Bathtubs

There are a number of factors to consider when you’re looking for a new bathtub. A few of which we’ve highlighted below.

Bath style: Consider which style of baths are available. Primarily the styles of baths to choose between are freestanding and inset, both of which we’ve gone over in the answer below. But as always there are a few variations once you research a little deeper.
Bath size and shape: The size and shape of your bathtub are key considerations. How big should the bathtub be in order to fit in your bathroom, while still offering maximum comfort? How about whether an oval or square shape looks best?
Bathroom walls: The position of walls is another factor worth considering. If your bath is to sit against a wall, ensure it’s fully sealed or that you can clean in between. We see this consideration overlooked far too often.

There are primarily two styles of baths available.

Freestanding baths: This style of bath is often used as the primary focal point in a bathroom. Standing alone without any support from a wall, they’re a bold choice that draws attention for their perceived luxury.
Inset baths: This style of bath is much more understated, but doesn’t have to be any less luxurious. Positioned in the corner of your bathroom or against a single wall, inset baths help to maximise floor space and usually offer a ledge to rest items on as you bathe.

While these are the two most popular styles, there are slight hybrids of the two where you’re able to place freestanding baths against a wall.

As you’ll discover in our next answer however, these hybrid baths must be designed correctly to either block water spillage or allow enough space to clean.

If you can’t go past the luxurious elegance of a freestanding bath but are short of floor space within your bathroom, you may be tempted to put a freestanding bath against a wall. Before doing this, you’re going to have to make a couple of considerations.

The primary consideration is whether the design advantages of a freestanding bath trumps the extra cleaning work that you’re going to have to do when it’s pushed against a wall. That small space between the bath and wall will soon catch dust and be a prime place for damp mould to develop.

If you can’t bring it out about 30 cm from the wall, then we’d recommend using a hybrid that allows you to raise the shelf and tile it against the wall so there’s no visible gap.

When it comes to choosing between stone, steel or acrylic tubs, the choice is entirely up to you and what you’re trying to achieve in your bathroom.

Acrylic tubs are a popular choice for their durability when compared directly to porcelain. They’re a flexible and often cheaper option when it comes to both their up-front cost and installation as they’re lighter. Acrylic tubs are a better option for most family bathroom settings.

Stone tubs are beautiful from an aesthetic point of view and a more luxurious choice over an acrylic bath. Stone baths will retain the heat for longer giving you a more time to relax and shed the day's stress.

Steel tubs are enamel coated making them easy to clean and one of the most resilient types of baths on the market. They are also available in many shapes and sizes.

The bottom line is that you’re going to want a bath that not only looks great but is comfortable enough to relax into after a hard day at work.

When it comes to choosing a bath shape for comfort, whether they’re oval or square-shaped on the outside doesn’t matter. What matters is how the inside surface, especially the bottom, has been designed.

We find that the most comfortable bathtubs have an ergonomically shaped bottom and back, allowing your body to mould into it when you take a seat.  

Another factor when it comes to choosing the most comfortable bath shape is whether the back is lower than your feet. This design means that you won't have to hold yourself up from sliding down, keeping you locked in your sitting position and able to truly relax.

Absolutely, our steel baths are manufactured from the highest guage 3.5mm porcelain on steel, ensuring great hygene properties, scratch resistance, sound deadening and heat retention. Most come with a 30 year warranty.

Acrylic is also a great option for children as modern materials and manufacturing methods produce very high quality products with greatly improved heat retention. Most of these come with a 15 year warranty.

Whichever way you decide to go, The Blue Space strongly recommends the use of pop-down wastes with any bath, read more about why in our Product Advice section.

Yes, there are bath repair kits available. However, if your bath is old it might be better to simply replace it as the repair kits do not guarantee perfect results.

This depends on the individual bath. The capacity is listed in the specs for each bath.

Small baths, corner baths, and shower baths are ideal for compact spaces. They maximise functionality while offering a luxurious bathing experience without taking up too much room.

Acrylic bathtubs are lightweight and versatile, stone baths offer luxury and durability, while steel baths are known for their strength and heat retention. Consider your bathroom’s style, usage needs, and maintenance preferences when selecting a material.

Spa baths require regular cleaning of the jets and surfaces to maintain hygiene and functionality. Many models include self-cleaning features that make maintenance easier.

Freestanding bathtubs can be installed in smaller bathrooms, but it's essential to ensure there’s enough space around the bath for easy access and cleaning. Smaller freestanding models are available to suit more compact spaces.