Honestly, I’ve swapped out both Delta and Moen faucets, and I’d say they’re pretty neck-and-neck for installation. Delta sometimes has those “EZ Install” features, but I’ve still found myself crawling under the sink, cursing at a stubborn gasket or two. Moen’s instructions are usually a bit clearer, at least in my experience, but the hardware can be a little more fiddly. That said, I think the gasket confusion is just par for the course—plumbing always seems to throw a curveball, no matter the brand.
Mixing brands isn’t a big deal unless you’re super particular about matching finishes or handle shapes. I’ve got a Moen faucet and a Delta showerhead in one bathroom, and honestly, nobody’s ever noticed. Functionally, they both hold up well over time. If you like the look, go for it. The only time I’d worry is if you’re trying to match something like brushed nickel across different brands—sometimes the tones are just a hair off. But for most folks, it’s not a dealbreaker.
I hear you on the “EZ Install” claims—last time I swapped a Delta, I spent more time contorting under the sink than actually tightening anything. Honestly, I’ve had a Kohler faucet outlast both my Moen and Delta ones, but the install was a pain. As for mixing brands, unless you’re the type to notice a half-shade difference in nickel, nobody cares. My guest bathroom is a Frankenstein of finishes and nobody’s ever said a word.
As for mixing brands, unless you’re the type to notice a half-shade difference in nickel, nobody cares.
Right there with you—mix and match all day, nobody notices unless they’re squinting at your fixtures. For longevity, Kohler’s held up best for me too, but I’ll admit their installs are never quick. Moen’s cartridges have given out on me more than once, but swapping parts is easy. If you want set-it-and-forget-it, Toto toilets are tanks—never had to mess with one after install. Just my two cents.
Mixing brands has never bothered me either—honestly, I think it adds a bit of character. I swapped out an old leaky faucet for a Delta last year and it’s been smooth sailing, but I do wish their aerators were easier to clean. For toilets, I went with an American Standard dual-flush to save water. It’s not as bulletproof as Toto, but the eco features are solid and it’s held up well so far. Sometimes you just gotta weigh what matters most—looks, longevity, or those little green perks.
Mixing brands has never really bothered me either, especially when you’re trying to balance function and style. I’ve swapped out plenty of fixtures over the years, and honestly, sometimes the “matchy-matchy” look just isn’t worth the headache or the cost. I put in a Moen faucet in my last flip—super easy install, but I’ll admit, their finish options weren’t as broad as Delta’s. Still, it’s held up great with some pretty heavy use.
On toilets, I’m with you on American Standard. They’re not quite as indestructible as Toto (I swear those things could survive a tornado), but for the price and water savings, they’re tough to beat. I had one in a rental that saw a lot of turnover and it kept chugging along. The only thing I’d say is sometimes the dual-flush buttons get a little sticky if you don’t keep them clean.
At the end of the day, I think mixing brands just comes down to what works best for your space and budget. If it looks good and does the job, that’s a win in my book.