Doing the laundry is hardly anyone’s idea of having a good time, but since it is inevitable, you might as well do it in pleasant surroundings. On average, we spend around 2 hours a week washing, drying and folding clothes, and if you have young kids you can double that. It seems only reasonable that you would like the space beautifully styled besides, of course, practical.
If you are building a new laundry room, doing renovations to your old one, or even just doing a quick makeover, think about selecting the right laundry tapware. It can make all the difference in the end look, and more importantly, it will make your job easier.
Laundry taps should also stand the test of time. This is not a project you want to repeat any time soon, so choose long-lasting laundry tapware with function and style. Here are some things to remember when going through the selection process.
Estimate Your Space and Needs
How much space do you have? Can you fit in any tap or do you need to consider the height and depth before buying one? Are there any obstacles that will interfere with the functionality? The answers to these questions will lead you to the best choice for your particular conditions.
Will you be using the laundry sink only for soaking clothes or washing shoes or do you need to fill a bucket, and wash your pet? To meet these everyday needs, read on about the various styles and sizes of laundry taps and make an informed decision.
Types and Styles
There is a wide range of taps on the market that come in different types and styles and before you get overwhelmed we will give you some insight into a few types:
•Spout taps – these can be U-shaped, flat, or gooseneck;
•Wall-mounted taps – fixed on the wall, offering more bench space;
•Hob-mounted taps – mounted on the benchtop or sink, with retractable options;
•Double outlet laundry taps – equipped with two free handles operating independently;
•Mixer taps – one handle that controls the temperature;
•Split tap – two separate taps for hot and cold water.
When it comes to style, there is no reason why it can’t be in line with the rest of the house. If you prefer a more rustic, classic style, you can get a three-piece model. It includes a spout with two handles on either side, and it comes in a variety of finishes. This kind of tap has country-style aesthetics, which makes it perfect for provincial or farmhouse homes.
If you are more into minimalistic, modern designs, then a laundry mixer tap might be a better choice. You can easily control the temperature with only one lever for both hot and cold water. You will get functionality with the retractable and dual spray options in addition to the fresh, contemporary look for your laundry space.
No matter which type or style you go for, make sure you get high-quality products that will last for a long time and will not need replacing any time soon. The same approach goes for the colours as well. Think beyond the latest fad and choose timeless designs.
Colours and Finishes
- Black tapware has proved the most popular colour lately, and with reason. It’s both modern and elegant, unintrusive and bold at the same time. If you already have other elements in the home in this hue, just extend it to the laundry room. It’s a colour that never goes out of date and you can use it in every combination.
- Brass and copper taps are more vibrant. The former has a yellowish-gold appearance and the latter has a distinctive reddish-brown colour, which makes them more striking. That said, if you can incorporate them in the interior with taste, they can look both contemporary and rustic. They add a soft and calming look to the space.
- Gold tapware offers a bit more glamour, but although it can look very sophisticated be careful with it because if the rest of the elements don’t go with it, it can be too conspicuous and tacky.
- Champagne pieces might seem a safer choice compared to gold. This finish still gives off a feel of class but in a mellower chic way. It complements a vintage style in design, but it can also work well in a more refined space.
- Chrome tapware is something we all know. Although familiar, with versatile styles and finishes, it can fit in almost any style.
Final Tips
One more criterion you might want to think about is the water efficiency of your laundry tap mixer as it varies between taps. Check for the WELS rating system and find out the water efficiency of the product by looking at the star rating label -more stars, more water-efficient performance.
Whichever way you go, keep in mind the convenience and functionality of the laundry taps, laundry stops, and laundry sink taps. You need something easy to use, durable and aesthetically pleasing. With the variety in the price range, you will certainly find suitable products that meet your needs and hopefully ones that will make the chore slightly less tedious. Laundry might be the real ‘Neverending’ story, but you can at least make it a nice one.
