The Best Tabletop Fountains

Buying Guide for Tabletop Fountains

Why buy a tabletop fountain?

Tabletop fountains are smaller versions of pool or garden fountains designed to sit on a table, desk, or flat surface. These little decorative fountains come in various sizes and styles; they typically consist of a small basin or reservoir that holds water, a pump that circulates the water, and some type of decorative elements, such as rocks, plants, figurines, or lighting. The main reason most people invest in a tabletop fountain, however, is for their sound. The sound of flowing water can have a calming effect on the mind and body, making tabletop fountains an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a peaceful and relaxing environment in their home or office. Tabletop fountains can also double as a natural humidifier, adding moisture to the air and helping to alleviate dryness and discomfort.

What should you look for in a tabletop fountain?

• Size: Though they’re much smaller than typical outdoor fountains, tabletop fountains come in various heights and widths, so choosing one that fits the available space is essential. Consider where you plan to display your new fountain, the tabletop’s dimensions, or surface where the fountain will be placed, and choose a model that will fit onto your table, shelf, or countertop. Larger fountains will also be heavier than smaller ones, so you’ll also want to consider how much a fountain weighs and if your table or desk is strong enough to support it.
• Materials: Tabletop fountains can be made from various materials, including stone, glass, resin, or metal. Stone fountains are a popular choice for their natural look and durability and can be polished or left rough for a more rustic look. Glass fountains are a more delicate option. Still, they can be incredibly beautiful and add a touch of elegance and color to any room. Resin fountains are known for their affordability, lightweight construction, and ability to resemble stone or metal, making them a versatile option for those looking for a specific style. Metal fountains are durable and add a touch of sophistication to any room. They can be made from copper, bronze, or stainless steel and can be found in a range of finishes, from polished to matte.
• Pump: The pump is a critical component of a tabletop fountain, and choosing a fountain with a reliable and high-quality pump is important. Look for a fountain with a pump that is durable, quiet, and easy to access. A well-functioning pump will ensure that the water flows smoothly and continuously, providing the calming and soothing effect that tabletop fountains are known for, without being too noisy. It should be made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand regular use over an extended period. Some of the most durable pumps are made from stainless steel or ceramic. You’ll also want a pump that’s easy to access and remove for maintenance and cleaning. This will allow you to clean the pump regularly, which is essential for keeping your new fountain functioning properly.

How do you use and maintain a tabletop fountain?

To start using your tabletop fountain, first, fill the reservoir with clean water until it reaches the recommended level. (Tap water or distilled water are both suitable options.) Be careful not to overfill the fountain, as this can cause the water to spill over. Once the reservoir is filled with water, ensure that the pump is submerged (to avoid damage), plug in the pump to an outlet, and turn it on.

To keep your tabletop in good working order, you’ll want to regularly clean the fountain and its parts. This will help prevent the buildup of algae and other debris. Use a soft brush, cloth, or mild soap to clean the fountain and its components. Also, count on changing the water in the fountain every two to three weeks to keep the water clean and free from impurities. Consider adding a water treatment solution as well to better prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. Follow the instructions on the water treatment solution for the correct dosage, and check the pump regularly to ensure that it is running smoothly. Clean it with the other components as needed and replace it if damaged.

Our Picks for the Best Tabletop Fountains

Pros: Transform your living space or office into a tranquil oasis with this modern-looking tabletop fountain. Its gentle flowing water sound and soft, subtle glow from the built-in lights provide a peaceful and calming environment perfect for meditation, relaxation, or adding a touch of serenity to any room. This fountain is easy to assemble and comes with natural-looking river-like stones that you can shift to whichever of the three tiers you want. You can also personalize it with your crystals, plants, or other decorations to create a more customized look. This model won’t splash water outside of the fountain, so you won’t have to worry about it leaving water stains on your furniture or tabletop.

Cons: Some customers have experienced the fountain breaking or malfunctioning after a period of use, largely due to the plastic frame that isn’t sturdy or durable as other materials. Others noted issues with the power cord or the light flickering due to water flow, which may affect this fountain’s overall aesthetics and functionality.

Bottom Line: This tabletop fountain is an excellent addition to any home or yoga studio, as it creates a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with the soothing sound of flowing water. It’s easy to assemble but comes with stones and light for additional ambiance, making it as soothing to look at as it is to listen to.

 

Pros: Running water and gentle lighting make an excellent combination for a relaxing, calming environment, and this tabletop fountain offers both features. It comes with three optional LED tea lights that can be placed in whichever pillar you want for warm mood lighting without any fire hazards. Also included are plenty of polished river rocks, and other decorative rocks can be added to enhance its beauty, as can succulents, decorative figurines, or other tea lights. Two other design options are also available if you want something different. In addition to its aesthetic features, this fountain is easy to set up thanks to the thorough instructions and offers adjustable water flow to suit your preferences. The motor shouldn’t be too loud, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful ambiance without distractions.

Cons: This fountain must be plugged and unplugged to turn it on and off, as it doesn’t have an on/off switch. Furthermore, some noted that the flowing water might not be loud enough for those seeking a more audible water feature.

Bottom Line: This candle-like table fountain is a great purchase that offers a peaceful and relaxing ambiance, an easy setup, and customizable features. Whether you’re looking for a calming white noise machine or an elegant decorative piece, this table fountain will surely please.

 

Pros: Is your home decorated in more of a pastoral or rustic aesthetic style? This beautiful tabletop fountain will suit your interior decor perfectly. Made of high-quality ceramic, it’s nice and durable and will provide you with years of peaceful ambiance. With its simple yet elegant design of three toadstool-shaped tiers (or one of the two alternate jug-style designs), this fountain will surely fit in with any rustic, cabin, or farmhouse interior decor style. Not only is this fountain aesthetically pleasing, but it also offers adjustable water flow to fit your preferences. Worried about the noise level? Simply adjust the water flow using the knob on the pump to find the perfect level. With easy assembly plus a simple pump to set up and adjust, this fountain is as functional as it is beautiful. And the motor is relatively quiet, so you won’t be distracted from the peaceful sound of flowing water.

Cons: One drawback of this product is that the fountain may not produce enough sound for those seeking a louder water feature, even with the ability to adjust the water flow. You may also find that the connectors on the pump aren’t very snug, which could cause issues with the fountain’s operation.

Bottom Line: This fountain’s pottery-like look, glaze, and colors make it an excellent match for homes with rustic-style decor. Plus, its soothing water sound is perfect for creating a calming atmosphere, whether you’re trying to destress after a long day or just enjoy the sound of nature.

 

Pros: This tabletop fountain provides your home with the tranquil sound of trickling water, and the mesmerizing spinning ball at the peak further adds to the calming ambiance, making it easier to relax and unwind after a long day. Plus, the spinning ball is made of glass and creates a soft, soothing light, making it a great night light or a beautiful addition to any room. This fountain also adds humidity to the air, which benefits dry environments. The adjustable water pressure speed lets you choose between a quiet trickle or a bubbling waterfall to customize the flowing water sound more to your liking.

Cons: The directions for the setup/operation of this fountain may be difficult to follow, making the assembly process more challenging, especially if you haven’t used a tabletop fountain before. The water may evaporate quickly, so it needs to be refilled more frequently than other models. Additionally, some customers reported that the materials used to make the fountain aren’t the most high quality.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a more natural-looking tabletop fountain, this model and its stone-like construct will be right up your alley, especially since it’s much more lightweight than a fountain made of real stone. And the unique spinning orb atop this fountain gives it a bonus relaxing and soothing feature that most of its cousins lack.

 

Pros: Looking for a beautiful and eye-catching addition to your home or office? With its attractive flower-and-buttery design and eye-popping multicolors, this fountain will surely draw the eye and enhance your space. If you’re worried about the fragility of the glass or the colors, there are three other less colorful but still beautiful design options from which to choose. This fountain is also known for its calming and relaxing properties, creating a peaceful and soothing atmosphere. It’s also a great way to add humidity to a dry room, making it ideal for cold months.

Cons: As beautiful as this fountain may be, you might still experience issues with the sound of the pump drowning out the flowing water or water splashing over the sides. Additionally, some customers have reported rust and crystallization issues around the fountain’s edges, which can also cause damage to surrounding surfaces.

Bottom Line: You’ll be hard-pressed to find a tabletop fountain that’s more beautiful or more colorful than this sleek glass model. Don’t miss out on the chance to add beauty and relaxation to your space, no matter which of the four design options you choose.

Final Thoughts

Tabletop fountains are a beautiful and functional addition to any living space. Not only do they add aesthetic appeal to a room, but they also provide benefits like relaxation, humidification, and a calming ambiance. Overall they’re a great investment for anyone looking to add a touch of beauty and tranquility to their home or office.