Types of Baths

There’s not just one type of bath, there are many type to choose from, but which one is the right one for you?

Single Ended Baths

Single ended baths are what we in the plumbing trade class as a standard bath. Single-ended baths feature taps and a drain at one end of the bath, with the other end shaped and sloped for back support. Because of this design, this type of bath is only suitable for one bather at a time and you are alway faceing the same way (unless you want the taps in your back).

Double Ended Baths

Simular to a standard single ended bath but Double-ended baths tend to feature taps and a drain in the centre of the tub. Each end is sloped to accommodate up to two bathers at one time or allowing you to face either way in the bath.

Inset Baths

Like a single or double ended bath but inset or sunken into the foor or tiled bath surround. Their big benefit is that they can fit into a large section of bathroom situations as they are flush fitted against a wall. You’ll either have it so it spans the full length of the bathroom wall so only one side is showing – that can be covered with a bath panel – or you’ll have one end showing if your bathroom is on the larger side. You can also choose between single-ended, where the bath taps are at one end, or double ended, where the bath taps sit in the middle of the bath so you can use either side to rest your head. Single ended tends to the most popular option.

They’re also incredibly flexible as they come in a huge variety of sizes as well as a number of different styles. A limit on space doesn’t mean you can’t have a bath, as baths that aren’t full size exist. The other benefit is that you don’t have to choose between a shower and bath too, as a shower can easily be fitted over an inset bath for you to enjoy whenever you wish. Budget wise, inset baths are the cheapest of the bunch too

Freestanding Baths

Freestanding baths are the ultimate in luxury, but due to this they often command a higher price. There’s no doubting the spa-like atmosphere they create though, so if you have the cash and space then a freestanding bath is an ideal purchase. They grandly sit apart from the walls of your bathroom, usually in the centre. These lavish centrepieces can also be raised on a platform or a set of ornate feet while freestanding taps can be incorporated to sit alongside the bath. They also come in a range of styles that stretch from contemporary to traditional Victorian style.

The downside is that the plumbing will have to be modified to allow the bath to be used in its central location, so you need to factor in the extra labour costs too.

For even more luxury, it’s worth looking at a freestanding slipper bath too. These curve up at one end, giving additional back and shoulder support for that added spa-like feel.

Whirlpool Baths

Whirlpool Baths offer a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. As the name suggests, these baths are fitted with whirlpool jets which are placed on the side shell of the bath, they’re then operated by controls.

These contemporary baths are at the height of luxury, as they include special features which help to ensure the user is as comfortable as possible Over the past couple of years Chromatherapy has come into the spotlight. Chromatherapy is the use of lights which can be used to relax a person and when combined with hydrotherapy (a therapeutic treatment that involves the moving and exercising of the water to create a jacuzzi-like experience), soothing effects are guaranteed.

Shower Bath

If you don’t have the space for a separate shower enclosure and bath then you’ll probably want to put a shower above the bath. This is where l-shaped and p-shaped shower baths come in, which are also ideal for bathrooms that are more awkwardly shaped than your standard room. These allow for more space at the end of the bath so that you can get a little more space around the showering area in a similar way to the space you’d have in a shower enclosure. You can fit specially shaped shower screens around this area too so that it feels like a proper enclosure.

Corner Baths

Corner baths are exactly what it says on the tin – a bath that can slot neatly into one corner of your bathroom. While larger statement bathrooms benefit from them, you could have it raised on a small platform with steps up to it, they’re space-efficient too. Their rounded shape deep slot can give the feeling of settling down into the hot tub and your local spa. Add jets to create an even more luxurious dip.