By Kerry Hale

Bath Or Shower: Which One Should You Choose?

  • Monday 26 May 2025
  • 4 minute read

Thinking of renovating your bathroom? You may be wondering whether to include a shower, bath or a combination of the two.

Many of us enjoy a soothing bath after a long day at work, while showers can be both relaxing and practical for family life. Our guide covers the benefits and considerations of baths vs showers to help you choose the best option for your home.

Benefits of a shower

Many people prefer showers to baths. They offer several benefits, including:

  • Shower enclosures can usually be installed no matter the bathroom’s space or floor plan, making them suitable for most households.
  • It’s typically quicker to take a shower than a bath, which can reduce your water bills.
  • Showers offer various health benefits, including relieving stress and relaxing muscles.
  • Showers can be a more suitable option for those with mobility issues.

 

Check out our Mira Activate with ColdBoost™ range and discover the benefits of cold water experiences.

Benefits of a bath

Prefer to have a bath? Here are some of the advantages:

  • Bathtubs come in many different designs, including freestanding and corner baths, making it easy to find something to suit your space.
  • Having a warm bath can help you relax at the end of a stressful day.
  • Baths can add a sophisticated touch to your bathroom, and statement bathtubs can become a focal point of the space.

 

Bath vs Shower considerations

The fundamental difference between a bath and a shower is that a shower involves standing under a continuous flow of water, whereas a bath involves soaking entirely in water. Keep in mind that bathtubs generally require more space, so they may not be suitable if you have a small bathroom. You should also consider which you find more relaxing and which you do most often – showering or bathing – before investing in your preferred design.

Which is more practical, a bath or shower?

When planning your bathroom renovation, practicality should be your number one priority. After all, the room should suit the demands of your lifestyle. 

A shower can be an extremely practical option for busy families. They’re efficient and quick to use, making them a good choice for those who don’t have the time to take long baths.

Do baths clean better than showers?

The purpose of a bath or shower is to wash away the day. With that in mind, it’s important to consider which is better at cleansing when planning your bathroom design.

Showers are brilliant for daily cleansing. A quick shower is the fastest and most efficient way to wash away dirt and freshen up. Short showers can be better for your skin than long baths, as too much water can dehydrate your skin. If you have sensitive skin and you’re worried about the pressure of a power shower, try the Mira Switch showerhead, which has been designed with delicacy in mind.

On the other hand, soaking in the bath is one of the best ways to cleanse your body deeply. A long soak can help ensure that your skin is squeaky clean.

Is a shower more economical than a bath?

What wastes more water, a bath or a shower? Generally, showers are much more efficient when it comes to water usage. In fact, baths typically use around 80 litres of water, whereas a regular shower tends to use around 62 litres for an 8-minute wash.

Which is easier to clean, a bath or a shower?

Limescale can build up on shower screens, which can be difficult to remove if left for too long. That’s why it’s best to keep to a regular cleaning routine. Stand-alone baths don’t usually have glass screens, so limescale shouldn’t be as much of a problem. Learn how to tackle limescale with our handy limescale removal guide.

Baths can take longer to clean than shower enclosures due to their shape and size. Soaking can also leave soap scum deposits and stains on your tub, which can take more time to remove.

Is a bath more beneficial than a shower?

So, are baths better than showers? This is a matter of personal preference, and there is no right or wrong answer. A bath may be better for promoting relaxation, while a shower may be more effective for getting clean quickly every day.

Shower vs Bathtub Resale Value

When choosing a bath or shower, it’s important to consider how your decision will influence your property’s value. While you may prefer one over the other, the option you choose can affect how much your home is worth.

Most modern buyers expect a shower somewhere in the home. Whether you choose to include one in the en suite or as part of the family bathroom, having a shower is unlikely to detract from your property’s value.

However, it’s also important to think about the type of home you’re in. Many family homes will have a bath as well as a shower. Flats or single-occupancy homes are the exception to this; baths aren’t usually expected in these types of properties.

Considering adding a shower to your home? Explore our extensive range of designs at Mira and choose the perfect finishing touches with our shower parts and accessories.

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