What Type of Bath Should I Choose for a Small Bathroom?

In a reality where spacious bathrooms are a rarity, not everyone can indulge in a roomy setup with a freestanding bath and walk-in shower. This holds especially true for a significant number of bathrooms in the UK, where accommodating both a bathtub and a standalone shower is often a challenge. However, the realm of possibilities opens up with an array of space saving yet stylish bath solutions tailored to smaller rooms. If you are facing space constraints and need some innovative ideas for bathroom that combines functionality with elegance, our guide to small baths is here to help.

What size is a small bath?

Maximising aesthetic appeal, most bathtubs are designed to fit seamlessly into any bathroom size. Yet, when confronted with the challenge of a confined area, a strategic focus on precise measurements is highly advisable.

With that in mind, the ideal choice would be a compact bath spanning 1400mm to 1500mm in length and 700mm in width. Such dimensions will maximise spatial efficiency while retaining the essence of comfort and elegance.

What bath is best for a small bathroom?

When it comes to choosing a bath type for a small bathroom, there are a few factors to consider. We’ve put together a list of the best small tubs below, that’ll help you to maximize space without compromising on comfort.

Inset baths

Small bathrooms can be difficult to work with, but some careful planning and a little playing around with the layout can pay dividends. Inset baths are the ideal solution for small bathrooms that are tight on room but still crave luxury and comfort. This beautifully designed bath seamlessly fits flush against the wall, allowing you to maximise the size of your bathroom. If you have a bathroom with fairly narrow width, an inset bath is an excellent space-saving solution.

Shower baths

Shower baths are a perfect solution to the ‘shower vs bath’ conundrum. While some opt to fit a generously sized shower enclosure, many people prefer to still have the option of a bath, which is why a shower bath offers a harmonious blend of functionality and efficiency.

This innovative fixture combines the advantages of a shower and a bathtub, making them a space saving marvel. They’re typically designed as inset baths, so fit flush against the wall, leaving adequate space for other fittings and storage.

Furthermore, the ergonomic contours of modern shower baths cater to the needs of various users while maintaining a small footprint. In essence, shower baths deliver the luxury of both bathing options within the confines of a smaller bathroom.

Compact baths

In some cases, a small bathroom has such limited space that a full length bath isn’t possible. Whilst creating a luxurious shower room is one option, many prefer to have the flexibility that comes with having a bath.

If your space doesn’t allow for a full-sized bath then fitting a compact bath is an excellent alternative. Compact baths have a reduced length to fit into smaller, narrower spaces. However, the internal bathing space accommodates for what is lost in length. Typically, you’ll expect to find deeper edges in a compact bath, allowing for an equally luxurious bathing experience.

Corner baths

Many bathrooms aren’t only limited on space, but can be awkwardly shaped, making bathroom layout something of an issue. A sweeping corner bath is another option for small bathrooms as it slots into a corner space, fitting flush to the wall. Unlike straight baths, the rounded corner doesn’t protrude into the space.

This type of bath easily saves on precious floor space, providing extra room to walk around your bathroom. Corner baths come with left hand or right-hand options, so you can find the best fit for your bathroom.

Freestanding

It might be surprising to know that you can get compact versions of freestanding baths. These are perfect if you don’t want your limited space to hinder your design. A small freestanding bathtub adds a luxurious feel and a certain sense of panache to any space, not to mention that many are also available at a lower price point than the full-sized versions. So, if you still want a separate tub and shower enclosure in your bathroom, but don’t quite have the space to get away with it, then a small freestanding tub might be just what you need.

A compact freestanding tub is the ideal focal point if you’re creating a stylish bathroom. Taking centre stage in your room, you’ll need to incorporate some clever design tactics to have plenty of space for other fittings. Wall-hung toilets and basins are a great space-saving solution in this case.

Top tip: For more space-saving advice, read our guide on whether to choose a close coupled, back to wall or wall hung toilet.

What to consider when choosing a bath for a small bathroom

When planning a bath for a small bathroom, there are several factors to consider to ensure a space that is both functional and visually appealing. Foremost is choosing a bath fixture that is compatible with the given dimensions. This entails a comprehensive assessment of the bathroom layout, including considerations of cabinets, sinks, doorways, and potential obstacles during installation, all while keeping functionality in mind.

After you’ve mastered the initial planning and fitting of a bath in a small bathroom, you can think about the aesthetics and how to add your own personal style.

For an added touch of flair, you might opt for wall-mounted storage solutions, effectively expanding the available space. Or you could strategically position a mirror near a window or below a light fixture to create an illusion of more extensive space.

By thoughtfully considering these factors, you can transform even the tiniest bathroom into a captivating oasis of comfort and charm.