Which mixer tap should you choose for your kitchen?

Define your daily kitchen needs

To choose the ideal sink mixer tap, it is essential to first analyze your daily habits in the kitchen. Indeed, this choice depends heavily on your lifestyle and how you use your culinary space on a day-to-day basis.

Frequency of use

The intensity of use of your kitchen mixer tap is a determining factor. In fact, in an average household, the kitchen mixer tap is turned on and off around 90 times a day. This intensive use requires equipment that is not only attractive but also robust and reliable in the long term.

For a busy family kitchen, where several people prepare meals every day, it is best to choose a high-quality kitchen sink mixer tap with reinforced mechanisms. Models equipped with ceramic cartridges are particularly suitable as they are more resistant to wear and tear and repeated use.

On the other hand, for more moderate use, such as in a studio or apartment occupied by a single person, you can consider simpler options while still maintaining good basic quality. However, even in this case, don't neglect durability, as the kitchen faucet remains one of the most heavily used fixtures in your home.

Main tasks: washing dishes, rinsing, cooking

Next, consider the specific activities you regularly perform at the sink. These will directly influence the type of mixer tap that is right for your needs.

For washing dishes, a mixer tap with a pull-out spray makes it much easier to clean large utensils or bulky dishes. These models allow you to easily reach all areas of the sink and usually offer several different spray modes. Some models even offer an economical foam spray and a more powerful spray for removing stubborn dirt.

For rinsing food, especially fruit and vegetables, a mixer tap with a high, swivel spout offers excellent maneuverability. Spray heads equipped with an anti-limescale diffuser (nozzle without a grid) limit the retention of water and impurities, thus preventing the growth of germs.

For cooking, if you frequently use large pots or pans, choose a mixer tap with a sufficiently high and long spout. Swan neck spouts or telescopic models are particularly suitable in this case. Some professional faucets can reach a flow rate of up to 25 liters per minute at 3 bars, allowing for ultra-fast filling of large containers.

In addition, if you often multitask in the kitchen, consider a mixer tap with touch or sensor technology. These models are activated by a simple touch or motion detection, which is very convenient when your hands are full or dirty.

Compare types of kitchen mixer taps

Choosing a faucet for your kitchen is not just a matter of aesthetics. The technology and type of sink mixer you select will have a significant impact on your everyday comfort. Let's take a look at the different options available to help you make the best choice.

Single lever mixer tap vs mixer tap

The first fundamental distinction is between the mixer tap and the mixer valve. The kitchen mixer tap, now widely used, features a single control that regulates both flow and temperature. To adjust the temperature, the handle is moved sideways (left/right), while to adjust the flow, it is moved up and down. This design offers great ease of use on a daily basis.

Conversely, the more traditional mixer tap has two separate handles: one for hot water and one for cold water. To achieve the ideal temperature, you have to manually combine the two water flows. Although less convenient, this model is sometimes coming back into fashion for its retro and vintage look.

The mixer tap has several notable advantages over the mixer:

• Can be used with one hand, ideal when cooking
• Water savings thanks to faster and more accurate adjustment
• Frequent presence of a flow limiter and an anti-scald stop

However, contemporary mixers are now also equipped with modern technologies such as anti-limescale aerators, reducing the functional gap with mixer taps.

Mixer tap with hand shower or flexible spout

For even greater convenience, kitchen sink faucets can be equipped with a pull-out spray or a flexible spout. There are two main types:

1. The faucet with an exposed spray head in the shape of an inverted U, guided by a spring (often called a "chef's faucet"). These models, inspired by professional kitchens, can be quite large, with some reaching heights of over 50 cm.
2. The faucet with pull-out spray, more discreet and modern, incorporates a hose concealed within the mixer body.

These models offer great versatility as they allow you to direct the water jet precisely. Particularly useful for rinsing vegetables, cleaning the sink, or filling large containers, they generally offer two types of jets: an economical foaming jet and a more powerful jet for removing stubborn dirt.

However, these mixer taps with spray heads do have some potential drawbacks. They can be more fragile than standard models, particularly in terms of the hose, spray head, or diverter valve. They also require sufficient space: models with an integrated spray head need space under the sink, while taps with a visible spray head may be obstructed by wall cabinets.

Wall-mounted or built-in mixer tap

Finally, the kitchen mixer tap can be installed in different ways. The classic model is fixed to the countertop or sink, but other options are available.

The wall-mounted mixer tap is installed directly on the wall above the sink. This solution offers several advantages:

• Significant space savings on the work surface
• Easy cleaning around the sink (no vertical base)
• Sleek and modern aesthetics

In addition, the mixer tap can be built into the wall, meaning that its mechanism is concealed within the partition, with only the spout and controls remaining visible. This highly aesthetic installation offers a minimalist look that is particularly popular in contemporary kitchens.

However, these wall-mounted or built-in installations have certain limitations. Their installation generally requires the services of a professional and may involve significant work, especially for built-in models, which require modifications to the wall structure. Furthermore, in the event of a problem, accessing the mechanisms for repair or replacement is more complex than for a standard mixer tap.

Therefore, the choice between these different types of kitchen faucets will depend not only on your aesthetic preferences, but also on your usage habits, available space, and budget.

Consider the space and the sink

The layout of your kitchen and the configuration of your sink are key factors in choosing the right mixer tap. These elements determine not only the technical installation but also everyday ease of use.

Compatible with single or double sinks

The type of sink directly influences the choice of kitchen faucet. For a single sink, almost any type of faucet will do. A fully rotating spout (360°) is particularly practical for covering the entire sink.

On the other hand, for a double sink, there are several options available to you:

• A mixer tap with a high central spout that can be swiveled from one sink to another
• A mixer tap with a pull-out spray head for easy access to both sinks
• A mixer tap with a swivel spout and sufficient range of action

Also, consider the depth of your sink. For a shallow sink, a sink mixer with a spout that is too high may cause splashing. Conversely, a professional sink generally requires a kitchen mixer tap with a spout that is high enough to comfortably handle large utensils.

Installation under a window: pay attention to the height

Installing a kitchen sink mixer tap under a window requires special attention. The main constraint concerns the opening of the window, which may be obstructed by a mixer tap that is too high.

There are several solutions to this problem:

• The retractable or fold-down mixer tap, which folds horizontally when you want to open the window.
• The under-window mixer tap with tilting or pull-out body
• The mixer tap with a retractable spout that folds back on itself

These specific models allow you to reconcile functionality with space constraints. However, before making a purchase, measure the distance between the countertop and the bottom of the window precisely to ensure that the model you choose is compatible.

Number of holes available

The number of pre-existing holes in your sink or countertop also determines your choice of kitchen faucet. There are two main types:

• Single-hole installation: the most common solution for modern mixer taps, requiring a single hole through which the hot and cold water pipes pass.
• Two-hole installation: less common, it is suitable for certain mixer taps with remote controls.
• Three-hole or more installation: intended for traditional mixers or mixer taps with additional accessories (soap dispenser, separate shower head)

If the number of holes available does not match the chosen mixer tap, adjustments can be made. Cover plates can be used to conceal unused holes. Conversely, additional holes can be drilled, but this can be tricky on certain materials such as stainless steel or ceramic.

Therefore, analyzing your space and sink beforehand will save you a lot of disappointment when installing your new kitchen faucet.

Useful features to save money and stay secure

Beyond their simple function of supplying water, modern mixer taps now incorporate innovative technologies that significantly improve their safety and energy efficiency. These advanced features transform a simple tap into a real everyday ally.

Anti-scald temperature limiter

Safety in the kitchen is paramount, especially when it comes to hot water. Mixer taps equipped with anti-scald temperature limiters offer essential protection, particularly in households with children or elderly people.

This smart device works thanks to a mechanism that automatically cuts off the hot water supply in the event of a cold water supply failure. Thus, if the hot water temperature exceeds the desired mixed water temperature by at least 10°C, the system shuts down to prevent any risk of scalding. Similarly, the cold water supply is interrupted in the event of a failure in the hot water circuit.

Some models also feature an adjustable temperature limiter that allows you to set the maximum water outlet temperature. This particularly useful feature can be set to 38°C, the ideal temperature for preventing accidents in the home.

Adjustable flow rate to save water

In response to current environmental challenges, manufacturers now offer kitchen sink faucets that incorporate high-performance water-saving technologies.

Models equipped with a flow restrictor can significantly reduce daily consumption. Some kitchen faucets have a dual-position handle that locks at the halfway point, limiting the flow to 50% of its maximum capacity. Greater pressure on the handle is required to achieve full flow.

Furthermore, pull-out aerators play a crucial role in this economy. By mixing air with water, they reduce flow by 10 to 20% without compromising the effectiveness of the spray. Technologies such as EcoJoy™ even allow for a generous flow rate limited to 5.8 liters per minute.

Some manufacturers go even further with mixers such as the Active Eco, which can save up to 50% water thanks to a stop lever system.

Mixer tap with filtered water

The option of filtered water straight from the tap is a particularly welcome innovation in our modern kitchens.

These special mixers are equipped with a filtration system that effectively removes unwanted substances from tap water. In particular, they reduce chlorine, bacteria, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, and heavy metals, while significantly improving the smell and taste of the water.

A major advantage is the separate water circuit, which prevents any contact between filtered and unfiltered water. This separation ensures optimal purity. The filters, usually made of ceramic or activated carbon, retain beneficial minerals such as fluoride, magnesium, and calcium.

Beyond their ease of use, these faucets are an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic water bottles, helping to reduce plastic pollution. They are therefore a wise investment for both your health and the environment.

Choosing an attractive and durable mixer tap

The choice of a sink mixer tap is not limited to its functional aspects. Indeed, this central element of your kitchen deserves special attention in terms of its aesthetics and durability, as it will be used intensively for many years.

Materials: stainless steel, brass, PVD

The material used in your kitchen mixer tap directly determines its durability and maintenance requirements. Stainless steel is a wise choice due to its exceptional strength. Naturally resistant to corrosion and scratches, it also has antibacterial properties that are valuable in the kitchen. Furthermore, stainless steel is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally responsible option.

Brass is the traditional base material for many mixer taps. Usually coated with a layer of chrome, it offers a shiny appearance that is very popular in contemporary kitchens. This "mirror" finish adds brightness and elegance, but may require more regular maintenance to maintain its shine.

For maximum durability, choose mixers with PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) treatment. This technology, initially reserved for the luxury and aerospace industries, provides increased resistance to the coating of kitchen mixer taps. PVD finishes are more scratch-resistant and retain their original appearance for longer.

Trendy colors: black, gold, copper

Beyond traditional chrome, current trends favor bolder finishes. Matte black is hugely popular for its understated elegance and ability to blend in with almost any kitchen style. Aesthetic and understated, it is the ideal faucet for a modern kitchen.

Gold or copper finishes instantly add a touch of luxury to your kitchen space. These warm tones go particularly well with industrial or art deco style kitchens. The PVD versions of these finishes guarantee their durability over time, unlike simply painted models.

In addition, some manufacturers now offer complete ranges in various finishes, allowing you to perfectly match your faucet, sink, and accessories.

Design to match your kitchen

The aesthetic consistency between your kitchen sink mixer tap and the overall style of your kitchen enhances the visual harmony of the whole. For a modern kitchen with clean lines, choose a mixer tap with a minimalist design and sharp geometric shapes.

In a rustic or country chic kitchen, a retro mixer tap with brass or copper finishes will blend in naturally. Conversely, for a contemporary space, models with flowing lines and stainless steel or matte black finishes will create a striking effect.

Some manufacturers even offer complete collections that allow you to perfectly match your mixer tap, sink, and accessories for a consistent overall look. This way, your kitchen mixer tap becomes a real decorative feature that enhances your space while meeting your everyday functional needs.

Making the right choice for your kitchen

Your daily routine in the kitchen will determine the type of mixer tap that best suits your needs. Frequent users will particularly appreciate models with a pull-out spray or flexible spout, while kitchens with limited space will benefit from wall-mounted or retractable versions. In addition, families with children will prefer safety features such as anti-scald temperature limiters.

The economic and ecological aspects should certainly not be overlooked. Modern mixer taps equipped with flow restrictors can reduce your water consumption by up to 50%, resulting in substantial savings on your bills. Similarly, models with built-in filtration offer a sustainable alternative to plastic bottles.

As for aesthetics, they remain fundamental to creating visual harmony in your kitchen. Matte black, gold, or copper finishes now offer elegant alternatives to traditional chrome. Nevertheless, the durability of the material should always take precedence over passing trends.

The ideal mixer tap exists for every kitchen – now you just need to find the one that's perfect for yours!