Best Showerhead Options for a Luxurious Bathroom Experience

Imagine stepping into your bathroom, a haven of relaxation and indulgence. The air is infused with calming scents, and the soft glow of ambient lighting sets the mood. As you step into the shower, a gentle cascade of water envelops you, transforming your daily routine into a luxurious experience. The key to achieving this spa-like sanctuary? Choosing the right showerhead.

A high-quality showerhead is more than just a functional fixture; it’s an investment in your well-being and a statement of your personal style. From the type of spray to the innovative features, the right showerhead can elevate your bathroom to a whole new level of luxury. This guide will explore the world of showerheads, guiding you through the features, benefits, and considerations to make your bathroom a true oasis of relaxation.

Types of Showerheads

Choosing the right showerhead is crucial for a luxurious bathroom experience. The showerhead is the centerpiece of your shower, and it can transform your daily routine into a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. A wide variety of showerheads are available, each with its unique features and benefits. Let’s explore the different types of showerheads to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.

Handheld Showerheads

Handheld showerheads offer flexibility and versatility. They are typically attached to a hose, allowing you to direct the water stream precisely where you want it. Handheld showerheads are ideal for rinsing off after a bath, washing pets, or cleaning the shower stall. They are also great for people with limited mobility, as they allow you to adjust the showerhead to a comfortable height.

• Pros:
• Flexibility and control over water direction
• Easy to use for various tasks
• Ideal for people with limited mobility
• Cons:
• Can be less powerful than fixed showerheads
• Requires a separate mounting bracket

Examples:

• Moen Magnetix Handheld Showerhead: This showerhead features a magnetic docking system for easy and secure mounting. It also offers multiple spray settings, including a powerful massage setting.
• Delta In2ition Two-in-One Showerhead: This showerhead combines a handheld showerhead with a fixed showerhead, offering the best of both worlds. It allows you to switch between a handheld shower and a traditional shower experience.

Fixed Showerheads

Fixed showerheads are the most traditional type of showerhead. They are mounted directly to the shower arm and provide a consistent water flow. Fixed showerheads are often preferred for their simplicity and ease of installation.

• Pros:
• Simple and easy to install
• Often more powerful than handheld showerheads
• Wide range of styles and finishes available
• Cons:
• Less flexibility than handheld showerheads
• Can be difficult to clean

Examples:

• Kohler Purist Showerhead: This minimalist showerhead features a sleek design and offers a powerful, wide spray pattern.
• Grohe Concetto Showerhead: This showerhead features a unique, angular design and offers a variety of spray settings, including a rain setting.

Rain Showerheads

Rain showerheads are designed to mimic the feeling of a gentle rain shower. They typically have a large, flat spray face that produces a wide, even water flow. Rain showerheads are known for their luxurious and relaxing experience.

• Pros:
• Luxurious and relaxing shower experience
• Provides a wide, even water flow
• Available in various sizes and styles
• Cons:
• Can require higher water pressure to function properly
• May be more expensive than other showerheads

Examples:

• Hansgrohe Raindance Showerhead: This showerhead features a large, circular spray face that produces a powerful, yet gentle rain shower.
• Waterpik Showerhead: This showerhead is known for its powerful and wide rain shower setting, offering a luxurious and rejuvenating experience.

Combination Showerheads

Combination showerheads offer the best of both worlds, combining the flexibility of a handheld showerhead with the power of a fixed showerhead. These showerheads typically feature a fixed showerhead with a detachable handheld showerhead.

• Pros:
• Offers flexibility and versatility
• Provides both a traditional and handheld shower experience
• Ideal for families or people who want the best of both worlds
• Cons:
• Can be more expensive than other showerheads
• May be more complex to install

Examples:

• Delta In2ition Two-in-One Showerhead: This showerhead features a fixed showerhead with a detachable handheld showerhead, offering a variety of spray settings and a luxurious shower experience.
• Moen Eva Two-in-One Showerhead: This showerhead combines a fixed showerhead with a detachable handheld showerhead, offering a powerful and refreshing shower experience.

Features for a Luxurious Experience

A luxurious shower experience goes beyond simply getting clean. It’s about creating a spa-like sanctuary where you can unwind and rejuvenate. The right showerhead can play a crucial role in achieving this, offering features that enhance comfort, control, and even create a calming ambiance.

Features that Enhance Comfort and Control

The right showerhead features can elevate your shower experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Here’s a breakdown of key features and their impact on user comfort and overall enjoyment:

Feature	Impact on User Comfort	Impact on Overall Experience
Multiple Spray Settings	Allows for personalized showering experience, catering to individual preferences. For example, a gentle rain setting can be soothing, while a powerful jet setting can provide a invigorating massage.	Increases user satisfaction and flexibility, enabling users to tailor their shower experience to their specific needs and mood.
Temperature Control	Ensures consistent and comfortable water temperature throughout the shower. This is especially important for those who are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.	Contributes to a more relaxing and enjoyable shower experience. Consistent temperature also reduces the risk of scalding or sudden chills.
Water Pressure Adjustment	Allows users to customize the water pressure to their liking, ranging from a gentle drizzle to a powerful stream.	Enhances the overall showering experience by providing a personalized level of stimulation and comfort.

Features for a Spa-like Ambiance

Certain showerhead features can transform your bathroom into a relaxing oasis. Here are some key features that create a spa-like ambiance:

• Aromatherapy Options: Some showerheads incorporate aromatherapy diffusers, allowing you to add essential oils to the water for a fragrant and therapeutic experience. The steam from the shower helps release the scent, creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere. For example, lavender oil is known for its calming properties, while peppermint oil can invigorate and refresh.
• Built-in Lighting: Showerheads with integrated LED lights can create a soothing and visually appealing experience. These lights can be adjusted to different colors and brightness levels, allowing you to customize the ambiance to your liking. For example, soft white light can create a calming effect, while a warm amber hue can evoke a sense of relaxation.

Water Conservation and Efficiency

Luxury bathrooms are often associated with indulgence, but this doesn’t have to come at the expense of environmental responsibility. Incorporating water-saving showerheads is a crucial step towards creating a sustainable and luxurious bathroom experience.

By choosing efficient showerheads, you can significantly reduce water consumption without sacrificing comfort or performance. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to lower water bills and a more responsible lifestyle.

Types of Water-Saving Showerheads

Several showerhead technologies contribute to water conservation without compromising user experience. These technologies work by either reducing the flow rate or optimizing water distribution.

• Low-Flow Showerheads: These showerheads are designed to use less water per minute than standard showerheads. They achieve this by reducing the size of the spray holes or incorporating internal flow restrictors. While the flow rate is lower, these showerheads often use innovative spray patterns to provide a powerful and enjoyable shower experience.
• Aerating Showerheads: Aerating showerheads introduce air into the water stream, creating a larger, more voluminous spray. This feeling of increased water pressure can be achieved with less water, leading to significant water savings.
• Pulse Showerheads: Pulse showerheads deliver water in short bursts, creating a pulsating massage-like experience. This technology allows for a satisfying shower experience with a reduced flow rate, resulting in water savings.

Examples of Water-Saving Showerheads

Many brands offer high-quality water-saving showerheads that meet specific flow rate regulations.

• WaterSense Certified Showerheads: The WaterSense program, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), certifies showerheads that meet strict water efficiency standards. These showerheads use a maximum of 2.0 gallons per minute (gpm), while still delivering a satisfying shower experience.
• Delta WaterSense Showerheads: Delta offers a range of WaterSense certified showerheads, such as the “H2Okinetic” line, which combines water efficiency with innovative spray patterns for a luxurious shower experience. Their “In2ition” showerheads combine a handheld showerhead with a fixed showerhead, providing flexibility and control over water usage.
• Moen WaterSense Showerheads: Moen also offers a variety of WaterSense certified showerheads, including the “Immersion” line, which features a unique “Magnetix” docking system for easy installation and removal of the handheld showerhead. Their “Eco-Performance” showerheads deliver a powerful shower experience with a reduced flow rate.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing a new showerhead is a relatively simple DIY project that can significantly enhance your bathroom experience. However, proper installation and regular maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Installing a Showerhead

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a wrench, Teflon tape, and a bucket or towel to catch any water.

1. Turn off the water supply to the shower. Locate the shut-off valve for the shower, usually found on the wall near the showerhead. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops, ensuring the water supply is completely off.
2. Remove the old showerhead. Use a wrench to unscrew the old showerhead from the shower arm. If the showerhead is stuck, you can try using a pipe wrench or a rubber grip to get a better grip.
3. Clean the shower arm threads. Once the old showerhead is removed, use a wire brush or a cloth to clean any debris or mineral deposits from the shower arm threads. This will ensure a secure connection for the new showerhead.
4. Wrap the shower arm threads with Teflon tape. This will create a watertight seal and prevent leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threads, leaving about 1/4 inch of exposed threads at the end.
5. Attach the new showerhead. Screw the new showerhead onto the shower arm, ensuring the threads are aligned. Tighten the showerhead securely using a wrench, but be careful not to overtighten it.
6. Turn the water supply back on. Slowly turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise until the water flows. Check for any leaks around the showerhead connection. If you notice any leaks, tighten the showerhead further or re-wrap the threads with Teflon tape.

Maintaining a Showerhead

Regular maintenance will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your showerhead.

1. Clean the showerhead regularly. Mineral deposits and debris can accumulate over time, restricting water flow and reducing the shower’s performance. To clean your showerhead, remove it from the shower arm and soak it in a vinegar solution for about an hour. This will help dissolve mineral deposits. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub away any remaining debris. After cleaning, rinse the showerhead thoroughly with water.
2. Check for leaks. Regularly inspect the showerhead and shower arm for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the showerhead connection or re-wrap the threads with Teflon tape.
3. Replace the showerhead filter. Some showerheads come with a filter that needs to be replaced periodically. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement frequency and procedures.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Here are some common problems you might encounter during installation and solutions to troubleshoot them:

• Leaking showerhead: This could be due to loose connections, damaged threads, or a faulty gasket. Tighten the showerhead connection, replace the gasket, or re-wrap the threads with Teflon tape.
• Low water pressure: This could be caused by mineral deposits, a clogged filter, or a restricted water supply. Clean the showerhead, replace the filter, or check the water supply line for any blockages.
• Showerhead not working: Ensure the water supply is turned on. Check the shut-off valve and make sure it is fully open. If the valve is open and the showerhead still doesn’t work, the shower arm may be blocked. Try cleaning the shower arm threads or replacing the shower arm.

Design and Aesthetics

A luxurious bathroom experience goes beyond just the functionality of a showerhead. The design and aesthetics play a crucial role in elevating the overall ambiance and creating a sense of indulgence. A well-chosen showerhead can seamlessly integrate with the bathroom’s design, enhancing its visual appeal and contributing to the desired luxurious feel.

Impact of Materials, Finishes, and Styling

The choice of materials, finishes, and styling significantly influences the perceived value and sophistication of a showerhead.

• Materials: High-quality materials such as polished chrome, brushed nickel, or stainless steel exude a sense of luxury and durability. Brass showerheads, often with a vintage or antique finish, can add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
• Finishes: Finishes like chrome, nickel, or gold can add a touch of glamour and complement various bathroom design styles. Matte black or brushed nickel finishes provide a more modern and minimalist aesthetic.
• Styling: The shape and design of the showerhead can impact the overall style. Modern showerheads often feature sleek, minimalist designs, while traditional styles might incorporate intricate details and ornate patterns.

Showerhead Designs for Different Bathroom Styles

The choice of showerhead design should complement the overall bathroom style.

• Minimalist: Sleek, geometric shapes with a focus on functionality. Chrome or brushed nickel finishes are ideal for minimalist bathrooms. Examples include square or rectangular showerheads with minimal detailing.
• Modern: Contemporary designs with clean lines and a focus on simplicity. Matte black, brushed nickel, or stainless steel finishes work well. Examples include rain showerheads, waterfall showerheads, or showerheads with multiple spray settings.
• Traditional: Ornate designs with intricate details and vintage finishes. Brass showerheads with polished chrome or antique finishes complement traditional bathroom styles. Examples include showerheads with decorative accents or those inspired by Victorian or Edwardian design.

Home Improvement Appliances

Elevating your bathroom experience goes beyond just the showerhead. Incorporating smart home appliances can transform your bathroom into a luxurious sanctuary, offering enhanced functionality and convenience. These appliances can cater to your specific needs, whether it’s a relaxing soak in a heated tub or a quick, refreshing shower.

Bathroom Appliances for a Luxurious Experience

Investing in the right appliances can significantly enhance your bathroom’s functionality and luxury. Here’s a list of essential appliances to consider:

Appliance Type	Brand Recommendations	Key Features
Smart Toilet	Kohler, Toto, American Standard	Automatic flushing, heated seats, bidet functionality, self-cleaning features, remote control, smart integration with voice assistants
Heated Towel Warmer	Moen, Delta, Kohler	Provides warm, dry towels, enhances bathroom ambiance, various heating options and temperature settings, timer functionality, sleek designs
Smart Mirror	Sensate, Kohler, Samsung	Integrated touch screen, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, weather and news updates, music playback, lighting control, anti-fogging feature
Steam Shower Generator	MrSteam, Steamist, Thermasol	Creates a spa-like experience, aromatherapy features, adjustable steam settings, integrated lighting and music, safety features
Smart Faucets	Moen, Delta, Kohler	Touchless operation, temperature control, water flow regulation, voice control, smart integration with other bathroom appliances

Smart Home Technology Integration

Smart home technology can seamlessly integrate with bathroom appliances, enhancing functionality and convenience. For instance, you can control your smart toilet, heated towel warmer, and smart mirror with voice commands through a smart speaker like Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Integrating smart faucets with your home’s water system allows for water conservation and personalized temperature settings.

This level of automation adds a touch of luxury and convenience to your bathroom routine.

Audio Video

Transforming your bathroom into a sanctuary of relaxation goes beyond just the showerhead. Incorporating audio and video systems can elevate the experience to a whole new level of luxury, creating a multi-sensory oasis that caters to your every need.

High-Quality Sound Systems

A well-designed sound system can set the mood, enhance relaxation, and even provide entertainment.

• Speakers: Consider discreet, waterproof speakers designed for bathroom environments. These speakers can be integrated into the shower or mirror, providing a seamless and immersive audio experience. Look for Bluetooth-enabled speakers for easy connectivity with your smartphone or tablet.
• Soundbars: If you prefer a more powerful audio experience, a soundbar can be a great option. Choose a model with a waterproof design and a wide soundstage to fill the bathroom with rich, full-bodied sound.
• Smart Home Integrations: Integrate your sound system with your smart home platform for voice control and seamless music streaming. You can use your voice to adjust the volume, switch between playlists, or even set the mood with pre-programmed ambient sounds.

Smart TVs and Tablets

Integrating a smart TV or tablet into your bathroom can create a truly luxurious experience.

• Smart TVs: Choose a waterproof, small-sized smart TV specifically designed for bathroom environments. These TVs offer access to streaming services, news channels, and even personalized content, making your bathroom a center for entertainment and information.
• Tablets: Mount a tablet securely near your shower or bathtub for entertainment, music, or even reading. You can use a waterproof case to protect your tablet and create a comfortable viewing experience.

Bath and Shower

Transforming your bathroom into a luxurious sanctuary involves more than just a high-end showerhead. Creating a truly indulgent experience requires careful consideration of the bath and shower accessories that complement your chosen showerhead.

Bath and Shower Accessories

A curated selection of bath and shower accessories can elevate the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom, enhancing your overall experience.

Accessory Type	Features	Examples
Faucets	Design: Modern, minimalist, traditional, or industrial styles. Functionality: Single-handle, dual-handle, thermostatic, or touch-activated options. Materials: Brass, stainless steel, chrome, nickel, or matte black finishes.	Kohler Artifacts Faucet: A classic, elegant design with a focus on durability and precision. Grohe Concetto Faucet: Modern and minimalist, offering a sleek, contemporary look. Delta Trinsic Faucet: Offers a blend of style and functionality, available in various finishes.
Towel Racks	Style: Freestanding, wall-mounted, heated, or towel bars. Material: Stainless steel, chrome, brass, or wood. Design: Modern, minimalist, traditional, or industrial styles.	Moen Align Towel Bar: Sleek and contemporary, offering a minimalist design. Anzzi Freestanding Towel Rack: A luxurious and functional option with a unique design. TOTO Heated Towel Rack: Combines functionality and style, offering a warm towel experience.
Storage Solutions	Types: Shelves, cabinets, baskets, or organizers. Materials: Bamboo, wood, metal, or acrylic. Design: Open or closed storage options, with various styles to match your bathroom decor.	Ikea LACK Wall Shelf: Affordable and versatile, ideal for storing toiletries. Elfa Bathroom Storage System: Customizable and modular, offering a wide range of storage options. Simplehuman Bathroom Storage Basket: Stylish and functional, designed to hold various bathroom essentials.

High-End Bath and Shower Products

Investing in high-end bath and shower products can transform your bathroom into a luxurious oasis. These products prioritize functionality, aesthetics, and user experience, enhancing your daily routine.

• Shower Systems: High-end shower systems often incorporate multiple showerheads, body sprays, and steam features, creating a truly immersive experience. Examples include the Kohler Purist Shower System, the Grohe Rainshower Cosmopolitan Shower System, and the Dornbracht Sensual Sky Shower System.
• Bathtubs: Luxury bathtubs are designed for ultimate relaxation and comfort. Features like integrated lighting, massage jets, and spacious designs enhance the experience. Examples include the Kohler Tea-for-Two Whirlpool Bath, the Jacuzzi J-300 Whirlpool Bath, and the Duravit Starck Bath.
• Shower Doors and Enclosures: High-end shower doors and enclosures are crafted from premium materials like tempered glass, polished stainless steel, or brushed nickel. They offer a sleek and sophisticated look while ensuring watertight seals and easy maintenance. Examples include the Kohler Purist Shower Door, the Grohe AquaSymphony Shower Enclosure, and the Dornbracht E-Motion Shower Enclosure.

Material Selection and Design Elements

The materials and design elements you choose for your bathroom accessories play a crucial role in creating a luxurious environment.

• Natural Materials: Using natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo adds warmth, sophistication, and a sense of tranquility to your bathroom. Consider incorporating elements like wooden shelves, stone countertops, or bamboo storage baskets.
• Metallic Finishes: Polished chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black finishes add a touch of elegance and sophistication. These finishes can be incorporated into faucets, towel racks, and storage solutions, creating a cohesive and luxurious look.
• Lighting: Lighting is an essential aspect of creating a luxurious bathroom. Consider using a combination of ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Dimmable lights, recessed lighting, and LED strips can enhance the ambiance and functionality of your bathroom.

Cleaning Tips and Tools

Keeping your bathroom sparkling clean is essential for a luxurious experience. A clean bathroom not only looks great but also helps maintain hygiene and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Regular cleaning of your showerhead, faucets, and tiles will ensure that your bathroom remains a sanctuary of relaxation and cleanliness.

Cleaning Showerheads

Showerheads can accumulate mineral deposits, dirt, and grime over time, reducing water flow and affecting the performance. To prevent this, it’s crucial to clean your showerhead regularly. Here’s how to clean a showerhead:

• Remove the showerhead: Unscrew the showerhead from the shower arm, making sure to hold the arm firmly to avoid any accidental damage.
• Soak in vinegar: Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar and submerge the showerhead completely. Secure the bag with a rubber band or twist tie. Let it soak for at least an hour, or overnight for stubborn mineral deposits.
• Clean the showerhead: After soaking, remove the showerhead from the vinegar solution and scrub any remaining residue with an old toothbrush or a small cleaning brush. If necessary, you can use a small pin or needle to dislodge any stubborn mineral deposits from the spray nozzles.
• Rinse and reinstall: Rinse the showerhead thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it on the shower arm.

Cleaning Faucets

Faucets can also accumulate mineral deposits, soap scum, and fingerprints. Here’s how to clean your bathroom faucets:

• Remove the faucet handles: Most faucet handles can be removed by gently twisting them counterclockwise. This will expose the underlying parts of the faucet.
• Clean the faucet parts: Use a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution to clean the faucet parts. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. For stubborn stains, you can use a vinegar solution or a commercial faucet cleaner.
• Clean the faucet base: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the faucet base and surrounding area. Pay attention to the areas around the spout and handles where soap scum and mineral deposits tend to accumulate.
• Rinse and reinstall: Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water and allow them to dry completely before reinstalling the faucet handles.

Cleaning Tiles

Bathroom tiles can be prone to mold, mildew, and soap scum buildup. Here’s how to clean your bathroom tiles:

• Prepare the cleaning solution: Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. For tougher stains, you can add a few drops of bleach or use a commercial tile cleaner.
• Apply the solution: Apply the cleaning solution to the tiles using a sponge or a soft-bristled brush. Scrub the tiles thoroughly, paying attention to the grout lines where mold and mildew tend to grow.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse the tiles thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a clean towel or allow them to air dry. You can use a squeegee to remove excess water and prevent streaks.

Cleaning Tools and Products

| Surface | Cleaning Tools | Cleaning Products ||—|—|—|| Showerheads | Old toothbrush, small cleaning brush, pin or needle | White vinegar, commercial showerhead cleaner || Faucets | Soft cloth, mild soap solution, vinegar solution, commercial faucet cleaner | Mild soap solution, vinegar solution, commercial faucet cleaner || Tiles | Sponge, soft-bristled brush, squeegee | Warm water and mild dish soap, bleach, commercial tile cleaner |

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

Using eco-friendly cleaning products and techniques is not only good for the environment but also helps protect your bathroom fixtures and surfaces from harsh chemicals. Here are some tips for eco-friendly cleaning:

• Use baking soda: Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can effectively remove stains and grime from bathroom surfaces. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the surface you want to clean. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
• Use white vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that can effectively clean showerheads, faucets, and tiles. Mix white vinegar with water and apply it to the surface you want to clean. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
• Use essential oils: Add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree oil or lavender oil to your cleaning solution for a natural scent and disinfectant properties. Essential oils can also help create a relaxing atmosphere in your bathroom.
• Use microfiber cloths: Microfiber cloths are highly absorbent and can effectively clean bathroom surfaces without leaving streaks or lint. They are also reusable and can be washed and dried for multiple uses.

Transforming your bathroom into a haven of relaxation is within your reach. With a thoughtfully chosen showerhead, you can elevate your daily routine to a luxurious experience. By considering factors like water pressure, spray patterns, and innovative features, you can create a space that caters to your unique needs and preferences. Remember, a luxurious bathroom experience is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a sanctuary where you can unwind, rejuvenate, and truly embrace the joy of self-care.

FAQs

What is the best showerhead for low water pressure?

Showerheads with a high flow rate and a wide spray pattern can help compensate for low water pressure. Look for models with a flow rate of at least 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) and features like a pulsating or massaging spray setting.

How do I choose the right showerhead size?

The ideal showerhead size depends on the size of your shower and your personal preference. A larger showerhead provides a wider coverage and a more immersive experience, while a smaller showerhead can be more efficient and easier to install.

What is the best way to clean a showerhead?

To clean a showerhead, remove it from the shower arm and soak it in a solution of vinegar and water for 30 minutes. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub away any mineral deposits. Rinse the showerhead thoroughly with water and reinstall it.

How do I know if my showerhead is water-efficient?

Look for a showerhead with a WaterSense label, which indicates that it meets EPA standards for water efficiency. You can also check the flow rate, which should be 2.5 GPM or less for a water-efficient model.