Keep Things Flowing Smoothly With the Best Galley Kitchen Faucet

Galley kitchens present a unique challenge. With their efficient layouts optimized for smaller spaces, every inch counts. That's why selecting the right galley kitchen faucet is so important.

The faucet serves as the kitchen's focal point and needs to offer maximum function within a compact footprint. The wrong choice can hamper meal prep and cleanup. The right pick can help keep things flowing smoothly in your galley kitchen.

What to Look for in a Galley Kitchen Faucet

When choosing a faucet for a galley kitchen, there are a few key factors to consider:

Size

Since galley kitchens are narrow, you'll want a faucet with a smaller deck plate at the base so it doesn’t dominate your precious counter space. The spout reach should also be relatively short - around 8 inches - so the faucet doesn’t bump the backsplash. Lever style handles take up less room than knobs.

Opt for a compact single-hole configuration if your current sink or countertop allows for it. This will maximize your working area around the smaller sink basin.

Maneuverability

The faucet needs to offer flexibility to reach all areas of the sink comfortably. A 360-degree swiveling spout lets you pivot the water flow as needed. Gooseneck designs allow you to maneuver the spout out of the way.

Also consider a pull-down or pull-out spray head. This gives you extended reach across the entire sink without excessive bending and straining. For even more functionality, add a side spray, provided you have the countertop space.

Efficient Operation

In a galley kitchen, opt for a single lever handle rather than two separate hot and cold handles. This allows you to fine-tune water temperature and control flow with just one hand - very helpful when working in tight quarters.

For ultimate convenience, look for hands-free faucets that activate via motion sensors. Wave your hand to trigger the flow instead of manually turning the handle knob.

Space-Saving Design

Wall-mount faucets are ideal for small galley kitchens, as they free up valuable counter space around the sink. The spout and handles mount directly to the wall rather than the countertop.

For additional flexibility, consider a pot filler fold-away faucet. When not in use, this accessory faucet swings out of the way against the wall to maximize your prep space.

Popular Galley Kitchen Faucet Styles

Here are some top galley kitchen faucet types to consider:

Pull-Down Spout

These offer a combined stream and spray function via a retractable hose and head that pulls down for extended reach. The single lever handle is simple to use with one hand. Useful settings like sweep spray, pause/stream, and boost modes expand functionality.

Pull-Out Spout

Similar to pull-down faucets but with the sprayer head pulling out horizontally from the spout. The compact design works well for shallow sinks. You still get great range of motion and the same handy spray modes.

Wall-Mount

As mentioned earlier, wall-mounted faucets are perfect for opening up counter space. They require installing separate angle stop valves for hot and cold water. But if your current supply lines are properly positioned, wall-mount faucets can be an easy upgrade.

Commercial Style

Commercial kitchen faucets offer affordable functionality. They have a simple single-hole deck mount and flexible gooseneck spout that swings back into place. Cross handles add a pro-style look while taking up minimal space.

Bridge Kitchen Faucets

The handles mount to a bar or "bridge" above the spout rather than the countertop. This frees up space around the sink. Look for a bridge sized appropriately for your galley kitchen. Well-made models have a reinforced brace to prevent sagging.

Key Features and Considerations

Here are some other important faucet features and installation factors to keep in mind for a galley kitchen:

Spout Height and Reach

Check that the faucet height and spout reach suit your specific sink basin size. High arc spouts allow more clearance. But a lower profile pull-down spout may work better in a shallow galley sink.

Installation Type

Be sure to get the right configuration for your existing sink holes and countertop material. Common options are 1-hole, 2-hole, 3-hole, and wall-mount. You can use deck plates to cover unused holes.

Materials

Stainless steel provides a sleek, modern look that is easy to coordinate and keep clean. Solid brass offers a traditional styling. For budget buys, look for sturdy plastic components with metal accents.

Extras

Consider convenient add-ons like matching soap/lotion dispensers, hot water dispensers, filtration systems, and smart faucet controls. But weigh the extra costs against the compact footprint of your galley kitchen.

Our Top Galley Kitchen Faucet Picks

Here are some great galley kitchen faucet options we recommend:

Best Overall: Kohler K-780-VS Simplice

Our top choice is the Kohler Simplice pull-down kitchen faucet. It has a super sleek design perfect for contemporary galley kitchens. The high arc provides superior clearance. Kohler's tangle-free DockNetik hose system smoothly retracts the spray head.

Best Budget: Moen 5923EWSRS Align

For a wallet-friendly galley kitchen faucet, the Moen Align is a great balance of value and performance. Its Spot Resist stainless finish prevents water spots and fingerprints. The Power Clean spray technology offers solid pressure without splashing.

Best Stylish: Delta Faucet Kate Single-Handle

Bring chic style to your galley kitchen with the Kate faucet by Delta Faucet. The slim single-lever handle and swiveling spout have a graceful and streamlined profile. The MagnaTite docking draws the spray wand in smoothly.

Best Innovation: Kohler K-72218-VS Sensate Touchless

For state-of-the-art convenience, Kohler's Sensate faucet lets you turn water on and off with just a simple hand motion. This innovative touchless operation frees up your hands when prepping or cleaning in a compact galley kitchen.

Galley Kitchen Faucet Installation Tips

Here are some quick tips for hassle-free faucet installation:

• Carefully measure your existing sink and countertop holes/spacing to select a properly configured faucet.
• Use a wide faucet deck plate or escutcheon to conceal extra holes not needed for your new galley faucet.
• Choose a faucet with a low-positioned pull-down spray head to maximize clearance.
• Adjust supply line connections for optimal spout range of motion.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for any special tools or specific mounting considerations.

The key is finding the right mix of compact size, convenience, and maneuverability when selecting a galley kitchen faucet. Extras like touchless operation and pull-down sprayers also optimize functionality. Hopefully these galley kitchen faucet recommendations have helped narrow down your options.

For more advice on maximizing your cozy galley kitchen, contact our team today. We're always happy to help you keep things flowing smoothly!