Tapware Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Tapware for Your Home

Tapware is something you use every day, so choosing the right taps is about more than finding a colour or shape you like.

Before you buy, think about where the tapware will be used, how it will be installed, the basin or sink it needs to work with, your existing plumbing and how easy it will be to use every day.

Here are the main things to consider.

Start With Where the Tapware Will Be Used

Different areas of the home need different types of tapware.

Common options include:

• Basin mixers for bathroom vanities and basins

• Wall basin mixer sets for above-counter and other basin installations

• Bath mixers and bath spouts

• Shower mixers and diverter mixers

• Kitchen and laundry sink mixers

• Three-piece tap sets for traditional or heritage-style bathrooms

Start with the function first, then choose the style and finish.

For example, a tap that works perfectly over an inset basin may not have enough height for a tall above-counter basin, while a short bath outlet may not project far enough over the edge of a bath.

Basin Mixer or Wall-Mounted Tapware?

A basin mixer combines the spout and water control into one fixture mounted through the basin or vanity top.

It is a practical choice for many bathrooms because it is simple to use and does not require concealed wall-mounted tapware.

A wall basin mixer separates the tapware from the vanity top and can create a cleaner, more minimal appearance while freeing up benchtop space.

However, wall-mounted tapware needs more planning. The concealed mixer body and plumbing need to be positioned correctly inside the wall before tiling is completed.

We recommend checking the available bench space, basin position and whether the spout reaches properly over the basin before selecting the tapware.

Match the Tapware to Your Basin, Bath or Sink

This is one of the most important steps.

For a bathroom basin, consider:

• Basin height
• Basin width and depth
• Tap-hole configuration
• Spout height
• Spout reach
• Where the water will land inside the bowl

An above-counter basin may require a tall basin mixer or wall-mounted tapware, while an inset or integrated basin will often suit a standard-height basin mixer.

For bath tapware, make sure the outlet projects far enough over the bath rim so that the water flows comfortably into the bath rather than onto the edge.

For kitchen and laundry mixers, also think about sink depth, bowl size and whether features such as a swivel or pull-out spout would make everyday use easier.

The best approach is to choose the basin, sink or bath and the tapware together rather than treating them as completely separate purchases.

Check Your Existing Plumbing Before Replacing Tapware

If you are replacing existing tapware, do not assume that a new product will fit simply because it looks similar.

Check:

• Existing tap-hole configuration
• Mounting position
• Hot and cold water connections
• Hole spacing
• Existing in-wall mixer body
• Available space behind the wall or below the benchtop

Changing from a traditional three-piece tap set to a mixer, for example, may require plumbing and basin, benchtop or wall alterations.

We recommend checking plumbing before making this type of change during a renovation.

If you are unsure, show the product specification and your existing setup to your plumber before ordering.

Choose Concealed Tapware Before Tiling

If you are using a wall mixer, wall basin mixer or mixer-diverter, the concealed rough-in body is installed inside the wall.

This needs to be positioned at the correct:

• Height
• Depth
• Orientation
• Distance from the basin, bath or shower outlet

The visible handle and cover plate installed later are only part of the complete system.

Different brands and ranges may use different in-wall bodies, and they are not automatically interchangeable. 

Choose concealed tapware early and give the rough-in components to your plumber before waterproofing and tiling.

Check WELS, WaterMark and Lead-Free Requirements

When comparing tapware in Australia, you may see both WELS and WaterMark information.

WELS helps you compare the water efficiency of applicable tapware by showing a star rating and water flow rate.

WaterMark relates to plumbing product compliance and whether regulated products are suitable for installation in Australia.

For applicable drinking-water plumbing products, lead-free requirements are also now important.

In Victoria, plumbing work commencing from 1 May 2026 must use compliant lead-free products where the new requirements apply. Applicable copper-alloy plumbing products in contact with drinking water must meet the lead-content requirements and carry the required Lead-Free WaterMark certification.

Your plumber can help confirm the compliance requirements for your particular installation.

Choose a Finish That Works With the Whole Room

Tapware is now available in much more than traditional chrome.

Popular finishes include:

• Chrome – timeless and easy to coordinate
• Brushed nickel – softer and warmer than polished chrome
• Matte black – creates strong contrast
• Gunmetal – a darker metallic finish
• Brushed gold or brass – adds warmth and works well with timber and warm-toned tiles
• Bronze – useful for warm contemporary or more traditional interiors

MBS currently offers tapware across finishes including brushed nickel, brushed gold, gunmetal and brushed bronze, covering basin, bath, shower, kitchen and laundry applications.

If you want a consistent look, try to coordinate your basin tapware, shower mixer, bath outlet and bathroom accessories.

However, remember that a finish called Brushed Gold, Gunmetal or Brushed Nickel can look different between brands. Please notes that colour can vary between product types because different components may use different construction materials.

If matching finishes closely matters to you, compare the actual products or finish samples in person.

Think About Quality and Everyday Maintenance

Tapware is handled many times every day, so internal components matter as much as appearance.

When comparing products, consider:

• Cartridge quality
• Body material
• Finish quality
• WaterMark and WELS information where applicable
• Spare-parts availability
• Manufacturer warranty and support

Ceramic disc cartridges are commonly used in quality modern mixers because they provide smooth control and help reduce the wear that can lead to dripping over time. 

For cleaning, use a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid abrasive pads, bleach and harsh chemicals, particularly on coloured finishes. 

Which Tapware Is Right for Your Home?

There is no single tapware style that suits every renovation.

If you want a simple and practical bathroom setup, a basin mixer is often a good starting point.

If you want a cleaner vanity top and more architectural look, consider wall-mounted basin tapware.

If you are renovating a traditional or Hampton-style bathroom, a three-piece tap set may suit the overall design better.

If you are replacing existing tapware and want to minimise plumbing changes, start by checking your existing mounting and plumbing configuration.

Most importantly, choose tapware according to how it works with your basin, bath, sink, plumbing and everyday routine first — then choose the style and finish you love.

Need Help Choosing Tapware in Melbourne?

Melbourne Bathroom Shop offers tapware for bathrooms, kitchens and laundries, including basin mixers, tall basin mixers, wall basin mixer sets, bath tapware, shower mixers, sink mixers and traditional tap sets in a wide range of finishes.

Visit our Blackburn showroom to compare different tapware styles and finishes in person.

If you are renovating, it is helpful to bring:

• Bathroom or kitchen plans
• Photos of the existing plumbing
• Your basin, vanity, bath or sink selection
• Tile and colour samples
• Details of any existing in-wall mixer body

This makes it easier to choose tapware as part of the complete room, rather than discovering later that the products do not work well together.

Good tapware should look right in your home, but more importantly, it should be comfortable, practical and reliable every day.