A bathtub and shower faucet combo genuinely serves as the most functional and essential fixture in a family bathroom.
In fact, the best combo is fundamentally crucial, as it must reliably control the water for both a relaxing bath and an invigorating shower.
5 Best Bathtub and Shower Faucet Combos
1. Best Overall: Delta Faucet Lahara 14 Series Tub and Shower Trim Kit
- From Delta’s incredibly popular Lahara collection, this combo offers a beautiful and versatile design.
- Specifically, it features a graceful, wave-like silhouette that brings a touch of transitional style to any bathroom.
- As a result, its timeless look is a perfect fit for a wide range of decor, from classic to contemporary.
- Furthermore, you must install this trim kit with Delta’s MultiChoice® Universal Rough-in Valve.
- This actively allows you to upgrade your faucet style in the future without altering the in-wall plumbing.
- The faucet, in addition, uses a Monitor® 14 Series pressure-balanced valve cartridge.
- This actively protects you and your family from sudden, dangerous changes in water pressure.
- The matching tub spout includes a pull-up diverter that is simple and reliable to use.
- Ideal for any master or family bathroom that requires a proven, reliable, and stylish fixture.
- Moreover, it is perfect for users who want the trusted durability of Delta’s core technologies.
- People know it for its immense popularity, elegant design, and trusted safety features.
- In conclusion, it represents the best all-around choice for a durable and stylish tub and shower combo.
2. Best for Modern Style: Moen Gibson Posi-Temp Tub and Shower Trim Kit
- From Moen’s chic and contemporary Gibson collection, this is a top choice for a modern bathroom.
- In particular, it features a clean, single-handle design with soft curves and a modern spout.
- Consequently, its sophisticated and minimalist look is perfect for a contemporary or transitional space.
- You must design this system to work with Moen’s legendary Posi-Temp® pressure-balancing control valve.
- This valve actively maintains water temperature very precisely to prevent scalding and cold shocks.
- Furthermore, the combo includes a large, 6.5-inch rainshower head for excellent water coverage.
- The tub spout features a built-in diverter for a clean, integrated appearance.
- In addition, Moen offers this in their Spot Resist™ finish, which repels fingerprints and water spots.
- This faucet is ideal for users creating a sharp, contemporary, or minimalist bathroom design.
- Also, it is perfect for those who value the proven, rock-solid reliability of Moen’s Posi-Temp® valve.
- People know it for its sleek, modern look and its trusted, safe performance.
- Ultimately, it represents a perfect fusion of bold modern style and everyday, family-safe functionality.
3. Best for Versatility: Delta Faucet Linden with In2ition Two-in-One Shower
- From Delta’s nature-inspired Linden collection, this faucet combo offers maximum shower flexibility.
- Specifically, the key feature is the included In2ition® Two-in-One Shower Head.
- This innovative design cleverly combines a fixed, outer shower head with a detachable inner handheld shower wand.
- Consequently, you can use the drenching full shower, just the hand shower, or both at the same time.
- Actively this is perfect for rinsing hair, bathing children, washing pets, or cleaning the tub and shower walls.
- Furthermore, you must install this trim kit with the versatile MultiChoice® Universal Rough-in Valve.
- The faucet also uses a Monitor® 14 Series pressure-balanced valve for reliable anti-scald protection.
- The matching tub spout includes a simple pull-up diverter to switch the water flow.
- This faucet is ideal for busy family bathrooms where the flexibility of a handheld shower is a major benefit.
- Moreover, it is perfect for anyone who wants a more versatile and functional shower experience.
- People know it for its clever and highly practical In2ition® two-in-one shower head design.
- In the end, it represents the best choice for bringing ultimate flexibility to your tub and shower combo.
4. Best for Transitional Style: Kohler Forte Rite-Temp Bath and Shower Trim Kit
- From Kohler’s elegant and versatile Forte collection, this combo blends classic and modern cues.
- In particular, it features a fluid, elegant design with a classic lever handle and a substantial spout.
- As a result, its timeless, transitional aesthetic is a safe and beautiful choice for almost any decor.
- You must pair this trim with Kohler’s high-quality Rite-Temp® pressure-balancing valve.
- This valve actively maintains your set water temperature within a safe +/- 3 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In addition, it features a high-temperature limit stop for an extra layer of anti-scald protection.
- The manufacturer built the trim from premium metal for a solid, durable, and high-end feel.
- The shower head, furthermore, uses Kohler’s MasterClean™ spray face, which resists mineral buildup.
- This faucet is ideal for users who want a timeless design that is not tied to a specific trend.
- Also, it is perfect for those who appreciate the robust engineering and lasting quality of the Kohler brand.
- People know it for its versatile, transitional design and its durable, safe Rite-Temp® valve.
- Ultimately, it represents a premium, long-lasting investment that performs beautifully.
5. Best Value: Pfister Rhen Tub and Shower Faucet Trim Kit
- From Pfister’s stylish Rhen collection, this combo offers a “soft modern” look at a great price.
- Specifically, it features a beautiful single-handle design and a modern, angular tub spout.
- Consequently, it provides a high-end, on-trend look at a very accessible price point.
- You must design this trim to work with Pfister’s reliable pressure-balancing rough-in valve.
- The valve actively protects your family from sudden and unsafe changes in water pressure.
- Furthermore, the shower head is a key feature, as it offers three distinct spray functions.
- You can, for instance, easily switch between a full spray, a massage jet, and a combination spray.
- The manufacturer also engineered it with wipe-clean nozzles for easy removal of hard water buildup.
- This faucet is ideal for budget-conscious renovators who do not want to sacrifice style or features.
- In addition, it is perfect for guest bathrooms where a versatile shower head is a welcome bonus.
- People know it for its stylish design, its multi-function shower head, and its excellent value.
- In conclusion, it represents a smart and stylish choice for achieving a beautiful look on a budget.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best bathtub and shower faucet combo genuinely means you must focus on the critical valve inside your wall; consequently, understanding this core component is the key to a safe and lasting installation.
The Heart of the System: The Rough-In Valve
First of all, the most important part of your shower faucet is the rough-in valve. This is the brass fixture that your plumber installs inside the wall. The handle, spout, and showerhead you see are just the “trim.” You must understand that the valve and the trim have to be compatible. Therefore, you must always buy a valve from the same brand as your trim kit.
Safety First: How a Pressure-Balancing Valve Works
Indeed, the primary job of a modern shower valve is to keep you safe from scalding. A pressure-balancing valve (like Delta’s Monitor® or Moen’s Posi-Temp®) is the most common safety technology. It constantly senses the pressure of the hot and cold water. For example, if someone flushes a toilet, the cold water pressure drops. The valve instantly senses this and reduces the hot water pressure to match, thereby preventing a dangerous surge of hot water from reaching you.
Understanding the Trim: Spouts, Diverters, and Showerheads
Furthermore, the visible “trim” is where you can express your style.
The Tub Spout and Diverter: The tub spout’s main job is to fill the tub. It also contains the diverter, which is the small pull-up knob or button that you use to redirect the water flow up to the showerhead.
The Showerhead: In addition, you should look for a showerhead with modern features. For instance, easy-to-clean nozzles made of soft rubber are a must-have for areas with hard water. Many showerheads also offer multiple spray patterns for a more customized experience.
The Universal Advantage: Brands like Delta
Finally, some brands make future upgrades much easier. Delta’s MultiChoice® Universal Valve, for instance, is a brilliant innovation. Once your plumber installs this valve in the wall, you can change or upgrade your Delta shower trim to a new style at any point in the future without ever having to change the expensive, in-wall plumbing again.
Tips
You Must Always Buy the Correct Rough-In Valve
First and foremost, you must purchase the specific rough-in valve model that the manufacturer requires for your chosen trim kit; consequently, this is the only way to ensure a proper fit and a leak-free, safe shower.
You Should Set the High-Temperature Limit Stop
During installation, you should ask your plumber to set the adjustable high-temperature limit stop on the valve; consequently, this provides an extra layer of anti-scald protection by limiting how far the handle can turn to the hot side.
You Need to Choose a Cohesive Collection
For a professional, designer look, you should choose a tub and shower faucet from a larger bathroom collection; consequently, this allows you to perfectly match your shower trim with your sink faucet and other bathroom accessories.
You Can Easily Upgrade Your Shower Head Later
Remember that the showerhead uses a standard connection; consequently, if you want a different style or more features in the future, you can easily unscrew the old showerhead and install a new one in just a few minutes.
You Should Clean the Nozzles to Maintain Pressure
If you notice your shower pressure weakening over time, you should clean the showerhead nozzles; consequently, you can simply wipe your finger across the flexible rubber nozzles to dislodge any mineral buildup from hard water.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Brand | Valve Technology | Key Feature | Best For |
| 1. Delta Lahara | Delta | Monitor® 14 Pressure-Balanced | Touch-Clean® Nozzles | Overall Performance |
| 2. Moen Gibson | Moen | Posi-Temp® Pressure-Balanced | Spot Resist™ Finish | Modern Style & Reliability |
| 3. Delta Linden | Delta | Monitor® 14 Pressure-Balanced | In2ition® 2-in-1 Shower Head | Maximum Versatility |
| 4. Kohler Forte | Kohler | Rite-Temp® Pressure-Balanced | MasterClean™ Sprayface | Transitional Style & Quality |
| 5. Pfister Rhen | Pfister | Pressure-Balancing | 3-Function Shower Head | Style on a Budget |
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FAQ
Q: What is a tub and shower faucet combo? A: It is a complete fixture set that includes the valve trim, a tub spout with a diverter, and a showerhead.
Q: Do these kits include the main valve? A: No, you must almost always purchase the required in-wall rough-in valve separately from the trim kit.
Q: What is a pressure-balancing valve? A: It is a safety device inside your shower that automatically adjusts for water pressure changes to prevent you from being scalded.
Q: Can I use a Delta trim with a Moen valve? A: No, you absolutely cannot. The trim kit and the in-wall valve must be from the same brand and be compatible.
Q: What is a “diverter” on a tub spout? A: It is the knob or pull-up device on the tub spout that you use to redirect the water from the tub to the showerhead.
Q: How do I know which valve to buy? A: The product description for the trim kit will always specify the exact model number of the required rough-in valve you need to purchase.
Q: Is it easy to replace a tub and shower faucet? A: Replacing just the trim on a compatible valve can be a DIY project, but replacing the in-wall valve itself requires a professional plumber.
Conclusion
The 5 best bathtub and shower faucet combos genuinely provide a safe, reliable, and beautifully coordinated solution for the most-used fixture in your bathroom.
These essential systems, in fact, are built around proven pressure-balancing valve technology that protects your family from scalding.
By choosing a complete, high-quality combo from a trusted brand like Delta, Moen, or Kohler, you are, therefore, ensuring a lasting and cohesive design.
Ultimately, a great tub and shower faucet is a critical investment that delivers daily comfort, peace of mind, and timeless style to your home.