Rain shower heads provide some of the most relaxing and therapeutic showers available. They immerse you in a wide spray that provides a large volume of water, covering more of your body than a standard shower head.
As rain shower heads are large and usually fixed into position, it is important to make sure you choose the right model. This means choosing the right size, material, flow rate, and nozzle type to ensure your rain shower provides the experience you expect.
To help you find the right fixture for your bathroom, we have reviewed what we consider to be the best rain shower heads available today. These include products from some of the leading shower head manufacturers in the world.
- Includes adjustable arm
- Air-in technology
- Total shower head solution
- 12-inch shower head
- 10-layer finish
- Aerator technology
- Heat-resistant body
- 90 high-pressure nozzles
- Limited lifetime warranty
Product Reviews
To help you find the right shower for your bathroom, we have reviewed seven of the best rain shower heads available today. We chose these products based on their size, material, flow rate, and cost.
SparkPod High-Pressure Rain Shower Head
Best Small Rain Shower Head
Despite its relatively small size, this rain shower head from SparkPod still provides a standard 2.5 GPM flow rate. This makes it a great option if you want a rain shower in a small bathroom.
It is very easy to install and will connect to any standard shower arm without requiring any extra tools. Its restrictor will allow you to choose whether you want to save water or use a high-pressure stream.
One of this shower head’s standout qualities is how easy it is to clean. Its jets are specially designed to keep the water flowing and minimize clogging.
SparkPod offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with this rain shower head. It is also protected by a 12-month warranty, so you can buy it with confidence.
What We Like
High-Pressure or Water-Saving
Most shower heads are fitted with a restrictor to reduce water waste. Many homeowners remove the restrictor to overcome low water pressure but this can be difficult, depending on the design.
SparkPod has made it easy to save water or utilize the head’s full pressure. The restrictor is easy to locate and remove, or reinstall if you are concerned that you are using too much water while showering.
Warning
Tilting Shower Head
Many rain shower heads are fixed into position and can’t be moved or aimed, limiting their versatility. SparkPod has addressed this by designing its rain shower head to be tilted in any direction, letting you aim it wherever you like in your shower enclosure.
Easy to Clean
If you live in a hard water area (water with high mineral content), you have probably noticed its side effects. Scale build-up on shower nozzles is one of the most common symptoms. To prevent this, SparkPod has fitted this rain shower head with soft silicone jets that discourage mineral buildup and are easy to clean using your bare hand.
What We Don't Like
Small Head
This is a relatively small rain shower head, measuring about 6 inches in diameter. Some customers were disappointed by the size and would have preferred a larger model, feeling that the spray was too narrow. However, this can be an advantage in a small bathroom.
Product Specs
| Finish | Chrome |
| Material | ABS |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | No |
| Size | 6.4 inches |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Our Ratings
Colomore Rain Shower Head Stainless Steel
Best Looking Rain Shower Head
If you want a low-maintenance, stylish rain shower head, this Colomore model is a great option. It features self-cleaning jets that the manufacturer designed to be resistant to mineral buildup.
The shower head’s sleek modern design makes it a great addition to any contemporary bathroom. It is durable thanks to its polished stainless steel body. You can choose from two size options: 8 and 10 inches.
This product contains everything you need to install your new shower head in minutes, without any extra tools. Colomore provides a three-year warranty that covers any breaks or defects.
What We Like
Leak-Free Design
Cheap shower heads often leak immediately or shortly after installation. This product includes a roll of Teflon tape and a soft rubber gasket to ensure it is watertight.
Self-Cleaning Jets
Removing mineral buildup from a shower head can be time-consuming, especially if it has hardened. However, Colomore has fitted this one with self-cleaning jets. They are made of soft rubber that is resistant to buildup, so the head should clean itself as water flows through it.
If any scale does appear on the jets, you can easily wipe it away with your fingers or palm. You can also wipe them clean with a damp cloth — you won’t require any chemicals with this shower head.
Mirror Finish
The ultra-thin design is very stylish and will suit any bathroom. It has a mirror finish that will reflect its surroundings, helping it blend in seamlessly.
Long Warranty
Colomore provides a three-year warranty, which covers any manufacturing defects, clogs, or breaks. As this shower head is made of stainless steel, you can be confident that it will be long-lasting and durable.
What We Don't Like
Not Water-Saving
This shower head consumes water very quickly. Some customers complained that their water heater couldn’t keep up with the shower’s demands and their shower tray’s waste was unable to drain the water quickly enough.
Product Specs
| Finish | Polished stainless steel |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | Yes |
| Size | 8 inches |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Our Ratings
KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head
Best Material
If you want a unique finish for your shower head, consider an all-metal product from KES. This 8-inch rain shower head is available in a variety of finishes, so you should be able to find something suitable for your bathroom. You can also choose either a round or square design.
One of this shower head’s best qualities is its metal body. There are no cheap plastic parts that will weaken over time or leak. This makes it highly durable and means it should serve you well for several years.
You can aim the shower head at any angle thanks to its swivel ball mount. This is an important feature if you have a small shower enclosure, or if multiple people of different sizes will use the shower.
The shower head features a water restrictor to keep the flow rate at 2.5 GPM. However, if you prefer greater water pressure, KES has made it easy to remove the restrictor.
What We Like
Durable
The all-metal body is highly durable and resistant to breaks and leaks. It is also resistant to high temperatures and water pressure, so it won’t corrode or break even if you have a high-pressure plumbing system.
Buildup-Resistant Jets
If you live in a hard water area, you are probably familiar with mineral buildup or limescale. Small shower head nozzles are among the first places that will be affected by mineral build-ups.
KES has equipped this shower head with anti-clogging jets to keep water flowing and prevent mineral buildup. If you do experience restricted water flow, it is easy to clean the jets using your hand or a damp cloth.
Optional Restrictor
Some people try to use as little water as they can, while others want as much water pressure as possible. Whatever your preference, this rain shower head will accommodate you.
It features a flow restrictor that is simple to locate and remove. You can also easily reinstall it if you want to use it again. With the restrictor in place, the flow rate will max out at the standard 2.5 GPM. Without the restrictor, the flow rate will depend on your local water pressure.
Various Finishes
This shower head is available in five stylish finishes, allowing you to customize it to suit your bathroom. These finishes are:
- Brushed nickel
- Matte black
- Titanium gold
- Chrome
- Oil-rubbed bronze
What We Don't Like
May Require Extended Arm
This shower head includes everything needed for a quick installation, such as Teflon tape and a restrictor. However, it doesn’t include an extended arm. If you already have one installed, this shouldn’t be a problem, but some customers were caught off-guard and needed to make an extra purchase.
Product Specs
| Finish | Oil-rubbed bronze |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | No |
| Size | 7.9 inches |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
NearMoon 8-Inch Shower Head with Arm
Best Combo Rain Shower Head
NearMoon has created a complete shower head and extendable arm set, so you won’t need to purchase any additional parts. This makes it very straightforward to install.
The extendable arm has two hinges to adjust the height and direction of the shower head. It locks securely into place, so it won’t move unintentionally.
If you want high water pressure, this shower head features an ultra-thin and air-in technology that provides reliably fast water flow. Its head size is 8 inches, which is standard and will suit most bathrooms.
What We Like
Includes Everything Needed
This shower head’s extendable arm makes it a more complete solution than most rain shower heads. It is quick to install as the arm connects to any standard shower fixtures. It can also be adjusted in terms of direction and height to accommodate whoever is showering.
Air-in Technology
You can decide whether you want to save water or enjoy a drenching shower at full pressure. The ultra-thin and air-in technology is easy to remove and reinstall if desired. If you live in an area with limited water pressure, this technology can make a significant difference.
Easy to Install
This shower head evokes the feeling of a rainstorm whenever you use it, with a very straightforward installation. If you are replacing an existing shower, you should be able to do it yourself without hiring a professional plumber.
What We Don't Like
Drips
According to customer reviews, this shower head tends to drip for a while after being used. In addition to wasting water, hard water drips can create mineral deposits and stains in your bathtub or shower enclosure.
Product Specs
| Finish | Chrome |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | Yes |
| Size | 8 inches |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Moen Velocity Two-Function Rainshower
Best High-End Rain Shower Head
Moen is one of the leading high-end shower brands in the world today, offering numerous stylish products that incorporate innovative features. The Velocity Rainshower embodies this philosophy and is available in four stylish finishes: nickel, chrome, brushed gold, and oil-rubbed bronze.
This 8-inch shower head provides two water settings to suit your showering preferences. You can easily switch between the two settings using the large lever located on the shower head.
The sleek design and finish options mean this shower head will look at home in any bathroom or shower enclosure. Moen also covers this product with its limited lifetime warranty, so you can buy it with even more confidence.
What We Like
Beautiful Design
The finish options are stylish and provide enough versatility for any type of bathroom. The brushed-nickel finish stands out as a particularly attractive choice.
Whichever finish you choose, you can be confident that it will be long-lasting as the surface is resistant to corrosion and stains, thanks to the brand’s LifeShine finish.
Two Water Settings
Rain showers aren’t known for their versatility but this model provides options for a drenching rain or a more powerful stream. You can easily switch between the two using the large lever on the shower head.
Strong Water Flow
This shower head’s restrictor limits its flow rate to a standard 2.5 GPM. This should be plenty to provide a relaxing and thorough shower. It can be removed but this isn’t as simple as with other showers.
Easy to Clean
The shower’s soft rubber jets are resistant to buildup and clogging, so they can be cleaned less frequently. If mineral buildup or limescale does appear, it can be easily rubbed away using a damp cloth or your bare hand. This will ensure your shower continues to flow as strongly as you expect.
What We Don't Like
Difficult to Remove the Restrictor
A 2.5 GPM flow rate is the industry standard but you might want more, depending on your local water pressure. It is possible to achieve this by removing the restrictor, but it is not very easy compared to many other leading rain shower heads.
Product Specs
| Finish | Nickel |
| Material | Brass, metal |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | No |
| Size | 8 inches |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
SR Sun Rise 12-Inch Water-Saving Rain Shower Head
Best Large Rain Shower Head
For the full rain shower experience, you need a large shower head that will provide as much coverage as possible. This 12-inch model from SUNRISE is one of the largest you are likely to find and will upgrade your shower to provide the feeling of a luxury spa.
The shower head is easy to install and connects to any standard arm without any extra tools. It has an ultra-thin head for a stylish, minimalist look.
You can adjust the height and angle of the shower head thanks to its pivot connection. It also utilizes modern technology such as an aerator, setting it apart from the competition.
What We Like
Advanced Technology
This shower head features advanced air technology that adds air to the stream, increasing the effective pressure without using extra water. This smart feature will help you reduce your water waste without compromising your shower’s intensity.
Multi-Layer Finish
To keep your shower head looking pristine for longer, SUNRISE has added a 10-layer brushed nickel finish. This should keep it looking bright and clean for many years to come. The shower head is completely lead-free, so you won’t need to worry about contaminating your water (1).
High-Quality Nozzles
To provide a consistent flow throughout every shower, this shower head is equipped with soft silicone nozzles. These are more resistant to clogs and high temperatures. They can also be easily rubbed clean with your bare hand.
Stainless Steel Filter
The fine stainless steel shower filter will remove large impurities before the water leaves the shower head. It will also prevent other particles such as sand from entering the head and clogging it.
What We Don't Like
Prone to Water Stains
Although this shower head is protected by a 10-layer finish, its surface is not immune to water stains. If you live in an area with hard water, you might notice a significant amount of dried mineral deposits on the shower head.
Product Specs
| Finish | Brushed nickel |
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | No |
| Size | 12 inches |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Our Ratings
ShowerMaxx Luxury Spa Rainfall Shower Head
Best 6-Inch Rain Shower Head
If you want a luxury shower head that is easy to install without professional assistance, this is a great option. This shower head from ShowerMaxx is very simple to install and includes instructions to make it even more straightforward.
The shower head is 6 inches wide and has 90 high-pressure self-cleaning nozzles. You can choose from four stylish finishes: oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, chrome, and brass.
It is mounted via a ball joint that allows you to adjust the angle of the shower head. This makes it far more versatile, whatever the size of your shower enclosure.
This shower head provides high pressure that can be increased further by removing the flow restrictor. With the restrictor in place, the head provides a flow rate of 2.5 GPM.
What We Like
Heat-Resistant Body
Despite the body of the shower head being made of ABS plastic rather than stainless steel, it is still durable. It is heat-resistant and each of the four finishes looks very stylish.
Excellent Warranty
SuperMaxx guarantees this shower head with a limited lifetime warranty that covers any malfunctions or defects caused by manufacturing. The company also encourages its customers to reach out if they have any questions or concerns about an item they have purchased.
What We Don't Like
Defects
Multiple customers have reported leaks and cracks shortly after installation. However, all of these issues were covered by the brand’s warranty and each of the shower heads was replaced with a new unit that worked properly.
Product Specs
| Finish | Oil-rubbed bronze |
| Material | Premium ABS |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles | Yes |
| Size | 6 inches |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Finish | Material | Self-Cleaning Nozzles | Size | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SparkPod Rain Shower Head | Compact | Chrome | ABS | No | 6.4″ | 1 year |
| Colomore Rain Shower Head | Stylish | Polished stainless steel | Stainless steel | Yes | 8″ | 3 years |
| KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head | Material | Oil-rubbed bronze | Stainless steel | No | 7.9″ | N/A |
| NearMoon Rain Shower Head & Arm | Combo | Chrome | Stainless steel | Yes | 8″ | N/A |
| Moen Velocity Two-Function Rainshower | High-End | Nickel | Brass, metal | No | 8″ | Limited lifetime |
| SR Sun Rise Water-Saving | Large | Brushed nickel | 304 stainless steel | No | 12″ | 5 years |
| ShowerMaxx Luxury Spa Rainfall | 6-Inch | Oil-rubbed bronze | Premium ABS | Yes | 6″ | Lifetime |
Factors to Keep in Mind
A rain shower head offers the ultimate luxurious shower experience. However, you shouldn’t just settle for the first one you stumble across. Pay attention to:
Ease of Installation
When searching for a new shower head, it is always important to consider how it will be installed. Most manufacturers will claim that their shower heads are easy to install, but this often depends on whether or not you have everything required. Some shower heads might need an additional extended arm before they can be installed in the desired position; others require gaskets or Teflon tape.
Consider your existing shower setup. If your current shower is wall mounted, you might struggle to install a ceiling mount without hiring a plumber. The fixtures and pipes will likely need rearranging to accommodate the new location.
Pressure
A rain shower is intended to provide a drenching spray with full body coverage. However, this won’t happen unless the shower head has a sufficient flow rate and water pressure.
Modern shower heads are fitted with flow restrictors to keep their pressure at 2.5 GPM or lower (2). Depending on your local water pressure, this might not be enough to provide the drenching rain effect that your shower head promises. To overcome this, many manufacturers have made it easy to locate and remove the restrictor.
Without a flow restrictor, your shower’s flow rate might reach 6 GPM or even 9 GPM, depending on your plumbing’s water pressure. It might sound like an easy decision to simply remove the restrictor but we recommend leaving it in and seeing how your shower performs for a while.
Keep In Mind
Size
The size of the shower head plays a major role in how much coverage it provides. Choosing a wider shower head will obviously provide greater coverage, but it can also reduce the pressure.
A large head requires more water to provide the same flow rate as a smaller model, so you will need to find the right balance between size and power.
We recommend a size between 7 and 10 inches. If you want a larger rainfall shower head, you can choose a 12-inch model. However, you might need to remove the restrictor to achieve the desired pressure.
Material and Quality
Like any plumbing fixture, you want your new shower head to last as long as possible, so choosing the right material is essential. You can find many rain shower heads at various price points, but it is important to understand what you are getting for your money.
Cheaper shower heads are usually made of ABS plastic. This can be quite durable — there are strong ABS shower heads that are resistant to heat and pressure (3). However, they won’t last as long as metal alternatives.
The best material for shower heads is stainless steel. It is very durable and resistant to rust and corrosion (4). Stainless steel shower heads will usually cost more, but they generally also have better warranties. Any extra weight won’t be an issue as rain shower heads are not designed to be held.
Adjustability
The ability to aim your shower head is very useful when washing your hair or applying other products. Many rain shower heads are stationary and can’t be adjusted at all after being installed.
Consider whether or not you need a shower head that can be adjusted. This is particularly important if you have a small shower enclosure or people of different sizes will use the shower regularly. Even a small amount of adjustment can make a big difference to your shower’s versatility.
Style
If you want a specific look in your bathroom or home, your choice of shower head can play a big part in achieving that.
There are many different styles and finishes to choose from at every price point. If you are replacing an existing shower, think about the fixtures you already have in your bathroom. For example, a shiny chrome showerhead might clash with a rustic bath with oil-rubbed bronze faucets.
FAQs
Are Rainfall Shower Heads Worth It?
Many people deem rainfall shower heads not worthy because they don’t have high water pressure, and you consume more water when showering.
Rain showerheads use more water than regular ones. When this is considered, rain showerheads have a significant drawback.
It is not because they use more water than ordinary showers but because you spend a significant amount of time in the shower. Because of this, there is an increasing water demand.
Installing a shower head that simulates rain can be a little more difficult. This is because the water pipes are put in the ceiling, which necessitates hiring a professional plumber. Because of this, you may incur additional costs because you may need to renovate your bathroom.
The use of rain shower heads typically results in longer shower periods, leading to an increase in the amount of water consumed. This results in an even greater loss of water. That is not at all an item that is good for the environment.
Do Rainfall Shower Heads Use More Water?
A rainfall shower head doesn’t use more water than a standard one.
The topic of conversation should be how to reduce water waste while bathing and raise awareness about the harm that taking prolonged showers causes to the environment.
Showerheads considered conventional, such as those placed on the wall, can consume up to 2.5 gallons of water per minute. Still, options considered somewhat sophisticated, such as low-flow showerheads, can consume only 2.0 GPM.
When you replace an older model with a newer one, you can save up to twenty percent of the water you use.
Is a Square Shower Head Better Than Round?
Because of the circular arrangement of the shower’s nozzles, the water they spray is evenly dispersed in all directions. Square and rectangular heads have rows of nozzles that direct water downward. It produces a waterfall of water that is more even and natural looking, like rain.
There is no rule about what kind of showerhead must be used in a standalone shower. But it can make a difference if there’s not a lot of room to work with.
To prevent water from splashing out over the edges of the tub, the correct size showerhead must be used when installing a ceiling shower above the tub. Because of its compact design, a rectangular shower is ideal for this space.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Rain Shower Head?
There is a significant variation in the price of a rainfall showerhead; nonetheless, you should budget anywhere from $100 to $500 for this item. After that, the price of having a professional install your new showerhead will range from $200 to more than $1,000.
What Is the Best Rain Shower Head Brand?
Moen is the best rain shower head brand as it has been in the business for a very long and makes quality products that buyers love. Their products are durable, stylish, and perhaps a bit more expensive than other options, but they deliver a great showering experience.
