Does a Master Bathroom Need a Tub?

Published on Wednesday September 23, 2020

So you’re considering a master bathroom remodel and you’ve come upon the ever-present question: does a master bathroom need a tub? It can be so difficult to determine what the priorities are for a bathroom remodel.

You want it to be a calming, luxurious space, but does a master bathroom need a bathtub or can you go without one? Should you have a walk-in shower instead? What’s the best solution for your space?

Let’s examine the options.

Does a Master Bath Need a Bathtub?

When remodeling their bathroom, many homeowners get stuck on this renovation question because they’re trying to balance a variety of factors: which configuration makes the most sense for their space, which option will increase the value of the home, what’s the most economical decision, etc.

Instead of asking, “Does my master bathroom need a bathtub?,” it’s important to start with, “Do I want my master bath to have a tub?”

This may seem obvious, but your bathroom is something you use everyday. If you’re going to invest in this element of your bathroom, you should get the most enjoyment out of it. Therefore, your personal preference should play a role in the decision-making process.

Many homeowners opt to have a tub somewhere in the home, but prefer a big, walk-in shower over a tub for the master bathroom — but is that the case for you? Give it some honest thought and then consider the other factors.

Can You Get Rid of the Master Bathtub?

Many homeowners decide to get rid of the tub and replace it with a walk-in shower, largely due to the tub’s lack of use. Since bathtubs take up a lot of space, they can sometimes restrict design plans when it comes to bathroom renovations.

Nowadays, there are a variety of shower layouts and customizations available to homeowners. You have many more options that will make your master bathroom look upscale and elegant without the need for a bathtub.

To sum it all up: No, you do not need a tub in your master bathroom. You can certainly install one if that is your preference, but it’s not a requirement.

Just keep in mind that, if you are looking to renovate prior to selling your home, it’s recommended that you have at least one bathtub in the home. However, the tub does not necessarily need to be located in the master bathroom.

What are the Benefits of a Walk-in Shower?

In many cases, you can increase the functionality of your bathroom and even improve the value of your home if you have a large, walk-in shower in your master bathroom. Other benefits to consider include:

Easy to Clean

Bathtubs often require you to get on your hands and knees to scrub crevices where dirt and bacteria can settle, which makes cleaning a daunting task. Switching to a shower allows you to cut down on cleaning time and effort to a minimum, so you have one less chore to dread.

More Bathroom Space

A walk-in shower creates a more open space while also offering many different options when it comes to design. You’ll be surprised at how much storage and free space you’ll have in your master bathroom when you pull out the tub and opt for a walk-in shower instead.

Wheelchair Accessible

If you live with a senior or someone who uses a wheelchair, bathing can be incredibly difficult for them when the only option is a tub. Getting in and out, up and down, and properly clean is a struggle, and even dangerous. A walk-in shower makes showering easy and comfortable while reducing the risk of injury due to falls.

Ready for Your Master Bath Remodel?

If you’re looking to upgrade your master bathroom with a tub to shower conversion, visit us online today to get a quote or schedule a free, in-home consultation!