It's really time to fix the faucet. The constant dripping noise is driving you crazy, not to mention the sleep it is depriving you of. Upon close inspection you discover it is not simply the washer causing the problem this time, but the whole thing needs replacing. A visit to Lowe's or Home Depot causes total confusion as you stare opened eyed at the choice you are faced with. Help is seriously needed. How do you make the choice?

Keeping the Same Style Is Easiest

First of all you have to decide whether or not to stick with what you know and replace the faulty faucet with exactly the same style as before. The easiest thing to do is to simply replace your faucet with one which is similar or identical in style. You can remove the bathroom sink faucet and bring it in to find a good match. Of course, if this is not possible then the complications set in and your task becomes much more involved. As there are so many types of mounting for your fixture you will need to know which one you need before buying your new faucet. This is actually the hardest step in choosing your new faucet because the one that you really liked at the store may not work with the current configuration of your sink.

Determine Your Type of Mounting

The most commonly seen mountings include widespread, where there will be individual cold and hot water knobs; center set, with a single knob for hot and cold and covering all three holes which may be present for mounting on your sink; mini-widespread, similar to widespread except for the knobs being less spaced apart; and single-hole, which is similar to center set but only filling one hole and usually wall-mounted - most likely a bathtub faucet. Sinks with 4" holes pre-drilled are best for center set and mini-widespread type faucets. Some of the single hole faucets may also be used on these sinks. Needless to say if you have one of the other types, you would be best going for a replacement of the same kind.

It's all down to aesthetics once you have worked out which type of mount your sink has. Which finish best matches your bathroom? Look for something which will complement the look of the room. It is also good to know whether or not your current faucet is a classical design (rounded edges, flowery embellishments) or modern (sharp angles, geometric embellishments). For example, if your bathroom is more of an antique decor, you may want to stick with a classical style, an everyday decor could use either, and somewhat futuristic decor would definitely go well with modern bathroom designs.

Choosing the Finish

After choosing a faucet, you just have to install it, right? But have you given any thought to the finish of your faucet? Bathroom fixtures can be found in many different finishes and materials. Each finish has its pros and cons. Stainless steel and chrome are the most common finish available, but they scratch easily and show up fingerprints and water spots. Brass, which looks like gold and is very characteristic, rusts more easily. Brushed nickel has a nice flat finish, but is pricey and the plating eventually wears off. The finish is personal choice, but know your options.

There are even choices as far as the handles are concerned with some faucets. This is a matter of personal choice of course, but be sure to select one which matches your decor. The only thing left now is to take your new faucet home and install it. And then enjoy the compliments you will get on this most basic of bathroom items.