of different flows. For example, set it on a strong, concentrated spray to provide a relaxing water massage.
Handheld Fixture
Some models feature a handheld fixture that is attached via a flexible hose. This can either be the primary fixture or in the case of 2-in-1 versions, in addition to the main shower head. This allows for a range of different options when showering, as well as making it easier to clean the walls of the shower.
Silicone Nozzles
A common problem with these fixtures is the build-up of lime and hard water. However, most modern shower heads are equipped with silicone nozzles that make them easier to clean. In the event that build-up forms on the nozzles it simply wipes off because of the flexibility offered by the silicone
Design
You will want to choose a product that fits into the aesthetic of your bathroom, matches the design of your shower, and will last for a long time. Take note of the other fixtures in your bathroom including the sink faucet, towel rack, and bathtub tap. Ideally, you will want to match the other finishes in the room if possible.
Finishes
These fixtures come in a range of materials and finishes. For durability and ease of cleaning, l recommend going with the common polished chrome finish. Brushed nickel is another popular choice that will add a less reflective finish to a room, and matte black is ideal for contemporary designs with whitewashed accents.
Installation
A quick note about replacing an old shower head. If the spray is blocked or coming out randomly it may not be broken but rather that hard water deposits have built up. This simply requires scrubbing with a standard chemical cleaner or solution of vinegar and water. If it has rubber nozzles you can easily just brush off the deposits. Check to make sure this isn’t causing the problem.
Also, if the shower drain is not flowing correctly you may need to pick up a drain cleaner.
The installation is fairly straightforward and typically just requires the old head to be unscrewed and the new one screwed in place with some Teflon tape on the threads. For reference, the fixture that extends from the wall with threads at the end is called the shower arm. Check the threads are not stripped out or rusted, if so, the arm may also need to be replaced by a plumber. In addition, if you want to change the location or height of the fixture, you will need to hire a plumber.
If you prefer a professional installation, I recommend using HomeAdvisor. Simply search for “Plumbing”, fill in your requirements, and they will send you up to four bids for free. Learn more at HomeAdvisor.com.
Ventilation
When installing a new or updated shower take this opportunity to check to make sure adequate ventilation is being provided. If not, you may need to also install a bathroom exhaust fan to reduce the potential build-up of mold and mildew in the bathroom.
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models currently available. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Shower Heads for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Hydroluxe Shower Head
The Hydroluxe shower head features five spray settings including rain, mist, and massage so you can find the right one for your needs.
Features 47 self-cleaning TPE nozzles and 19 ABS nozzles for easy maintenance.
Equipped with a wear-resistant chrome-plated surface finish makes it non-rusting and non-fading.
Features an ergonomically designed grip handle.
Includes a durable five-foot flexible stainless steel hose.
Features brass hose nuts that are tightened manually for an easy install.
Includes an adjustable overhead bracket holder to change the direction of the water spray.
Runner-up: SparkPod Shower Head
The SparkPod Shower Head features a rainfall design with a maximum outflow of 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM).
Equipped with 90 silicone nozzles that make it easy to clean off any hard water build-up.
Features a tilting design to angle the fixture as needed.
Offers the ability to be quickly installed on most shower setups.
Features a chrome finish for a clean, modern appearance.
Includes Teflon tape for use on the threads for a watertight connection.
Best Water Saver: Gurin High Pressure Shower Head
The Gurin High Pressure Shower Head is six inches wide with a chrome finish and is equipped with 90 jets.
Features silicon jets to reduce the build-up of lime and hard water.
Equipped with a swivel ball joint to adjust the direction of the spray.
Features a chrome finish for an attractive finish and long-lasting durability.
Includes a flow restrictor and water filter.
Comes with Teflon tape to wrap on the threads of the shower arm for a leak-free installation.
Best Budget Option: AquaDance Shower Head
The AquaDance shower head offers six full water spray settings for a range of options.
Features a click-lever dial that makes it easy to change from one setting to another.
Equipped with rub-clean jets to make cleaning easier.
Includes a water-saving pause mode to quickly stop the flow.
Includes brass hose nuts allow for hand-tightening.
Comes with an ergonomic grip handle.
Best Dual Option: Dream Spa Shower Head
The Dream Spa includes a 7-inch rainfall and 4-inch hand chrome shower head.
Equipped with seven settings that include rain, massage, and watering-saving settings.
Features a three-zone click lever dial with rub-clean jets.
Equipped with a five-foot flexible stainless steel hose.
Comes with dual conical solid brass hose nuts for easy hand tightening
Connects in minutes to any standard overhead shower arm, no tools are required.
Best Handheld: YOO.MEE Shower Head
The YOO.MEE shower head provides a steady stream of water even with a low-pressure supply.
Features silicone rubber jet nozzles to prevent the build-up of minerals.
Equipped with a stainless steel hose with solid brass connection fittings that won't crack or split.
Offers a simple self-cleaning design.
Features a head and bracket mount constructed from ABS plastic for long-lasting use.
Best Spray Options: Delta 75700 Shower Head
The Delta 75700 Shower Head features soft rubber spray nozzles that make it easy to clean off any build-up of mineral residue or hard water.
Spray settings include:
Full body spray.
Drenching spray.
Soft drench with full spray.
Fast massage spray.
Full spray with a massage.
Soft rain spray.
Features a pause setting that allows the flow to be quickly stopped and then restarted at the same temperature setting.
Includes a five-foot flexible hose that connects to the head and sits in the provided shower arm mount.
Best Rainfall: DELTA 52159-25 Shower Head
The DELTA 52159-25 rainfall shower head features a large 12” by 12” surface area.
Offers the ability to be ceiling or wall-mounted (arm and flange sold separately).
Equipped with a metal ball connector that allows it to swivel up to 18 degrees in either direction.
Includes flexible silicone jets that make it easy to clean off any build-up of limescale.
Features a fast and easy installation, if replacing an existing fixture. Simply screw on the new head.
Best for Low Pressure: Aqua Elegante Shower Head
The Aqua Elegante features a three-minute install: simply remove the old shower head and twist on this replacement.
Features solid brass connection fittings that won’t crack or split.
Equipped with jet nozzles made from a silicone rubber that prevents the build-up of minerals.
Features a head body made from lightweight and durable ABS plastic.
Includes an outer surface coated with a metallic finish.
Best Modern Design: Hopopro Shower Head
The Hopopro shower head features five spray functions for a range of flow patterns.
Equipped with 47 self-cleaning silicone jet nozzles for low-maintenance applications.
Includes an additional 19 ABS nozzles.
Features a brass ball joint fitting that can rotate 360 degrees.
Constructed from ABS chrome.
Features a simple do-it-yourself installation.
I hope this list of the best shower heads was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
