Last week, I had someone ask me whether they should put a freestanding tub or a shower in a smaller guest bathroom. They only had room for one and didn’t know which to choose. We often have to decide between one or the other in smaller bathrooms, and there are a few things to consider when you’re making your decision. Here are the top points to think about!

When Do You Plan to Sell?

Is this your forever home, or are you planning to sell in a few years? The resale value of a home with a bathtub is actually higher, especially if it’s a freestanding tub. Most people equate tubs with relaxation, soothing sore muscles, and relieving stress, so it’s a popular item in the bathroom. But if this is your forever home, you may want to have a walk-in shower to make things easier as you (and your guests) age.

Who Is Using that Bathroom?

It’s so much easier to bathe very small children in a bathtub - that’s a fact. So if your bathroom will have littles in it, then you will definitely want a tub. If it’s a guest room, very few guests will take a bath. Most would prefer to quickly shower when they’re staying with you. And if it’s a primary bathroom, or one that you or a significant other will use regularly, consider what you prefer and your own age. As we age, a walk-in shower is much easier for us to navigate!

What Room Size Are You Working With?

A step-in shower takes up a lot less space - you can even fit one in a small corner. A bathtub needs much more room. So measure and consider carefully. And of course, you can always go with the old standard tub-and-shower combo. It’s a classic for a reason.

Consider the Best of Both

If you have the space, of course it’s best to go with both a freestanding shower AND a freestanding bathtub. And there are new “wet room” designs that include a freestanding tub inside of a large shower room. That gives you everything you want in a smaller profile.

Which do you prefer, a bath or a shower? Let me know in the comments section below!

Warmly,

Beth