Picking a bathtub for your next renovation is not just about choosing something that looks good. Over the years, I have worked on countless projects, and one thing is clear: a bathtub can make or break the space. The right choice will elevate the experience in your bathroom: enhance relaxation, and visual appeal, and even increase the home’s value. I had experiences with homeowners who made the wrong choice of baths, they wound up with either impractical, outdated, or cramped space. So how many styles of bath are there? Which one is best for your bathroom? This guide will help you explore the different styles, popular baths, the various materials available, and important considerations before buying.
Types of Bath:
1. Freestanding Bath:
The freestanding bathtub is a stylish and timeless addition to any bathroom. Unlike built-in tubs, it stands alone without needing wall support, making its placement flexible. Popular styles of freestanding baths include clawfoot tubs, which stand on claws and are known for their classy elegance; the slipper bath, which is designed with a raised backrest for ergonomic support; and the double ended bath, which has sloped sides for a more balanced look.
Consideration:
Freestanding baths require adequate size and a separate place to store toiletries, making them best suited for larger bathroom layouts. They also add a luxurious focal point to the bathroom and can be customizable to the house’s aesthetic.
2. Walk in Bath:
Walk-in bathtubs provide easy accessibility. They feature a low-threshold entrance and safety options such as non-slip flooring and bath handles. They are designed to make the bathing experience easier and secure for people with mobility issues. Some models include whirlpool jets for hydrotherapy and wheelchair accessibility.
Considerations:
These bathtubs require a longer fill and drain time, and some need plumbing upgrades to accommodate that amount of water. Consider your needs, which size, and the heater capacity before a functional fit.
3. Corner Bath:
A corner bathtub fits neatly in a corner of a bathroom, making it ideal for smaller spaces and special layouts. It often comes in a triangle or curved shapes and various other models. Additionally, they maximise space while still having a deep soak. They can also accommodate more than one person.
Considerations:
Corner baths need careful plumbing placement and take more water than other bathtubs due to their wider size.
4. Jacuzzi Bath:
Also known as whirlpool baths, are designed to prioritize relaxation and hydrotherapy. They feature built-in water/air jets. These tubs help with muscle recovery, massaging effect, improving circulation, and giving your bathroom a spa-like experience. They come in various sizes and different designs (freestanding, corner, and alcove) to fit any space.
Considerations:
Jacuzzi baths require regular maintenance to keep the jets clean, so they won’t be blocked. They also need a powerful water heater and proper professional installation. They also might require more energy to function.
5. P Shaped Bath:
A bath with a shower screen, a P-shaped bath merges a shower and a bathtub, and it also saves space. L shaped baths are also similar to this one, they are designed to have a larger curve on the side so you have extra comfortable space for showering and to prevent water splash. They fit various layouts and offer versatility.
Consideration:
They require additional bath panels and screens. P-shaped baths also require proper sealing and installation.
6. Alcove Bathtub:
Alcove baths are space-efficient options for your bathroom. They usually come in between 3 walls and are rectangular shaped. These tubs are more common in smaller bathrooms, they are usually paired with an overhead shower and are easier to access. They come in many styles and models.
Considerations:
They require precise measurement to fit and may lack aesthetic appeal so they are best suited for practicality over aesthetics. Although, they can be perfect for minimalist designs.
7. Sink Bathtub:
Deep baths, also known as deep soaking or sink bathtubs, are designed for full-body immersion and offer a luxurious and therapeutic experience. They come in different models, such as Japanese baths (soaking baths), under-mount soaking tubs, and freestanding deep baths. Due to their depth, deep baths are compact yet deep, making them perfect for smaller bathrooms. They also provide excellent heat retention.
Considerations:
Deep baths require more water and a stronger water heater to fill a larger tub.
Materials: What are Baths Made Of?
1. Acrylic Bath:
One of the most popular choices, acrylic baths are affordable, lightweight, easy to maintain, and come in many sizes and shapes. They also retain heat and are durable and easy to repair, although they can scratch over time.
2. Cast Iron Bath:
Cast iron bathtubs are a premium choice known for their extreme durability and resistance to damage. They are made of enamel coating and provide excellent heat retention. Cast iron bathtubs are stronger than acrylic and heavier than steel bathtubs. However, they are so heavy that they require reinforced flooring and can get pricey. Unlike cast iron baths, steel baths can balance durability and affordability.
3. Copper Bath:
Balancing between uniqueness and luxury, copper baths develop a patina over time, making them look appealing. They are a natural antibacterial bath, resistant to damage, and retain heat flawlessly. However, they are significantly pricey and require special care as normal bath cleaners may react with the material.
4. Stone Bath:
Stone resin baths are sleek and modern. They provide a high-end look and are very durable. Moreover, they are scratch and stain-resistant and retain heat properly. On the other hand, they are not suitable for DIY as they are heavy, more expensive, and require professional installation.
5. Wood Bath:
Want to have nature visit your home? Wood baths give a luxurious spa-like experience in your bathroom. They can be custom-made to fit anywhere and retain heat perfectly. However, they can be more expensive and require regular maintenance and sealing to keep their waterproofing properties. It is also less durable than other materials.
6. Microcement Bathtub:
Microcement bathtubs are popular due to their minimalistic design. It is waterproof, custom-designed, and highly durable. They can be in different shapes and colours. Despite that, they require professional installation and are colder than other materials.
Popular Baths & Trends:
These are bathtub designs that gained popularity recently:
Smart Bath:
Technology fans are going to be in love with this one! Smart baths are high-tech, futuristic, and luxurious tubs. They have features such as built-in LED lights and Bluetooth, precise and sensor temperature control, and voice activation. You can pre-set your water condition with a smartphone app and have therapeutic options integrated. They do, however, require specific plumbing and electric work which can be costly.
Double Ended Bath:
You might have seen this while scrolling on social media. The double ended bath is designed with sloped backrests on each side while having the bath tap and drain in the middle. This makes it more comfortable and allows two people to bathe at the same time. They add balance for people in love with symmetrical aesthetic designs and are ideal for bigger bathrooms.
Black Bath:
Whether you want matte or glossy, full-black or black and white, black baths are becoming very popular. They create a high-end and unique touch to the bathroom. They can be found in acrylic, stone, and microcement materials. black baths can be used in minimalist, industrial, and gothic aesthetics. Although unique, black baths require regular cleaning as visible water or soap stains can linger.
Important Considerations Before Buying
Choosing the right bathtub requires understanding your bathroom size, layout, and lifestyle needs. In small bathrooms, consider getting space-saving options like a P-shaped, alcove, and sink baths. This will maximize space and functionality. Moreover, in medium-sized bathrooms, you add comfort while accommodating the space by choosing walk in, freestanding, and corner bathtubs. In larger bathrooms, however, you can go for luxurious freestanding, double-ended, or whirlpool baths to be stunning centerpieces.
But the most important thing beyond size is lifestyle needs. A family with children might need a shorter and easily accessible bathtub design. A family with elderly might find walk in baths more proper for safety and mobility concerns. You might have different priorities: relaxation, aesthetics, hydrotherapy, mobility, and correct size. Besides, you should also consider clearance space. Ensure you have at least 500mm clearance around freestanding tubs to allow maintenance access. You should also be aware of your bathroom layout from doors to other furniture.
FAQ
What is the easiest bath to get out of?
The easiest bath to get in and out is a walk in bath due to its mobility facilitation. other types like alcove and P shaped baths can have a lower step-over height or a wider standing area.
How to seal a bath?
Use a bath sealant tape around the areas you want to be sealed, then use a waterproof anti-mould sealant to fill in, check this blog for the full guide. You can also find out how to remove bath sealant.
How to Get rid of mould in bathtub?
Scrub with white vinegar and baking soda. check your bathtub material first before using any harsh chemicals. this blog has the full guide on how to get rid and prevent mould in your bathroom.
What is the standard size of a bathtub?
The standard bathtub size in the UK is 1,700mm (L) x 700mm (W), but sizes vary based on style and space. Choosing the right fit ensures comfort and functionality. Need expert help? Our professional renovators at AV Modern Bathrooms can guide you. discuss your projects by calling us at +44 1942 365989 and emailing us at info@avmodernbathrooms.com. You can also visit our showroom at 69-71 Higher Parr Street, St. Helens, WA9 1AD, UK (our main office is in St. Helens, but we proudly serve customers across the North West, North Wales, and parts of the Midlands). Our renovations start at only £3600, Get your free quote now!