Shower baths are currently enjoying a rapid growth in popularity, as an ever-greater number of people turn to them for for a luxurious, space saving solution. For homeowners looking to install both a shower and bath into their home, shower baths allow you to combine the functionality of both into a much smaller area than two separate units. Far from the old fashioned image of a standard bathtub with a rubber shower hose attached to its taps, modern shower baths add a sense of style and comfort to any bathroom.
If you're fortunate enough to own a spacious bathroom, it makes perfect sense to opt for a traditional freestanding bathtub and a large, separate shower enclosure. Even a large shower bath won't be able to offer the freedom of movement of a sizable shower enclosure, nor other modern features such as body jets. Shower baths are a more suitable option for smaller bathrooms, where installing both a shower enclosure and a bathtub isn't suitable. For many years, the demands of modern life have meant that people choose to opt for a shower room in flats and other small homes, foregoing a bath. A shower bath removes the need for this decision by letting you install a stylish unit that offers the best of both worlds.
A shower bath is also an excellent addition to any home with children. While people today tend to shower more frequently than bathe, a bathtub is a huge help with washing your children and the benefits of a shower bath make it incredibly easy to help them clean and use the shower to rinse away shampoo and soap suds. With a shower bath, you can enjoy all the benefits of owning a shower and a bath, all while occupying a minimal amount of space. The great benefit of a shower bath is that it presents you with options, whatever your schedule and lifestyle.
As they're designed to be suitable for both lying and standing in, some shower bath models aren't the most comfortable while on your back, a side effect of their reduced size, the extra taps and shower screen. This isn't always the case and there are plenty of modern designs that are every bit as luxurious as their showerless counterparts, but it is something to keep in mind when shopping for the new addition to your bathroom, especially if you prefer a long soak. A separate tub will provide the most comfortable bathing experience possible but, again, shower baths are often chosen out of necessity.
There are three primary types of shower bathtubs, each named after their respective shapes. A “B Shape” has a generous, oval-shaped standing area, a “P Shape” has a smaller, circular standing area and an “L Shape” has a square standing area, making it the most similar to a traditional shower tray. Which of these you prefer will likely be determined by the amount of space you have to work with, your lifestyle and whether you prefer the curved appearance of the B and P shapes or the angular style of the L. Your choice of bathtub shape will also affect the type of shower screen you can install; B and P shapes are suitable for curved, single panel screens, while L shapes work with straight screens, as well as folding models.
Ultimately, whether you prefer a bath, a shower or a shower bath is a decision that will vary from person to person. If you have the necessary space and can afford it, buying both individually is probably the best option but for a choice that is great value, both financially and in terms of the area occupied. A shower bath is a an option that should keep everybody happy.
