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What is the best choice for me? A bath or a shower?

Are you considering whether to install a bath or a shower in your bathroom? The question of whether a bath or a shower will still be the best choice in the future often plays an important role. We are happy to help you by listing the pros and cons, so you can make the best decision.


Your wishes and needs

When choosing between a bath and a shower, your personal preferences are at the top of the list. Do you prefer a quick shower or a relaxing bath? Do you usually shower, but occasionally want to enjoy a long bath? In short, what do you enjoy most in your bathroom? Nowadays, there are so many possibilities that almost any wish can be realized. Make the most of that.


What does your bathroom look like?

Depending on the layout of your bathroom, one solution may be more suitable than the other. In a small bathroom, a shower is generally space-saving. However, a bathtub does not always take up a lot of space. There are also sit-in baths, which are slightly higher than regular bathtubs and accessible through a door. Due to their height, they take up less space and can be installed in small bathrooms.

A bathtub is also ideal if you have a sloping roof in your bathroom. A shower may not fit there, but a bathtub can. If you want to save space but don’t want to choose between a bath or a shower, a bath-shower combination can be the perfect solution. This way, you don’t have to compromise.


The space in your bathroom

When considering a bath or a shower, it's important to think about how much space you need to feel comfortable. How much free space do you need in your bathroom to feel at ease? A common complaint is a lack of space in the bathroom. While a bathtub can fit into a small bathroom, it's not always the ideal solution. If you feel cramped and start avoiding your bathroom, a bathtub might be unnecessary. On the other hand, a walk-in shower with glass walls can often make the space feel larger and more open.


Your stage of life

Your need for a bath or a shower also depends on your stage of life. Young people often enjoy a long, relaxing bath. Parents especially appreciate a bathtub for the convenience of bathing their children. As people get older or have reduced mobility, a traditional bathtub can become an obstacle due to the high step in and the difficulty of getting out. However, this does not mean that a shower is always the best solution for seniors. A slippery floor, limited space, and a lack of support or seating can also make a shower dangerous for older people.

For every stage of life, modifications can be added to both a bath and a shower. The high barrier of a bathtub can be quickly removed with an integrated door of a walk-in bath. Additionally, a bath lift can help with sitting and standing up from a low bathtub. A walk-in shower can be adapted with a non-slip floor, grab bars, and a shower seat for extra safety and comfort.


Which is healthier?

Showering offers many health benefits. First, it is gentler on the skin, as a long hot bath can damage and dry out the skin's natural protective layer. A shower is also a more efficient way of cleaning the body, as dirt is rinsed off directly. Additionally, showering stimulates blood circulation, and alternating between hot and cold water promotes better circulation.

On the other hand, a bath not only helps reduce daily stress, but also has various health benefits. A bath relieves muscle tension, helps with colds and back pain, and prevents muscle soreness. Furthermore, a warm bath can help you sleep better by lowering blood pressure and dilating blood vessels.

Both options have their health benefits. However, keep in mind that more and hotter water can be a greater strain on the skin and circulatory system.


Which is more practical?

For time-saving purposes, a shower is generally more popular than a bath. An average shower lasts only 9 minutes, while it can take up to 20 minutes just to fill a bathtub. However, taking a bath offers other practical benefits, such as relaxation and time to unwind. Especially after a heavy or cold day, a bath is ideal for warming up and relaxing.


Which offers more comfort?

Generally, sitting in a bathtub is more comfortable. However, a foldable seat can also be attached to the wall of a shower, or a shower seat can be integrated, making the shower more comfortable. A walk-in shower, with its low step, is again more comfortable to enter and exit. As mentioned earlier, getting in and out of a bathtub can be made easier with an integrated door and a bath lift. With the right adjustments, both options can offer a lot of comfort.


Conclusion

The choice between a bath or a shower depends entirely on your personal preferences, the available space in your bathroom, your stage of life, and your need for comfort and practical solutions. A shower is often more practical, space-saving, and offers health benefits, while a bath provides more relaxation and comfort. Both options can be adapted to specific needs, such as safety and accessibility. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your lifestyle and how you want to use your bathroom.