When shopping for a new bathroom faucet, most people look for standard features like an attractive finish and easy installation. But have you considered a faucet with rotating spout capabilities? Swiveling bathroom faucets offer game-changing convenience and flexibility that can enhance your whole sink experience.
Introduction to Rotating/Swivel Bathroom Faucets
While not yet commonplace, an increasing number of modern bathroom faucets feature spouts capable of swiveling a full 360 degrees. This allows users to pivot and direct water flow exactly where needed with a simple turn.
Rotating faucet models come in widespread, wall-mounted, and vessel variations to complement any bathroom layout. Below we’ll explore why a swiveling spout takes convenience and accessibility to the next level.
Key Benefits of a Swivel Faucet Design
Convenience
Arguably the top benefit of a rotating spout is enhanced convenience. With just a gentle turn left or right, you can easily reach all areas of your sink basin while keeping your faucet and handles stationary.
This allows for improved functionality in use of the sink for tasks like washing hands, brushing teeth, shaving, makeup application, and more. No more straining to angle a fixed faucet!
Flexibility
In addition to convenience within daily use, the flexibility of a swiveling faucet also lends itself well to bathroom spaces of all shapes and sizes.
Those with larger vanities or double sinks will appreciate being able to pivot the water flow across more surface area. And in compact powder rooms, the rotating spout allows users to circumvent tight corners.
Accessibility
The adjustability of a rotating faucet promotes accessibility for those with mobility limitations. By directing water flow exactly where needed, swivel spout models eliminate reaching or straining.
Those with dexterity challenges also benefit from the ease of operating a single lever for smooth, incremental rotations.
Key Features to Look For
If you’re sold on upgrading to a rotating bathroom faucet, let’s explore some key features to prioritize in your purchase.
Degree of Rotation
First, pay attention to a model’s degree of rotation, as swivel capabilities can vary:
- 360 degrees provides maximum adjustability and accessibility.
- 270 or 180 degrees still offers enhanced convenience without full circular motion.
- 90 or 120 degrees allows some pivot flexibility but over a more limited range.
Consider your bathroom layout and how you anticipate using a swiveling faucet when deciding which rotation range will suit you best.
Water Efficiency
Many modern faucets also place emphasis on water conservation. When shopping rotating models, look for WaterSense certification along with features like:
- Low-flow aerators to maintain water pressure while reducing overall water usage
- Sensors that activate water flow only when needed
- Leak-proof ceramic disc valves that prevent drips
This combination of precision engineering and smart technology allows rotating faucets to save water without sacrificing performance.
Easy Installation
Shoppers should also assess their DIY confidence or need to hire a plumber when installing a new bathroom faucet. Consider aspects like:
- Number of handle holes
- Compatible sink/counter mounting
- Necessary tools
- Clear manufacturer instructions
Many swiveling models feature straightforward designs made for simplified DIY upgrades. This saves on plumber fees.
Durability
When investing in any new faucet, longevity is top of mind. Be sure to inspect the quality of materials and moving parts in rotating models.
Brass and zinc construction will resist corrosion and everyday wear and tear. Ceramic disc cartridges also support the valving system for drip-free longevity.
Types of Swivel Mountings
Rotating faucets come in a variety of mounting configurations to work with any bathroom layout. Most common are:
Wall-Mounted
Gain counter space with a rotational faucet mounted directly to the wall. Choose this style for small powder rooms or floating vanities.
Vessel
Complement a modern vessel sink basin with an equally sleek rotating vessel filler. Some models feature elongated spouts to clear the sink rim.
Widespread
For larger bathroom spaces, a widespread rotating faucet with separate handles offers flexibility in custom positioning. Widespread configurations work well with double vanities or furniture-style sinks.
Innovations in Water Conservation Technology
We’ve touched on some common low-flow features above, but water-saving technology continues to advance in clever ways:
Low-Flow Aerators
Integrated aerator screens introduce air flow to maintain steady water pressure while reducing overall water volume.
Sensor-Activated
Hands-free faucets turn on and off in response to motion sensors. This prevents water waste from taps accidentally left running.
Cost Considerations
As with most fixtures, bathroom faucet costs vary widely based on factors like brand, materials, technology, and configuration. In general, expect to invest more in a rotating faucet than a basic stationary model.
However, prices remain similar between swiveling and fixed options of comparable quality and features. So while rotating functionality ads convenience, it usually won’t break the bank.
Top-Rated Brands
When exploring your options, consider researching reviews and ratings of prominent faucet brands. Look for those known for innovation, quality manufacturing, and durable performance over time.
Below are two top names in swiveling bathroom fixtures:
Moen (Best Overall)
Industry leader Moen offers the Flo Motion Sensor-Activated Pulldown Kitchen Faucet starting around $370. Hands-free technology and a smooth 360-degree rotation make kitchen tasks a breeze.
Delta Faucet (Best Value)
For budget-conscious shoppers, Delta Faucet’s B2596LF-OB Orbit Bathroom Faucet offers 360 degrees of motion at just over $100. The orbital rotation reaches every corner of your sink basin.
Frequently Asked Questions
For additional rotating faucet guidance, browse answers to these common questions:
Are rotating faucets difficult to install?
Swiveling faucet installation is comparable to stationary models, especially those designed for DIY upgrades. Key steps typically include shut off water lines, remove existing faucet, connect water supply lines and drain pipes to new faucet, then turn water back on to test for leaks.
How do I maintain a rotating faucet?
Follow the manufacturer cleaning recommendations. In most cases, occasional wipedowns using gentle soap and water will suffice. Take care not to damage any motion components or finish.
Yes, swiveling faucets perform well even in regions with hard water. Features like ceramic disc valves and specially coated aerators prevent calcification buildup. Some models also allow users to swap out aerators based on local water conditions.
Upgrade your bathroom functionality with the game-changing flexibility of a rotating water-saving faucet. With so many configurations and features to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect model to meet your needs and style.
