3 Plumbing Trends I Think You'll Regret

We’ve all been inside those houses — the ones with matching green toilets, green tubs, and green vanities. The ones that instantly transport you back to the sixties. Some homes are so distinctive that you can tell exactly what era they’re from without even asking. How? Because they followed the trends of their day — and those trends didn’t age well.

Before you start installing expensive, “must-have” plumbing products, ask yourself: How will this look in ten years? Will it still feel stylish and functional, or will it date your home just like those avocado-green bathrooms did?

Here are three trending plumbing choices that might not stand the test of time.

1. Freestanding Bathtubs

Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and it seems like everyone has one of these. They look elegant and make the bathroom feel spacious — but let’s be honest: when was the last time you actually took a bath? Most of us love the idea of long soaks, but rarely make time for them.

In reality, freestanding tubs often end up as expensive, underused centerpieces. Think back to the jetted tubs from the ’90s — they seemed luxurious at the time, but now they mostly collect dust (or serve as storage). Unless you’re truly a bath enthusiast, your money and space are probably better spent elsewhere.

2. Black Faucets and Trim

Matte black fixtures are everywhere right now. They’re sleek, bold, and undeniably trendy — but trends fade. Remember how shiny gold fixtures were the thing in the ’80s and ’90s? I replace those almost every week.

While black trim looks modern today, it may soon feel dated and be just as costly to swap out later. For a timeless look, stick with finishes like chrome or brushed nickel. They’re versatile, durable, and never go out of style.

3. Vessel Sinks

These bowl-style sinks sit on top of the vanity and look striking at first glance. Unfortunately, they’re also impractical. The narrow space where the sink meets the countertop is difficult to clean, and grime builds up quickly. Because more surface area is exposed, porcelain and other delicate materials are prone to chipping.

To make matters worse, vessel sinks often require special faucets — either extra-tall ones or wall-mounted versions — adding cost and complexity. Between the cleaning challenges and maintenance issues, this trend is unlikely to have lasting appeal.

Conclusion

Design trends come and go, but functionality and simplicity never go out of style. Before investing in a trendy plumbing upgrade, consider how it will age — and how it fits your lifestyle. The best choices are the ones that make your home both timeless and comfortable, not just Instagram-worthy for a season.