Help & advice
Freestanding or standard bath?
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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
Selecting the right type of bath is an important decision that can significantly impact the overall look and functionality of your bathroom. Two popular options to consider are freestanding baths and builtâin baths. Each has its own set of pros and cons.
Freestanding Baths
Freestanding baths are standalone fixtures that are not attached to any walls or platforms. They often come with a decorative base or feet, providing an elegant and luxurious appearance.
Pros:
- Freestanding baths are often chosen for their visual impact. They can serve as a focal point in the bathroom
- They can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, providing more flexibility in terms of layout and design. They don't require walls for support, allowing for creative placement options
- Freestanding baths come in a wide range of styles, from classic clawfoot tubs to modern, sleek designs. This variety allows you to choose a bathtub that complements your overall bathroom aesthetic
- They are available in various materials, like acrylic, cast iron and stone. This allows you to choose a material that aligns with your aesthetics preferences and creates a sense of luxury and sophistication
- Many freestanding baths are designed with well-proportioned shapes, comfortable backrests and higher sides allowing for a deeper, more comfortable and relaxing bathing experience
Cons:
- Freestanding baths often require more space since they are not tucked against walls. Ensure you have ample room in your bathroom to comfortably move around the bath
- The location of your plumbing and the type of flooring in your bathroom can impact the ease of installation. Changing from a built-in âstandardâ bath to a freestanding bath will require adjustments to plumbing
- Freestanding baths are often bigger and heavier than built-in models, so you will need to consider how you will get the bath into the room and whether your floor structure is able to take the weight of the tub
- It's generally more challenging to install a shower over a freestanding bath due to the lack of adjacent walls for shower fixtures. This limitation may influence your decision if having a combined shower and bath is a priority
- Freestanding baths tend to be more expensive
- You might need to consider purchasing more expensive fixtures and fittings if they are going to be exposed so that they donât detract from the look and feel of your bathroom
Traditional Freestanding Baths
For traditional or âclaw footâ freestanding baths, all of your pipes are exposed, so youâre unlikely to want them to be white plastic.
You'll need an exposed bath overflow pipe, "pâtrap" and pâtrap connection pipe, and potentially a floor mounted tap column (depending on your choice of taps). Who knew!
Freestanding baths, best for larger bathrooms and for those that love to soak for hours in the tub!
Built-in Baths
Built-in baths, also known as alcove, recessed baths, inset baths or standard baths, are designed to fit into a specific space against one or more walls.
Pros:
- Built-in baths are an excellent choice for smaller bathrooms as they utilise existing walls, maximising floor space
- Cleaning around a built-in bath is generally easier since there are fewer exposed sides and the flooring underneath is hidden! This can be particularly beneficial for households with children or those seeking a low-maintenance option
- Built-in baths are generally a cost-effective choice compared to freestanding options
- The installation process is often simpler (plenty of space to hide pipes etc.), potentially reducing labour costs
Cons:
- While built-in baths offer a clean and integrated look, the material and style options are more limited compared to freestanding baths
- You will potentially also need to purchase bath side and end panels, depending on the specific bath that you choose and where in the room itâs going to be positioned
Built in baths, best for smaller bathrooms, lower budgets and those with children or generally more people needing to get in and out in the mornings!
Frequently asked questions
Is a freestanding bath better than a built-in bath?
A freestanding bath is better if you want the bath to be a feature and have enough space around it. A built-in bath is usually better for smaller bathrooms, tighter budgets and rooms where you need a shower over the bath.
Do freestanding baths need more space?
Yes, freestanding baths usually need more space because they are not tucked neatly against walls in the same way as a built-in bath. You need room around the bath for access, cleaning and making the layout feel intentional.
Are freestanding baths harder to install?
Usually yes. Freestanding baths can require more plumbing work, especially if you are moving from a standard built-in bath. Exposed pipework, floor-mounted taps and the floor structure all need to be checked before installation.
Can you have a shower over a freestanding bath?
You can, but it is usually more awkward than having a shower over a built-in bath. Freestanding baths often lack nearby walls for screens, risers and shower fittings, so they are not usually the most practical option for a main family bathroom.
Are built-in baths better for small bathrooms?
Yes, built-in baths usually work better in small bathrooms because they sit against one or more walls and make better use of the available floor space. They are also easier to combine with a shower screen.
What extra fittings do you need for a freestanding bath?
Freestanding baths often need separate visible fittings, such as an exposed waste, overflow pipe, P-trap and possibly floor-mounted taps. These are not always included with the bath, so check before ordering.
Are freestanding baths more expensive?
Freestanding baths are often more expensive than built-in baths, both to buy and install. The bath itself can cost more, and exposed fittings or changes to plumbing can add to the total cost.
Which bath is best for a family bathroom?
A built-in bath is usually more practical for a family bathroom because it is easier to clean around, simpler to shower over and better suited to children getting in and out every day.
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