Did you know a mid-range bathroom remodel has one of the highest returns on investment of any home remodel project? It’s true! A modest bathroom remodel will bring a return on investment versus an upscale bathroom remodel that only has a 56% ROI.
Everyone knows kitchens and bathrooms sell houses. So if your bathroom is ugly, dated, and embarrassing, consider updating your bathroom fixtures. Updating bathroom fixtures are an inexpensive alternative to a full-blown remodel. You can put less money and hassle into updating your bathroom and still reap the benefits when it comes time to sell.
Projects such as updating the faucet, light fixtures, and hardware have an enormous impact on the look of your bathroom, at a fraction of the cost of larger remodel projects. We have compiled this complete guide to choosing the best fixtures for your bathroom.
Table of Contents
What Are Bathroom Fixtures?
First, what parts of the bathroom are considered “fixtures?”
Bathroom fixtures are permanent items that are plumbed, wired, or screwed in. Changing bathroom fixtures is often easier and cheaper than larger projects — like new flooring, a new vanity, or a new shower — but they can significantly update the look of any bathroom.
You may be wanting to refresh your bathroom’s fixtures but are not sure where to begin. We will guide you through product recommendations and design inspiration to fit your ideal bathroom and budget.
How to Choose Bathroom Fixtures

How do you know which type of bathroom fixtures will look best? With so many different styles, designs, and finishes, it can feel intimidating trying to decide which ones to pick.
Here is our guide to choosing the perfect bathroom fixtures for your bathroom style and your personal taste.
We will focus on the four most popular bathrooms, so you can decide which basic category your bathroom falls under.
1. Traditional
Traditional style bathrooms often feature crisp light colors or earthy neutrals and warm wood tones. Fixtures and decor are classic and timeless with subtle embellishments.
People with traditional style bathrooms should opt for antique-inspired fixtures, fixtures with feminine curves, ornate details, and not overly trendy pieces.
2. Transitional
Transitional style bathrooms are similar to traditional bathrooms but often have some kind of quirky or eclectic twist. A transitional bathroom may have all the features of a traditional one but with a loud wallpaper, a colorful backsplash, a patterned floor tile, or a boldly painted vanity.
In moderation, eclectic and quirky fixtures can work well in a transitional bathroom. Brushed gold, trendy light fixtures, and unique sinks are popular for this bathroom style.
3. Contemporary
Contemporary bathrooms are sleek, clean, and spa-like. These bathrooms feature minimalist designs that sometimes have Japanese or Scandinavian influences. They usually use black and white in the design along with natural wood tones.
Contemporary bathrooms look great with hardware in any color, but black fixtures are the most popular. Simple vessel sinks, sleek fixtures, and minimalist hardware look great in contemporary bathrooms.
4. Modern
Today’s modern bathroom is similar to the contemporary style but with rustic influences infused in the design. Inspired by the modern farmhouse look, modern bathrooms feature black and white, patterned tile, and reclaimed wood.
Fixtures that work well in modern bathrooms are black, pewter, and brushed gold hardware, rustic or antique-inspired lighting, and clean, simple lines.
What if My Bathroom Style Is Something Else?
If you have a unique style such as rustic, coastal, or mid-century, we suggest you choose bathroom fixtures that complement your bathroom’s unique characteristics. Pinterest is a great place to look for inspiration.
Here are some of our recommendations for unique bathroom styles:
Keep reading to understand the different types of bathroom fixtures available so you can make the best decision for your personal taste.
Bathroom Faucets
There is a wide variety of bathroom sink fixtures to choose from, so how do you decide?
If you’re retrofitting a new faucet into an existing sink, you will need to choose a faucet with the same type of hole openings in your sink.
We will detail four popular faucet styles so you can determine which one you need to get.
1. Single-Hold Faucets
These faucets combine the spout and handles into one unit. Often the handles are single-lever with this type of faucet. Look for models that include a bottom piece that will cover the existing three-hole opening in your vanity.
These types of faucets are simplistic, so they work well for a wide variety of bathroom styles, specifically modern and contemporary.
2. Widespread Faucet
This type of faucet has a three-hole spread varying from 6 to 16 inches — or the distance between the hot and cold handles. The spout and two handles are three separate pieces.
These types of faucets can come in a wide variety of styles and finishes. They do have a slightly more traditional appearance than the single-hold faucets.
3. Center-Set Faucets
Center-set faucets are similar to widespread but tend to come in smaller versions. They will have separate handles, like a widespread, but are only available in a 4-inch spread. Also, the two handles are attached to the spout on this type of faucet.
The small size makes these faucets great for powder rooms and half bathrooms. Their simplicity lends them to modern and contemporary bathrooms.
4. Wall Mount Faucets
With wall mount faucets, the spout and handles are mounted to the wall behind the sink. If you opt for a wall mount faucet, make sure you choose a spout long enough to reach over the sink.
Wall mount faucets offer a unique, contemporary look that works well with vessel sinks. They can also have a rustic flair that looks great in a modern farmhouse bathroom. An eclectic version would look fabulous in a transitional bathroom.
Sinks
Styles include undermount, vessel, pedestal, wall-mounted, and integrated. Materials range from ceramic, porcelain, and glass to stone and metal.
Consider sink size, depth, and compatibility with chosen faucets.
Toilets
Comfort height toilets provide accessibility benefits. Options include one-piece, two-piece, wall-mounted, and smart toilets.
Features such as dual-flush, bidet functions, and water-saving technology improve efficiency.
Bathtubs
Consider soaking depth, size, and additional features like jets and whirlpools. Types include alcove, freestanding, clawfoot, drop-in, and corner tubs.
Materials like acrylic, cast iron, and fiberglass affect durability and heat retention.
Showers
Customizable features include body sprays, thermostatic valves, and smart controls. Options include walk-in showers, shower-tub combos, and steam showers.
Showerheads range from rain, handheld, dual, and high-pressure models.
Vanities & Cabinets
Soft-close drawers and built-in lighting add functionality. Available in freestanding, wall-mounted, and double-sink configurations.
Consider storage capacity, countertop material, and moisture resistance.
Bathroom Light Fixtures

Light fixtures have a big impact. Simply swapping out the light fixture can bring an outdated bathroom into the current decade.
Since they are so impactful, choosing the wrong light fixture can derail your bathroom’s entire aesthetic.
Here are some common types of light fixtures found in bathrooms and our style recommendations:
Pendant Lights
Pendant lights can make a big statement in any bathroom. These types of lights hang down from the ceiling on a single metal rod, cord, or chain.
Pendant lights look pretty in bathrooms because they are simple and elegant. Some popular places to mount them are right in the middle of the bathroom or over a soaker tub.
Pendant lights provide general lighting that spreads out across the bathroom and helps you see the entire space.
Pendant lights come in a wide variety of styles so they can look lovely in any bathroom. We have seen simple and sleek pendant lights, rustic-inspired ones, and very glamorous ones with gold accents.
Vanity Lighting
There is a wide variety of vanity lighting available to suit any sense of style. The vanity is one of the most important parts of the bathroom for lighting and illumination because most people look in the vanity mirror while getting ready in the morning.
Good lighting is essential to anyone’s grooming routine, so we recommend vanity lighting with practical and functional solutions that prevent hard shadows and evenly distribute light.
A bath bar is a strip of three or more lights that are mounted above the mirror. Wall sconces installed on either side of the mirror are also popular vanity lighting. Finally, twin-light fixtures provide lots of light and are placed on top of the mirror.
With so many options when it comes to vanity lighting, how do you choose the right one for your style?
Recessed Lighting
Is your bathroom dark and dingy? For more lighting without taking up space or altering the look of your bathroom, consider installing recessed lights.
Also known as can lights or downlights, most modern bathrooms feature these subtle lighting solutions. These types of lights are installed directly into the ceiling and are flush with the ceiling.
Recessed lights are popular in showers because you can install a waterproof lens over them, so they will keep working even if they get wet.
They are also often installed on the border of the bathroom or evenly spaced across the bathroom ceiling. If placed correctly, recessed lights can provide bright, even lighting throughout the entire bathroom.
Recessed lighting works great in all types of bathrooms when paired with other stylized light fixtures.
Wall Sconces
We talked about wall sconces in terms of vanity lighting, but what else can you do with these versatile lights?
They are lovely over mirrors, on the sides of mirrors, as ambient lighting by the tub, or simply as decoration.
Wall sconces come in an enormous variety of styles. Choose a simple sconce with a lampshade for a traditional bathroom. A lantern-inspired style for the modern or modern farmhouse. Or choose sconces in a funky shape or color for transitional, or popular minimalist globes for contemporary bathrooms.
Chandeliers
Chandeliers can be a fun addition to any bathroom. They can certainly provide a fun pop in small bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and powder rooms.
Chandeliers look lovely hanging in the center of the bathroom or over the bathtub. They are a sure way to create a luxurious atmosphere.
The style of chandelier you choose depends on the style of your bathroom. They typically work great in traditional bathrooms that lend themselves to more ornate detailing. But there are many sleek, modern, and contemporary chandeliers to choose from as well.
For modern farmhouse bathrooms, there are some lovely casual-style chandeliers that come in distressed wood or wooden beads.
Drawer Pulls and Other Hardware

Changing out your faucet and light fixtures are two of the most impactful changes you can make to your bathroom.
But for an even easier fix, consider changing out basic hardware in your bathroom like draw pulls, towel rods, and hand towel hooks.
Here are some of our tips for updating your bathroom’s hardware:
- Try to choose items that match or are cohesive
- Try to keep the hardware in the same style family (simple, ornate, rustic)
- Research care and maintenance before you buy
- Make a budget and stick to it
Like any home improvement project, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by all the choices. If you set a budget and do your research in advance, you can greatly narrow down your options.
Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Bathroom Fixtures
Selecting the right bathroom fixtures is essential for creating a functional, stylish, and comfortable space. Whether you’re remodeling or building a new bathroom, the fixtures you choose will impact aesthetics, usability, and durability. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing bathroom fixtures.
1. Material and Durability
Bathroom fixtures are exposed to moisture, water, and frequent use, so selecting durable materials is crucial. Some common materials include:
- Brass – Corrosion-resistant and long-lasting.
- Stainless Steel – Rust-resistant and modern-looking.
- Zinc Alloy – Affordable but less durable.
- Plastic – Budget-friendly but may not last as long.
2. Style and Design
Your bathroom fixtures should complement the overall aesthetic of your space. Consider:
- Modern – Sleek, minimalistic, and contemporary.
- Traditional – Classic designs with elegant details.
- Industrial – Exposed pipes and raw materials for a bold look.
- Transitional – A mix of modern and classic elements.
3. Finish Options
The finish of your fixtures impacts both the look and maintenance. Popular options include:
- Chrome – Shiny and easy to clean but shows fingerprints.
- Brushed Nickel – Warm, matte, and resistant to water spots.
- Matte Black – Stylish and modern but requires regular cleaning.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze – Classic and rich, great for traditional bathrooms.
4. Functionality and Features
Consider features that enhance convenience and efficiency:
- Water-Saving Technology – Look for WaterSense-certified faucets and showerheads.
- Touchless Faucets – Ideal for hygiene and ease of use.
- Thermostatic Shower Valves – Maintain consistent water temperature.
- Dual-Flush Toilets – Help conserve water with separate flush options.
5. Compatibility and Size
Ensure your chosen fixtures fit your bathroom space and plumbing setup:
- Faucets – Check compatibility with sink types (single-hole, widespread, or wall-mounted).
- Toilets – Measure rough-in distance and consider compact models for small spaces.
- Bathtubs and Showers – Choose based on available space and plumbing access.
6. Ease of Maintenance
Fixtures that require minimal upkeep will save you time and effort. Look for:
- Spot-resistant finishes to reduce water stains and fingerprints.
- Removable aerators and showerheads for easy cleaning.
- Simple designs with fewer crevices where dirt can accumulate.
7. Budget and Cost
Set a budget before shopping and compare prices across different brands. While high-end fixtures offer longevity and premium finishes, mid-range options often provide a balance of quality and affordability.
8. Brand and Warranty
Reputable brands typically offer better quality and warranties. Consider:
- Kohler, Moen, Delta, and Grohe for reliability.
- At least a 5-year warranty for added protection.
Choosing the right bathroom fixtures involves balancing style, function, durability, and budget. By considering materials, design, features, and maintenance needs, you can select fixtures that enhance your bathroom’s comfort and aesthetics while ensuring long-term performance. Take the time to research, compare, and invest in high-quality fixtures that suit your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fixtures in a bathroom?
Fixtures in a bathroom are permanent or semi-permanent installations used for plumbing and functionality. They include sinks, toilets, bathtubs, showers, faucets, and sometimes bidets. These elements are essential for the bathroom’s operation and design.
What is the list of bathroom fittings?
Common bathroom fittings include a toilet, sink, shower, bathtub, faucet, mirror, towel rack, toilet paper holder, showerhead, and storage units like cabinets or shelves.
What are bathroom accessories called?
Bathroom accessories are items like towel racks, soap dispensers, shower curtains, bath mats, toothbrush holders, toilet paper holders, and waste bins, used to enhance functionality and style.
Are You Ready to Update Your Bathroom Fixtures?
The Bottom Line: Updating your bathroom fixtures can not only dramatically improve the look of your bathroom, but it can also increase your home value too!
A bathroom fixture is anything that is plumbed, wired, or screwed in. In our experience, the bathroom fixtures that give you the biggest bang for your buck in your bathroom remodel are faucets, light fixtures, and hardware.
It’s often easier and cheaper to update your fixtures than go for a full bathroom remodel. We hope that this guide has given you some inspiration for the fixtures you want to update in your bathroom.