Little luxuries in life can make large differences in our well being, happiness and even productivity. They make the work we do worthwhile and sustainable unless you happen to be one of those extremely focused individuals. Unfortunately that is not me so I enjoy my little luxuries.

When ever I move into a new place, whether it’s one I have bought or one I am renting, I always change out the shower heads. Here in Hawaii we take a lot of showers. A minimum of two but when it is super hot out, we might take 3 or 4 in a day.
Morning shower time is when I collect my thoughts for the day and let the water wash over me and the wash the stress away. As I work out in the morning, having the hot water ease aching muscles is quite nice. And here in Hawaii, it is not uncommon for people to take at least 2 if not 3 or 4 showers a day when its hot out.

You should replace your shower head when you move

So whenever I move into a new place, whether it’s one I have bought, or one I am renting, I spend a few dollars to replace the shower heads. We even did this in our most recent place we bought. We converted a bath to a walk in shower and went crazy with the rain shower and handheld that I am still recovering from the sticker shock. But even in our spare bedroom, we replaced the aging, ugly and clogged up shower head with something new.

Moen 26112SRN Engage Handheld Showerhead with Magnetix, Spot Resist Brushed Nickel
  • SPOT RESISTANT: Spot Resist Nickel finish resists fingerprints and water spots for a cleaner looking bath
  • MAGNETIC BASE: The magnetic docking system allows you to easily detach and use as a handheld shower head or effortlessly replace it to dock with the snap of a magnet
  • CUSTOMIZE YOUR SHOWER: Multiple distinct shower settings gives flexibility and variety
  • ADA COMPLIANT: Complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications
  • BUILT TO LAST: Backed by Moens Limited Lifetime Warranty
Not only does it give you a sense of, owning a place, even if you rent, but most times the shower heads are super cheap ones or old and crusted with minerals. Your landlord or person you bought from almost never changes it unless it is broken. The last place I sold, I actually replaced the old shower head with a new one. Just that little extra that gets noticed by a buyer, which is why we had 4 offers in less than 5 days on market.

So buying a shower head can be a little luxury to brighten your day. Truthfully, just about anyone will do but lets go over a few of these that might be useful to you. The better quality ones come with better warranties and better materials. Think metal versus plastic and throw away versus sending a new part from the manufacturer.

Adjustable Rain Shower Head

HotelSpa Giant 10″ Stainless Steel Rainfall Square Showerhead with Solid Brass Adjustable Extension Arm
  • RAIN SHOWER HEAD: 10 Stainless Steel Square Rainfall Shower Head Heavy-duty 304 Stainless Steel Construction 100 nozzles for superior water flow coverage Easy to Clean Rub-Clean Jets Slimline Square Design Solid Brass Ball Joint Nut Angle-adjustable
  • EXTENTION ARM: Reliable Heavy-duty 100% Solid Brass Construction Height and Angle Adjustable 2-foot Vertical Movement Range 180-degree Adjustable Solid Brass Ball Joints Reliable, Easy-to-Tighten Solid Brass Wing Nuts
  • FEATURES: Stainless steel construction Ultra Thin profile 10 inch by 10 inch Square Showerhead Face Easy to clean Precision-Flow Rub-clean jets High-polish Chrome Plated Finish Angle-adjustable
  • INSTALLATION: Tools-free Installation. Connects in minutes to any standard overhead shower arm, no tools required
  • WARRANTY: Limited Lifetime Warranty - Once you purchase any of our products, you will enjoy Gold-Standard Customer Service with Instant Hassle-free Return or Exchange Policy if not 100% satisfied

These shower heads are great when you live in an old building that has super low shower heads. I can’t remember if it was an older hotel or an apartment, but I remember having to squat to get my head under the shower to wash my hair. These shower heads attach to the normal pipe and can be raised higher or lower and can be a true rain shower or a standard shower. Always a good choice.

Hotel Luxury

Speakman S-2252 Signature Brass Icon Anystream High Pressure Adjustable Shower Head, Polished Chrome
  • Equipped with the patented Anystream 360° technology that allows users to effortlessly transition through diverse spray settings and evenly distributes water for perfect coverage
  • Patented plungers control the spread of water as it leaves the nozzle, allowing pressure to build and intensify, resulting in a remarkably powerful performance even with low water pressure
  • Self-cleaning plungers resist hard-water buildup and sediment, making it easy to clean and maintain
  • Durable, solid brass construction. 1/2 Inch -14 NPTF female inlet
  • Corrosion-resistant polished chrome finish
  • Spray settings include intense, rain and full flood

Ever stayed in a hotel that has a shower head that feels like it almost knocks you off your feet? Then you want a Speakman shower head. A lot of the luxury hotels use it and its a great shower head if a bit on the pricey side. But full solid brass construction and adjustable streams, it doesn’t look fancy but is a great shower head. Read the reviews on Amazon and you will see what I mean. People rave. And it comes in lots of finishes.

Handhelds

Handheld showers are popular for a lot of reasons, most having to do with versatility. With a handheld, you can run it over you to rinse soap, use it for cleaning your pet, washing out the tub and the old joke about… ahem.. other extracurricular activity and you can see why they are popular.

Delta Faucet 5-Spray H2Okinetic In2ition 2-in-1 Dual Hand Held Shower Head with Hose and Magnetic Docking, Chrome 58480-PK
  • 3X COVERAGE. Delta H2Okinetic PowerDrench Spray provides 3X more coverage than a standard shower head by creating a unique wave pattern and larger water droplets for more intensity and warmth (coverage measured in accordance with EPA WaterSense Specification for shower heads, March 4, 2010)
  • HAND SHOWER AND SHOWER HEAD IN ONE. The In2ition 2-in-1 Dual Shower Head allows you to use the detachable shower head with hose separately or securely docked for a luxurious and versitile showering experience
  • MAGNETIC DOCKING. MagnaTite Docking uses a powerful magnet to hold your handheld shower head precisely in place for easy docking every time
  • 5 POWERFUL SPRAY OPTIONS. Shower head spray settings include H2Okinetic PowerDrench spray, full body spray, massaging spray, full body spray with massage, and pause
  • LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY. You can install with confidence, knowing this Delta handheld shower head with hose is backed by Delta Faucets Lifetime Limited Warranty
  • With a simple flip of the diverter lever, choose between showerhead and handshower combined, showerhead only, and handshower only

Delta and others make a great combo handheld two in one shower head. The handheld unit clips in between a head unit so you get the best of both worlds of a fixed shower head and a handheld unit. And because its Delta, anything goes wrong with it, they will send you replacement parts.

Edit: This delta shower head is not getting great reviews. I like Delta and Moen as they have lifetime warranties but it doesn’t help you when you can’t take a shower. So I looked further and found a Moen with great reviews as well. Click the picture below to find it at Amazon.

Moen 26100EP Magnetix 3.5-Inch Six-Function Handheld Showerhead with Eco-Performance Magnetic Docking System, Chrome
  • VERSATILE DESIGN: Chrome finish is highly reflective for a mirror-like look that works with any decorating style
  • MAGNETIC BASE: The magnetic docking system allows you to easily detach and use as a handheld shower head or effortlessly replace it to dock with the snap of a magnet
  • CUSTOMIZE YOUR SHOWER: Multiple distinct shower settings gives flexibility and variety
  • ADA COMPLIANT: Complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications
  • BUILT TO LAST: Backed by Moens Limited Lifetime Warranty

Simple 5 Function Shower Head

Budget Choice

Delta Faucet 2-Spray Shower Head, Chrome 75152
  • MORE INTENSITY. Delta H2Okinetic showers sculpt water into a unique wave pattern, creating a shower that provides more warmth, coverage and intensity
  • EASY TO CLEAN. Efficient, self-cleaning spray holes help to prevent lime and mineral build-up over time and help to reduce time spent scrubbing and cleaning
  • LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY. You can install with confidence, knowing this Delta shower head is backed by Delta Faucets Lifetime Limited Warranty

How does under $30 dollars sound (as of this posting) and not a Chinese knock off? Then this is the shower head for you. You get a Delta faucet (with their lifetime warranty) and something better than what your landlord left you. IT IS ONLY TWO FUNCTION BUT GETS GREAT REVIEWS

5 Function Fixed

Moen 3855EP Five Function 4-Inch Diameter Standard Showerhead, Chrome
  • Five function spray includes: energizing, invigorating, refreshing, relaxing and targeted massage
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty

When I was in graduate school, I lived in, frankly, a dirt cheap apartment that had one redeeming quality, amazing hot water with a ton of pressure. I ended up getting a shower head like this one with five functions and it lasted me for 5 years. Not only did I love it but my full time grad school friends would come over on Friday evenings after playing volleyball (while my cheap butt worked) and shower at my place before we went out for the evening. They loved my shower.

Low flow pipes

Some older homes and apartments, the water pressure might be quite weak. I lived in a place like that where the water felt like it was trickling out of the faucet. I was out of there in a year. But if I had only known about this bad boy that gives good pressure with less than 1.5 gallons per minute.

High Sierra’s All Metal 1.5 GPM High Efficiency Low Flow Showerhead. Available in: Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, or Polished Brass
  • Award-winning, patented nozzle delivers a strong, full-spray of large drops
  • Minerals in the water will not clog the patented nozzle as is common with most low flow shower heads
  • SOLID METAL CONSTRUCTION with BEAUTIFUL Polished Chrome finish
  • Save 40% or more water and the energy to heat the water. WaterSense Certified
  • Made in the USA with foreign and domestic parts. US Factory Direct to you. Built to last!

Misting Shower Heads

I know some people, especially if you have an enclosed shower would love to have a misting shower. The water particles are so fine it create a fine mist for you to enjoy. The best one I was able to find was this bad boy.

AquaDance 7″ Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo for The Best of Both Worlds-Enjoy Luxurious Rain Showerhead and 6-Setting Hand Held Shower Separately or Together – Chrome Finish – 3328
  • PREMIUM MATCHING-STYLE HAND SHOWER: Can be used as Overhead or Handheld shower Large 4-inch Face High-power Click Lever Dial Ergonomic Grip Handle Rub-Clean Jets (for easy cleaning and preventing lime buildup) Angle-Adjustable Modern design All-chrome finish (including face)
  • EACH SHOWER HAS 6-SETTINGS: Power Rain, Pulsating Massage, Power Mist, Rain Massage, Rain Mist, Water Saving Pause mode PATENTED 3-WAY WATER DIVERTER: Simply turn switch to direct water flow between two showers. Features Anti-Swivel Position Lock Nut for easy & secure connection ANGLE-ADJUSTABLE OVERHEAD BRACKET: Lets you point each shower where you want it for hands-free operation at desired angle REINFORCED 5 FT. STAINLESS STEEL HOSE: Durable Heavy-duty design with Brass Connection Nuts
  • EASY TOOL-FREE CONNECTION: No need to call a plumber - installs in minutes with just three hand-tighten connections. Fits any standard shower arm. BEST LIFETIME : Hassle-Free US Limited Lifetime

It is a top seller on Amazon and comes with an added bonus of a detachable handheld so you get the best of both worlds. Of course it is not a pretty shower head but really, who cares, you can’t see it most times and I prefer function over form anyway.

The full monty shower experience

So when I converted one of my baths to a walk in shower, I spent a decent bit of coin to to have everything ripped out, new plumbing run in the walls, waterproofing and new tile. I was hesitant to skimp on the accessories in the shower since I wasn’t going to open up the walls any time soon. It didn’t cost me any more to run the pipping for multiple shower functions so I spent the money. If you do this, I recommend either using Delta or Moen. You can get replacement parts easily with both brands, either Amazon, Home Depot, Lowes or a place like Ferguson which a lot of contractors use.

Don’t be shocked when you see the price point on these premium items. I am still smarting from the cost of these which added up, with all the valves, around $1,000. I spent extra to get the TempAssure models which allow for more water flow and better temperature regulation. But I would do it again.

Delta Faucet T17T299-BL Pivotal TempAssure 17T Series Shower Trim, Matte Black,
  • TempAssure thermostatic valve keeps water temperature within a safe +/-3Degrees F (+/-1.6Degrees C), helping to protect you from sudden changes in hot or cold water pressure
  • Control volume and water temperature independently with two separate handles for more refined control of your shower experience
  • ADA compliant

Price Matters on a Shower Head

Lets be honest here, price matters. Most of these on the lower end have plastic bodies instead of metal bodies. As you move up in price you do get a better quality product but I had a cheap plastic 5 function shower head for years and it worked fine. But read the reviews closely so you are not surprised.

Installation of your shower head

I am not what you would call a handy person. And yet, even I can install a shower head. Besides the shower head you will need two things. Silicon tape and maybe, a wrench

IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Adjustable Wrench, 8-Inch (2078608)
  • Durable chrome vanadium construction
  • ProTouch grips provide extra comfort and reduce hand fatigue
  • Imperial and metric scales
  • Extra-wide capacity
  • Hang hole for easy wall storage
  • ProTouch grips provide extra comfort and reduces hand fatigue
  • English and metric scales
  • Extra wide capacity

Seriously, find the cheapest teflon/silicon thread seal tape you can find and add it to your order.

Everflow 812 PTFE Thread Seal Tape for Plumbers, White 3/4 Inch x 260 Inch
  • STANDARD GRADE: standard quality for home, commercial and industrial uses
  • STRONG & TIGHT SEAL: secure tape thread helps prevent leaks on pipes and plumbing
  • EASY TO APPLY: elastic less sticky on the fingers and easy to remove
  • COMPATIBLE: with all types of pipe threads for hundreds of applications
  • DURABLE: Teflon tape will not harden or crack anytime

Take the old shower head off by screwing counter clockwise. Use your wrench if you need to at first. You might use an old towel to protect the finish. Once it is off, remove any tape residue. Then pull out your teflon tape and wrap it 5 or 6 times around the tape, and screw on your new shower head. Some people pull out the washer so they get better water flow, but that is your call. You will screw it on clockwise. Remember righty tighty, lefty loosey. If you need, use your wrench to tighten it down but don’t go crazy. Turn on the water and watch for leaks. If you see them, start over. If not, you are ready to go.

You deserve a little luxury

I still think a little luxury in your life is something you deserve. Given that you will take a shower at least once a day, if not two, three or four, spending even a little bit of money will make you feel better. So go to Amazon and order it or even go to your local supply store if that is easier..

A note about Water: Depending where you live, you will have to look closer at the shower head. I think California and New York don’t allow shower heads over 2 Gallons per minute and most better quality heads are 2.5 GPM so take a look.

So what shower head do you recommend. Leave a link below or ping me on Twitter!