Best Bathroom Fixtures

Bathroom fixtures, such as faucets and bathtubs, vary in price depending on their material, size, brand and design. Each type of fixture also has its own considerations. Here’s what to expect:

Sinks

Average cost before installation: $75 to $600-plus

Sink prices vary by mounting style. Premanufactured drop-in styles tend to be more affordable because they’re easier to install. Undermount and vessel styles typically cost more because they require more complex installation.

If buying online, make sure to focus on the sink’s measurements and mounting requirements to ensure it fits your setup.

Bathtubs

Average cost before installation: $400 to $3,000-plus

The price of a bathtub depends on its material and how it fits in your space. Standard alcove tubs, which are built between three walls, tend to be more affordable. Freestanding tubs, which require more space and complex plumbing logistics, cost more.

When choosing a bathtub that works for your space, consider the tub’s dimensions and drain location.

Showers

Average cost before installation: $300 to $4,000-plus

Whether you’re buying shower components (like a shower door or valve) or a complete shower system will impact your cost, along with standard considerations like the shower’s material and size.

Make sure to understand what’s included in your system when purchasing online, and verify that it’s compatible with your existing valve system.

Faucets

Average cost: $100 to $400-plus

A faucet’s design and cartridge, which controls water flow and temperature, impact pricing and functionality.

Make sure to check the faucet’s hole configuration compatibility with your sink. For instance, some countertops are designed for a faucet with separate hot and cold water knobs, while others are designed for a single handle.

Lighting

Average cost before installation: $75 to $400-plus

Bathroom lighting can include vanity lights, sconces and overhead lights, each with its own design and functional considerations.

When purchasing lighting, the fixture’s size and electrical compatibility with your bathroom are top considerations.

Toilets

Average cost before installation: $150 to $800-plus

Considerations such as a toilet’s water efficiency ratings, flushing technology and smart features all influence price.

If you’re purchasing online, confirm your system’s rough-in measurement to make sure the toilet fits your plumbing configuration.

Online and in-person bathroom fixture companies offer two different shopping experiences. Online retailers make purchasing fixtures quick and easy, but more complex projects often benefit from in-person browsing and expert guidance.

Compare the pros and cons of each option:

When choosing an online bathroom fixture company, it’s important to do your research to find the best product for the price. This involves checking:

Product specifications and measurements

Product specifications and measurements are particularly important when selecting bathroom fixtures online. “While a fixture can look great in a product photo, it can actually cause a lot of problems during the installation process if it has the wrong valve type, incorrect rough-in dimensions or the connections don’t match what's in the wall,” said Jason Kerr, president of Intelligent Service, a plumbing and HVAC company in the Chicago area.

To avoid wasting time with products that aren’t compatible with your bathroom, Kerr recommends hiring a licensed plumber to inspect the placement and layout of your pipes, drains and connection points. Understanding your home’s plumbing system helps you choose fixtures that fit correctly the first time.

Material quality and internal components

A fixture’s material quality and internal components play a large role in how it performs over time. While online listings often emphasize how a product looks, hidden components and construction can be lacking.

“The internal parts, such as cartridges, valves, hoses and fittings, are often where corners are cut,” said Alicia Green, owner of Go Green Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electrical in Greensboro, North Carolina. “It is not uncommon to find plastic supply lines included with online purchases, whereas professional installations rely on braided stainless steel hoses and durable fittings designed to last for years.”

If you’re shopping for fixtures online, double-check each product's material and construction. If a product listing doesn’t include a thorough description, look elsewhere. Established brands tend to have higher-quality products with standardized parts that make repairs easier.

Pricing transparency and value

When shopping online, it can be hard to tell which product offers the best value, as basic product descriptions and photos don’t always tell the full story. “If a fixture is cheaper than other comparable options, it usually means the product is made of lower-quality materials or internal components that won’t hold up over time,” Kerr said.

To tell if a product offers a strong value, look beyond price alone. Consider warranty coverage, installation options, shipping costs and included components as well.

Availability of replacement parts

When purchasing bathroom fixtures online, check that replacement parts are available. “This can save a homeowner money long-term because they only need to do a simple repair or swap of an internal component,” Kerr said. “If a homeowner bought a cheaper or off-brand fixture, replacement parts may not be available, which can turn a minor issue into a full replacement.”

Company reputation and customer service

Your bathroom fixture company should stand by its work and have a positive, verifiable reputation. To check for this, Kerr recommends choosing a company that is licensed and insured, has real customer feedback, clearly lists its warranties and service guarantees, and is easy to contact throughout the entire process. “When homeowners vet plumbing companies and products, they’re investing in reliable fixtures that are backed by professionals who stand behind their work,” he said.