How to choose the right tap for your laundry?

The right laundry tap is one of those small details that makes a big difference to how smoothly the space runs. Whether you’re soaking delicates, rinsing out stains, or filling up a bucket, suitable tapware can make everyday jobs easier.

If you’re planning a laundry renovation or just replacing an old tap, here’s everything you need to know about how to choose a tap that’s functional, durable and fits your style.

Why laundry tapware matters

From rinsing muddy shoes or cleaning up after DIY projects, your tapware needs to handle heavy use.

The best laundry taps work hard without getting in your way. This means they are practical, built to last and suit the space.

If you’re redesigning your laundry from scratch, you’ll also want to think about where your tap and sink will sit in relation to your washer and dryer. For more tips on getting your layout right, check out our guide to beautiful and practical laundry design ideas.

Types of laundry taps

Before you pick a finish, it’s worth knowing the most common laundry tap sets and what they do best. Here’s a quick rundown:

Mixer taps

Laundry mixer taps combine hot and cold water with a single lever or handle. They make adjusting the water temperature even easier, which is ideal for multitasking on wash day.

Wall-mounted taps

Classic and practical, wall-mounted taps keep the bench space clear and work well for both deep and shallow sinks.

Tall taps

Tall basin mixers pair well with a raised basin or deep sink. Their height makes it easier to fit buckets or large items underneath.

Pull-out taps

Pull-out taps are a favourite for busy laundries. The retractable nozzle helps rinse stains, wash out the sink and fill buckets when laundry day calls for extra scrubbing.

Separate hot and cold tap handles

If you want something traditional but functional, separate hot and cold handles give you more manual temperature control.

How to choose the best laundry taps

When you’re choosing a tap, think about both how you use your laundry and how you want it to look. Here’s how to approach tap shopping in two easy steps:

1. Think about function

Your tap needs to work with your sink. For above-counter basins, choose a high-arch mixer or wall-mounted tap so you have enough clearance to fit buckets or scrub boards underneath. For inset or undermount sinks, a standard height mixer works well and keeps splashing under control.

You should also think about how you use your laundry sink area.

If you often soak or scrub, a deep sink and a tap with a pull-out spray may be the move. Or if your laundry doubles as a mudroom, a high-arch tap makes cleaning up shoes or pets easier. For laundries on the smaller side, a compact sink with a swivel spout can save space without losing functionality.

2. Factor in how it looks

High-quality tapware lasts longer and saves you from annoying leaks and drips. Since laundry rooms deal with humidity and cleaning products, you should choose a finish that’s up to the job and is easy to maintain.

Most laundry tapware will use either a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating or electroplating. PVD turns the coating into vapour, which then bonds with the metal base and makes it damage-resistant. Electroplated means electrical energy is used in much the same way, for a similar long-lasting effect. Both are tested to hold up well in wet environments like your laundry.

The last step after choosing quality is choosing colours, but we’ll go deeper into that below.

Comparing tap finishes

The right tap colour and finish can change the look of your laundry. Whichever finish you choose, carry it through to your cabinet handles, hooks and rails, or you can mix metals for extra depth. Here’s a quick look at popular finishes:

Chrome

Chrome is a classic for a reason. It’s shiny, easy to clean and works in just about any style of laundry. Great if you want something versatile and low-maintenance.

Brushed Brass

Warm and elegant, Brushed Brass pairs beautifully with light timber cabinetry and just about any colour tiles. This finish is perfect for a Hamptons or coastal style laundry.

Antique Brass

Antique Brass is a vintage-inspired finish that adds warmth and depth. Its brushed texture hides scuffs and other signs of wear for a homely, lived-in feel.

Warm Brushed Nickel

If you want a softer alternative to Chrome, look at Warm Brushed Nickel. It feels a little more contemporary and subtle, adding warmth to any style space.

Gunmetal

Gunmetal is a versatile finish that sits somewhere between black and silver. It’s dark enough to add depth but not so bold that it takes over the space.

Matte Black

Bold and versatile, Matte Black tapware suits a range of styles, from modern to rustic-farmhouse laundries. It’s low-maintenance and masks fingerprints and watermarks, great in a hardworking laundry.

Styling tips for your laundry sink

Once you’ve chosen your tap set, think about how you’ll make the whole sink zone look cohesive. For easy cleaning and extra style points, add a tiled splashback behind the sink. Just make sure to choose tiles that complement your cabinetry and tap finish.

A soap dispenser, a small potted plant or even a ceramic tray for laundry powder can make the space feel welcoming. And in terms of lighting, wall sconces or under-cabinet lights above the sink will make soaking and scrubbing easier.

Shop laundry tap sets at Yabby

Choosing the best laundry taps doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding a balance between practicality, durability and style.

Whether you prefer a sleek mixer, a classic wall-mounted tap or a hardworking pull-out spray, investing in the right tapware makes your laundry easier to use and keeps it looking great for years to come.