Freestanding of built in? Which bathtub is better solution?

Freestanding bathtubs are becoming more and more popular, especially in modern interiors. These are products that not only serve their primary purpose, but also constitute an important decorative element of the bathroom.

Advantages of a freestanding bathtub

• Aesthetics: Freestanding bathtubs are synonymous with luxury and elegance. Their unique design makes them a real decoration of the interior. They are available in various styles - from classic, through retro, to modern. Thanks to this, we can choose a model that will perfectly fit into the arrangement of our bathroom.
• Space: A free-standing bathtub does not require a built-in structure, which makes the bathroom feel more spacious and open. We can freely change its place, which allows for easy remodeling of the interior. In addition, free-standing bathtubs can be an optical separation of zones in the bathroom, e.g. the bathing zone from the washing zone.
• Ease of installation: Installation of a freestanding bathtub is simple and quick, which results in lower installation costs. It is enough to ensure proper connection to the water and sewage system, and the bathtub itself can be placed practically anywhere.
• Many types of materials: Freestanding bathtubs are available in a wide range of materials such as acrylic, steel enamel and composites. Each of them has its own unique properties, such as durability, ease of cleaning or the ability to maintain water temperature. Thanks to this, we have the opportunity to choose the material that best meets our expectations and needs.

Disadvantages of a freestanding bathtub

• Price: Freestanding bathtubs are usually more expensive than built-in ones. It is worth remembering, however, that this investment translates into a unique look and comfort of use.
• Spatial requirements: A free-standing bathtub takes up more space than a built-in bathtub, so it will work best in spacious bathrooms. Before buying, it is worth measuring the bathroom carefully to make sure that it will fit the space properly.
• Lack of practical accessories: In the case of a free-standing bathtub, it is more difficult to find functional solutions, such as shelves or storage compartments. However, it is worth considering the use of free-standing bathroom furniture that will allow you to store cosmetics and accessories.

Practical accessories for a freestanding bathtub

Freestanding bathtubs can be additionally supplemented with practical accessories, such as towel racks, headrests or glass and book holders. Thanks to them, using the bathtub will become even more comfortable and pleasant

Built-in bathtub

A built-in bathtub is a traditional solution often found in bathrooms. It is embedded in a special housing that can perform decorative and practical functions, such as convenient storage compartments or shelves.

Advantages of a built-in bathtub

• Practicality: In the case of a built-in bathtub, it is easy to find functional solutions that are integrated with the apron. We can fit the above-mentioned compartments in it, which will help to keep order in the bathroom: we can conveniently store cosmetics and bathroom accessories in them.
• Individual adjustment: The bathtub apron can be made of various materials, which allows it to match the style of the interior. We can also choose the right size of the bathtub to be built in.
• Price: Built-in bathtubs are usually cheaper than free-standing ones, thanks to which we will save on investment.
• Water shield: In the case of a built-in bathtub, the apron also serves as protection against splashing water, which may be important for people using the shower in the bathtub. As a result, it helps to keep the bathroom dry and tidy.
• Integration with the interior: The built-in bathtub can be perfectly integrated with the rest of the bathroom equipment, which gives the room a coherent and harmonious appearance.

Disadvantages of a built-in bathtub

• Aesthetics: A built-in bathtub may not be as impressive as a free-standing one, especially if the apron is not carefully thought out in detail.
• Installation: Installing a built-in bathtub can be time-consuming and requires professional assistance, which results in higher installation costs.
• More difficult to clean: Cleaning a built-in bathtub can be a pain, especially if the apron makes it difficult to access.
• Less flexibility in arrangement: In the case of a built-in bathtub, we have less room to show off when it comes to remodeling the bathroom, because the casing takes up a certain place and requires more work for possible changes.

 Tips when choosing a built-in bathtub

It is worth paying attention to the quality of the materials from which the housing is made. Choose materials that are moisture resistant and easy to clean. In addition, before buying, it is worth checking whether the prepared housing allows easy access to the siphon and pipes, which will facilitate any service work.

Ergonomics and functionality - what to choose?

Built-in or free-standing bathtub - it is also worth paying attention to ergonomics and functionality. A bath in a bathtub is a time of relaxation and rest, which is why the comfort of use is crucial.

First of all, it is worth considering the following aspects:

• Shape and size: Freestanding bathtubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to choose a bathtub to suit your individual needs and preferences. A built-in bathtub may be limited in terms of shape and size, but on the other hand it allows for better use of space.
• Bath Depth: Freestanding baths typically have a greater depth than built-in baths, allowing for deeper water immersion and greater bathing comfort. In the case of a built-in bathtub, it is worth paying attention to its depth, as it may not be suitable for people of different heights.
• Body support: A freestanding bathtub can offer better body support as its shape is ergonomically thought out. In the case of a built-in bathtub, the support may be worse, but it can be improved by using pillows or supports.
• Additional options: Freestanding bathtubs can be equipped with various additional options, such as hydromassage or chromotherapy, which introduce an additional element of relaxation. In the case of a built-in bathtub, such possibilities are also available, but they may be less numerous and require more money.

Bathtub with a dedicated casing - a solution prepared by the manufacturer

Another version are bathtubs, to which the manufacturer dedicates an apron designed for them. The assembly of such a apron is simple and quick, because the bathtub has a mounting place for the housing prepared at the production stage. A dedicated bathtub enclosure is an interesting solution that is worth considering. It creates not only a harmonious set with a bathtub, but also provides constant and easy access to the space under the bathtub. This possibility is very important for maintenance and repair work.

Before making a decision, it is also worth considering what the entire bathroom will look like. A well-designed interior can bring out the advantages of both freestanding and built-in bathtubs. In any case, it is worth remembering that the choice of a bathtub should be well thought out, as it translates into the comfort of using the bathroom for many years.

To sum up, the choice between a free-standing bathtub and a built-in or with an apron depends on individual preferences and the conditions in the bathroom. If we care about unique aesthetics and we have enough space, it is worth considering a free-standing bathtub. If, on the other hand, practicality and a lower investment cost are a priority, a built-in bathtub may be the solution.