The Ultimate Guide to Bathtub Styles and Materials for Your UK Bathroom

Not all bathtubs are created equal. There are differences in materials, styles, shapes, and sizes. This can make choosing the right one quite daunting. Understanding of these factors will help you choose the bathtub that is the right shape or material.

In this blog, we will discuss the pros and cons of different types and materials of baths, helping you to make the right choice.

Bathtub Types and Styles.

Bathtubs are available in a variety of styles and shapes. Here we have discussed the most popular bath types in the UK.

Standard Baths – Straight, Single-Ended and Double Ended Baths

Standard baths are a highly popular design in the UK.  These are available in various shapes, but most of them have a standard exterior design with variations in the interior. These are available in acrylic material, with each having its own comfort and feel.

Standard baths usually come in two variants, with straight baths that a regular shape, having single-ended and twin-ended baths. Single-ended baths have taps fitted to one end of the tub with a leaning design on the other end to lie back on comfortably. They can be single-ended square or round as well, giving you plenty of choice when it comes to bath design. On the contrary, the two-ended baths have the same design on both ends so that you could lean back on either side with tap fittings in the middle. You can further choose from double-ended square or round shapes as per your requirements. Standard baths give your contemporary or classic look to your washroom.

Shower Baths ( Shower and Bath Combo)

If you don’t have the luxury and budget to install both a shower enclosure and a bath separately, shower baths are the best option for you! A shower bath is a combination of a shower and a bath, a two-in-one combo design. This could be a perfect choice for a family bathroom where you want both options. Available in various sizes ranging from 1400mm to 1800mm in length, they can be suitable for large and small bathrooms alike, depending on the space available.

While you may choose a straight shower bath, there are a variety of shower baths ( with one end slightly wider offering extra room for the shower) in different shapes discussed here. 

• P Shape Shower Bathtubs – P shape shower bathtubs, as the name suggests, have one end of the bath slightly arched, giving it a p shape. They usually come with a curved glass fitted on top, which moderately depicts a shower enclosure’s looks. On one side, the curved edge provides extra space for a comfortable showering experience.
• L Shape Shower Bathtubs – L shape shower bathtubs are edgy shaped, depicting a dense and sleeker look to the bathroom. These are meant for compact and small spaces. These are generally fitted with a glass panel, partly enclosing the shower space. Most L shaped shower baths also have an option for a bath screen with a rail that which adds to its ultra-modern outlook.

Freestanding Bathtub.

A freestanding bathtub stands alone without the support of surrounding walls and structures. Such baths can be placed anywhere in the room, allowing you maximum flexibility as long as plumbing access is available. This makes them a perfect choice as a statement piece for the bathroom. You can choose this bathtub style for its luxurious and modern look. Many homeowners preferred them for creating a spa-like ambiance. Additionally, they come in many different shapes and designs, allowing you to choose the perfect one according to your preference and needs.

Which Bathtub Style Should You Choose?

Choosing a bathtub style depends on various factors such as bathroom size, space available, personal preferences, and aesthetic requirements.

Here we have discussed the perfect match for each bathtub style.

Bathtub Materials: What Works Best in the UK?

The choice of bathtub material is an important consideration, along with bathtub style. It affects heat retention, maintenance, and durability of the bathtub.

• Acrylic: A type of hard plastic that is known for its flexibility and resistance to water damage. The acrylic material includes a lightweight and affordable option with reasonable heat retention properties. Acrylic baths are easy to install due to their lightweight and easy handling. Depending on the size you choose, these baths are suitable for smaller spaces.  Resistance to hard water stains makes it a suitable choice for most UK cities. While the cons include easier scratches and warping over time. Additionally, they are not very sturdy and are less eco-friendly than other options.
• Cast Iron. The premier bathtub material is made by iron melt and the enamel coating layer. The advantages include unbeatable durability and classic aesthetics. Their heat retention is second to none, which makes them ideal for chilly UK winters. The enamel coating on the surface makes them resistant to stains and scratches. However, cast iron bathtubs are extremely heavy (may require floor reinforcement) and may have a much higher upfront cost. 

• Stone Resin. The luxurious bathtub material is made from crushed natural stone with polymer resins and natural minerals. It is non-porous and resists scratches and can retain heat like cast iron. You should prefer this material for the natural and modern look. However, the stone resin baths are expensive and relatively difficult to install.

Which Bathtub Material Should You Prefer?

Material is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a bathtub for your bathroom.

Here we have a snapshot of different bath materials

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing a bathtub, you should consider your needs and preferences. The comparison in this article shows that each style is different and can be ideal for specific situations. Similarly, acrylic is economical and lightweight, making acrylic baths a suitable choice for budget-conscious customers who prefer a light weight material and can have reasonable heat retention. All other bathtub materials are higher cost, making them less suitable for homeowners on a budget.