Bathtub or Shower - Which One Should You Choose?
19 January 2026
What Are the Criteria for Choosing a Bathtub or a Shower?
When planning a bathroom renovation or layout changes, it’s worth considering several factors. The more aspects you take into account, the more likely it is that the chosen fittings will meet your expectations. So what should you actually take into account when choosing between shower enclosures and bathtubs?
One of the key factors is the size and layout of the bathroom, which - especially in smaller rooms or those with non-standard shapes - often determines the choice. In larger bathrooms, it is possible to consider installing both options, whereas fitting both a bathtub and a shower into a small bathroom is often not possible. The range of shapes and sizes is also limited.
The needs of household members and everyday comfort are also important. Families with small children often opt for a bathtub, which makes bathing toddlers easier, while active people prefer a quick shower and therefore more readily choose shower enclosures.
Environmental and economic factors also play an important role. When analyzing water consumption, it is easy to see that using a bathtub involves higher water usage than a shower. How much water a bathtub holds depends on its shape and size. This is worth keeping in mind when choosing a bathtub, especially since it affects environmental pollution and water bills, and the differences in usage can be surprisingly large.
The final aspect to consider is the interior style. Both the bathtub and the shower should be ergonomic and functional. The choice is broad - various types of shower enclosures and bathtubs allow their shape, material, and color to be matched to the overall design, making the interior cohesive and refined. They can become the central decorative element of the bathroom, or a minimalist and subtle form can be chosen.
Shower or Bathtub in a Small Bathroom?
In many homes, the bathroom is one of the smallest rooms, which can be a real challenge - especially in apartments. What works better in an apartment building - a bathtub or a shower? With limited space, saving room becomes crucial. Often, every bit of space matters, which is why shower enclosures are more popular. Convenient solutions that take up the least space include semi-circular and square corner cabins, as well as walk-in showers.
For lovers of long and relaxing baths, the good news is that in some smaller bathrooms it is also possible to install a bathtub, though not every type. In such cases, a rectangular corner bathtub can be a good option, as it allows for more freedom of movement in the bathroom. Which is better in a small bathroom - a bathtub or a shower - if household members are divided and each has different preferences?
A great solution can be a modern bathtub with a shower. All that is needed is to add a bath screen to a corner bathtub. There are various types of screens available on the market, which differ in use, installation, and materials. They can be easily matched to both needs and interior design. This solution addresses the doubts of many people who are torn between a bathtub and a shower. The bathtub can be used in a traditional way for a long bath, or a quick shower can be taken behind the screen, which helps prevent water from splashing. It is time to answer another question - what uses more water, a bathtub or a shower?
What Uses More Water - a Bathtub or a Shower?
Although this largely depends on how it is used, in most cases water consumption during a shower is significantly lower than with a bathtub. So what does this look like in practice - how much water does a shower use compared to a bathtub?
On average, a shower uses between 9 and 15 liters of water per minute, depending on the type of rain shower or hand shower and the water pressure. A shower lasting a few minutes may involve water consumption of 50 to 70 liters, which is much less than for a bathtub. However, people who prefer long showers lasting more than 15 minutes may use more water than those who use a bathtub.
Water consumption in a bathtub depends on how many liters it holds and how deep it is filled. A standard bathtub holds between 140 and 180 liters of water, which with partial filling means consumption of 100 to 140 liters. Based on these figures and personal habits, it is easier to determine which option results in higher water usage - a shower or a bathtub.
A Bath in a Bathtub or a Refreshing Shower
Because both options have clear advantages, people have long debated which one is more appealing. The final choice depends on expectations, lifestyle, and needs. A bathtub allows for relaxation and stress reduction through a long bath and also enables aromatherapy sessions using essential oils. A shower, on the other hand - especially a quick, cool one - is refreshing and ideal for busy people seeking quick relief. In addition, adjusting the pressure in the shower head allows for a body massage.
Which Option Is Better for Older People?
When choosing sanitary fittings, the specific needs of household members should be taken into account, including seniors with limited mobility and health issues. A bathtub or a shower for older people? Although various types of bathtubs are available, a shower enclosure is generally the better option. The best options are enclosures with a low-profile shower tray or without a tray at all. Surfaces should be anti-slip, and additional grab bars will provide seniors with greater safety.
Another group with special needs is children. A bathtub or a shower for a child - which is better? Parents often prefer bathing younger children in a bathtub or in a shower enclosure with a higher tray that can be filled with water. When a child is ready to bathe independently, a shower enclosure will be safer. As with seniors, good solutions include trayless enclosures or those with low-profile trays and anti-slip surfaces. Young children may struggle to lift their legs high enough, as required when using a bathtub.