How to Choose the Right Bathtub for Your Bathroom?

Shower stalls are great for a quick rinse-off but sometimes, you just want the deep relaxing soak that only a bathtub can offer. That's exactly where I found myself after a recent move to a new apartment with a potential for a bathtub. But with the excitement comes confusion. What size should I choose? Straight bath, shower bath, single-ended, or double-ended? And what material is best? There's so much to consider! 

In this blog, I will be sharing my experience to equip you with all the knowledge you need to find an ideal bathtub.

Things to Consider When Buying a Bathtub

Your choice of bathtub should be based on a variety of factors. All of these will have an impact on your choice.

Right Size Matters

Before we discuss style and features, consider the practicality. You will need to measure the available space first so you can make the most of the available space. Create a floor layout plan while considering doors, windows, and exciting features. The standard bathtub in the UK measure 1700mm x 700mm

 Here’s a general size breakdown to guide you:

  • Compact or small bathrooms (less than 12 square meters): You will need a space saving bathtub option. Consider 1400mm Or 1500mm straight or shower baths. Corner baths can also be a suitable choice depending on the bathroom layout. 
  • Standard bathroom (12-15 sqm): If you are looking for a bathtub for a family bathroom then a 1700 mm x 700mm offers a good balance of comfort and space optimization. 

Large baths (over 15 sqm): Enjoy a luxurious soak with a large standing bath (1800mm and over) or double bath for the ultimate bathing pleasure.

Bathtub Material

The material for the bathtub is another important consideration that impacts both the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom. 

  • Acrylic: A popular choice, the acrylic baths are lightweight, inexpensive, and come in a variety of shapes. They are less scratch resistant and easier to wash. 
  • Cast Iron: A classic choice, cast iron baths are incredibly durable and hold heat well/ That means you can enjoy a long, warm soak. But they are heavy, expensive, and need a solid bottom to support their weight.
  • Steel: Relatively economical, steel bathrooms are lightweight and durable. However, when filled, it is noisy and does not retain the heat well. 
  • Natural stones: Mostly available in floor standing type, natural stone baths offer a luxurious experience. The granite or marble used in these baths provides a unique aesthetic and excellent warmth. However, they are the most expensive option, require maintenance, and can be quite heavy.

Your Budget

Baths are available at a wide range of prices. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the budget depending on the type, material, and features you are looking for.

Here we have a breakdown of estimated prices of baths in the UK. 

  • Budget-Friendly: £250-£1,000: This range offers basic acrylic or fiberglass built-in or shower-bath combinations. You should add around 100£-200£ additionally as installation costs depending on whether it involves removing the old bathtub first. 
  • Mid-Range: £1,000-£2,000: These include larger acrylic or fiberglass bathtubs, basic cast iron bathtubs, and some whirlpool options. You should add around 100£-200£ additionally as installation costs depending on whether it involves removing the old bathtub first.
  • Luxury: £2,000 and Above: This price range offers high-end materials like stone composite and cast iron, freestanding bathtubs, advanced whirlpool features, and additional amenities like heated backrests. You should add around 200£ additionally as installation costs depending on whether it involves removing the old bathtub first.

Bathtub Style and Shape

Baths are available in a variety of shapes and designs. You will need to choose the one that complements your bathroom aesthetics and bathing preference. Here are a few bath types to consider.

1) Freestanding Baths

 The ultimate in luxury, freestanding baths create a style statement while offering a spa-like bath experience. They have varying shapes like oval, slipper, round, or boat shape. Usually expensive and preferred for large bathrooms. 

Pros: Luxurious aesthetic: focal point in the bathroom, comfortable soaking experience, a wide variety of shapes and styles available.

Cons: Occupy more space, typically more expensive than built-in baths, and may require additional plumbing considerations.

2) Built-in Baths

Classic and space-saving, built-in baths blend seamlessly with your bathroom layout. These come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate any space. 

(A) Straight Baths:

 Most popular choice that is suitable for most bathrooms is, straight bathtubs are space saving, and affordable. They come in various lengths typically (1400mm to 1800mm) and width of 700mm and 800mm. Prefer them for their practicality and space efficiency. 

  • Pros: Affordable, space-saving, versatile, easy to install, wide range of sizes available.
  • Cons: May not offer the luxurious bathing experience of some other styles, limited design options compared to freestanding baths.

(B) Shower Baths

These serve as both a shower enclosure and bathtub in one unit; hence, being ideal for small spaces. With these, one has the flexibility to either take a bath or shower inside it.

  • Pros: A compact, pragmatic solution useful for small spaces; dual functioning units that serve both bathing and showering purposes.
  • Cons: The sensation of being confined, which is not the case with a stand-alone shower or tub. It might also affect tall people’s pleasure while bathing.

P-Shaped, L-Shaped, and Straight Shower Baths

These types of tubs can be used to maximize the efficiency in your bathroom by making use of unused corners. P-shaped and L-shaped ones will give you more bathing areas unlike straight baths while utilizing corner spaces.

  • Pros: Space-saving design for corner installations, allows for a more comfortable bathing experience than straight shower baths.
  • Cons: Limited design options compared to standard straight baths, may require specific plumbing configurations.

(3) Corner Baths

Corner baths are perfect for maximizing space in small bathrooms by using corners that would otherwise be wasted. They often have slimmer dimensions but still offer comfortable bath experiences.

Single Ended Vs Double Ended Baths

Baths are also classified based on interior slop design. Single-ended baths have a backrest with slop on the one end allowing one person to relax in a reclined position. Double ended baths have the slope arm and backrest on the both sides making it a suitable choice for couples. Prefer a single ended bath for space efficiency and prioritizing the comfort in the reclined bathing position. While double-ended baths should be preferred for larger bathrooms with ample space and want to enjoy a sensual bath experience with your partner.  

  • Single Ended Baths: 
    • Pros: More traditional design, offers a comfortable reclined bathing position
    • Cons: Limits bathing to one direction.
  • Double Ended Baths: 
    • Pros: Symmetrical design, allows bathing from either end.
    • Cons: Typically larger and more expensive than single-ended baths.

Top Tips for a Smooth Bathtub Buying Journey

  • Baths are available at various prices. Setting a budget beforehand will help you make the right choice. To determine a budget that you are willing to spend on a bathtub.  
  • How are you going to use your new tub; just for soaking or do you need shower functionality? If for instance, your mobility is limited, think of handrails or step-in features.
  • Research and compare prices from online and high street bathroom retailers. There is a chance that you can get better prices and quality by spending time searching for the variety of options you have available. 
  • Don’t forget to read reviews. By researching user reviews on bathtubs and expert opinions, you will get to know more about real-life experiences of people using different bath types that might help you pick one for yourself.
  • Consider things like tap styles, waste configurations, orientation, and whether it comes with bath panels (for built-in baths) or you will have to order them separately. 
  • Consider maintenance when choosing bathtub materials. Different materials have different ways in which they are cleaned. Ensure that it will be easy for you to clean up by choosing a material based on what works best with your cleaning routine and preferences
  • Prefer the bathtub material that is sturdy, lightweight, easier to clean, and can retain heat for a long time. Think about what characteristics are more important for you and find the one that offers a perfect balance of comfort, aesthetics, durability, and affordability.

Sustainable Choices for Eco-Conscious Buyers

If you are environmentally conscious or want to create a green bathroom, then there are a variety of ways you can incorporate sustainability in your bathtub choice. 

  • Opt for a bathtub that is relatively sturdy and long life. Though it may depend on your usage and maintenance, cast iron and thick acrylic offer better durability. That means you will not need a frequent replacement helping the reduced impact on environmental resources.
  • Always check bath water capacity when choosing the bathtub. A bath with lower capacity will reduce water waste helping you to cut down on bills and reduce impact on the environment. 
  • You may also consider choosing a bathtub that is made from recycled materials. Such baths may be expensive but will help the environment by minimizing the environmental footprints.

Conclusion

My quest for a perfect bathtub taught me valuable lessons. Firstly, start with determining the budget that you can afford. It will make it a lot easier to make a choice. Secondly, a good straight bath can be a perfect fit for a small bathroom. Finally, research and planning are key to choosing the perfect bathtub.