Infold Shower Doors

What is an Infold Shower Door?

Infold shower doors, also called bi-fold doors, are a smart solution for bathrooms where space is tight. These doors are made up of two or more panels that fold inwards, like an accordion. When opened, they fold neatly inside the shower area instead of swinging out into the bathroom.

Here's how they work: The doors are attached to a track at the top and bottom of the shower opening. When you pull the handle, the panels fold in on themselves, creating a wide entrance to your shower. It's a smooth motion that doesn't require much effort.

Now, let's talk about what makes infold doors stand out:

• Space-saving: The big selling point of infold doors is that they don't need extra room to swing open. This makes them perfect for small bathrooms or tight spaces where a regular door might hit the sink or toilet.
• Easy access: When fully open, infold doors create a wide entrance. This is great for people with mobility issues or if you need to clean the shower.
• Sleek look: These doors give your bathroom a modern, clean appearance. They often have minimal frames, which adds to their streamlined look.
• Watertight seal: Good quality infold doors have strong seals to keep water inside the shower where it belongs.
• Variety of styles: You can find infold doors in different materials like glass, acrylic, or even patterned options to match your bathroom decor.
• Low maintenance: The folding design means fewer nooks and crannies where soap scum and grime can build up, making them easier to clean.
• Durability: Most infold doors are made with toughened safety glass and quality hardware, so they're built to last.

One thing to keep in mind is that infold doors need a bit of clearance inside the shower for the panels to fold. This might affect the size of your shower tray or enclosure.

Benefits of Infold Shower Doors

Let's dive into why infold shower doors are such a great choice for many bathrooms.

Space-saving advantages: The biggest plus of infold doors is how they save space. In small bathrooms, every inch counts. These doors fold inward instead of swinging out, so you don't need to worry about them hitting your sink or toilet. This means you can make the most of your bathroom layout, even in tight spots.

Ease of access and functionality: Infold doors are a breeze to use. You just pull the handle, and the panels fold neatly inside the shower area. This creates a wide opening, making it easy to get in and out. It's especially helpful for people with mobility issues or if you need to help kids or pets in the shower.

Modern and sleek design: These doors look great in any bathroom. They have clean lines and minimal frames, giving your space a modern, uncluttered look. Many come in clear glass, which makes your bathroom feel bigger and brighter. But you can also find frosted or patterned options if you want more privacy.

Versatility in bathroom layouts: Infold doors work well in a variety of bathroom setups. They're perfect for alcove showers, corner installations, or even as part of a wet room design. Their flexible design means you can often find a solution that fits your specific bathroom layout.

Types of Shower Enclosures

Now, let's quickly run through the main types of shower enclosures you might come across:

• Infold: As we've discussed, these doors fold inward like an accordion.
• Bi-Fold: Similar to infold, but these usually have two panels that fold in the middle.
• Pivot: These doors swing open on a pivot point, usually from one side. They need some clearance to open, but less than a fully hinged door.
• Hinged: These are like regular doors, swinging outward on hinges. They need the most space to open but offer a wide, unobstructed entrance.
• Sliding: These doors slide along a track, one panel behind the other. They're great for saving space but the entrance is usually narrower.
• Saloon: These have two doors that swing in both directions, like old Western saloon doors. They're less common but they can be a fun design choice.

Each type has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your bathroom size, layout, and personal preference. Infold doors strike a good balance between space-saving and ease of access, which is why they're becoming more popular.

Comparing Infold Shower Doors to Other Door Types

Infold vs. Bi-Fold Shower Enclosures

These two are pretty similar, but there are some differences:

• Space requirements: Both save space, but infold doors might need a bit more room inside the shower.
• Ease of installation: They're about the same. Both need careful alignment to work smoothly.
• Maintenance and cleaning: Infold doors might be slightly easier to clean because they have fewer joints.
• Cost comparison: Prices are usually pretty close, with infold doors sometimes costing a bit more.

Infold vs. Pivot Shower Enclosures

• Space efficiency: Infold doors win here. Pivot doors need space to swing open.
• Door operation and accessibility: Pivot doors offer a wide opening but might be harder for some people to push open. Infold doors are generally easier to operate.
• Aesthetic and design considerations: Pivot doors have a classic look, while infold doors feel more modern.
• Durability and longevity: Both can be durable, but pivot doors have simpler mechanics that might last longer.

Infold vs. Hinged Shower Enclosures

• Space utilisation: Infold doors are much better for tight spaces. Hinged doors need lots of room to swing open.
• Door operation and accessibility: Hinged doors offer the widest opening but can be heavy. Infold doors are easier to manage.
• Aesthetic and design preferences: Hinged doors suit traditional bathrooms, while infold doors fit modern styles better.
• Price points and affordability: Hinged doors are often cheaper, especially for simpler designs.

Infold vs. Sliding Shower Enclosures

• Space efficiency: Both are great for saving space. Sliding doors might edge out infold doors slightly.
• Smoothness and reliability of operation: Sliding doors can be smoother, but they're more prone to issues with the sliding mechanism over time.
• Cleaning and maintenance ease: Infold doors are usually easier to clean. Sliding door tracks can be tricky to keep clean. 
• Cost-effectiveness: Prices are often similar, but it depends on the specific models.

Infold vs. Saloon Shower Enclosures

• Unique features of saloon doors: Saloon doors swing both ways, which can be convenient.
• Comparison of space usage: Saloon doors need more space than infold doors to swing open.
• Style and design preferences: Saloon doors have a distinct look that's not for everyone. Infold doors are more versatile style-wise.
• Practicality in different bathroom layouts: Infold doors work in more layouts. Saloon doors need specific setups to work well.

Overall, infold doors shine in tight spaces and modern bathrooms. They're a good middle ground between ease of use and space-saving. But the best choice really depends on your specific bathroom and what you value most in a shower door.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between an infold and a bi-fold shower door? Infold doors usually have multiple panels that fold like an accordion, while bi-fold doors typically have two panels that fold in the middle. Infold doors often need a bit more space inside the shower, but they can create a wider opening.

Are infold shower doors suitable for small bathrooms? Absolutely! Infold doors are great for small bathrooms because they don't swing out into the room. They fold inwards, saving valuable floor space.

How do I measure my bathroom space for an infold shower enclosure? Measure the width of the shower opening at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest measurement. For height, measure from the top of the shower tray to where you want the enclosure to end. Always double-check your measurements.

Can I install an infold shower door myself, or do I need a professional? While it's possible to DIY, it's often better to get a pro. Infold doors need precise installation to work smoothly. If you're handy and have experience, you might manage, but a professional installation ensures everything works correctly.

What are the best materials for infold shower doors? Toughened safety glass is the most popular and durable option. It comes in different thicknesses, usually 6mm or 8mm. For the frame, look for high-quality aluminium or stainless steel that resists corrosion.

How do I maintain and clean an infold shower enclosure? Regular cleaning is key. Wipe down the glass with a squeegee after each use to prevent water spots. For deeper cleaning, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Don't forget to clean the tracks and check the seals periodically.

Conclusion

Infold shower doors are a smart choice for many bathrooms, especially where space is tight. They combine practicality with a modern look, offering easy access without swinging out into your bathroom.

When choosing a shower enclosure, think about your bathroom size, your style preferences, and how simple the door is to use and maintain. Infold doors tick a lot of boxes, but what's most important is finding the right fit for your specific needs.

If you're considering an infold shower door or want to explore other options, check out our selection at Bathroom Supplies Online. We've got a wide range of shower enclosures to suit different tastes and budgets.

Ready to upgrade your shower? Browse our collection of infold shower doors now. We've got options to fit any bathroom, and our team is here to help if you have questions. Don't settle for a shower that doesn't work for you; find your perfect enclosure today!