Bath or shower - which is better? Comparative review

When repairing plumbing units, apartment owners often have doubts when choosing plumbing. A comfortable bath or shower cabin that is best for you?

To solve this issue, we suggest that you consider the popular plumbing options, compare their features and technical specifications, which we did in this article. We also examined in detail the advantages and disadvantages of each of the options considered and provided recommendations for choosing the best type of plumbing.

Pros and cons of bathtubs from various materials

The traditional type of plumbing are bathtubs, which became widespread in ancient times.

Today, convenient volumetric bathing tanks have not lost popularity, they are installed in new buildings and are installed after repair. Moreover, if you wish, you can install and connect the bath yourself.

The widespread use of bathtubs over the centuries has been facilitated by their numerous virtues.

The bath is a multifunctional device: in it you can not only wash or bathe your baby, but also soak / rinse your clothes, wash large dishes, leave a bouquet of flowers at night or cool a watermelon

The advantages of such products are obvious:

1. The bath can be filled with water with essential oils, sea or aromatic salt, or whipped with thick foam. Many (and not without reason) consider this procedure the best way to relax after a busy day.
2. Immersion in a hot bath, in which you can add medicinal herbs, is an excellent remedy for colds. A similar method with the addition of special substances (milk, honey, oatmeal) is considered an excellent cosmetic procedure that allows you to take care of the skin of the body.
3. In the bath, all impurities, as well as sweat after exercise, are washed away faster and more thoroughly.
4. The capacity is perfect for bathing children, and for kids it can even be used as a pool.
5. If necessary, large-format items can be washed in this plumbing, for example, a bedspread or tablecloth.
6. In the bath, it is convenient to wash not only people, but also pets, for example, dogs.
7. The presence of a special nozzle in many faucets allows you to use the bath as a shower.

The device is also easily mounted with a water supply system, requiring a minimum of qualifications and moderate costs.

Modern models of bathtubs can be of different colors and shapes, and also have additional functions, for example, backlighting, hydromassage

Among the main disadvantages are:

1. Sufficiently large dimensions, because of which the bathtub occupies a significant part of the bathroom.
2. Many times greater than for the shower, water consumption (200 liters versus 40-50 liters in the shower). In addition, when washing due to the length of the procedure, more electricity is consumed.
3. Not recommended for a number of diseases, for example, hypertension, varicose veins, tendency to dizziness, skin problems.
4. Wet, smooth surface creates the risk of injury.
5. Slow filling. It is impossible to take a bath right away, you have to wait for some time until the water fills the tank.

Bathtubs for the elderly are particularly difficult: it is difficult for them to go into the font and get out of it, in addition, a sharp change in body position can cause dizziness and even fainting. Therefore, you have to look at the special models designed for such users - sitting baths. They are shorter and higher than usual.

Today, the market is dominated by three varieties of bathtubs (made of cast iron, acrylic, steel), each of which has its own characteristics.

Option # 1 - cast iron bathtubs

The most respectable are bathtubs made of cast iron, which have the following advantages:

1. Longevity. With a careful attitude to enamel, a cast-iron product will last several decades (usually the warranty period is 25 years).
2. Due to the large heat capacity, they keep heat for a long time.
3. Resistant to deformation.
4. Simplicity of cleaning: there are no pores on the surface, which makes it easy to wash off contamination.
5. Due to the soundproofing properties of cast iron, such plumbing practically does not make noise when drawing water.

But such plumbing is not without drawbacks. Let's consider them in more detail.

Among the shortcomings of such plumbing fixtures can be noted:

• heavy weight (on average about 120 kilograms), which makes it difficult to transport and installation;
• relatively high cost (producers influence the formation of prices);
• with serious damage to the enamel, it is extremely difficult to restore it at home.

The disadvantages include a small selection of models, among which classical rectangular products prevail.

Option # 2 - Plumbing Steel Products

Such products also have their pros and cons.

Covering any type of bath over time becomes worthless. It is recommended to periodically update it or change the whole, calling specialists

Positive qualities include:

• low weight: steel baths weigh 4-5 times less than cast iron counterparts, which simplifies their transportation and do-it-yourself installation;
• a wide selection of models, in the assortment there is plumbing of various dimensions and shapes;
• sufficient durability: the service life of high-quality models is approximately 15 years.

Another advantage many buyers consider the moderate cost of models.

Among the weaknesses are:

• slight deformation leading to damage to the enamel coating;
• significant noise level when pouring water;
• high thermal conductivity, due to which the water in the steel baths cools quickly.

It should be noted that the disadvantages are primarily characteristic of budget options with thin walls, while models made of thick metal come close to cast-iron in their qualities.

Option # 3 - Acrylic Sanitary Ware

Thanks to the advantages, acrylic containers have become the most popular among users.

Bathtubs can have not only traditionally rectangular, but also another shape: oval, triangular, asymmetric. Especially pleasing is the variety of configurations in models made of acrylic

In many respects, such plumbing is ahead of similar positions made of metals:

1. The thermal conductivity of acrylic bathtubs is even lower than that of cast iron: they are able to retain heat for a long time.
2. The most silent type of products in comparison with other types.
3. Damage (if not too serious) can be easily recovery.
4. They have a non-slip surface, which helps to avoid injuries.
5. Easy to clean.
6. Lightweight.

In addition, acrylic tanks are presented in a wide range of models; often they are combined with additional options, for example, a jacuzzi.

The disadvantages are:

• Sufficient fragility in comparison with cast iron counterparts; acrylic plumbing is not adapted to significant mechanical stress.
• The surface of such bathtubs is easily scratched, due to which attractive gloss is lost over time.
• Inexpensive plumbing can be painted if you wash molting in a container.

It is worth adding that high-quality acrylic products from well-known companies are quite expensive.

Shower cab specifications

Such plumbing fixtures appeared much later than bathtubs. Currently, showers are widespread, especially in small apartments.

Varieties of showers

There are several classification options. The design features distinguish between open and closed booths. The former have a democratic cost, but only partially enclose the design.

Open showers have a lightweight construction without a ceiling, due to which the number of additional functions in them is minimized

Closed models have not only walls, but also a roof, which allows you to create airtight spaces. Due to this, in the booth you can apply the effect of the sauna, as well as other functions.

The considered plumbing devices also differ in the materials from which important elements are made - pallets:

• cast iron differ in the increased durability, however heavy and heat up for a long time;
• ceramic fragile enough, require careful handling: dropping a heavy object, you can break the pallet;
• steel the most noisy;
• acrylic Look great and heat up quickly, but easily lose their appearance due to scratches on the surface.

In depth, pallets can be: flat (0-35 mm), shallow (100-180) or deep (180-450 mm).

Comfortable flat pallets are especially recommended for elderly people or people with disabilities, since access to the booth in this case is maximally facilitated.

Products may have different parameters. Common options are the dimensions of 90x90, 100x100, 120x80 cm, however, you can find designs of other sizes.

Some modern models of shower cabins are almost equal in size to the parameters of the bath. Often they have an original design and serve as interior decoration

It is advisable to choose models whose length and width exceed 0.8 by 0.8 m - with smaller parameters it is uncomfortable to use shower cabins.

When choosing a booth, it is important to consider both the area of ​​the room and the size of the body: it should be convenient for the swimmer to use a shower system. Other criteria that affect the selection of a suitable cabin, we have given in this article.

Pros and cons of shower designs

Fans of such plumbing products call the following advantages:

• The area of ​​such sanitary products is smaller than a traditional bath, which saves space. Such installations will find a place even in the most compact plumbing units.
• Such devices are safe. Pallets are made of non-slip material, which reduces the likelihood of injury.
• Modern models often have many additional features. This may be a telephone, radio, hydromassage, sauna mode. Some options allow for therapeutic procedures: inhalation, aromatherapy.
• Some models of showers have benches or seats, which makes washing easier for older people or people with health problems.
• Thanks to a wide range of options with various dimensions, design, cost, a set of additional functions, you can always choose a shower cabin that meets the needs and possibilities of the buyer.
• Such a device is considered more hygienic than a bath, since microbes are washed off with the water stream, while in the latter these organisms remain in a container of water.
• You can use the shower at any time, you just need to turn the tap.
• Under a stream of water, it is better to rinse your hair: in this case, you can carefully remove all residual shampoo and other detergent.

As you can see, the list of advantages of such plumbing products looks quite impressive.

At the same time, it is impossible not to mention the disadvantages of these devices:

• High-quality models with a dense door are usually quite voluminous. Often they are slightly inferior in area to bathtubs and are not suitable for installation in a small room.
• Most of the additional functions (for example, tropical rain or hydromassage) can be used only with a certain water pressure. If in the house or on the floor it does not reach 1.5 bar, then the options will not be available.
• In the shower, the muscles remain tense: it is better to relax after a workout in the bathroom.
• As a result of dried spray, a white coating appears on the doors and walls.
• Showers require more complex care than bathtubs, since there are numerous metal parts of complex configuration.
• The average cost of a cabin is higher than a bath.
• Installation of such plumbing requires certain skills. As a result of poor-quality work, the structure may leak.
• In the shower there is no way to lie down and relax.
• Such products are difficult to use for bathing children (this can be done in cabins with a deep cast-iron tray) or pets.

At the same time, the quality of modern showers is quite high, which allows you to smooth out many of the disadvantages of such plumbing.

Additional functions of shower cabins

The popularity of this type of sanitary ware is influenced by the availability of additional functions that make it possible to turn an ordinary shower into a tempting procedure.

The most common options include cold and hot shower. The alternating supply of hot and icy water is extremely beneficial for the body, hardening it and toning the skin.

One of the most popular additional options for showers is a vertical hydromassage. The soft touch of water streams mixed with air bubbles allows you to quickly cheer up, relieve fatigue and stress

"Turkish sauna". In this case, a steam generator is present in the cab configuration, with the help of which a high temperature can be created in space (45-60^about) and 100 percent humidity. Air saturated with hot steam improves blood circulation and immunity; under its influence, the pores expand, from which toxins are removed along with then.

Rain shower. A special nozzle located on the ceiling of the cabin splits the water stream into a whirlwind of small, gentle spray, imitating summer rain.A similar procedure that helps to relax the body is recommended before bedtime.

Aromatherapy. In models with this function, a special container for aromatic substances is built into the rear wall of the cab. When the steam generator is turned on, the heated water vapor passes through the tank and fills the space with fragrant steam. About choosing and installing a steam generator we wrote here.

Owners of small bathrooms should pay attention to the angular models of showers, which occupy the minimum floor space

Ventilation. A function to ventilate the cab. In versions equipped with the options "rain shower", "Turkish bath", it allows you to evenly distribute steam inside the cabin.

Vertical hydromassage. The devices are equipped with rotary built-in nozzles, from which trickles of water are ejected. Directing them manually in different directions, you can arrange hydromassage of the legs, back or collar zone.

Top / multi-color backlight. The lights located on the ceiling illuminate the cabin with an even, soft light.

The presence of multi-colored LEDs, as well as several mode options, allows you to combine the washing procedure with the contemplation of visual effects that color the streams of water streams alternately in different colors. It also has a beneficial effect on the body, since the healing effect of chromotherapy, that is, light treatment, has long been known.

Mirror. Some models have mirrors treated with a special anti-fog agent. Such an accessory is especially convenient when carrying out cosmetic procedures (for example, masks) or shaving in the shower.

Shower cabins can be equipped not only with colorful lights, but also with small ultraviolet lamps. They paint trickles of water in an exquisite lilac color and destroy harmful organisms.

Shampoo dispenser. So that the bottles do not fall from the shelves and do not create problems, it is advisable to purchase a model on the inner wall of which several dispensers are attached (for shampoo, gel, balm). The latest modifications often have remote control using the remote control, as well as touch panels that respond to touch of hands.

The presence of additional functions is directly proportional to the cost of the cabin, so when choosing a model, the buyer should consider how important this or that option is for him, so as not to overpay.

Features of the hydromassage box

There is also an alternative option, providing for combining the bath with the shower. This device is primarily recommended to consider if some members of the family like to relax in the bathroom, while others do not want to spend a lot of time on water procedures, preferring to rinse in the shower.

Hydromassage boxing is a modern and convenient type of sanitary ware. Such models are produced by many well-known brands, so the choice of models is quite large

A similar model can also be recommended for families with small children: it is perfect for comfortable bathing for kids. Many additional options (hydromassage, steam sauna, tropical rain) turn such a device into a real spa.

At the same time, there were some disadvantages, among which are:

• solid dimensions, because of which the hydrobox is hardly suitable for a miniature bathroom;
• high cost: prices for such products exceed the cost of a shower;
• Installation can be performed only by highly qualified professionals;
• certain requirements for water supply and sanitation.

In addition, the hydrobox, as a rule, has high sides, because of which it is not very suitable for older people or people experiencing problems with movement.

You don’t like budget models, and a stylish booth from a well-known brand is quite expensive? If desired, you can make tile shower do it yourself.

What is the best choice for your bathroom?

Summarizing the data from the forums and social networks where this issue is being actively discussed, the following points can be highlighted.

If the family is not too disposed to bask in the bathroom, it is better to use a shower cabin, which not only saves space, but also significantly reduces water consumption.

Fans of an invigorating sauna should pay attention to special models of showers that successfully simulate the temperature and humidity conditions of Turkish baths

If the family has elderly people or chronic patients who find it difficult to use the bathroom, it is better to prefer a shower with seats. And for those who like to relax in the sauna, manufacturers offer a universal option - a shower room with a sauna. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with selection criteria such models.

Families with young children, as well as pet owners, are advised to have a comfortable bath.

When choosing, it is better to give preference to the products of reputable firms. In economical models, after several years of use, doors often dry up, which reduces the tightness of products.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

In the video presented, you will hear the competent opinion of the interior designer about the advantages and disadvantages of the two main options for sanitary ware intended for the adoption of water procedures.

It is impossible to unambiguously determine which is better - a bath or shower. When planning to update the bathroom, it is necessary to take into account the opinions of all family members, as well as a number of objective factors, for example, the area of ​​the sanitary room.

A wide range of products presented in specialized stores will allow you to find a compromise by choosing a comfortable bath, a modern shower or a luxury hydrobox.

You can not decide? Maybe you have questions that we did not consider in this article? Ask them in the comment block - site visitors and our experts will answer you.

Or maybe you want to share your impression of using a hydrobox or a shower with a sauna? Or tell your story of a choice between bath and shower? Write your opinion, add photos of plumbing, leave your recommendations to users who still doubt the choice of the best option.