Shopping for a new faucet? Here's a bit of advice from people in the know on how to narrow down the plethora of choices to select the fixture that's perfect for you.

"Brushed nickel has a warmer, softer look than chrome. I think it looks more expensive. Plus my clients tell me it's easier to clean since it doesn't get water spots" - Natalia Dragunova, owner/designer, Notion LLC

Finish

When a client meets with Jessica Dobrushin, lead WATERSOURCE specialist at Don's Appliances, to help narrow down their faucet selection, finish is where she starts. "Not every manufacturer makes every finish," Dobrushin says, "So if the client wants a particular finish, that might dictate the lines we look at."

Form

The faucet is a key design decision during a kitchen or bath remodel. It sets the tone for the style of the space," Before you begin your search, take a picture of the sink you plan to update, noting its dimensions and hole configurations. Or if you're renovating the space, collect photos of bathrooms and fixtures you like.

"My family likes the sleek, contemporary style of this faucet- even the way the water looks when it's running out of it." -Alison Erhard, homeowner

Function

Here are some hot new features to consider:

TOUCH is great for when you are working with chicken, eggs, or anything messy. Just touch the faucet- it can be with an elbow or wrist- to turn the water on.

HANDS-FREE can be operated via a foot control or by a motion sensor in the base of the faucet.

GROHE BLUE has three settings for filtered and chilled water: still, medium, full sparkling

"The Grohe Blue is an awesome faucet. It allows for on-demand, filtered, chilled and sparkling water." -Jessica Dobrushin, WATERSOURCE