What Are the Different Types of Baths?: Soaking Up the Options

Let's talk about baths—not just as practical household fixtures, but as a bit of a getaway where you can unwind at the end of a busy day. Finding the right bath can really elevate your bathroom from a standard washroom to a relaxing spa-like retreat. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the different types of baths out there, helping you find the perfect match for your space and relaxation needs. From the space-efficient single-ended baths to the luxurious double-ended ones, we've got plenty to cover.

Single Ended Baths

A single-ended bath is characterised by its design, where the taps and waste are positioned at one end of the tub, usually against a wall. This classic layout makes it a popular choice in many homes. The most common dimensions for these baths run from 1500mm to 1700mm in length, often with a width of about 700mm. Their straightforward, rectangular shape not only simplifies installation, but also maximises the use of restricted room.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

Single-ended baths are praised for their ability to fit into smaller bathroom layouts without losing the comfort of a full-sized bath. Their form fits well with classic decor and can be a cost-effective choice due to their standard size and ease of installation.

Disadvantages:

A single-ended bath's practical form primarily caters to solo bathers. Sharing the bath can be less comfy, as one person ends up near the tap and waste lines. This can make a dual soak a bit awkward.

Ideal Use Cases

Single-ended baths shine in more compact bathroom areas or where a straightforward, classic aesthetic is wanted. They are ideal for daily baths in family homes or single-occupant houses where room is at a premium but the desire for a relaxing soak isn't hampered.

Double Ended Baths

Double-ended baths, in contrast to their single-ended peers, feature taps and waste positioned in the middle of the bath or along the sides, allowing both ends to be sloped and comfortable for sitting. This symmetrical design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also improves the usefulness of the bath. Typical measurements for double-ended baths are generally more generous, often stretching beyond 1700mm in length, which allows for greater freedom in terms of movement and rest.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

A double-ended bath layout is ideal for couples or parents bathing with children because it provides extra room and comfort for two users at the same time. Its symmetrical design adds a modern touch to bathroom decor, making it a choice for contemporary spaces.

Disadvantages:

The biggest drawback of a double-ended bath is its size. It typically needs a larger bathroom to safely handle its dimensions, which may not be possible in more compact homes.

Ideal Use Cases

Double-ended baths are particularly well-suited to bigger, more modern bathrooms. They cater well to those who value spaciousness and modern style in their bathing experience, making them a luxurious addition to ensuite baths or family homes where the bathroom space is not limited.

Walk-In Baths

The idea of a walk-in bath might seem self-explanatory, but there’s quite a bit more to these innovative fixtures than meets the eye. Walk-in baths are specially designed baths that offer easy entry through a side door, eliminating the need to step over a high wall to enter the bath. This feature alone makes them an invaluable asset for the elderly, those with mobility problems, or anyone who finds entering and exiting a traditional bath difficult.

Walk-in baths are not a new idea, but their design and technology have evolved significantly over the years. Originally developed as useful solutions for those with limited mobility, these baths have surpassed their utilitarian roots to become stylish fixtures in modern bathrooms. Today’s walk-in baths are equipped with various features, such as whirlpool jets, adjustable shower heads, and in-built seats, mixing safety with spa-like luxury.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

Walk-in baths have the primary benefit of improving bathroom safety. By featuring a door that allows direct walk-in access, these baths minimise the risk of slips and falls associated with traditional bathtubs.

Safety: The low threshold for entry, non-slip flooring, and built-in handrails greatly reduce the risk of accidents in the bathroom.
Accessibility: For those with reduced mobility, walk-in baths restore a level of independence in personal care practices.
Comfort and Therapeutic Advantages: Many walk-in baths come with therapeutic features such as hydrotherapy jets, which can help ease pain and improve circulation.
Style and Value: Modern walk-in baths are meant to be visually appealing, ensuring that they enhance the aesthetic of your bathroom while potentially increasing your home’s market value.

Disadvantages:

Walk-in baths can be more costly, both in terms of initial purchase and installation, which often require professional modification of existing bathroom setups. Also, a lot of walk-in baths will struggle to fit into bathrooms where a single or double ended bath would.

Ideal Use Cases

These baths are ideally suited for homes with elderly or disabled family members, giving them a safer, more comfortable bathing solution. They are also helpful in care homes or medical facilities where ease of use and safety are paramount.

Freestanding Baths

Freestanding baths are standalone fixtures that make a strong design statement in any bathroom. They come in various styles, from vintage clawfoot tubs to sleek, modern designs. The common materials used include acrylic, stone, and cast iron, each adding a different aesthetic and feel to the bathroom space. These baths are often positioned as the centrepiece of the bathroom, providing not just functionality but also enhancing the room's decor.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

Their versatility in placement allows for creative bathroom layouts that are not constrained by wall placement or existing structures. The aesthetic appeal of freestanding baths also makes them a focal point in bathroom design, adding an element of luxury.

Disadvantages:

Freestanding baths require a spacious bathroom to accommodate them comfortably, along with considerations for plumbing that may need to be specially configured.

Ideal Use Cases

These baths are best suited for larger bathrooms that focus on design and luxury. They are popular in master suites, where the bath can serve as a relaxation haven.

Steel Baths

Steel baths are known for their robustness and great heat retention capabilities. Made from enamelled steel, these baths are durable and immune to chips, scratches, and stains. Their sleek, glossy finish can complement both traditional and modern bathroom designs, adding a touch of elegance.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

The durability of steel baths makes them a good long-term investment in any bathroom. Their ability to retain heat improves the bathing experience by keeping the water warm for longer periods of time.

Disadvantages:

One downside is that steel baths are heavier than their acrylic peers, which might complicate the installation process. Additionally, the material can feel cold to the touch initially, although it quickly warms once filled with hot water.

Ideal Use Cases

Steel baths are perfect for a wide range of bathroom styles, from modern to classic. They are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a bath that blends longevity with a timeless aesthetic.

Shower Baths

Shower baths provide the dual functionality of a shower and a bath within the same unit, making them a practical option for smaller bathrooms. They usually come in L-shaped or P-shaped designs, which provide extra space at one end for showering. This hybrid design allows for a comfortable shower experience without sacrificing the ability to enjoy a bath.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

These baths are space-savers, allowing both bathing and showering in areas where it would be impossible to fit separate units. Their versatility makes them popular in family bathrooms and flats.

Disadvantages:

While highly functional, shower baths may not offer the same luxurious experience as a dedicated bath due to their more utilitarian design and the need to handle shower fixtures.

Ideal Use Cases

Shower baths are great for small bathrooms where space is at a premium. They are an excellent choice for busy homes where both quick showers and relaxing baths need to be accommodated.

Inset Baths

Inset baths are built into the bathroom structure, providing a seamless look to the surrounding area. They are often integrated with the floor level or set against tiled bathroom walls, giving a clean and streamlined appearance. These designs require specific framing and support but offer considerable design freedom.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

An inset bath offers a sleek, modern look that is easy to clean and maintain. It blends beautifully with the bathroom's general design, improving aesthetic cohesion.

Disadvantages:

The installation of inset baths can be complex and usually requires professional help. This can limit flexibility in terms of placement and subsequent remodeling.

Ideal Use Cases

Ideal for homeowners wanting a built-in, minimalist design that integrates smoothly with the rest of the bathroom. Perfect for modern homes that value clean lines and uncluttered areas.

Summary

We have looked at many different kinds of baths on this blog, each with special qualities and advantages. The accessible walk-in baths to the design-centric freestanding and corner baths; the space-saving and classic single-ended baths to the opulent and symmetrical double-ended baths; the robust steel baths to the multipurpose shower baths; and the smoothly integrated inset baths. We also explored the world of curved baths, which provide a distinctive look and a range of adjustable features.

The best bath for your house depends on your knowledge of the particular requirements of your area and your own lifestyle choices. There is the ideal bath available for every purpose, whether you need one that is accessible, want to attain a particular style, or are searching for a workable solution for small areas.

We encourage you to browse our site, Bathroom Supplies Online, where you’ll find the largest selection of high-quality baths. We guarantee you the greatest choice at the best cost because our selection includes all sizes, materials, and shapes. Using the ideal bath from our wide selection, turn your bathroom into a stylish and relaxing retreat.