
Modern rain shower or traditional handheld shower? This is a dilemma for customers planning the construction or renovation of a bathroom. It becomes even harder to resolve if they have only used a standard handheld shower until now. Manufacturers entice with advertisements for modern rain shower models. They assure that anyone who installs such a device will feel like they're in a spa. So, rain shower or handheld - what to choose? Or perhaps consider both solutions?
What is a rain shower and where can it be installed?
For some time now, rain showers have become standard in modern shower cabins. A wide stream of water flowing evenly from the rain shower relaxes the body and senses, while a gentle water massage is beneficial for well-being. However, it should be remembered that a shower head emitting a very wide stream of water, e.g., 60 cm, is a solution designed for a large shower cabin or an open bathing area. In smaller shower cabins, shower sets on a rod will be a better solution.
The rain shower is primarily associated with showering, but it can also be mounted above a bathtub. However, care should be taken to have an appropriate screen that will serve protective functions and ensure that the water flowing from the rain shower does not flood the bathroom.
We have two hands free... but not only that, the superiority of the rain shower over the handheld shower
Before deciding on a rain shower, it's worth knowing its advantages and disadvantages.
- The biggest advantage of a rain shower is the high comfort and safety during bathing. The stream coming from above not only provides pleasant sensations but also allows both hands to be free. This is particularly important for older and disabled individuals, who can use one hand to hold on and maintain balance. For them, the rain shower is indeed an excellent choice!
- Modern rain showers are equipped with aerators that regulate the flow, which not only aerates the water, making bathing more enjoyable but also effectively reduces water consumption. Saving water translates to lower bills, so the rain shower may be inexpensive to operate.
- Advanced models allow control of functions via smartphone. A special app allows adjusting the water stream, its spectacular lighting, or setting sounds before stepping into the shower.
- More and more often, rain showers and handheld showers offered by Mexen have an anti-calc coating that prevents the buildup of scale, thus prolonging the durability and reliability of shower components.
- A wide variety of rain showers with original designs makes it easy for them to fit into any bathroom decor style.
Disadvantages of rain showers, or is it not worth giving up the handheld shower?
Although bathing under a rain shower is incredibly pleasant, it does not allow for freely adjusting the direction of the water flow, as it is mounted permanently. Therefore, it is difficult to direct the water stream where we would like. The handheld shower has a much greater range than a rain shower and allows for free maneuvering, especially when washing children.
The handheld shower will also be more convenient when we want to fill a basin or bucket or clean the shower cabin.
A large rain shower (especially with a diameter or side larger than 60 cm) is, let’s be honest, a significant water consumption, even 40 liters per minute. When using a flow heater, hot water lasts only a few minutes of bathing. Increased water consumption also translates into higher electricity bills.
Rain showers are also more expensive than traditional handheld showers. In case any of the elements are damaged, the cost of purchasing and installing a replacement will require a higher financial outlay.
A shower with a rain shower will also not be suitable if we want to take a bath without wetting our head. In this case, a handheld shower would be better.
Or perhaps a marriage of the handheld and rain shower?
Both the rain shower and the handheld shower have their pros and cons. Sometimes one is needed, and other times the other device. Moreover, user opinions are likely to be divided. Some will prefer a rain shower, while others will favor a handheld shower. Considering all the pros and cons, it’s best to choose a solution that combines both elements. In the Mexen store’s offer, you will find shower sets consisting of a thermostatic mixer, as well as a rain shower and a handheld shower. Such a set can be installed immediately on the shower wall. The created column fits every shower cabin as the fittings are adjustable. Thanks to it, you can optimally utilize the space of any shower. Choose a solution that will allow all household members to enjoy a relaxing bath.