How to Choose the Right Shower Door Handle
Whether you’ve already chosen one of the many different quadrant shower enclosures for your bathroom upgrade or are only making small changes to your current setup, selecting the right shower door handle will play an important role both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
With so many options available, it’s essential to make a choice that complements your bathroom’s style while also meeting your practical needs. To help you choose the right shower door handle, in this article, we’re going to talk more about:
- The 6 different types of shower door handles available
- What materials to consider
- How to choose the right finish
- How to measure for a shower door handle
- 3 additional tips for choosing the right handle
But before we go into any more details, we’d first like to discuss why shower door handles matter in the first place.
Why the Shower Door Handle Matters
The right shower door handle does more than help you open and close your shower door. It enhances your bathroom's design and provides a functional grip for daily use. The style, material, and placement of your handle can also dramatically impact the overall look and feel of your shower enclosure.
Types of Shower Door Handles
There are many types of shower door handles available, each with its unique design and benefits. Understanding these options can help you find the one that suits your space.
Common Styles
- T-Bar Handles: These are popular for their sleek, modern look and provide a comfortable grip.
- Knob Handles: A simpler, more traditional option, ideal for smaller spaces.
- Pull Handles: Often used for sliding doors, these handles are large and easy to grab.
- Lever Handles: Featuring a more ergonomic design, lever handles are particularly useful for people with limited hand strength.
Fixed vs. Movable Handles
- Fixed Handles: These handles are attached to one specific part of the door and are generally simpler in design.
- Movable Handles: These can be adjusted or repositioned, offering more versatility in terms of use.
Materials to Consider
The material of your shower door handle is important for both the look and longevity of the handle. Let’s take a look at the most popular shower door handle materials and what factors to keep in mind when choosing:
Popular Materials
- Chrome: Highly reflective and resistant to rust, chrome is a popular choice for modern bathrooms.
- Brushed Nickel: With a matte finish, brushed nickel is more resistant to fingerprints and adds an elegant, understated touch.
- Stainless Steel: Known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, stainless steel is a practical choice for high-moisture environments.
- Brass: Offers a classic, vintage look and is highly durable.
Factors to Keep in Mind
- Water Resistance: Ensure the material you choose is resistant to moisture to avoid corrosion or damage over time.
- Style Compatibility: Consider how the material will fit in with the other fixtures in your bathroom, including faucets, towel bars, and shower heads.
Choosing the Right Finish
Your shower door handle’s finish can elevate your bathroom’s style while also offering practicality. Here’s how to choose the right finish:
Matching Your Bathroom Style
- Modern or Contemporary: A polished chrome or matte black finish might be the perfect complement to sleek, minimalist bathroom designs.
- Traditional or Classic: Brushed nickel or polished brass works well for more classic bathroom styles, offering a warm and timeless appearance.
Durability and Maintenance
- Polished Finishes: These finishes tend to show water spots and fingerprints more easily but offer a shiny, reflective look.
- Matte Finishes: More forgiving when it comes to fingerprints and easier to maintain but may lack the high-gloss shine of polished finishes.
How to Measure for a Shower Door Handle
Accurate measurements are key to ensuring your handle fits properly and is functional.
Steps for Accurate Measurements
- Determine Placement: Choose where you want the handle to be positioned on the door (usually at a comfortable height).
- Measure Distance: Measure the diameter or length of the handle to ensure it fits your door design.
- Check Door Thickness: Make sure the handle is suitable for the thickness of your shower door.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Height: Ensure the handle is at an appropriate height for all users, including taller and shorter individuals.
- Ignoring Door Thickness: Make sure the handle is compatible with the door’s thickness to avoid misalignment or a loose fit.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Handle
When choosing the right handle for your shower door, there are a few additional tips that we’d like you to take into account, including:
Match with Other Bathroom Fixtures
To create a cohesive look, ensure your shower door handle matches other bathroom hardware such as towel racks, faucets, and showerheads. Consistency in materials and finishes can elevate your bathroom’s design.
Consider Ergonomics
Choose a handle that is easy to grip and operate. Consider lever handles or pull handles for added comfort, especially if you have children or elderly individuals in your household.
Budget and Quality Balance
While it’s tempting to choose a cheaper option, investing in a high-quality handle will save you money in the long run by ensuring durability and reducing the need for frequent replacements. So, try to strike a balance between your budget and the quality of materials you choose.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shower door handle might seem like a small detail, but it has a significant impact on both the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. Whether you opt for a sleek chrome handle or a traditional brass design, make sure it aligns with your bathroom style and meets your practical needs.
Aside from your shower door handle though, there are many other aspects that you need to consider, such as your current shower door. If you think that it may need replacing too, consider reading our complete guide to choosing shower doors to learn more about them and the impact they can have on your bathroom space.