Bathtub vs. shower – what to choose for a family bathroom?

Check what to consider when choosing and which solutions work best in practice.

📌 Table of contents:

• Practicality and comfort in the bathroom
• Bathtub – comfort and relaxation for the whole family
• Bathing as a form of relaxation
• Shower enclosure – functionality and time-saving
• Classic corner shower enclosures – a proven choice for a family bathroom
• Or maybe a compromise? Hybrid solutions
• Summary: bathtub or shower – which to choose?

📝 Summary:

• A bathtub is a good choice for families with children – it provides bathing comfort and relaxation, and models from the Arana or Wave series combine functionality with modern design.
• A shower saves time and space – walk-in enclosures (e.g. Vidoq, Ortigo) and classic corner enclosures are comfortable, safe and easy to keep clean.
• Semi-round or square corner enclosures are the most popular choice in small bathrooms – practical and compact, ideal for everyday use.
• A bath screen is a compromise – it lets you combine the advantages of a bathtub and a shower, working well in family bathrooms with limited space.

Practicality and comfort in the bathroom

When considering the choice between a bathtub and a shower, it's worth focusing on the practicality of each solution. In many bathrooms it's important to make the most of the available space. That's why deciding whether a bathtub or a shower will work better is so important.

A bathtub is the perfect place to relax after a long day at work. For people who value time spent bathing, a bathtub is an invaluable asset. Being able to soak in hot water helps relax both body and mind. However, in smaller bathrooms, fitting a large bathtub without giving up other fixtures can be a challenge.

A shower, on the other hand, offers a quick and eco-friendly solution for those who are always on the go. A shower enclosure usually takes up less space than a bathtub and uses less water during everyday use. This is especially beneficial for families with children and for older people, who may find it difficult to get into a deep bathtub.

When more space is available, an interesting idea can be to combine both options – a bathtub and shower can coexist harmoniously with the use of a bath screen. This setup gives you the flexibility to choose between a quick morning wash and an evening soak.

Bathtub – comfort and relaxation for the whole family

Nothing compares to a relaxing soak in the bathtub after a hard day's work. It allows for quick baths, but also for longer relaxation after an intense day. It's a great solution for those looking for a moment of relaxation and peace in their own bathroom. A bathtub is a classic that also works well in homes with young children. For little ones, bathing is not just daily hygiene but also playtime.

Models such as bathtubs from the Arana or Wave series by Excellent offer both comfort and modern design. Their spaciousness and ergonomic shapes make using the bathtub pleasant and safe, even for the youngest family members.

Advantages of a bathtub in a family bathroom:

• ideal for bathing children;

• opportunity for relaxation and recovery;

• corner or freestanding models suited to different room layouts;

• option to fit a bath screen – 2-in-1: bathtub and quick shower.

Bathing as a form of relaxation

When faced with the choice: bathtub or shower, it's worth remembering the benefits a bathtub brings.

Immersing yourself in the warmth and quiet of your own bathroom helps restore both physical and mental energy. Warm water helps relax the muscles and improves blood circulation, which in turn contributes to a better sense of well-being. A well-prepared bath can become a home wellness ritual – just add a few drops of essential oils or bath salts to feel a genuine spa experience.

Regularly enjoying this kind of relaxation brings many health benefits. It helps lower stress levels and increases the body's resilience to everyday challenges. In addition, a warm bath before bed helps you fall asleep, so you wake up rested and full of energy the next day.

When creating the perfect spa atmosphere at home, it's worth taking care of the right visual setting for your bathroom. Scented candles and gentle music can significantly increase the comfort of the space dedicated to relaxation.

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Shower enclosure – functionality and time-saving

A shower is a solution for those who value comfort and speed. A shower enclosure also offers a quick solution for morning washes, which is beneficial for large families and busy daily schedules. Shower enclosures are also a good choice for older people, for whom comfort and safety are important. Stepping into a shower is usually easier than getting into a deep bathtub, which is a significant advantage for seniors or people with limited mobility.

Thanks to walk-in enclosures from the Vidoq or Ortigo series, you can create a barrier-free space that is easy to keep clean and safe for seniors too. Combined with a Seduro or Seduro Premium shower seat and a linear drain, you get a practical, comfortable shower zone.

Advantages of a shower in a family bathroom:

• a quick wash even at peak times;

• water and energy savings;

• easier access for people with mobility limitations;

• more space in smaller bathrooms.

Classic corner shower enclosures – a proven choice for a family bathroom

If functionality matters to you and your bathroom space is limited, a corner enclosure – semi-round or square one will be a great solution. It's one of the most popular solutions in Polish homes, especially in flats in blocks. Corner enclosures are compact, easy to install and available in many size variants, allowing them to be fitted into almost any interior.

Advantages of corner enclosures:

• space-saving – ideal for smaller bathrooms;

• quick installation and easy to keep clean;

• affordable price with high functionality;

• option with a shower tray or without one (e.g. with a linear drain);

• can be combined with sliding or pivot doors – depending on your needs.

In Excellent's range you'll find a variety of corner enclosure models that combine quality, comfort and aesthetics – so important for everyday use by the whole family.

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Or maybe a compromise? Hybrid solutions

For families who want the comfort of a bathtub and the speed of a shower, a great solution is to install a bath screen. It's a stylish compromise that lets you enjoy both forms of bathing without having to give up either.

A good choice is among others the Excellent range of bath screens, known for their solid construction and modern aesthetics – a perfect fit for family bathroom arrangements.

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What to consider when choosing?

• the age and needs of household members – children, seniors, people with mobility limitations;

• available space – in small bathrooms a shower or a compact bathtub works better;

• lifestyle – long baths or quick showers?;

• design and consistency with the rest of the décor – it's worth ensuring visual harmony and quality workmanship.

Summary: bathtub or shower – which to choose?

There's no single right answer. If the floor area and budget allow – it's worth considering a hybrid solution. Otherwise, the decision is best based on the family's lifestyle and the ergonomics of the space. In Excellent's range you'll find both comfortable bathtubs and minimalist shower enclosures, which can be tailored to the needs of every household member.

🔽 Looking for inspiration?

📌 See ready-made bathroom arrangements with bathtubs and with shower enclosures

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