The Renovator’s Guide to the Best Kitchen Taps (2025)
A well-chosen kitchen tap brings both function and finesse to your space.
This guide provides straightforward advice, key differences, and helpful tips to help you make the best decision. Explore the features of popular tap styles, from the sleek curve of a gooseneck mixer to the convenience of a pull-out spray, and find the right fit for your kitchen renovation.
How Much Should You Budget for a Quality Kitchen Tap?
Set aside 3–5% of your total kitchen budget for kitchen tapware. This gives you room to prioritise daily performance, water efficiency, and long-term durability, without compromising on design.
Your kitchen tap is one of the most-used fixtures in the home. Cheap models can feel flimsy, leak early, or clash with your sink. Consider how much value you place on features like pull-out sprayers, built-in filters, or touch-free operation. The more tech or finish upgrades you want, the more you’ll need to flex the budget.
Use the 3–5% range as a guide, then adjust based on how central the tap is to your workflow.
💎 Buildmat Pro Budgeting Tip
Tapware is one of the few kitchen items you’ll use dozens of times a day—don’t let it be an afterthought. Spend once on quality and you’ll avoid drips, wobbles, and regrets. If your tap does the heavy lifting, give it a hero’s budget.
What Tap Style Best Suits Your Kitchen Workflow?
The right tap style should match your space, movement, and habits. Think ergonomics before aesthetics: measure clearances, map your workflow, and choose a tap that makes daily use easier.
A tall gooseneck might look sleek, but if it clashes with overhead cabinets or splashes water off a shallow sink, it’ll frustrate fast. Check your bench depth, backsplash gap, and any nearby shelves. If you do a lot of rinsing or multitasking, a pull-out sprayer or swivel spout can be a game changer. Planning with workflow in mind means you’ll get the most out of your tapware.
Square Mixer
Pull-Out Mixer
Gooseneck Mixer
Dual Spray Mixer
3 Way Mixer
Pot Filler
Filtered Water Tap
Square Neck Mixer
WHY A SQUARE NECK MIXER MAKES A BOLD DESIGN STATEMENT
Square neck kitchen mixers bring bold, architectural lines to your kitchen, making them a standout choice in contemporary or minimal spaces. Their geometric shape pairs well with flat-front cabinetry, stone benchtops, and streamlined layouts. With distinct hot and cold levers and a direct, angular spout, these mixers offer precise control and a purposeful feel. They're a great choice if you want your tap to double as a design feature.
With distinct hot and cold levers and a direct, angular spout, these mixers offer precise control and a purposeful feel. They're a great choice if you want your tap to double as a design feature.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A SQUARE MIXER
Square mixers have defined edges and flat surfaces that can collect grime or water residue if not cleaned regularly. If low maintenance is a priority, look for models with integrated handles or smoother transitions between spout and base.
Sharp lines may also contrast too heavily in softer or more traditional interiors, so consider whether they'll clash with your kitchen's overall tone.
Pull-Out Mixer
WHY A PULL-OUT TAP IS GREAT FOR BUSY, MULTI-TASKING KITCHENS
Pull-out kitchen mixers combine flexibility with functionality, ideal for kitchens where multitasking is key. The extendable hose makes it easy to rinse every corner of the sink, fill pots at the bench, or tackle deep trays with less splash.
They're especially useful in family homes, pet-friendly households, or any space where cleaning power and reach are essential.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A PULL-OUT MIXER
The hose mechanism on a pull-out mixer adds moving parts, which may wear over time. To maintain smooth operation, regularly check for kinks and clean around the collar to prevent buildup.
These mixers also require more internal space beneath the bench, so double-check cabinet dimensions and under-sink layout before installing.
Gooseneck Mixer
WHY A GOOSENECK TAP WORKS WELL WITH LARGE COOKWARE
Gooseneck kitchen mixers are known for their graceful arc and practical clearance. The tall spout allows for easy filling of large pots and vases, and provides comfortable space to work beneath the stream.
Their silhouette adds elegance to any kitchen style, from modern-industrial to heritage-inspired, and they're especially handy if you cook with oversized cookware.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A GOOSENECK MIXER
Gooseneck mixers have an elevated spout, which can cause splashing in shallow sinks, so pairing with a deeper sink bowl is recommended. Brighter finishes may show water spots, so opt for brushed textures if you want to reduce visible marks.
Make sure there's adequate vertical clearance if you're installing under cabinets or shelves.
Dual Spray Mixer
WHY A DUAL SPRAY TAP IS IDEAL FOR FAST WITCHING BETWEEN TASKS
Dual spray kitchen mixers offer instant control over water pressure and pattern, letting you switch from a focused jet to a gentle stream with one tap. It's a simple feature that makes a big difference for cleaning, rinsing, or switching between tasks.
These mixers are a top pick for busy kitchens that juggle cooking, cleanup, and everything in between, all without extra attachments.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A DUAL SPRAY MIXER
Mineral buildup can impact the mode-switching button on dual spray mixers over time, especially in hard water areas. Regular descaling keeps it running smoothly.
The added spray functions can make the mixer slightly bulkier, so ensure it suits your sink size and the visual balance of your setup.
3-Way Mixer
WHY A 3-WAY TAP SIMPLIFIES ACCESS TO FILTERED WATER
3-way mixers combine hot, cold, and filtered water in one streamlined fixture, so there's no need for separate filter taps cluttering your benchtop. Perfect for hydration-focused households, they deliver convenience and a cleaner, more modern sink area.
They're especially useful if you want to cut down on bottled water or enjoy filtered water for cooking, tea, or baby formula on demand.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A 3-WAY MIXER
You'll need an under-sink filtration system that's compatible with your mixer model. Be sure to check whether a filter kit is included or sold separately.
Filters need replacing every 6–12 months, and your under-sink cabinet must have enough space for easy access.
Pot Filler
WHY A POT FILLER SAVES TIME FOR FREQUENT HOME COOKS
Pot fillers are built for convenience and efficiency. Mounted above the cooktop, they allow you to fill large pots directly on the stove: no more lugging heavy cookware from the sink.
Their extendable arm folds neatly against the wall when not in use, saving space and keeping the splashback clear. They're ideal for serious home cooks or entertainers who value both form and function.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A POT FILLER
Pot fillers require dedicated plumbing behind the wall and precise installation, usually best done during a renovation.
They're single-purpose, so the convenience they offer depends on how often you actually cook with large pots.
Measure your cooktop setup carefully to ensure the arm reaches all burners without obstruction.
Filtered Water Tap
WHY A FILTERED WATER TAP IS GREAT FOR HYDRATION AND CLEAN LIVING
Filtered water taps provide instant access to clean, great-tasting water without cluttering your bench with pitchers or dispensers. Perfect for families, tea lovers, or anyone focused on health and hydration.
Many models integrate filtration directly into the mixer, giving you a seamless look while reducing plastic waste and simplifying your sink setup.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A FILTERED WATER TAP
You'll need enough space under the sink for a filtration system, and filters need regular replacement (typically every 6 to 12 months).
Some models separate filtered and mains water with a second lever, which can be visually bulkier. Check whether the style matches the rest of your kitchen fixtures before committing.
How Mount Style Affects Tap Functionality and Installation a Mount Style
Mount style affects how your tap feels to use, how easy it is to clean around, and what installation is even possible. Always start with what’s fixed: your sink, benchtop, and plumbing setup.
If you’re drilling into stone or retrofitting existing plumbing, your options may be limited to deck-mounted taps. Wall-mounted taps offer clean lines and bench space but require pre-planning and precise installation. Think through ergonomics too: will you need a high arc for tall pots, or a compact reach to avoid splashes?
Choosing the right mount style ensures your tap works with your kitchen, not against it.
Deck-Mounted
Wall-Mounted
Sink-Mounted
Deck-Mounted Taps
WHY DECK-MOUNTED TAPS SUIT MOST KITCHEN LAYOUTS
Deck-mounted taps are the most common setup, installed directly into the benchtop behind the sink. This style works with a wide range of kitchen layouts and offers easy access for installation, maintenance, or future upgrades.
They provide flexibility in positioning, making them a good fit for both standard and custom bench designs. Their popularity also means you'll find plenty of style and finish options to suit your space.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A DECK-MOUNTED TAP
This mounting style requires sufficient space on the benchtop behind the sink, so check depth, splashback height, and any overhead cabinets. Water can pool around the base if not sealed correctly, so be sure installation is watertight to avoid long-term damage.
If you're working with stone, concrete, or timber, confirm hole placement early to avoid costly retrofits.
Wall-Mounted Taps
WHY A WALL-MOUNTED TAP OFFERS CLEAN LINES AND BENCH SPACE
Wall-mounted taps free up bench space and give your kitchen a clean, minimalist look. By lifting the mixer off the benchtop, they make wiping down surfaces easier and reduce visual clutter, which is good for compact or highly functional layouts.
They also work well in kitchens with statement splashbacks, allowing the tap to sit flush against tile, marble, or stainless steel.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A WALL-MOUNTED TAP
Installation requires in-wall plumbing and must be planned early in the renovation process. Placement needs to be precise, both in height and alignment with the sink, so adjustments after tiling can be tricky.
Repairs or upgrades later may involve accessing wall cavities, so choose high-quality hardware to avoid issues down the track.
Sink-Mounted Taps
WHY A SINK-MOUNTED TAP KEEPS THINGS SIMPLE AND CONTAINED
Sink-mounted taps are built directly into the sink deck, keeping everything contained in one unit. They simplify installation and are especially handy for drop-in or top-mount sinks where benchtop space is limited.
This setup can also streamline cleaning. Any water drips flow straight back into the basin, rather than pooling on the counter.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING A SINK-MOUNTED TAP
This style limits tap placement options, so you'll need a sink that includes pre-drilled holes or can be custom-drilled. Repairs may require removing the sink or working in tight spaces underneath, so consider access when choosing cabinetry.
Choose a mixer style that balances well with the proportions and shape of your sink.
How to Choose the Best Tapware Finish for Your Kitchen
Choose a finish that matches your kitchen’s existing elements, like cabinet handles or appliances, to create a cohesive look. This is the easiest way to ensure your tap doesn’t feel like an afterthought and blends naturally into the space.
If you’re starting fresh, use your tap to anchor the overall design style. Matte black can add contrast, brushed nickel brings softness, and warm tones like brass or bronze add character. Because your tap is one of the most visible fixtures, the finish you choose will shape the whole aesthetic.
Make sure your tap stays looking good long-term by prioritising durability. Look for PVD-coated finishes, which bond to the tap surface more securely and resist scratches, tarnishing, and wear better than traditional plating.
💎 Buildmat Interior Design Tapware Tip
Always test finish swatches under natural light next to your benchtop or cabinetry. A colour that works in a showroom can look completely different in your space.
Stainless Steel
Matte Black
Brushed Nickel
Chrome
Brushed Gold
Stainless Steel
WHY STAINLESS STEEL TAPS HAVE A RELIABLE, LOW-MAINTENANCE FINISH
Stainless steel kitchen taps are a go-to for durability, hygiene, and a clean, professional look. Their brushed finish is forgiving of fingerprints and water marks, making them a smart choice for hardworking kitchens.
They’re also naturally rust-resistant, good for users who want a finish that can handle heat, moisture, and mess without fuss.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING STAINLESS STEEL TAPWARE
Not all stainless finishes match perfectly, especially when pairing with sinks or appliances from different brands.
It’s a functional, understated finish. If your design leans heavily on visual contrast or decorative accents, stainless may fade into the background unless thoughtfully styled.
Matte Black
WHY MATTE BLACK TAPWARE MAKES A BOLD, LOW-FUSS STYLE STATEMENT
Matte black kitchen taps offer a bold, architectural look that instantly modernises your kitchen. The flat, non-reflective surface resists fingerprints and water spots, making it ideal for busy households that want a clean aesthetic without constant upkeep.
It pairs effortlessly with natural textures like timber, concrete, or stone, and works well as either a standout feature or a unifying accent in darker colour schemes.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING MATTE BLACK TAPWARE
Matte finishes can show surface scratches more easily than glossy ones. Take care when cleaning and avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals.
In softer or heritage-style kitchens, black can feel too stark unless balanced with warm tones or softer materials.
Brushed Nickel
WHY BRUSHED NICKEL IS A SAFE BET FOR VERSATILE KITCHENS
Brushed nickel is a safe and versatile choice that blends easily with most kitchen designs. Its warm, satin finish hides fingerprints and water spots better than polished chrome, reducing day-to-day maintenance.
The understated sheen complements both cool and warm palettes, making it an easy fit whether you're upgrading or starting from scratch.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING BRUSHED NICKEL TAPWARE
Not all brushed nickel finishes are created equal: slight variations in tone may stand out if paired with other hardware.
While durable, brushed nickel kitchen taps may gradually dull in appearance if exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods.
Chrome
WHY CHROME OFFERS A TIMELESS LOOK ON A BUDGET
Chrome kitchen taps offer a clean, mirror-like shine that adds brightness and clarity to your kitchen. It's a timeless, budget-friendly option that works well in both modern and traditional interiors.
Easy to pair with existing fittings and fixtures, chrome remains one of the most accessible and widely used finishes in kitchen design.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING CHROME TAPWARE
Chrome is prone to showing fingerprints, water spots, and soap residue, especially in areas with hard water.
It requires regular wiping to maintain its shine, and over time, and may show fine scratches if cleaned with abrasive cloths.WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING
Brushed Gold
WHY BRUSHED GOLD ADDS WARMTH AND ELEGANCE TO YOUR KITCHEN
Brushed gold delivers warmth and elegance without the glare of traditional polished brass. The soft metallic tone adds instant sophistication and works beautifully with deep hues, marble, and timber accents.
Its PVD-coated surface resists tarnishing and is more durable than older gold finishes, making it a practical option for everyday use.
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING BRUSHED GOLD TAPWARE
Gold tones can vary across brands. Mismatched fixtures may be noticeable if mixing and matching, so keep this in mind when renovating.
It's a statement finish, so brushed gold kitchen taps work best when supported by other gold or warm-toned accents to keep the palette cohesive.
Must-Have Accessories to Complement Your Kitchen Mixer
Once you’ve picked the perfect mixer for your kitchen, the right add-ons can boost the style and functionality of your space.
Think about complementary sink accessories to match your kitchen mixer: integrated milk-and-glass rinsers for quick, hands-free cleaning, clip-on colanders for easy draining, and sleek dishracks that keep your benchtop clutter-free. For a seamless look, coordinate every sink-side element in the same finish.
Browse Buildmat’s Curated Kitchen Accessory Range
How to Clean and Maintain Your Kitchen Tapware
Proper upkeep can help keep your tap looking new and extend its lifespan and performance.
Regular cleaning and routine inspections help prevent leaks and buildup, ensuring that your tap continues to operate smoothly and complement your kitchen design.
Daily Wipe‑Down
After each use, wipe the tap with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to remove water spots, soap scum, and residue.
This immediate action prevents mineral deposits from forming, especially in kitchens with hard water. For best results, use a microfiber cloth with a diluted dish soap solution to keep the finish gleaming and spotless.
Periodic Deep Cleaning
Once a week, dedicate some time to deep cleaning your tap. Use a mild detergent that is suitable for the tap material to tackle any accumulated grease or limescale.
Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes to break down stubborn residues, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or non‑abrasive sponge. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely to maintain a streak‑free finish.
Avoid Abrasives
Steer clear of harsh, abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can scratch the surface and wear away the finish over time.
Instead, opt for non‑abrasive, pH‑balanced cleaning products designed for tapware. This care ensures that delicate coatings and finishes stay intact, preserving the tap’s original finish.
Routine Checks
Incorporate regular inspections into your maintenance routine.
Check for any signs of leaks, drips, or unusual wear by examining seals, cartridges, and the aerator. Address minor issues immediately, like tightening loose fittings or replacing worn-out parts, to prevent them from escalating into significant problems.
These proactive steps ensure your tap remains a reliable and stylish centerpiece in your kitchen.
Your perfect kitchen tap is closer than you think.
Choosing the right tap is about streamlining how your kitchen works, day in and day out. From filling pots to rinsing dishes, the right tap makes every task easier and every detail feel considered.
With the ideal combination of function, finish, and fit, your tap becomes a natural extension of your kitchen’s design and workflow.
Still deciding? Browse Buildmat’s full tapware collection to compare features, finishes, and mounting styles, or get in touch for tailored advice that suits your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Square mixers and pull-out mixers are popular for their durability and user-friendly design, making them well-suited to busy kitchens.
Measure your sink and available space to ensure the tap fits well and provides adequate reach. Consider the height and span of the tap to your workspace.
Pot fillers are usually wall-mounted and may require professional installation to ensure proper alignment and secure mounting.
Filters generally need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations.
Dual spray mixers require regular cleaning to prevent clogging, but with proper care, they offer excellent functionality for diverse kitchen tasks.
Zip water taps can be more costly due to their modern design and efficiency features, though they offer a unique, contemporary aesthetic.
