Picking the right bathtub or shower for your bathroom is easier said than done. From walk-in showers to walk-in tubs to clawfoot tubs and more – there are so many options available. It can be hard to narrow down which one is right for you and your family! That’s why we’ve put together a few questions to help you figure out which tub or shower is right for you!
1. How much space do I have in my bathroom?
Space is going to be an important factor when it comes to choosing the right bathtub or shower. If you’re dealing with a small bathroom, a walk-in shower might be the best option since it is generally more compact and takes up less square footage. However, a large bathroom, like a large master bedroom suite, might be able to accommodate a large, relaxing soaking tub.
Of course, you may not even have to choose one or the other. There are a variety of tub and shower options, even tub-shower combos, available to fit both small, large, and medium spaces.
2. What does my bathroom layout require?
Beyond just space, take a look at what the actual layout of the room looks like. Look at things like door frames, windows, electrical wiring, and existing plumbing. These important features can all impact where your tub or shower can be installed and what might fit in an existing space.
Oftentimes, these things can be adjusted, but that may require extra time, money, and a bigger bathroom remodel than you had planned, so it’s important to discuss them early on.
3. What is my lifestyle like?
Take some time to think about your lifestyle and what you really need or want in your bathroom. Everyone is different, so there’s really no right or wrong answer here. It’s just about evaluating what is realistic for you and your family.
If soaking and relaxing with some bubbles and a glass of wine after work sounds good to you, then maybe a bathtub is the best solution. If you lead more of a rushed, fast-paced lifestyle, then maybe a shower is better suited to your needs.
Many pet owners and parents of small children also find that a bathtub — especially one with a hand-held sprayer — is the best fit for their bathing needs.
4. What are my physical and safety-related needs?
Take a good look at the health and safety needs of your family. If you or a family member are dealing with mobility issues or disabilities of any kind, or simply want to plan for aging gracefully and safely at your home, think about that as you’re choosing a shower or bathtub.
Walk-in showers or roll-in showers with benches can be great for seniors and those with mobility issues (both now and in the future) because they eliminate the hassle of having to step over the side of the tub. Traditional bathtubs or walk-in bathtubs also have jets and hydrotherapy options that can work wonders for those with muscle pain and circulation issues.
Whatever your needs, there are safety, accessibility, and aging in place solutions available to help make your shower or bathtub more functional and safer to use.
5. What style do I like?
Last, but certainly not least, consider the style and look that you want. Your bathtub or show is often the focal point of your bathroom, so you want it to be something that looks aesthetically pleasing and fits with the style and decor of your home. You’d be amazed what walking into a bathroom you love can do for your overall mood and stress levels.
A great way to get started here is to collect a variety of images of bathrooms that you like or browse the various tubs and showers on display at our showroom in Menasha.
If you’re looking at upgrading your shower or bathtub, give the team at Watters Plumbing a call. We’ll help you work through these questions and more to find exactly the right bath or shower option for you and your family!
