Help & advice
Bath or shower?
Baths and showers are accountable for the highest water consumption in the home - effecting your power and heating bills as well as water usage.
A short shower with an efficient shower head generally uses less water than a bath. However, beware some power showers may actually use more!
Contoured baths provide the feeling of a deep bath without using as much hot water
Switch to an aerated or low flow shower head to reduce the amount of water used
Other things you should think about when deciding between a bath and a shower:
Number of people
In a busy household with a need for quick routines, a shower is a much more practical choice. You might even consider maximising the space for multiple people by having a shower and dual sinks so that more than one person can get ready at a time.
Number of bathrooms
If you have more than one bathroom, you could designate one for relaxation with a bath and another for quick showers.
Accessibility
As we, our family members and friends get older, clambering in and out of a bath to get a shower does become more taxing!
Space
In smaller bathroom layouts, a shower is space–efficient, providing functionality without compromising the rest of the room.
Your personal routine
Many of us compromise with a shower over the bath, but if you are showering 90% of the time, is it really worth holding on to the bath?
Cleaning effort
Showers are generally easier to clean, avoiding the awkward lean or climb into a bath.
Water usage
Remember to consider water conservation; baths tend to use more water than showers.
FAQs
What design features or fixtures can be incorporated to make both showers and baths more accessible for individuals with mobility concerns?
Incorporating design features for accessibility in both showers and baths involves thoughtful consideration. Installing grab bars strategically provides support and stability. Non–slip surfaces in showers and baths enhance safety. Barrier–free or curbless entry designs facilitate easy access, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. Adjustable or handheld showerheads allow flexibility in use. Additionally, creating sufficient space for maneuverability, considering seating options, and ensuring proper lighting contribute to making both showers and baths more accessible for individuals with mobility concerns, promoting a more inclusive bathroom environment.
In smaller homes or apartments where space is a constraint, how can one optimize the bathroom layout to accommodate both a bath and a shower without sacrificing functionality or comfort?
Optimizing the bathroom layout in smaller homes or apartments with limited space involves strategic planning. Combining a bath and shower into a single unit, commonly known as a shower–bath combination, offers the functionality of both without sacrificing space. Choosing compact or corner–designed fixtures may help maximize available room. Utilizing wall–mounted storage, such as shelves or niches, minimizes clutter. Additionally, opting for sliding doors or curtains instead of swinging doors saves space, contributing to a balanced layout that accommodates both a bath and a shower while maintaining functionality and comfort.
What are some practical strategies or products that can help simplify the cleaning process for baths, addressing concerns such as mold and hard–to–reach areas?
Streamlining the cleaning process for baths, especially addressing concerns like avoiding mold and hard–to–reach areas, involves practical planning and products. Choosing baths with smooth, non–porous surfaces makes cleaning easier and inhibits mold growth. Install shower doors with easy–to–clean glass coatings to minimize water spots and reduces cleaning effort. Additionally, where you position your bath can effect how easy it is to clean - making sure you can easily clean the bath without getting in it is a good start! Implementing regular cleaning schedules, including the use of mold–resistant cleaners, helps prevent buildup and can further simplify the cleaning process to maintain a hygienic bathroom environment.
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