Taps, Tubs, Faucets, Bidets, Lavs, Sinks, Showers...

There are way too many kitchen and bath stores around the city. Each has a different selection of products and their alliances with the various manufacturers. Toilets come to far too many brands, designs, features, and details. Even the colour selection is dizzying, with four different shades of white. So far, we can only decide on a Toto Ultimate toilet in round shape (as opposed to the guy-preferred elongated bowl), in cotton white.

So far, we have visited the following:

Taps - Credited as the original home improvement store, before the invasion of Home Depot and the likes. Lots of people visiting, confused buyers, a busy staff, good selection of products but limited displays. Expect long waits if you don't have an appointment and plan on going on weekends. Parking is a pain as well.

Ginger's - Part of the ELTE family of home decoration stores. Guilty by association for high-end prices to go with their products. Good choice of finishing products, like hardware and accessories. Expect to spend plenty if you decide to take the plunge there. Snooty staff. Lots of gawkers on the weekends as well.

Tubs - Self-proclaimed "Ultimate Bath Store", with lots of selection. Large show room with lots of mock-ups. The design is not as high-end as Ginger's, or Taps. More of a warehouse feel to the store, including the Muzak playing in the background. The staff is very knowledgeable and very willing to help. Access to more products for order so definitely talk to the staff for help. Carries all the big names, like Toto, HansGrohe, Grohe, Kohler, etc.

Trendy Baths - A little unknown place in a Scarborough Chinese mall. Definitely not the place if you are looking for name brands. Carries products that are mostly manufactured in China. Lots of vessel sinks, tall faucets, steam enclosures, and shower systems. They will source Moen, Kohler, Toto, and Maax products if you ask. Quality is good on the Chinese products but check carefully for quality. Parking is a nightmare, be prepared to carry-out if you buy anything.