Overhead Shower or Handheld Shower Head?

Modern overhead shower or traditional handheld shower head? This is a dilemma for customers planning to build or renovate a bathroom. It's even more challenging to resolve if they have only used the standard handheld shower head. And manufacturers tempt with advertising modern overhead shower models. They assure that anyone who installs such a device will feel like they're in a spa salon. So, overhead shower or handheld shower head - what to choose? Or maybe consider both solutions?

What is an overhead shower and where can it be installed?

For some time now, overhead showers have become a standard in modern shower cabins. A broad stream of water flowing evenly from the overhead shower relaxes the body and senses, while a gentle water massage positively impacts well-being. However, it should be remembered that a shower head emitting a very wide, e.g., 60 cm, stream of water is a solution intended for large shower cabins or open bathing spaces. In smaller shower cabins, shower sets on a rod will be a better solution.

An overhead shower is primarily associated with a shower, but it can also be mounted above a bathtub. However, it's essential to ensure a suitable screen to serve protective functions and prevent water from the overhead shower from flooding the bathroom.

We have two free hands... and more, which is the superiority of an overhead shower over a handheld shower head

Before deciding on an overhead shower, it's worth knowing its advantages and disadvantages.

• The biggest advantage of an overhead shower is high comfort and safety during bathing. The stream flowing from above not only provides pleasant sensations but also allows us to have both hands free. This is especially important for the elderly and disabled people who can hold themselves with one hand to maintain balance. For them, an overhead shower is an excellent choice!
• Modern overhead showers are equipped with flow-regulated aerators that not only aerate the water, making the bath more pleasant but also effectively reduce water consumption. Water savings translate into lower bills, so an overhead shower can be cheap to operate.
• Advanced models allow the control of functions via a smartphone. A special app lets you adjust the water stream, its vivid lighting, or set the sound before entering the shower.
• More and more often, overhead showers and handheld shower heads offered by Mexen have an anti-calc coating that prevents limescale buildup, thus prolonging the durability and reliability of shower components.
• A wide choice of overhead showers with unique design ensures they fit into any bathroom arrangement style effortlessly.

Disadvantages of an overhead shower, so maybe it's not worth giving up the handheld shower head?

Although a shower under an overhead shower is extremely pleasant, it does not allow for freely adjusting the water's falling direction, as it's permanently mounted. Therefore, it's hard to direct the water stream where you want it. A handheld shower head has a much greater reach than an overhead shower and can be maneuvered freely, especially when washing children.

A handheld shower will also be more convenient when you want to fill a basin or bucket or clean the shower cabin.

A large overhead shower (especially with a diameter or side over 60 cm) produces, let's not kid ourselves, high water usage, even 40 liters per minute. When using an instantaneous water heater, hot water will last only a few minutes of bathing. Increased water usage will also result in higher electricity bills.

Overhead showers are also more expensive than traditional handheld shower heads. In the case of damage to one of the elements, the cost of purchase and installation will require a higher financial investment.

A shower with an overhead shower is also not suitable when you want to take a bath without getting your head wet. In this case, a handheld shower head is better.

Or maybe a combination of a handheld shower head with an overhead shower?

Both the overhead shower and the handheld shower head have pros and cons. Sometimes you need one, at other times the other device. Moreover, user opinions will likely be divided. Some will prefer an overhead shower; others will lean towards a handheld shower head. Considering all the pros and cons, it's best to choose a solution that combines both elements. In the Mexen store offer, you'll find shower sets consisting of a thermostatic mixer, as well as an overhead shower and a handheld shower head. Such a set can be installed on the shower wall immediately. The created column fits every shower cabin perfectly, as the set's mountings are adjustable. Thanks to it, you can optimally manage the space of every shower. Choose a solution that allows all household members to enjoy a relaxing bath.