Do You Need a Tub in Your Master Bathroom?

Published on Thursday August 22, 2024

When considering a bathroom remodel, it can be difficult to determine your priorities. One of them is the bathtub. Specifically, does a master bathroom need a bathtub? Or can you have a walk-in shower instead?

Let’s examine the options.

Does a Master Bath Need a Tub?

Many homeowners get stuck on this question when remodeling their bathrooms. They’re trying to balance various factors, including best use of the space, home resale value, practical needs, and more.

The first thing to ask yourself, though, is whether you want a bathtub in the master bathroom. If you’re going to invest in a bathroom remodel, you should get the most enjoyment out of it. Therefore, your personal preference should play a role in the decision-making process.

If you decide you don’t want a tub, the next factor to consider is the best use of your space. Sometimes a tub takes up valuable bathroom real estate that a shower can make more efficient.

Finally, consider your needs. Is this the only full bathroom in your house, and do you need it for bathing small children or pets? If so, it might not be time yet to switch to a shower-only solution.

Keep in mind that if you’re renovating before selling your home, it’s recommended that you have at least one bathtub. The tub doesn’t necessarily need to be located in the master bathroom, though.

Can You Replace the Tub in a Master Bath?

Many homeowners decide to get rid of the tub and replace it with a walk-in shower, largely because the tub is rarely used. Since bathtubs take up a lot of space, they can sometimes restrict design plans for bathroom renovations.

Tubs can be replaced with walk-in showers that offer a variety of layouts and customizations for the space you already have. You have many more options that will make your master bathroom look upscale and elegant without the need for a bathtub.

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

Showers are easier to clean than bathtubs because they have fewer horizontal surfaces where grime can accumulate. The vertical walls of a shower allow water and soap scum to rinse away more easily, reducing buildup.

Showers also typically have less surface area than bathtubs, making cleaning quicker and simpler. Additionally, many showers have smooth, non-porous materials that resist staining and mold growth.

More Bathroom Space

A walk-in shower creates a more open space while also offering many different design options. When you replace the tub with a walk-in shower, you’ll be surprised at how much storage and free space you’ll have in your master bathroom.

Wheelchair Accessible

If you live with a senior or someone with mobility challenges, bathing can be incredibly difficult when the only option is a tub. Getting in and out, up and down, and properly cleaning is a struggle and may even be dangerous.

A walk-in shower makes showering easy and comfortable while reducing the risk of injury due to falls.