Your choice of bathroom fixtures can affect the overall shower experience. As such, it will be prudent to be equipped with some form of knowledge of these fixtures and know which are best for your space.
Shower heads are one of those elements that cannot be overlooked. With the increasing popularity of rain shower heads, buyers want to know what more they are being offered as opposed to regular shower heads.
This article seeks to provide a comprehensive comparison of rain shower heads versus regular shower heads.
What Is A Rain Shower Head?
A rain shower head is a type of shower head that is designed to spray water over the head of the user, ensuring full body coverage. A rain shower head has a wide face, ranging from 6 to 12 inches, that creates the natural rainfall effect.
Originally, rain shower heads were installed in the ceiling. However, this is not a requirement anymore as there are now wall-mounted also.
What Is A Regular Shower Head?
A regular shower head is the shower head we would refer to as a standard shower head. It is the commonest type of shower head found in a lot of bathrooms. Regular shower heads are mounted on the bathroom wall or handheld and may come with adjustable settings and angles.
Comparing Rain And Regular Shower Heads
Now that we know the basics of each type of shower head, let’s compare them.
Functionality
When it comes to functionality, rain shower heads and regular shower heads both get the job done – they both provide water for you to take a shower. However, one could argue that rain shower heads are more functional as they provide a more immersive experience.
Size and Shape
The first thing to note is that rain shower heads are significantly larger than regular shower heads. This is because they need to provide full coverage and imitate the effect of rainfall.
On the other hand, regular shower heads are small and compact. They have a more traditional design and are available in different shapes such as oval, round, and square.
Features
When it comes to features, rain shower heads and regular shower heads both have a lot to offer. However, there are some key differences to note.
Rain shower heads often come with adjustable settings that allow you to control the water flow, temperature, and pressure. This creates a more customized and enjoyable showering experience.
Regular shower heads also have a lot to offer in terms of features. Many regular shower heads come with adjustable settings and different spray patterns. This allows you to customize your showering experience.
Water Pressure
Another key difference between rain shower heads and regular shower heads is the water pressure. Rain shower heads evenly distribute water over a large surface area which leads to lower water pressure when compared to regular shower heads. This is not to say that rain shower heads have weak water pressure, but rather that the pressure is more gentle and evenly dispersed.
Regular shower heads, on the other hand, have a more concentrated stream of water which leads to higher water pressure. This is great for people who love to take showers under full-blast water.
Water Conservation
As concerns about conserving the environment, in general, keep increasing, rain shower heads are fast becoming the choice for buyers as it helps save water. Technically, if you could take your bath in 5 minutes, you would be using only 1/3 of the water you would have used if you were using a regular shower head. This is what a rain shower head provides because, at one time, it washes your entire body more quickly than regular shower heads.
However, with regular shower heads, because washing your entire body requires you to move around beneath the shower, it may take longer to finish a shower and this may imply using more water.
In addition, because generally, the water pressure is higher with regular shower heads, you tend to use more water.
The good news is with flow restrictors being installed in all new shower heads, the water pressure is regulated, which means both types of shower heads can help you save water.
Installation
The installation process for a rain shower head is more complex when compared to a regular shower head. This is because rain shower heads need to be installed at a higher point, often on the ceiling, to create the rainfall effect.
Regular shower heads can be installed easily as they are wall-mounted. This makes them a more convenient option if you are looking for an easy installation process.
Cost
The cost of rain shower heads and regular shower heads can vary depending on the brand, material, and features. However, on average, rain shower heads tend to be more expensive than regular shower heads. This is because rain shower heads are often made with high-quality materials and have more features than regular shower heads. Therefore, you must be ready to spend more if you want that spa-like feel in your bathroom.
If you do not want to break the bank, you can opt for a regular shower head. Because regular shower heads are more common, there is more competition in the market which leads to lower prices. You can easily find a regular shower head that is both high-quality and budget-friendly.
Material Used
Both rain and regular shower heads can be made from different materials such as stainless steel, plastic, and brass. However, rain shower heads are more likely to be made from stainless steel as this is a more durable material.
Plastic and brass are more common materials for regular shower heads as they are lighter and easier to install. These materials are also more budget-friendly, which is why they are often used for regular shower heads.
Body Coverage
Rain shower heads spray water over the head of the user, ensuring full body coverage. This means you may spend less time in the bathroom as opposed to if you were using a standard shower head.
On the other hand, while taking a shower with a regular shower head, you may have to be changing the positions and angles of your body to reach some parts of your body. Regular shower heads, therefore, do not give full body coverage at one time.
Aesthetic
Rain shower heads are visually pleasing. While giving a spa-like appeal, rain shower heads also add style and class to your entire bathroom. If you are looking for a quick-fix way to elevate the elegance of your bathroom, a rain shower head could be what you need.
On the other hand, regular shower heads look more traditional and standard. Comparatively, regular shower heads may not look as elegant as most rain shower heads on the market although there are some high-end and luxury regular shower heads that can come close to the appeal of rain shower heads.
Shower Experience
The experience of taking a shower can be different with rain shower heads and regular shower heads. This is because rain shower heads provide a more immersive experience with the rainfall effect.
On the other hand, regular shower heads provide a more focused stream of water which can be invigorating. The experience you have with a regular shower head will depend on the type of shower head you choose.
There are different types of regular shower heads such as massaging, dual, and handheld shower heads. Each type provides a different showering experience.
Adaptability
Initially, rain shower heads could only be mounted on the ceiling or suspended from the ceiling. These days, some brands have options for wall-mounted rain shower heads. This quality makes rain shower heads adaptable.
On the other hand, regular shower heads are usually wall-mounted but there are also some handheld regular shower heads on the market.
Summary Of Similarities And Differences Between Rain Shower Heads And Regular Shower Heads
| Rain Shower Head | Regular Shower Head | |
| Functionality | Gets the job done | Gets the job done |
| Size and shape | Significantly larger | Small and compact |
| Features | Comes with adjustable settings | Many come with adjustable settings and different spray patterns |
| Water pressure | Gentle water pressure and evenly dispersed | Higher water pressure with a concentrated stream of water |
| Water conservation | Saves water with little pressure | Generally uses more water |
| Installation | More complex to install | Easy to install |
| Cost | Averagely more expensive | Averagely less expensive |
| Material used | Can be made from different materials but mostly stainless steel | Can be made from different materials. Plastic and brass are more common. |
| Body coverage | Ensures full body coverage | Does not give full body coverage at a time |
| Aesthetics | Generally, gives a luxurious look | Generally, looks more traditional |
| Shower experience | Gives an immersive experience | Focused stream of water which can be invigorating |
| Adaptability | Very adaptable | Usually wall-mounted |
Final Words
In conclusion, apart from both being able to help you take a shower, rain and regular shower heads differ in terms of the overall shower experience, cost, appearance, size, water pressure, usage, and how much movement may be required of you while taking a shower.
It really comes down to personal preference as to which type of shower head you prefer. If you are looking for a luxurious and relaxing experience, then a rain shower head may be the best option for you. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly and practical option, then a regular shower head may be more suited for you.