This is because unlike in normal big bathrooms, you have to take into account the issue of size, shape, number, nature of the users, as well as the layout of the bathroom. Fortunately, there are still some bathtub designs specifically meant for small bathrooms. All you have to do is to visit the nearest bathroom supplies showroom to sample one that perfectly fits your small bathroom.
- Corner Tubs
Some small bathrooms tend to have corners; and in most cases, the corners are the only places where you can have a bathtub. In this case, corner bathtubs are the best since these do not only display the unique design, but they also save on the floor space. This way, you have enough space for other bathroom fittings and fixtures. Corner tubs have only one finished side for mounting the plumbing faucets and taps, while the rest are unfinished since they are flushed against the three walls. Usually, corner tubs come in triangular or clover shapes that allow space for fittings like an overhead shower in the same tub.
- Walk-In Tubs
Just like the name suggests, walk-in tubs come in a design where you walk in and out of the tub just like in a cubicle. They have a small watertight door that prevents water from leaking into your floor space while soaking. They also have extra safety fittings and fixtures like grab rails, whirlpool, anti-slip bottoms, and a seat. They are deeper and come at more floor level than the usual bathtubs. These are the best for a small bathroom that you intend to share with an elderly or a person living with a disability. This is because such features match with those recommended by the ADA. These tubs are also best for small-spaced bathrooms, as they are quite deep, meaning they will not take up a large surface area.
- Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding bathtubs are another great choice if you have a small bathroom. This is because they can be installed just anywhere, leaving you with ample space for other fittings and fixtures. However, one important factor to consider when dealing with freestanding tubs is the position of plumbing faucets on the floor space. If you are planning to install a freestanding tub where there are no plumbing faucets, then it means you must secure a bigger budget to cater for the new plumbing, and this comes at an increased cost. They come with a bathtub and an overhead shower. They are finished on all sides and come in many shapes and designs for you to choose from.
- Alcove or Recessed Tubs
Smaller bathrooms have a recessed space or what is usually known as alcove space for a bathtub. With such a design, you cannot have just any shape or size of a tub because it must perfectly fit into the alcove. This leaves you with enough free floor space for other uses. Normally, alcove or recessed tubs have three unfinished sides to flush with the three walls. The only finished one side is for mounting the plumbing faucets. This type of tub has thinner sides than the normal bathtubs found in larger space bathrooms. This allows for maximum tub area for better soaking.
- Drop-In Tubs
As the name suggests, this type of bathtub is dropped into or fitted into an already prepared platform. The platform has a plumbing faucet connected and has all its walls unfinished. This design of tubs comes with two disadvantages; the prepared platform comes at an extra cost, and it can only be fitted with a tub of its designed shape. This is the best design to go with when you have a limited amount of space in your bathroom because it allows enough space for other uses such as storage cabinets.
There is a wide array of designs to consider when you have a limited amount of space in your bathroom. The best thing to do is to go to the showroom and see what size and shape fit your bathroom. Even as you do this, you have to take into account space allowance for other fittings and fixtures.