Updating or completely refurbishing your bathroom and looking for the right bath to suit your budget, design, space and comfort needs? Here’s a helpful guide to choosing the right bath for your bathroom.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BATH FOR YOUR BATHROOM
Choosing the right bath for your bathroom can make a huge difference in both design and functionality. With so many options available, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide on the best choice for your space, style, and budget.
From different materials to various shapes, sizes, and features, each bath type brings its own advantages. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular bath types, including the unique Carronite baths, different shapes like L-shaped and P-shaped shower baths, and go over the pros and cons to help you make the best decision.
BATH MATERIALS
The material of your bath influences everything from durability to heat retention, so it’s essential to understand what each offers.
1. Acrylic Baths
Acrylic is one of the most common materials for baths in the UK due to its affordability and versatility. Lightweight and easy to shape, acrylic is typically reinforced with fibreglass for added strength.
- Pros:
- Affordable: Acrylic baths are budget-friendly compared to many other materials.
- Good Heat Retention: They keep water warm longer, making for a cosier bath experience.
- Lightweight: They’re easier to install and don’t require heavy-duty floor support.
- Scratch Resistant: While not as resistant as some materials, minor scratches are usually repairable.
- Cons:
- Can Scratch Over Time: Overuse may lead to scratches, but these are typically manageable.
- Durability: Although strong, they may not be as long-lasting as steel or stone baths.
2. Carronite Baths
Unique to the UK, Carronite is a patented material exclusive to Carron Bathrooms, making it a premium choice for those wanting extra durability. Carronite baths are made by adding an extra layer of reinforcement to standard acrylic, making them three times stronger.
- Pros:
- Exceptional Durability: Carronite baths are extremely strong, withstanding high levels of use and less prone to warping over time.
- Heat Retention: The extra layers keep bathwater warmer for longer, ideal for relaxation.
- Noise Dampening: Carronite baths reduce the sound of water filling or draining, adding a level of tranquillity.
- Cons:
- More Expensive: The additional reinforcement increases the cost.
- Heavy: Due to their construction, these baths may require additional structural support.
3. Steel Baths
Steel is another popular material in the UK, known for its sleek appearance and durability. Typically, steel baths are coated with enamel, creating a polished and smooth finish.
- Pros:
- Durable: Steel baths are highly resistant to scratches, dents, and stains.
- Elegant Look: They add a contemporary touch to any bathroom design.
- Excellent Heat Retention: Steel holds heat well once it warms up.
- Cons:
- Cold to Touch Initially: Steel can feel cold, though it warms up quickly with hot water.
- Heavier than Acrylic: Like Carronite, steel baths require adequate floor support.
4. Stone Resin Baths
For a touch of luxury, stone resin baths offer a natural feel with impressive durability. These baths are made from crushed stone and resin, providing an elegant, spa-like quality.
- Pros:
- Luxurious Look and Feel: Stone resin baths are visually striking and feel premium.
- Strong and Durable: They’re very resistant to chips, cracks, and general wear.
- Excellent Heat Retention: Like Carronite, stone resin keeps bathwater warm for long soaks.
- Cons:
- Expensive: Stone resin is generally one of the pricier materials.
- Heavy: Requires substantial floor support due to its weight.
BATH SHAPES
The shape of your bath can have a big impact on the look, feel, and functionality of your bathroom. Here are some of the most popular shapes to consider.
1. Straight Baths
Straight baths are the most traditional option, often rectangular and designed to fit against a wall. These baths are practical and space-saving, making them a popular choice for smaller bathrooms.
- Pros:
- Space-Efficient: Ideal for compact bathrooms as they fit neatly against a wall.
- Affordable: Typically less expensive than freestanding or shaped options.
- Versatile: Works well with shower screens for a bath-shower combination.
- Cons:
- Less Style Impact: Straight baths are functional but may lack the style appeal of freestanding or uniquely shaped baths.
2. Freestanding Baths
Freestanding baths are the epitome of luxury, making a statement in any bathroom. Available in a variety of designs, including clawfoot, slipper, and contemporary styles, freestanding baths don’t require walls for installation.
- Pros:
- Luxurious Aesthetic: Freestanding baths instantly add style and sophistication.
- Flexible Placement: Can be placed anywhere with adequate plumbing, allowing for creative design.
- Cons:
- Space Requirements: Freestanding baths need open space around them, making them less suited to small bathrooms.
- More Expensive: Freestanding baths tend to cost more than built-in options.
3. Shower Baths (L-Shaped and P-Shaped)
Shower baths are a popular choice where a separate shower enclosure isn’t practical. The L-shaped bath has a squared-off showering end, while the P-shaped bath features a rounded end to create more room.
- Pros:
- Dual Functionality: Combines a bath and a shower in one, ideal for homes with limited space.
- Modern Design: L- and P-shaped baths add a contemporary look to bathrooms.
- Cons:
- Requires More Space than a Straight Bath: These baths are typically larger at one end, requiring more floor space.
- Higher Cost than Straight Baths: Slightly pricier due to the additional material and shape.
BATH SIZES
Baths come in a range of sizes, which can affect comfort, usability, and space within the bathroom. Here’s a breakdown of common sizes and what to consider for each.
- Small Baths (1400mm – 1600mm): Ideal for small bathrooms, compact baths provide functionality without taking up too much space.
- Pros: Saves space and allows for other fixtures like a larger sink or additional storage.
- Cons: May feel cramped for taller users.
- Standard Baths (1700mm – 1800mm): The most common size in UK homes, a standard bath balances comfort with space efficiency.
- Pros: Comfortable for most users, offering plenty of room for a soak without overwhelming the space.
- Cons: May not suit very small or very large bathrooms.
- Double-Ended Baths: These baths are typically larger, allowing two people to bathe comfortably. Both ends of the bath are sloped, with the taps and waste positioned in the middle.
- Pros: More spacious and perfect for relaxation.
- Cons: Requires a larger bathroom and may be more expensive.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
When choosing your bath, keep in mind a few other factors, especially for high-traffic homes or homes with elderly individuals or young children.
- Anti-Slip: Look for baths with anti-slip surfaces, especially if you have children or elderly family members. Many acrylic and Carronite baths come with anti-slip coatings, while steel and stone may require additional treatment.
- Depth and Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to get in and out of the bath. Lower baths or baths with wider edges may be better for those with mobility issues.
- Taps and Overflow Placement: Depending on the shape and size of your bath, consider where taps and overflows are placed. Freestanding baths often have taps separate from the bath itself, while inset or straight baths typically integrate them within the structure.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BATH FOR YOUR NEEDS
- Small Bathrooms: Compact straight baths, shower baths, or L-shaped/P-shaped baths offer the best use of space in smaller bathrooms without compromising on comfort.
- Large Bathrooms: Freestanding or double-ended baths work beautifully, giving a luxurious and spacious feel.
- Family Bathrooms: Shower baths offer practicality, combining a bath and shower for multi-functional use.
- Relaxation Spaces: If you’re looking to create a spa-like experience, stone resin or Carronite baths hold heat well, enhancing relaxation.
CONCLUSION
The right bath can completely transform your bathroom, offering both functionality and style. With the variety of materials, shapes, and sizes available you can find a bath that perfectly fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Whether you’re designing a luxurious freestanding bath space or maximising a small bathroom with an L-shaped shower bath, choosing the right bath can enhance your home and provide a space to unwind and relax.