Shower Heads

A shower head is a plumbing fixture that disperses and controls water when taking a shower. When turned on, these bathroom attachments facilitate bathing by showering water onto a person’s body. Shower heads come in various designs and functionalities with multiple spray patterns. Old ones can easily replace these fixtures and are typically made of rugged materials, including steel, stainless steel, brass, chrome, and ABS plastic. Plastic shower heads are less likely to be used as they are prone to wear and break when used for hot water. In contrast, a steel or chrome shower head offers robust, long-lasting durability and resists corrosion and rust. Additionally, many shower heads are designed to allow the user to adjust the flow and spray patterns of the water.

What is Meant by Spray Patterns of Shower Heads?

The spray pattern of a shower head refers to how water is delivered from the shower head to the user. Different spray patterns provide different sensations and experiences during a shower. When manufacturers design shower heads, they often incorporate multiple spray patterns to provide users with a variety of options. Some of the standard spray patterns include:

• Rain: This pattern mimics the feeling of a gentle rainfall. It offers a drenching, full-coverage experience with larger water droplets that fall directly downward.
• Massage: Often provided by pulsating jets, this pattern can help relieve sore muscles. The water is typically delivered in a rhythmic pattern that feels like a massage.
• Mist: A very fine spray that feels soft and misty, providing a refreshing experience.
• Jet: A strong, focused stream of water, useful for quickly rinsing soap and shampoo.
• Aerated: This spray infuses air into the water, creating larger, air-filled droplets. This can give the skin a gentler feeling and reduce water usage.
• Full: A standard, wide spray pattern with good coverage and intensity.
• Combo: Some shower heads allow users to combine multiple spray patterns, like rain and massage, for a customised experience.
• Bubble: Similar to the aerated pattern with larger bubbles.

Shower Head Shapes:

Shower heads come in a variety of shapes and designs, each offering a unique showering experience. Some common shower head shapes include:

• Round or Circular Shower Heads: This is the most traditional shape for a shower head. They offer even distribution of water and are found in many homes.
• Square or Rectangular Shower Heads: Square and rectangular shower heads are the modern and sleek designs often seen in more contemporary bathrooms or spas, giving a luxurious feel. They can provide a wide and even spray.
• Oval Shower Heads: A blend between traditional and modern design, these are less common but offer a distinct aesthetic.

Most Popular Types of Shower Heads:

Shower heads come in a broad range of types based on their spray patterns, mounting configurations, and control mechanisms, including: 

• Fixed Shower Heads: These fixtures are mounted permanently to the wall, directing water flow from a fixed position.
• Hand-held Shower Heads: They are attached to a flexible hose, allowing for manual control and direction of water. They are widely used, excellent for washing hard-to-reach areas, and often used with a fixed wall-mount shower head.
• Standard Wall-Mount Shower Heads: These are the most common and are typically adjustable to change the water pattern. They are affixed to the shower wall.
• Adjustable Shower Heads: Adjustable shower heads are a versatile bathroom fixture designed to improve the showering experience. They are flexible to change the water flow and pattern according to the users’ preferences– that are most comfortable and effective for them.
• Top-Mount or Ceiling-Mount Shower Heads: Also called rain shower heads, these are mounted either directly from the ceiling or suspended from an extension arm. They typically give the sensation of rainfall.
• Sliding Bar Shower Heads: These are mounted on a vertical bar, allowing to adjust the height of the shower head. They are beneficial for showers used by people of varying heights. 
• High Pressure Shower Heads: These shower heads are designed to release water forcefully with high pressures, providing a massaging effect.
• Aerating Shower Heads: These fixtures mix air with water to produce a full, misty spray.
• Water-saving or Low-flow Shower Heads: Water-saving showerheads are designed to reduce the amount of water without sacrificing water pressure. They are beneficial in areas with water scarcity or for those looking to reduce their water consumption.
• Multiple or Dual Shower Heads: Consisting of more than one shower head in one unit or having numerous units in one shower, these can offer a luxurious experience.
• LED or Lighted Shower Heads: These built-in LED lights can change colours with water temperature or just for aesthetic purposes.