A relaxing shower is an ideal way to start or end your day, or simply a fast and effective way to keep clean. One of the most important parts of any shower is the shower head, which will influence the spray pressure and pattern, and might also filter out contaminants in your water.
Showering is now the most popular method of personal hygiene, so it is no surprise that you will have countless shower head models to choose from. While this means you will have plenty of options, it can also make it difficult and time-consuming to find your ideal model among the many that are out there.
To help you with your search, we have reviewed ten of the best shower heads that are available today. We chose these heads based on their mounting type, finish, flow rate, and how many spray types they have.
- Very effective filter
- Vitamin C & E cartridge
- Gift box
- 4-inch size
- Extra-wide coverage
- WaterSense certification
- Metal body
- WaterSense-certified
- Three pressures modes
- Stainless steel body
- Three finish options
- 7.9 inches wide
- Magnetic docking system
- Wide spray coverage
- Six modes
- Includes pause button
- Three pressure modes
- Detachable parts for easy cleaning
- Three heating modes
- Adjustable height
- On-demand heating
Product Reviews
With so many shower heads to choose from, it can be difficult to find the right option for your bathroom, which is why we have reviewed ten of the best shower heads that are currently available. These models were chosen for their type, materials, spray modes, and any extra features they have.
AquaHomeGroup Luxury Filtered Shower Head
Best Luxury Shower Head
Although this AquaHomeGroup shower head only has one spray mode, it does have a very useful feature in the form of a water filter. If you live in a hard water area or are concerned about contaminants, a shower head filter will help protect your hair and skin.
This head’s filter has 15 stages to remove various contaminants, including chlorine and heavy metals. Doing this will also get rid of unpleasant odors.
An extra cartridge is used to add vitamins C and E to the water, to compensate for any beneficial minerals that are removed by filtration. This feature should provide a boost to the health of your hair and skin.
The shower head is beautifully presented in a luxurious black gift box. This box also contains Teflon tape, O-rings, and five shower caps if you don’t want to get your hair wet during a shower.
How often you need to replace the filters will vary based on your water quality and how frequently the shower is used. In any case, they should last about six months, making this a very low-maintenance filtration option.
Pros
- 15-stage filter
- Vitamin C and E cartridge
- Presented in a gift box
Cons
- The filter should be replaced twice per year
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 4.5 inches |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Aluminum shower head, chrome filter |
Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Delta Faucet 2-Spray H2Okinetic Shower Head
Best Shower Head for Small Showers
A compact shower head doesn’t have to be weak or low-quality. Despite being small, this model has all the quality you expect from Delta, one of the leading names in shower design.
As the head is relatively small, Delta has designed it to provide extra coverage, rather than the narrow spray that many compact heads have. It also provides excellent spray pressure, despite using 20% less water than a standard head, as guaranteed by its WaterSense EPA certification.
This head only has four nozzles but they are large and powerful. A side knob allows you to switch between three spray modes: strong, drenching, or gentle flow.
The nozzles are also designed to reduce mineral buildup and be easy to clean. Style is an important part of a modern shower head, and this one has a gleaming chrome finish for a luxurious look.
Pros
- Compact size
- Wide coverage
- WaterSense-certified
- Self-cleaning nozzles
Cons
- Wide coverage can spray out of small shower enclosures
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 4.06 inches |
Number of Settings | 3 |
Material(s) | Plastic, chrome finish |
Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
Warranty | Lifetime limited warranty |
Our Ratings
High Sierra All-Metal Low Flow Showerhead
Best Low Flow Shower Head
This High Sierra shower head is designed to provide a low flow rate of 1.5 GPM. If you are concerned that this will be too low, 1.8 and 2.0 GPM models are also available. If your shower arm is more than 7 feet above your bathroom floor, the manufacturer recommends using a 1.8 GPM model.
Installing the 1.5 model should reduce your shower’s water use by about 40% compared to a standard 2.5 GPM shower head. It is even WaterSense certified, meeting EPA standards in terms of performance and efficiency (1).
Although it is low-flow, you will still receive a generous spray of large droplets. The head can be aimed by adjusting its swivel.
The entire product is made of metal and has a chrome, nickel, bronze, or brass finish to ensure it will complement the rest of your bathroom.
Pros
- Metallic body instead of plastic
- WaterSense-certified
- Three flow rate options are available
Cons
- Narrow spray
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 1 inch |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Chrome finish, solid metal body |
Flow Rate | 1.5 GPM |
Warranty | 2-year warranty |
Our Ratings
AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower
Best Handheld Shower Head
This AquaBliss TheraSpa shower head is designed to provide consistent high-pressure water flow. A water restrictor limits it to the US maximum of 2.5 GPM, but it is simple to remove if you want an even more intense spray.
With six spray modes, this is a very versatile handheld shower head. It is attached to your shower valve via a long hose, which is designed specifically to prevent tangles or kinks.
The mineral content in water often clogs shower nozzles, but this head has been designed to prevent that. It has high-quality silicone nozzles to discourage clogging and make it easier to clean. This keeps its spray powerful and reduces maintenance time.
Pros
- Six spray modes
- Wide coverage
- Anti-tangle hose
Cons
- Might lack durability
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 6 inches |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Brass mount, silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated |
Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Our Ratings
SparkPod Shower Head
Best High-Pressure Shower Head
This SparkPod rainfall shower head is stylish, durable, and functional. It has a water restrictor that limits its flow rate to 1.8 GPM. This should be enough for a thorough, relaxing shower but the restrictor can be removed if you want more.
With 90 high-quality silicone nozzles are made of silicone with anti-clogging and self-cleaning properties. You can rely on it to provide wide coverage, which is particularly important with a rain shower.
This head is designed to be fixed on your wall, but it has a swivel ball that allows you to adjust its aim. Your purchase is protected by a 12-month warranty, giving you plenty of time to install it and ensure it works properly.
Pros
- The flow restrictor can be easily removed
- Self-cleaning nozzles
- Provides wide coverage
- Easy to install
Cons
- Some users discovered leaks around the swivel ball
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 6 inches |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated |
Flow Rate | 1.8 GPM |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Our Ratings
PIH High-Pressure RV Handheld Shower Head
Best RV Showerhead
For most people, showering is the main part of their hygiene routine. Finding a high-quality shower can be difficult if you’re on vacation, which is why this compact PIH shower head has been designed to fit into tight RV showers.
Despite being compact, this head should provide wide enough coverage for your entire body. It includes a wall bracket, allowing you to aim it wherever you need it. Some reviewers were able to place the head in their existing wall bracket.
This model provides strong spray pressure without consuming your hot water too quickly, so you won’t have to worry about ending up with a cold shower.
With three spray modes, you can choose from a full or massage spray, or press the convenient pause button to immediately pause the flow while applying shampoo or other products. The head is attached via a 59-inch flexible hose, providing greater versatility and letting you reach your feet.
Turn Off The Valve
Pros
- High-pressure
- Three modes
- Pause button
Cons
- Can be difficult to switch between modes
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | Not specified |
Number of Settings | 3 |
Material(s) | Plastic |
Flow Rate | Not specified |
Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
KES All-Metal Rain Shower Head
Best Rainfall Shower Head
Rainfall shower heads are designed to provide effortless, relaxing showers, so it is important that they have sufficient coverage. At eight inches, this KES head is one of the widest we have seen, so you shouldn’t need to adjust it during use.
If you do need to aim it slightly, the head’s swivel ball will allow you to do so. The head itself is made of stainless steel, which is resistant to both corrosion and heat, so you can count on its durability.
If you find the 2.5 GPM limit insufficient, the head’s restrictor can be easily removed to increase the flow rate. The rubber nozzles are designed to prevent limescale and other mineral deposits.
This head has an oil-rubbed bronze finish for a sleek and elegant look. If you don’t think this will suit your bathroom, there are also nickel and black finishes available.
Pros
- Stainless steel body
- Three finish options
- 7.9-inch width
Cons
- Some reviewers complain of weak water pressure
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 7.9 inches |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Stainless steel, bronze finish, rubber nozzles |
Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
Warranty | 1-year warranty |
Our Ratings
Moen 26112 Engage Magnetix Handheld Showerhead
Best Shower Head for Seniors
Many of us take showering for granted, but it can be very challenging for anyone with limited mobility or dexterity. This Moen Magnetix shower head has user-friendly features that avoid some of the more difficult aspects of showering.
Taking a shower head from its bracket is generally quite easy, but putting it back can be challenging. Moen has made this much easier by implementing a magnetic docking system.
Instead of needing to thread the hose and handset into the bracket, this head will snap back into place thanks to its magnets. To remove it again, you can simply pull the handset gently.
This shower head can be used while held in the extension arm, so it can serve as a handheld or overhead shower. With a 5.5-inch head and wide coverage, you shouldn’t need to move around much when the head is mounted.
Focusing on user-friendliness doesn’t mean a shower head can’t have some extra features. This model has six spray modes, which are easily accessed by pressing a button on the head itself.
Pros
- Magnetic docking system
- Wide spray coverage
- Six spray modes
Cons
- Water pressure could be lacking
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | 6 inches |
Number of Settings | 6 |
Material(s) | Chrome finish |
Flow Rate | 2 GPM |
Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
Our Ratings
OrchidBest Handheld Shower Head
Best Budget Shower Head
If you’re looking for excellent value for money, this OrchidBest model is a great option. Despite being among the most affordable shower heads available, it has multiple helpful features.
There are three different spray patterns with a jet function, massage mode, and rainfall water flow. The control panel makes it easy to switch between the modes. It is conveniently placed on the side of the head, making it easily accessible.
There is also an on/off button located just under the head. This allows you to control the flow of water without touching the main shower valve, which is very helpful when washing children or pets. Just don’t forget to turn the shower off when you’re finished, to avoid damaging your plumbing.
This model uses up to 35% less water than a traditional shower while maintaining your water pressure. You should reduce how much water you waste, which will have a positive impact on your bills.
Might Need New Hardware
Pros
- Pause button
- Three pressure modes
- Detachable parts for easy cleaning
Cons
- Doesn’t include a hose or bracket
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | Not specified |
Number of Settings | 3 |
Material(s) | Chrome finish, ABS plastic, stainless steel panel |
Flow Rate | Not specified |
Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Triton Seville 7.5kW Electric Shower
Best For Electric Shower
As an electric shower, the Triton Seville heats water on-demand, ensuring you don’t have more hot water than necessary.
This product includes a control panel, a handheld shower head, a 49-inch anti-twist hose, and a riser rail. The white head and chrome riser should complement most bathroom styles.
Two knobs control the shower’s water temperature. The upper knob allows you to choose from three main modes: cold, economy, and hot. The lower dial offers precise adjustment to achieve your ideal shower temperature.
A riser rail allows you to adjust the height of the shower head when it is held in the wall mount. If placed properly, this rail should ensure that the shower is suitable for every member of your household.
If you are concerned about using an electrical device in a wet environment, this model has been tested to the highest safety standards. It also features a sensor that prevents the water from becoming too hot and shuts the shower off if it exceeds the maximum temperature.
Pros
- Three heating modes
- Precise temperature adjustment
- Riser rail to alter height
Cons
- Water takes longer to heat than expected
Product Specs
Head Dimensions | Not indicated |
Number of Settings | 1 |
Material(s) | Plastic, chrome finish bar |
Flow Rate | 2 to 2.5 GPM |
Warranty | 2 years (UK only) |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Dimensions | No. of Settings | Material(s) | Flow Rate | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AquaHomeGroup Filtered Shower | Luxury | 4.5″ | 1 | Aluminum shower head, chrome filter | 2.5 GPM | N/A |
Delta Faucet H2Okinetic | Small Showers | 4.06″ | 3 | Plastic, chrome finish | 2.5 GPM | Lifetime limited |
High Sierra’s All-Metal | Low Flow | 1″ | 1 | Chrome finish, solid metal body | 1.5 GPM | 2-year warranty |
AquaBliss TheraSpa Hand Shower | Handheld | 6″ | 1 | Brass swivel, silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated | 2.5 GPM | 1-year |
SparkPod Shower Head | High-Pressure | 6″ | 1 | Silicone nozzles, ABS plastic, chrome-plated | 1.8 GPM | 1-year |
PIH High-Pressure Shower Head | RV | N/A | 3 | Plastic | N/A | N/A |
KES All-Metal Rain Shower | Rainfall | 7.9″ | 1 | Stainless steel, bronze finish, rubber nozzles | 2.5 GPM | 1-year |
Moen Engage Magnetix | Seniors | 6″ | 6 | Chrome finish | 2 GPM | Limited lifetime |
OrchidBest Handheld | Budget Pick | N/A | 3 | Chrome finish, ABS plastic, stainless steel panel | N/A | N/A |
Triton Seville Electric Shower | Electric Shower | N/A | 1 | Plastic, chrome finish bar | 2 to 2.5 GPM | 2 years (UK only) |
Types of Shower Heads
Main Types
Single-Function Shower Heads
Single-function shower heads are designed to be simple and effective. As their name suggests, they have a single flow setting, making them one of the most user-friendly types. This makes them a great option for anyone that has no interest in extra settings and wants a simple, user-friendly shower.
They are generally smaller and less expensive than more complex shower heads.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Don’t occupy much space
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Can’t be adjusted to suit individual preferences
Multi-Function Shower Heads
If you have a large household or want to be able to use various settings for different tasks, a multi-function shower head provides greater versatility. Standard multi-function heads might have two or three spray modes but high-end models often have five or more.
The best multi-function shower heads might feature settings such as a spa massage, aeration jets, and low and high-pressure flow rates to help you save water.
Pros
- Various spray settings for greater versatility
- Usually have more nozzles for fuller body coverage
- Provides an at-home spa experience
Cons
- Some heads require a high-pressure shower valve
Other Types
All shower heads fall into the broad categories of single or multi-function, but there are also some popular subcategories that are worth mentioning.
Rainfall Shower Head
If you want to capture the invigorating feeling of a tropical rainstorm, consider choosing a rainfall model. Rainfall showers are generally less versatile, fixed in place, and have a single spray setting. Some higher-end models will allow you to switch between light rain, torrential rain, or somewhere in the middle.
Rainfall showers are often square and many can be mounted on your bathroom ceiling. They are also usually larger than other shower heads, meaning they are also more expensive.
Pros
- Sometimes have multiple spray settings
- Provide excellent coverage
- Usually offer low pressure
Cons
- Ceiling-mounted models can be challenging to install
High-Tech Shower Head
Some shower heads offer one or more high-tech features, such as a Bluetooth speaker to listen to the radio or your personal playlists. Other popular features include chromotherapy and aromatherapy.
Electric showers also fall into this category. They heat water on demand and could reduce your energy bills. They are especially useful if you have solar power, as the electricity you generate can be used to heat your water.
Pros
- Can add entertainment options to your shower
- Chromotherapy and aromatherapy enhance relaxation
- Electric models can reduce fuel bills
Cons
- Some models may require batteries
Specialist Shower Heads
Some heads are designed for specific users, such as those with limited hand dexterity. Others are meant to be suitable for installation in compact spaces such as a motorhome or RV.
If you are concerned about the quality of your water supply, some shower heads feature a built-in filter. These models remove contaminants and many also add vitamins to encourage healthier hair.
Pros
- Designed for specific users or settings
- Filtered models can boost hair health
- Usually user-friendly
Cons
- Specialization means they are less versatile
Shower Head GPM and Pressure
What is GPM?
When shopping for a shower head, you should always see a GPM listed among a model’s specifications. GPM is short for gallons-per-minute and refers to how much water a product will use for every minute that it is at full strength.
The higher the GPM, the stronger the maximum water pressure will be. In the United States, new shower heads have been limited to a maximum of 2.5 GPM since 1994 (2). This is to reduce water waste while showering. It is often possible to remove the limiter, but this can significantly increase your water balls and 2.5 GPM should be more than enough.
Water Pressure
Your maximum water pressure is largely determined by your municipal water supply, which is something you can’t control.
If you feel the 2.5 GPM limit is too restrictive, there are a couple of ways to overcome it:
- Flow restrictor: You can remove the water flow restrictor inside the shower head. This can significantly increase your water pressure but it will be reflected in your bills, so think carefully before you do it.
- Pressurized shower head: A pressurized shower head will boost the spray pressure of your shower without using extra water. Some multi-function heads offer various modes that allow you to adjust the pressure.
On the other hand, if you want to reduce your bills, look for a head with a GPM between 1.5 and 2. These should still clean you thoroughly while using far less water.
Product Selection Criteria
In addition to the shower head type, there are some other key points to keep in mind:
Which Shower Head Brand is the Best?
The shower head market is very competitive, with some recognizable names at the top of the pile.