Bath vs. Showers: Pros and Cons

In today’s world, it’s pretty uncommon to see residential plumbing feature a bathtub but not a shower, although it’s not so surprising to find a shower stall without a bathtub. This revelation might have you believing that showers are inherently better than baths, but not so fast! Is it possible that in our fast-paced world we’ve simply overlooked the benefits of the bath and instead opted for the convenience of the shower? Let’s take a look.

To Bathe or Not to Bathe

A kindly reminder: We’re not debating whether or not you should clean yourself. That you should definitely do, preferably on at least a semi-regular basis. What we’re really looking at is the value of taking a bath.

Unless you’re a child, or an overworked, stressed-out, wine-sipping woman looking for a quiet place to relax, it’s unlikely you’ve taken a bath recently. You may not have even given much thought to this large piece of bathroom plumbing taking up space in your home. Studies show that taking a bath can have significant health benefits, though, so it’s time to give it the attention it deserves.

Pros

1. Warm baths can soothe muscle pain.

2. Salt baths can calm arthritic pain.

3. Steam baths can relieve sinus pressure.

4. Hot baths can result in better sleep.

5. Bathtubs are safer for children.

Cons

1. Bathtubs take up more space than showers.

2. Filling a bathtub requires a lot of water.

3. Bathing is more time-consuming.

4. The elderly may have difficulties using a bathtub.

5. The dirt from your body remains in your bath water.

The Power Shower

Most homes have showers whether they also have a bathtub or not, because most people in America prefer to take showers rather than baths. That wasn’t always the case, though. Until the early twentieth century, most people took baths. Once the shower was invented, however, and the convenience became apparent, people began to see the benefits that bathing in running water can provide. Needless to say, the trend took off.

Pros

1. Generally, less water is used in a shower.

2. A shower is faster than a bath.

3. Showers are easily accessible to the elderly and injured.

4. Your water heater uses less energy during a shower.

5. Shower stalls require minimal space.

Cons

1. Shower doors require routine cleaning, and shower curtains require occasional replacement.

2. It’s harder to bathe small children in a shower.

3. Sealing leaks are harder to fix.

4. You have to stand to shower.

5. Your bathroom becomes a steam-room post-shower.

And the Winner Is...

Completely up to you! Choosing to bathe in a bathtub or a shower is absolutely a personal choice that depends on what makes the most sense for you and your family. If you’re looking for our bathroom plumbing tips and advice, we do suggest keeping at least one bathtub in your home if you ever plan on reselling it. Families with small children may walk away from a home that doesn’t have a place for their children to bathe safely.

To install, replace or repair your bathtub or shower stall, contact your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing today!