Choosing the best massage shower head in 2020

The shower is one of the best inventions of humanity. It makes it possible not only to quickly and effectively perform hygienic procedures, but also to get a boost of vivacity, for example, a contrast shower, or to relax, for example, with the help of a hydromassage. For the latter, you will need a special massage attachment, which will help you to choose the rating of the best massage attachments, prepared for you by the editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/".

What is a massage attachment?

A massage head is a special design related to plumbing equipment, which is connected to the mixer and creates special types of jets. Such devices are sometimes called "rain showers" and have already gained great popularity.

The peculiarity of the device lies in a special method of water supply - the holes located along the edges of the watering can overlap, and the jets flow through the central holes under high pressure.

Taking into account the peculiarities of the nozzles that change the intensity and shape of the jets, the massage watering can create the following types of directed water flows:

Massage - tones, invigorates, relieves muscle fatigue and improves blood flow. The effect is achieved by increasing the pressure and reducing the number of jets, due to which the water flows in pulsating impulses;
A soft stream is an air-saturated stream in which the water flow is reduced, but the bulk remains. Great for shampooing;
Mixed - characterized by a combined mode of action, in which one type of jets is alternately replaced by another;
Tropical rain - water is pumped through a grate that disperses the stream and turns it into large jets pouring from a great height.

The list is conditional, since each manufacturer seeks to distinguish its product among similar products, and therefore the list of functions for watering cans of different brands may differ.

The effectiveness and benefits of such a nozzle lie in the created hydromassage effect, which has a positive effect on the human body. The therapeutic benefits of targeted exposure to pressurized water jets have been proven for a long time. Hydromassage is used to speed up metabolism, prevent diseases and general health improvement, eliminate problems with the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system.

Shower heads - what are there?

By the type of installation, the systems are divided into stationary and mobile. There are also combined systems that combine both types of watering cans.

Stationary installations

Stationary models are non-removable. They differ in a sufficiently large diameter of the usable area. There are wall and ceiling, depending on the installation method, and are often combined into a single category called the overhead shower.

They are suitable for installation in shower cabins and boxes, however, they require a sufficiently powerful water pressure.They are connected to a water pipe, and then they are mounted in the ceiling or mounted directly on the wall.

Ceiling models imply hidden installation, in which only the switches and the spray are taken out, and the main unit is hidden inside the wall, which complicates the installation. For the wall-mounted version, a holder is required with which the structure is fixed at a height convenient for all family members. Most modern models of wall-mounted watering cans are equipped with hinged mountings, thanks to which the angle of inclination is variable and can be adjusted. With ceiling watering cans, this feature is found only in expensive models.

Both ceiling and wall units are most often made of chrome-plated brass. They are convenient in that the maximally increased area of the water supply allows you to simultaneously wash the whole body and there is no need to hold the device in your hand. The disadvantages include the difficulty of using such a shower for bathing children and animals, as well as people with disabilities.

Mobile watering cans

Mobile units are represented by shower racks and panels, as well as a hand shower.

The hand shower is a nozzle with a flexible hose. In some cases, it also implies the presence of a bracket that is mounted into the wall at the required height. The popularity of models of this type is due to the greater freedom of action - you can swim either by holding the unit in your hand and directing the jets of water at the desired angle, or by installing it on the retainer.

The stand consists of a set, which includes a hand shower, a vertical bar and a bracket. This is the most versatile option, which is compact and easy to install. It will be especially suitable if the shower will be used by people with a large difference in height - the bracket that moves up and down will allow you to adjust the height, and if necessary, the device can be easily removed from the stand.

The shower panel differs from the stand by its complex installation and greater functionality - the presence of a thermostat, lighting, etc.

Next, let's take a look at the main criteria that will help you understand how to choose the most optimal shower head.

Criteria for choosing a massage attachment

Material

Aluminum is the basis for inexpensive ceiling models, shower racks and panels. Just like acrylic, plastic and abs. Plastic and acrylic attachments are hygienic and easier to clean, but acrylic is less susceptible to mechanical stress, as a result of which scratches and damage appear on it less often.

Stainless steel is used to produce durable and affordable designs for overhead showers, panels, racks and watering heads. Similar brass products are much more expensive, but have significant advantages - reliability and practicality.

As a rule, structures for ceiling installation are made of cast iron, which are also distinguished by increased strength, durability and high cost.

Tempered glass is found among shower panels, making such models look stylish and concise, easy to maintain and easy to clean. Glass can be either transparent or frosted.

Ceramics are used to produce products that are distinguished by their visual appeal and aesthetics, but chips are easily formed on such material.

Shape and diameter

According to the shape of the nozzles are:

Round / oval - the best models that have universal functionality and are suitable for any bathroom;
Square / rectangular - less common on the market, since the non-standard design of such watering cans is more appropriate in an interior decorated in the style of minimalism and geometry;
Triangular - these are usually hand shower heads. Look elegant and easy to use;
Oblong - the so-called watering cans-pencils. They have an interesting external design, but are inconvenient due to the small size of the usable area;
Designer products - have a variety of whimsical shapes and are aimed at attracting attention and becoming the main decoration of the room.

The diameter of the nozzle plays an important role, since the flow width and ease of use depend on the area where the water spray holes are located. The size of a standard nozzle is from 6 to 8 cm. Watering cans with a diameter of 20 and above are less common, as they are able to create a real waterfall at home, for which not every shower cabin is suitable.

Coating

The material used to create the outer coating on the body of the showerhead is often purely decorative. The coating can be chrome-plated (including matt chrome), enamel (white or in color), brass. Sometimes there are models with gold or silver plating, as well as decoration in bronze or nickel.

Each coating has its own pros and cons:

Enamel - looks beautiful, but at the same time it is short-lived and prone to chips;
Gold and silver - in need of special careful care;
Copper, bronze, nickel - you will have to pay no less expensive for an expensive appearance;
Chromium is durable and prevents the development of pathogenic bacteria, but noticeable stains and traces of drops remain on such a surface. There are models of matt chrome ("satin"), but, more often, in this version, individual elements of the shower set are executed;
Stainless steel is durable and has a beautiful shine, but needs proper care;
Brass is reliable and resistant to corrosion, but it does not fit into every interior.

There are also models that combine two types of coating, such as chrome and nickel.

Extra options

Maximum water flow is a characteristic of a device that indicates its throughput, that is, the limiting volume of liquid that the device can pass per unit of time. The flow rate of a standard unit is 15 liters per minute and more. This parameter is important when establishing automatic control over water consumption;
Backlighting of water is realized due to LEDs built into the structure. Watering cans with backlit water can be monochromatic or multi-colored with a smooth color change. The last option is based on the theory of the beneficial effect of light colored in different shades on a person. According to buyers, backlit models are ideal for children;
The number of modes - determines the functionality of the device. Both simple models (with one mode) and advanced modern devices with a choice of the type of jets are presented on the market. There are modifications of massage attachments, for example, sets that function in different modes and combine both normal pressure and massage;
Number of nozzles - in multifunctional devices, it determines the number of nozzles to create a hydromassage effect;
Anti-limestone protection - prevents the formation of plaque, which significantly extends the life of the product;
Operation control system - mode switches can be rotary or push-button. With a rotary system, it is necessary to rotate one of the elements of the watering system, following the inscriptions on the body, with a push-button system, press the button corresponding to the selected mode;
Thermostat - allows you to maintain a stable temperature of the water flow;
Built-in softener - special filters with which the structure body is equipped. They soften the water, removing hardness salts, which makes the bathing procedure more comfortable;
Minimum water pressure - in multi-storey apartment buildings, the pressure in the water pipes varies between 2.5 - 7.5 bar. In many respects, this indicator depends on the floor, type of building, features of communications and other parameters. Therefore, when buying a product, you need to pay attention not only to its working pressure, but also to the minimum available.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of a hand massage watering can:

Can be used for a hygienic shower;
Suitable for both general and acupressure massage of certain areas of the body;
Allows several options for use - if desired, the watering can can be held in your hand, directing the flow, or installed on a stand / fixed on a tripod;
Allows you to quickly cheer up, tone muscles, "disperse" the blood;
Easy to install;
Do not require a lot of pressure;
Wide range of models;
Various price categories;
Suitable for any bathroom.

Disadvantages:

Has a low bandwidth;
It has a small diameter.

Ceiling / wall-mounted shower advantages:

Due to the large usable area, the flow of water washes the whole body at once;
Modes such as tropical rain or waterfall are very beneficial to health;
The overhead shower can be attached to both ceiling connections and side brackets;
A wide selection of original, including designer, products;
Multifunctional due to additional equipment.

Disadvantages:

Complicated assembly process. When installing a ceiling structure, a hidden installation will be required, which will reduce the height of the ceilings, since it is strictly forbidden to grind them in the bathroom;
It will be necessary to lay pipes in the wall and along the ceiling, which is possible only with major repairs;
Are expensive;
They consume a lot of water;
Appropriate only in spacious rooms.

Selection errors

Before deciding on the choice of a massage attachment, you should pay attention to the following important points:

When buying a hand shower, do not underestimate the shape of the handle and the weight of the structure, especially if there is no bracket or stand with a stand on which the shower head can be installed. The pleasure of the water procedure and the benefits of the massage effect can ruin the watering can, which will be uncomfortable or hard to hold in your hand;
The system of protection against lime deposits (the function of which can also be performed by a standard built-in filter) is not just a fashionable innovation, but an extremely useful addition that will protect the nozzles from contamination and, as a result, will significantly extend the service life;
Most of the watering cans on the market (with the exception of custom-made ones) have a single hose thread diameter - 1/2 "or 1/2". This means that when replacing an old watering can with a new one, the same hose will fit. If in doubt, it is better to clarify this information, which should be indicated in the technical description of the product on the manufacturer's website.

Main technical characteristics

room	Specifications	Recommendations
1	Material	For the manufacture of shower heads, plastic, stainless steel, brass are most often used. Less commonly acrylic, aluminum, ceramics. With the same functionality, the metal model will cost more than the plastic one.
2	Coating	There are models with a coating of enamel, nickel, chrome, stainless steel and brass. And also original design solutions for gold, bronze, silver, copper. The most common are chrome and combined coatings.
3	Diameter	The size of hand watering cans is from 8 to 15 cm, the size of the overhead shower is from 20 and above.
4	The form	Rounded, rectangular, triangular and oblong nozzles are available. Design watering cans are distinguished into a separate category, the options for which are unlimited.
5	Number of modes	The simplest devices have 1 operating mode. The 2-function nozzles are equipped with a switch and create a simple (soft) and massage (hard) jet. Watering cans with 3 or more functions are multifunctional (SPA-watering cans) and are designed for various water procedures.
6	Mode switching	The control system of the device can be rotary or push-button.
7	The cost	At the price of watering cans differ depending on the design, the number of functions and the material of manufacture. The average price for a hand shower is 1900 rubles, the top one will cost 17,000 rubles.

Rating of quality attachments in 2020

Hansgrohe Croma-100-Vario-28535000

Manufacturer: Germany;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 2,000 rubles.

Round plastic shower head without hose with 4 modes and chrome finish.The control system is rotary. The diameter of the usable area is 10 cm. The maximum water flow rate is 18 liters per minute. The minimum allowable water pressure is 3 bar. Connecting size - ½.

~~Hansgrohe Croma-100-Vario-28535000~~

Advantages:

with soft jet mode;
with massage jet mode;
with anti-lime coating;
with tropical rain function;
there is a Shampoo jet for shampooing;
comfortable handle.

Disadvantages:

the hose must be purchased separately.

Milardo-1505F10M18

Manufacturer: Russia;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 750 rubles.

Multifunctional device made of heat-resistant and shock-resistant abs plastic with a diameter of 10.2 cm. It has 5 modes of operation and is controlled with rotary switches. The chrome-nickel coating does not fade, is easy to clean and looks attractive thanks to its mirror shine. The maximum water consumption is 12.5 liters per minute. The minimum pressure is 3 bar.

~~Milardo-1505F10M18~~

Advantages:

with soft flow mode;
with hydromassage function;
with mixed jet mode;
there is an anti-lime coating;
there is a Mist mode (water fog).

Disadvantages:

low bandwidth.

RAVAK Slim-984.00

Manufacturer: Czech Republic;
Type: overhead shower;
Price - 15,000 rubles.

Stylish round design in chrome plated stainless steel with a diameter of 30 cm. Design suitable for both ceiling and wall recessed mounting. The massage jets are equipped with the EasyClean cleaning system, which prevents the accumulation of scale. Connection size - ½ inch.

~~RAVAK Slim-984.00~~

Advantages:

with tropical rain function;
with anti-lime protection;
long warranty period;
fits all mixers;
good customer reviews;
modern design.

Disadvantages:

high price.

Grohe New Tempesta-100-28261002

Manufacturer: Germany;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 1500 rubles.

Modern chrome-plated brass model in Hi-Tech style that perfectly complements any shower stall. It has 3 operating modes and rotary switches. The usable area diameter is 10 cm, which is a universal size. The minimum admissible pressure is 1 bar. This means that the device will function even at low head. The hose is connected using a ½ ”flare nut.

~~Grohe New Tempesta-100-28261002~~

Advantages:

with anti-limescale system;
there is a soft jet mode;
with hydromassage function;
compatible with instantaneous water heaters;
with nozzles equipped with the SpeedClean system;
with silicone ring to prevent damage from falling.

Disadvantages:

mixer sold separately.

SONAKI Modison Beauty-MS-100CR

Manufacturer: South Korea;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 2000 rubles.

Plastic shower set with 3 modes. The shiny chrome finish is eye-catching, while the elongated nozzles create gentle jets that gently massage the skin, relieving muscle fatigue. Also, the use of this unit has a beneficial effect on the health of the hair - thanks to careful massage, the roots are strengthened, and the hair becomes thicker.

~~SONAKI Modison Beauty-MS-100CR~~

Advantages:

with hydromassage;
with water mist function;
with antibacterial coating;
with a water flow regulator.

Disadvantages:

you will have to separately purchase a hose and other accessories.

G-lauf UHS-1152

Manufacturer: China;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 300 rubles.

Inexpensive round-shaped nozzle made of ABS plastic with a combination coating. Switching modes, which this product has 3, is carried out using rotary mechanisms. The device is able to successfully operate in conditions of sudden temperature changes due to the heat-resistant housing.

~~G-lauf UHS-1152~~

Advantages:

with soft jet mode;
with spray function;
there is a hydromassage;
comfortable handle;
quality material;
low price.

Disadvantages:

no data on bandwidth.

Jacob Delafon AWAKEN E99898RU CP

Manufacturer: France;
Type: shower rack;
Price - 6,000 rubles.

Set with high-gloss chrome finish and rotary switches.The set includes a hand shower, consisting of a hose and a round nozzle with three spray modes, as well as a holder and a soap dish. The diameter of the usable area is 11 cm. The set is wall-mounted and is designed for a service life of 5400 days.

~~Jacob Delafon AWAKEN E99898RU CP~~

Advantages:

there is protection against lime deposits;
with massage and tonic jet;
with water flow control (up to 9 l / min.);
modern geometric design;
easy cleaning;
robust construction;
non-curling hose;
ease of installation;
adjustable mounts;
affordable cost.

Disadvantages:

no mixer included;
no bath spout.

Hansgrohe Raindance Select E150 3jet 26550000

Manufacturer: Germany;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 7700 rubles.

Chrome plated rectangular plastic model without hose and 3 water functions. Control is carried out using convenient push-button switches. The diameter of the nozzle is 15 cm, which is quite a lot for a manual design. The maximum water consumption is 16 liters per minute. Connecting size ½ ".

~~Hansgrohe Raindance Select E150 3jet 26550000~~

Advantages:

with massage jet;
with a mode of soft and mixed pressure;
with anti-limescale protection system;
large size of the usable area;
high throughput;
suitable for flow heaters.

Disadvantages:

high price.

KAISER SH-008

Manufacturer: Germany;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 300 rubles.

Budget chrome round nozzle. The main material of the product is shock-resistant plastic with the addition of metal alloys with anti-corrosion properties. Modes are switched using rotary mechanisms. There are 3 modes of operation available. Liner standard - ½.

~~KAISER SH-008~~

Advantages:

there is a massage jet;
classic universal style;
a light weight;
fits comfortably in the hand;
comfortable operation;
easily cleared of plaque.

Disadvantages:

the hose will have to be selected separately.

BRADEX Rush of Power TD 0367

Manufacturer: China;
Type: hand shower;
Price - 600 rubles.

A device made of stainless steel and transparent plastic with a built-in filter - tourmaline and carbon granules, which purify water from chlorine and hardness salts, and then saturate it with oxygen. This makes the skin and hair less dry and brittle after showering, and the result of using cosmetics is improved. The diameter of the working surface is 8 cm. There are 340 holes in the nozzle, which scatter the liquid to a vapor state.

~~BRADEX Rush of Power TD 0367~~

Advantages:

with a massage effect;
with deep cleaning;
with ionization;
helps to reduce water consumption;
has a relaxing effect;
looks interesting.

Disadvantages:

weighty;
Provided that the device is operated by a family of 2-3 people, the service life of the product is 6 months. Then you will need to replace or clean the filter.

Which company is better?

The best manufacturers of quality sanitary ware are Grohe and Hansgrohe (Germany), Jacob Delafon (France), Gappo (China), Lemark (Czech Republic).

Popular models are produced by RAVAK (Czech Republic), Oras (Finland), Elghansa and G-lauf (China), WasserKRAFT and KAISER (Germany).

In general, market analysis showed that models of European brands are more expensive, while Asian models are cheaper. It should be noted that if the model belongs to a luxury brand or to a limited collection, then its cost will accordingly be higher than that of a similar product with similar functions, but a lesser known company.

When deciding which shower head is better to buy, you must first decide - why do you need it? If the main thing is to pour water, then you should opt for the simplest watering can with 1 operating mode and massage effect (for example, BRADEX TD 0367). If you are not sure whether you need additional modes in addition to hydromassage, and also there is no desire to overpay, then a plastic manual nozzle (G-lauf UHS-1152 or SONAKI Modison Beauty-MS-100CR) will do. If you want to have regular spa treatments, but at the same time save money on your purchase, then you should consider purchasing a multifunctional design (Hansgrohe Croma-100-Vario-28535000).And if you need a durable installation that will help you unwind after a long day at work, then check out the sets that include a tropical rain effect overhead shower and a 3-way hand shower (Jacob Delafon AWAKEN-E99898RU-CP).

If you have experience with the massage shower heads described in the rating or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.