How to choose the right kitchen or laundry tap

Start by deciding between a pull-out and a fixed swivel spout. A pull-out mixer extends on a hose, which makes rinsing large pots, filling a kettle at the back of the sink or washing vegetables in a deep sink easier, and it's a popular choice for busy family kitchens. A fixed swivel-spout mixer has a lower profile and fewer moving parts, which suits a laundry trough or a kitchen where a simpler, more compact tap is preferred. Check the spout height and reach against your sink or trough so it clears the base comfortably without splashing over the edge.

Match the finish to your existing tapware or hardware where possible: chrome and brushed nickel work with most kitchen styles and are easy to keep clean, while matte black and gun metal suit a darker, more contemporary kitchen. Confirm your sink or trough has a standard single tap hole, and check whether a deck plate is included if you need to cover an old three-hole cut-out. Brass and stainless steel bodies both hold up well to daily use, so the deciding factor is usually finish and spout style rather than material durability.