Exploring the Pros and Cons of Freestanding Baths

Source: Warwick Bathroom Company

Freestanding baths have become a symbol of luxury and elegance in contemporary bathrooms. Their timeless appeal and unique design make them a desirable choice for many homeowners. However, like any fixture, freestanding baths come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let's delve into the pros and cons of incorporating a freestanding bath into your bathroom design.

Pros:

Aesthetic Appeal: Freestanding baths exude elegance and sophistication. They serve as a focal point in the bathroom, adding a touch of luxury to the space. With a wide range of designs available, from classic clawfoot tubs to modern, minimalist styles, there's a freestanding bath to suit every aesthetic preference. The absence of a front panel contributes to their elegant and open design, allowing them to be showcased from all sides in the bathroom.

Design: Freestanding baths come in various shapes and sizes, so comfort can be influenced by the design and ergonomics of the bath. Some freestanding baths are designed with sloped backs and contoured shapes to provide better support and comfort while bathing.

Freestanding Back to Wall Baths: A Freestanding Back to Wall Bath combines features of both freestanding and built-in baths. Unlike classic freestanding baths, it has one side designed to be installed against a bathroom wall, saving space and integrating the bath into the bathroom. With contemporary designs, these baths offer versatility and sophistication, suitable for various bathroom themes. They require plumbing work for installation but provide flexibility in placement. Freestanding back to wall baths blend style and functionality, offering a luxurious look with space-saving benefits.

Traditional Freestanding Baths: These baths often feature classic designs with clawfoot or pedestal bases, evoking a vintage aesthetic. They can be made from materials like cast iron or acrylic and are typically deeper and wider for a luxurious bathing experience.

Contemporary Freestanding Baths: Contemporary designs focus on sleek lines, minimalist shapes, and modern materials such as acrylic, stone, or composite materials. These baths often have clean and elegant profiles, adding a touch of sophistication to the bathroom. Most baths have a symmetrical design with a central waste and taps positioned in the middle, allowing bathers to recline at either end of the tub. They offer versatility and comfort for shared bathing experiences.

Roll Top Freestanding Baths: Roll top baths feature a curved rim or lip around the edge of the tub, reminiscent of classic designs. They can be paired with traditional or contemporary bases and are available in various materials and finishes.

Slipper Baths: Slipper baths feature a raised end or backrest on one side, allowing bathers to recline comfortably while bathing. They often have a distinctive shape resembling a slipper, adding a unique focal point to the bathroom.

Versatility: One of the key advantages of freestanding baths is their versatility in terms of placement in larger bathrooms. Unlike built-in tubs, which are confined to a specific space, freestanding baths can be positioned anywhere in the room, allowing for more creative freedom in bathroom layout and design. Freestanding baths create an illusion of space in by exposing more floor area. This can make the room feel larger and more open compared to traditional built-in tubs, which can visually encroach on the available space.

Easy Installation: Installing a freestanding bath is generally simpler and less time-consuming than fitting a built-in tub. Since they don't require alcoves or surrounding walls for support, freestanding baths can be installed in almost any location with proper plumbing access.

Source: Premier Plumbing

Source:CheshireBathroomCompany

Source:CustomBathroomsGlasgow

Source: Premier Plumbing

Source:WarwickBathroomCompany

Source:WarwickBathroomCompany

Source:WarwickBathroomCompany

Source:CustomBathroomsGlasgow

Cons:

Limited Space: While freestanding baths can visually enhance the perception of space, they may not be the most practical choice for smaller bathrooms. Their larger footprint can consume valuable floor space, potentially making the room feel cramped and less functional.

Price: Freestanding baths tend to be more expensive than built-in tubs due to their premium design and materials. Homeowners on a tight budget may find that the cost of purchasing and installing a freestanding bath exceeds their allocated funds. Especially when paired with a freestanding bath taps or wall mounted taps, as these too are generally more expensive than a standard deck mounted bath filler.

Cleaning Challenges: The exposed sides and bottom of freestanding baths can make cleaning more challenging compared to built-in tubs, which are often integrated seamlessly with surrounding surfaces. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are essential to prevent dirt and grime buildup in hard-to-reach areas.

Limited Surrounding Storage: Unlike built-in tubs, which often feature built-in storage options or ledges for toiletries, freestanding baths offer minimal surrounding space for storing bath essentials. Homeowners may need to consider alternative storage solutions to accommodate their bathroom accessories.

Practicalities for Young Children:

Safety Concerns: Freestanding baths lack the built-in safety features found in traditional built-in tubs, such as non-slip surfaces and easy-access handholds. This can increase the risk of slips, falls, and accidents, especially for young children who may have difficulty entering and exiting the bath independently.

Height and Accessibility: Freestanding baths are typically taller and deeper than standard built-in tubs, which can make it challenging for young children to climb in and out safely, or even for parents to bathe their babies comfortably. Parents may need to assist children with bathing and supervise them closely to prevent accidents.

Limited Space: Freestanding baths often have limited space around them, making it difficult to store bathing accessories, toys, and other essentials within easy reach. Parents may need to consider alternative storage solutions to keep bath time essentials organised and accessible.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining a freestanding bath can be more challenging compared to built-in tubs, especially with young children who may make a mess during bath time. The exposed sides and bottom of freestanding baths require regular cleaning to prevent dirt, grime, and soap scum buildup.

Water Splashing: Freestanding baths may have higher sides compared to built-in tubs, which can lead to more water splashing outside the bath during bath time with young children. Parents may need to use bath mats or towels to contain splashes and protect the bathroom floor from water damage.

Not Suitable for Showering: Freestanding baths are typically designed for soaking rather than showering, so they may lack features like shower curtains or glass enclosures to contain water spray. This can result in water splashing onto the floor and surrounding areas, potentially causing slips and falls.

In conclusion, freestanding baths offer a luxurious and stylish focal point for any bathroom design. Their versatility and aesthetic appeal make them a popular choice among homeowners looking to elevate their bathing experience. However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine whether a freestanding bath is the right fit for your space and budget. With proper planning and consideration, incorporating a freestanding bath can transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat that exudes comfort and elegance.