We use our kitchen and bathroom faucets every day. Both of these fixtures make many tasks much faster and easier, but are they interchangeable? Can you install a kitchen faucet in a bathroom?
Before we can answer that question, you need to know the key aspects that distinguish the two. Despite having the same basic functionality of providing clean water, kitchen and bathroom faucets are different, not just in appearance, but also in usability.
Knowing the Difference Between Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets
Functionality
When it comes to functionality, kitchen faucets usually have the edge because they have plenty of features not commonly found in bathroom faucets. For instance, it’s hard to find a bathroom faucet with flexible positioning.
Some modern kitchen models like the Moen 7594ESRS Arbor Faucet come with an extendable head plus spray and steam modes. The ability to change the type of water flow is convenient when performing specific chores like washing dishes or cleaning vegetables. With that said, these features may go to waste if you choose to install a modern kitchen faucet in your bathroom sink.
Additionally, most bathroom faucets have an aerator to help avoid big splashes. Since we install kitchen faucets in larger and deeper sinks, aerators become less necessary. Most kitchen sinks don’t use them in favor of additional pressure instead.
Lastly, a lot of bathroom faucets have threading that you can use to install accessories. The threading is generally ¾-inches, which makes them compatible with hose attachments. Most modern kitchen faucets do not include this feature.
Size and Height
Another considerable difference between kitchen and bathroom faucets is size, with the latter being slightly smaller. Kitchen faucets usually have large center set designs eight inches across, making them twice the width of most bathroom faucets. Because of their base width, kitchen faucets can include more accessories like hand sprayers or soap dispensers.
Both types of faucets also have aesthetic variety, but bathroom faucets often come in more designs, colors, and materials. These fixtures have come a long way, with some even including motion-activated sensors that save water.
Kitchen faucets, on the other hand, come in sturdier designs and components that focus more on utility and stability. They usually contain sturdy metal materials that help them last longer despite being used more often.
Water Supply Line
It might come as a surprise, but there’s a small difference between the supply lines of the two faucets. Kitchen faucets have their lines installed at the bottom, and they pass through the holes in the sink. These lines are left exposed, so it’s easier to turn the main water flow on and off if needed.
Bathroom faucets, on the other hand, often have their supply lines attached to the top area of the fixture. These lines are usually well-hidden behind a wall, so they’re a bit harder to access when repairs or replacements are needed.
Installation
Faucet installation can be challenging for the inexperienced. A bathroom faucet, in particular, often has a lengthier installation process. Bathroom sink plumbing may require professional construction work since the structure is a bit more complicated.
Kitchen faucets installations, though, are a bit more straightforward. People without prior experience can install a new faucet over their kitchen sink by merely following the instruction manual.
Can You Install a Kitchen Faucet for Your Bathroom Sink?
Yes, you can, but not always. Several important factors come into play, including hole fitting and water output. You might also want to consider the overall design of your bathroom when considering this unorthodox installation.
Hole Fitting
More often than not, kitchen and bathroom sink plumbing are very different from each other. If you’re planning a DIY installation, we recommend doing research or consult with your plumber beforehand.
Kitchen faucets have varying sink hole sizes for the water hoses, which allow for multiple handles or single hose nozzles. The water hose hole differences are among the most significant hurdles when you want to use them for your bathroom.
Bathroom sinks often use 4-inch holes. So if you’re kitchen faucet has the same hole circumference, it’s possible to install them. Otherwise, you’d have to resort to making complicated adjustments that can cause damage to both your faucet and sink when done incorrectly.
Water Output
The depth of your bathroom sink needs to be sufficient. Otherwise, the strong water output of a kitchen hose might overwhelm the smaller drainage. With that said, it’s pretty easy to control the water output of kitchen faucets nowadays to prevent flooding.
Design
Do you mind if a kitchen faucet in your bathroom looks a little out of place? Their larger and bulkier designs of kitchen faucets might look awkward with a smaller bathroom bowl. Another thing that needs consideration is the spacing between handles, which is typically wider in kitchen sinks. Unless you have a smaller kitchen faucet, be prepared to have bemused guests whenever they take a trip to your bathroom.
Weigh Your Options
So, can a kitchen faucet fit a bathroom sink? Yes, as long as you meet the requirements above, installation is entirely possible. If you have an extra faucet lying around your house and don’t want to spend money on a new one, why not use it? Another reason why installing a kitchen faucet might be the ideal choice is wanting its features in your bathroom.
As we’ve mentioned before, always do thorough research before starting any DIY projects. After all, plumbing is a complicated endeavor; if you make the wrong move, it might end up costing you more than if you had hired a professional from the start.
If you don’t think that your kitchen faucet is a good fit for the bathroom, don’t worry. Many bathroom faucet models on the market don’t just look great with any bathroom—they also have plenty of useful features.