Waterfall faucets have become a go-to choice for homeowners seeking a sleek, spa-inspired aesthetic in their bathrooms. With their open spout design and graceful, cascading water flow, they bring a sense of tranquillity and luxury that pairs beautifully with modern or minimalist interiors. It’s easy to see why they’ve become a favorite in design magazines and high-end remodels alike.
But as stunning as they may be, waterfall faucets aren’t always the most practical option. From splashing issues to cleaning challenges, there are several drawbacks worth considering before you commit. Whether you’re renovating a powder room or upgrading your full bath and shower system, it’s essential to weigh both style and functionality.
In this blog, we’ll explore the five most common downsides of waterfall faucets—and help you decide whether they’re the right fit for your space. Along the way, we’ll also touch on how different types of faucets, including the best shower faucets and the role of diverter valves, can impact your bathroom’s overall performance.
What Are Waterfall Faucets?
Waterfall faucets are a distinctive type of bathroom or kitchen fixture known for their open-top spout design, which mimics the gentle, natural flow of a waterfall. Unlike traditional faucets where water is channelled through a narrow nozzle, waterfall faucets typically have a wide, flat spout—often made of glass or metal—that allows water to pour out in a graceful, visible stream.
These faucets are especially popular in modern and spa-inspired bathrooms, where aesthetics are just as important as function. They’re most often seen mounted on sinks, tubs, or as part of luxury bath and shower systems, adding a calming ambiance that elevates the look and feel of the space.
Waterfall faucets are a subcategory within the broader range of types of faucets available today. While they excel in style, their performance and practicality can vary depending on the model, water pressure, and installation quality.
It’s also important to note that most waterfall faucets are single-handle designs, although dual-handle and wall-mounted versions exist as well. In shower setups, they may require precise coordination with diverter valves to ensure seamless switching between tub spouts, handheld units, and overhead showerheads.
Now that we know what makes waterfall faucets unique, let’s have a closer look at the top five drawbacks you should know before installing one in your home.
Drawback 1 – Splashing Issues
One of the most common complaints about waterfall faucets is splashing. While the open design is visually appealing, it can be less forgiving when it comes to water control. Unlike traditional aerated faucets that direct water in a tighter stream, waterfall faucets release a broad sheet of water. When the stream hits a shallow or poorly angled sink basin, it often creates unwanted splashes that soak the counter or even the user.
This issue becomes even more noticeable in compact bathrooms or with vessel sinks, where the height difference between the spout and basin increases splash potential. Over time, frequent splashes can lead to water stains, mildew along the counter edges, or even damage to wood cabinetry if not wiped down promptly.
In comparison, other types of faucets—like gooseneck or wall-mounted options—tend to have better water containment due to focused flow or placement. While some best shower faucets come equipped with flow restrictors or adjustable nozzles to minimize mess, most waterfall sink faucets do not offer such features.
Tip: If you’re set on the waterfall aesthetic, opt for a faucet designed specifically for low-splash performance and pair it with a deep, sloped sink that helps guide the water smoothly.
Drawback 2 – Temperature Control Can Be Tricky
While waterfall faucets excel in aesthetics, they often fall short in functionality—particularly when it comes to precise temperature control. Many waterfall models, especially single-handle designs, lack the refined control that’s possible with more advanced types of faucets.
Because the water flows in a wide, exposed sheet, temperature changes are visually obvious but not always easy to manage. It can take a few seconds longer for the temperature to adjust, and without a proper diverter valve or mixing system, users may find it hard to reach that perfect balance—especially in older plumbing setups.
This isn’t just inconvenient—it can also be uncomfortable or even unsafe. In homes with small children or elderly residents, sudden fluctuations in water temperature may pose a risk of accidental scalding. That’s why many best shower faucets and premium sink faucets include built-in thermostatic controls, something most standard waterfall faucets do not offer.
Tip: If you’re upgrading your bath or bath and shower systems with a waterfall-style faucet, consider pairing it with a thermostatic valve or a dual-handle setup that allows for more precise temperature regulation.
Drawback 3 – Cleaning and Maintenance Are More Involved
A major downside of waterfall faucets is the additional maintenance they often require. Unlike traditional types of faucets with a compact spout, waterfall faucets have a wide, open spout where water flows over a flat surface before dropping into the sink. While this looks impressive, it also creates more surface area where limescale, soap scum, and water spots can accumulate.
Over time, mineral deposits can build up along the spout and edges, especially in homes with hard water. This not only dulls the sleek appearance of the faucet but may also affect water flow if left uncleaned. Unlike standard faucet aerators, which are hidden and protected, the open design of waterfall faucets exposes every inch of the spout to air and residue.
Additionally, some waterfall faucets are made with finishes like chrome or glass that show smudges and fingerprints more easily, meaning they need more frequent wiping down to maintain that “just installed” look.
Tip: If you’re still set on installing a waterfall faucet, look for models with anti-spot finishes or brushed surfaces that are easier to maintain. You might also want to add a water softener if you live in an area with hard water to extend the lifespan of your fixtures.
Drawback 4 – Compatibility Issues with Existing Plumbing Systems
Another common drawback of installing waterfall faucets is the potential for plumbing compatibility issues. These faucets often require specific setups that don’t always align with standard sink or vanity configurations, especially in older homes or basic bathroom layouts.
For example, many waterfall faucet models feature a wider base or a higher clearance, which may not fit standard pre-drilled sinkholes. If your current vanity wasn’t designed with this type of fixture in mind, you may need to modify the countertop or purchase an adapter—adding extra cost and labor to what might have seemed like a simple upgrade.
There’s also the consideration of diverter valves—if your waterfall faucet is part of a bath and shower system, or if it needs to be integrated with the best shower faucets on the market, the diverter valve must be compatible. Some waterfall-style mixers don’t work well with traditional diverters, making retrofits more complicated or even requiring complete replacements.
Solution: If you’re upgrading your fixtures and considering waterfall faucets, consult a plumber beforehand. They can inspect your current plumbing setup and let you know if modifications are needed or recommend compatible fixtures within your budget.
Drawback 5 – Water Efficiency Concerns
While waterfall faucets are undoubtedly stylish, they often fall short when it comes to water efficiency. Unlike traditional types of faucets designed with aerators to conserve water, waterfall designs prioritize visual flow and aesthetics—which can mean higher water usage.
Many waterfall faucets do not mix air into the stream, resulting in higher flow rates that waste water over time. For eco-conscious homeowners or those living in drought-prone areas, this can be a significant downside. Even if your local regulations require low-flow fixtures, some waterfall models may still exceed recommended consumption levels unless specially designed for efficiency.
This inefficiency doesn’t just impact the environment—it can also lead to higher utility bills. Over months and years, the additional water used by your faucet adds up, making this a long-term cost consideration.
Solution: If you’re set on the waterfall look, seek out models labelled with WaterSense certification or those engineered to balance aesthetics and efficiency. Also, consider pairing your faucet with the best shower faucet system that includes eco-friendly components to maintain overall bathroom water savings.
Conclusion
Waterfall faucets bring undeniable elegance and a sense of luxury to modern bathrooms. Their tranquil, spa-like water flow is visually stunning and can elevate any space. However, as we’ve explored, they come with drawbacks—from splashing and cleaning challenges to compatibility issues and water inefficiency.
Before choosing a waterfall faucet, weigh the pros and cons based on your needs, lifestyle, and bathroom design. In some cases, traditional or hybrid types of faucets may offer a more practical, low-maintenance solution—especially when paired with advanced diverter valves or part of a complete bath and shower system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are waterfall faucets available for bathtubs or just sinks?
Waterfall faucets are available for both sinks and bathtubs, but bathtub models require greater flow capacity and stronger plumbing support.
Can I use a waterfall faucet in a small bathroom?
Yes, but you’ll need to be cautious about splashing. Choosing a low-profile model and matching it with the right sink size can help.
Do waterfall faucets require special maintenance?
They require regular cleaning to avoid mineral buildup and water stains—especially around the wide spout where water spreads out more visibly.
