Thinking of removing your bathtub? Before making a decision, ask yourself: does a house need a bathtub for resale, comfort, or practicality?
In today’s home design, although bathtubs are used less frequently than showers, they remain an important fixture in many households. However, with changing lifestyles and diverse personal preferences, more and more homeowners are seriously considering whether to keep bathtubs in their homes during renovations.
After all, bathtubs not only occupy a lot of space but also require regular cleaning and maintenance, which can be a burdensome task for some homeowners.
So, are bathtubs really necessary for a house? This article by Giving Tree Home will delve into the pros and cons of bathtubs to help you make an informed decision.
The Importance of Bathtubs in Modern Homes
In modern home design, bathtubs are becoming less common, but does that mean they’re no longer necessary? Some homeowners love their freestanding tubs for relaxation, while others see them as wasted space. The big question remains—are bathtubs necessary in today’s homes?
This article will explore the pros and cons of bathtubs, their impact on resale value, and whether they fit your lifestyle. From space-saving solutions to luxury features, we’ll help you decide if a bathtub is essential for your home.
Enhancing Quality of Life
Despite being used less frequently, bathtubs are still regarded as an important element in enhancing the quality of life.
A bathtub provides a space for relaxation and soothing, especially after a busy day, where soaking in a bath can help alleviate stress and fatigue. For families pursuing comfort and a luxurious lifestyle, bathtubs are indispensable.
For instance, the “onsen culture” in Japan and the “sauna culture” in Nordic countries emphasize the importance of bathing in health and quality of life.
These cultural traditions not only reflect the practicality of bathing but also showcase its profound spiritual impact.
Moreover, bathing has been proven to have multiple benefits for physical and mental health. Hot baths can promote blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and even improve sleep quality. For those in high-pressure work environments, bathing is a simple yet effective way to relax.
Suitable for Children and Pets
For families with young children or pets, a bathtub is almost a necessity. Most children under the age of 8 have difficulty using showers, while bathtubs provide a safe and comfortable environment for bathing children.
Additionally, bathtubs are more efficient when bathing multiple children at the same time. For pets, bathtubs are also an ideal bathing spot, especially when bathing indoors, as handheld showerheads and bathtubs allow for better control of water and cleaning products, preventing messes.
For example, many pet owners choose bathtubs for bathing their dogs because the spacious and non-slip surfaces effectively prevent pets from slipping.
Increasing Home Value
Appraisers often evaluate the value of a home based on its bathroom configuration. Generally, a full bathroom includes a sink, toilet, shower, and bathtub, while a half bathroom lacks a shower or bathtub.
In some areas, such as the Portland metropolitan area, homes with at least one full bathroom are typically valued 5% to 20% higher than those without a full bathroom. Therefore, retaining a bathtub can significantly enhance a home’s resale value.
Additionally, with the rise of green building and energy-efficient homes, eco-friendly bathtubs such as water-saving and smart bathtubs have gradually become important factors in increasing home value.
The Design and Aesthetics of Bathtubs
Bathtubs are more than just functional fixtures—they’re statement pieces that elevate bathroom aesthetics. Whether it’s a sleek freestanding tub or a classic clawfoot design, the right bathtub can create a spa-like atmosphere in any home.
Modern designs blend luxury and practicality, offering elegant shapes, high-end materials, and customizable features like built-in lighting or waterfall faucets. A well-chosen bathtub doesn’t just enhance comfort—it adds a touch of sophistication, making your bathroom a true retreat.
Design Appeal
A bathtub is not just a functional fixture; it can also be the highlight of bathroom design. Whether it’s a vintage-style cast iron bathtub or a sleek, modern soaking tub, a well-designed bathtub can add a sense of luxury and visual appeal to a bathroom.
In the right space, a bathtub can make a bold and effective design statement, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the bathroom.
For example, freestanding bathtubs, with their elegant lines and unique shapes, have become a standard feature in many upscale homes. They not only provide a comfortable bathing experience but also serve as works of art in the bathroom.
Multifunctional Integration
Modern bathtubs are not only for soaking but can also integrate various functions such as health monitoring, entertainment systems, and smart home connectivity. For instance, some high-end bathtubs are equipped with massage functions, LED lighting, and Bluetooth audio systems, offering s a more comfortable and personalized experience.
These integrated features not only enhance the practicality of bathtubs but also add a sense of technological sophistication and modernity to the bathroom.
Moreover, smart bathtubs can be remotely controlled via mobile apps, allowing s to set the water temperature, lighting, and music before arriving home, providing a more convenient lifestyle.
Challenges and Solutions for Bathtubs
While bathtubs offer relaxation and luxury, they also come with challenges like space constraints, safety concerns, and maintenance requirements. In smaller bathrooms, compact or corner bathtubs can maximize space without sacrificing comfort.
Safety risks, especially for seniors, can be addressed with low-entry tubs, non-slip surfaces, and grab bars. For easier cleaning, modern bathtubs now feature self-cleaning systems and antimicrobial surfaces that reduce buildup.
By choosing the right design and features, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a bathtub without the common drawbacks.
Space Requirements
Bathtubs typically occupy more space, especially standard-sized ones (60 inches x 36 inches), which take up 50% more space than corner showers (38 inches x 38 inches). If you want to separate the shower and bathtub, it will require double the space.
For bathrooms with limited space, this can be a significant consideration. To address this issue, designers have introduced many innovative solutions, such as corner bathtubs, built-in bathtubs, and foldable bathtubs, which maximize functionality in limited space.
For example, corner bathtubs utilize two walls of the bathroom to create a more compact layout, saving space without compromising comfort.
Safety Risks
Entering and exiting a bathtub can increase the risk of falls, especially for the elderly. The challenge of stepping over the bathtub wall combined with slippery floors can lead to serious injuries. To reduce this risk, one can install anti-slip mats, grab bars, and bathtub seats.
Additionally, modern bathtub designs incorporate many safety features, such as non-slip surfaces, low-entry designs, and automatic drainage systems, which effectively minimize safety hazards when using a bathtub.
For example, low-entry bathtubs eliminate the need to step over a high tub wall, reducing the risk of falls.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Bathtubs are breeding grounds for bacteria and require regular cleaning and maintenance. Most experts recommend disinfecting a bathtub at least once a week and performing deep cleaning monthly. Due to the complex shape of bathtubs, some surfaces are hard to reach, making cleaning more difficult.
To simplify the cleaning process, one can choose materials that are easy to clean, such as acrylic or enameled cast iron, and use appropriate cleaning agents regularly. Furthermore, modern bathtub designs include self-cleaning features, such as UV sterilization and automatic cleaning systems, which significantly reduce manual cleaning efforts.
For example, some high-end bathtubs are equipped with UV sterilization lamps that automatically disinfect the tub after each use, maintaining its hygiene.
Resale Value and Decision-Making for Bathtubs
When renovating a bathroom, homeowners often wonder whether keeping or removing a bathtub will impact resale value. While walk-in showers are increasingly popular, many buyers—especially families—still prefer homes with at least one bathtub. The decision should balance personal lifestyle needs with future market appeal to ensure both comfort and long-term home value.
Resale Value
In the real estate industry, single-family homes typically require at least one bathtub to attract potential buyers. Especially for families with young children, the absence of a bathtub can be a major obstacle.
However, as design trends shift from bathtubs to showers, many homeowners are questioning this traditional view. For most family homes, retaining at least one bathtub remains a wise choice to maintain the home’s resale value.
Additionally, with the rise of green building and energy-efficient homes, eco-friendly bathtubs such as water-saving and smart bathtubs have gradually become important factors in increasing home value.
Long-Term Residency vs. Short-Term Resale
An important factor to consider when deciding whether to keep a bathtub is whether you plan to sell your home in the future. If you plan to live in the home long-term and do not intend to sell in the next few years, you can decorate your home according to personal preferences.
For example, if you prefer showers, you might choose to remove the bathtub and install a large walk-in shower instead.
However, if you plan to sell, retaining a bathtub will help enhance your home’s appeal and attract potential buyers. For example, many homebuyers pay special attention to bathroom design and functionality when considering a purchase, and the presence of a bathtub is often seen as a significant plus.
Placement and Layout of Bathtubs
The location of a bathtub can significantly impact both functionality and aesthetics in a home. While master bathrooms often feature luxurious soaking tubs, secondary or guest bathrooms may benefit from a more space-efficient design.
Homeowners should consider their household needs, available space, and long-term plans when deciding the best placement for a bathtub.
Master Bathroom vs. Secondary Bathroom
In most modern homes, master bathrooms typically include a bathtub. However, for homeowners who do not need or want a bathtub for personal use, this can feel like a waste of space. In such cases, consider moving the bathtub to the secondary or guest bathroom, especially if there are children or pets in the household.
The master bathroom can then be remodeled into a functional shower-centric space to meet daily needs.
For example, many modern families choose to install large walk-in showers in the master bathroom and retain a bathtub in the secondary bathroom to accommodate different family members’ needs.
Children’s Bathroom and Guest Bathroom
For families with young children, the children’s bathroom is an ideal place for a bathtub. A bathtub provides a safe and comfortable environment for bathing children and also facilitates parental care.
For families without children, the guest bathroom can be a suitable option for a bathtub, offering convenience for visiting guests. For example, many homeowners choose to install a small bathtub in the guest bathroom to provide a more comfortable bathing experience for visitors.
Should You Keep a Bathtub? The Truth About Bathroom Design
In 2025, the role and significance of bathtubs in modern homes are evolving. Although bathtubs are no longer a necessity for every household, they remain an important fixture for many families.
By understanding the pros and cons of bathtubs, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and lifestyle.
Whether to enhance your quality of life, meet family needs, or increase your home’s resale value, bathtubs are worth serious consideration.
So, does a house need a bathtub? The answer depends on your lifestyle and future plans. If you prioritize relaxation, family needs, or home resale value, keeping at least one bathtub can be a smart investment. However, if you rarely use it and prefer spacious walk-in showers, a well-designed shower could be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best bathroom layout is one that suits your personal comfort and long-term home goals. Whether you choose a luxury soaking tub or a modern shower upgrade, make sure it enhances both functionality and style.
Source: Giving Tree Home
Giving Tree Home is a well-known bathroom brand offering a wide range of high-quality bathtubs. If you’re looking for an effective way to add value to your bathroom, purchasing a freestanding bathtub from Giving Tree Home will help you achieve that goal. Don’t hesitate—order now and receive a 10% discount.
