Back to wall bath or free standing bath?

Choosing between a back to wall bath and a free standing bath for your bathroom space

When it comes to bathroom design, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to choose a back to wall bath or a free standing bath. Both bathtub types have their pros and cons, so how do you decide which is right for your home?

A back to wall bath is fixed in place against a wall, which gives it a more streamlined look and can make your bathroom feel bigger. It’s also easy to clean, as there are no gaps for dirt and grime to build up. However, you won’t be able to move it if you decide to change your bathroom layout in the future, and it can be more difficult to get into if you’re not very tall.

A free standing bath, on the other hand, is more versatile and offers a more premium feel. This can also be a great option if you want to change the layout of your bathroom in the future as the plumbing attachments are comparably easier to manage than when you have a back to wall bath. However, they can take up more space and they can be harder to keep clean as there are more nooks and crannies for dirt and grime to build up.

So, which bathtub is right for you? It really depends on your personal preferences and the layout of your bathroom. If you’re not sure, it’s always a good idea to speak to a bathroom designer or a plumber who can talk you through your options and advise you on the best way to install your new bath.

Here are a few considerations that may factor into your final selection:

Size matters

The first thing to consider when choosing between a free standing bath and a back to wall bath is its size. Make sure you measure the available space in your bathroom and select something that will fit comfortably.

If you have a smaller bathroom, you may want to consider a back to wall bath, and a shorter, shallower bath. Conversely, if you have a spacious bathroom, you can afford to be more adventurous with your choice of bath and install a standing bath like this Diseno Acrylic Back to Wall Bath.

Style and aesthetics

Another important consideration is the style of the bath you want. There are many different styles to choose from, so take some time to browse through catalogues and websites to get an idea of what’s available.

Some things you may want to keep in mind are the shape of the bath (round, oval, rectangular etc.) the material it was made from (fibreglass, ceramic, acrylic, etc.) and the finish (glossy or matte). This free standing bath from Victoria + Albert, for instance, is made from a finely ground volcanic limestone and resin mix.

Of course, you also need to think about how it blends into the overall look of your bathroom or house. If you have a modern bathroom, you may want something sleek and minimalist like this Otto Acrylic back to bath by Elementi. Or, if you have a more traditional bathroom, you might want something with more ornate details, like this Roxburgh Quarrycast free standing bath.

Cost considerations

Bathroom fixtures vary widely in price, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Freestanding baths in New Zealand tend to range from $2,000 to $13,000, while back to wall baths can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000. Keep in mind that these prices only include the price of the bath, the installation will depend on your bathroom designer or plumber.

When comparing prices, make sure you’re comparing apples with apples and getting quotes for products that sit within your price range. 

Functionality considerations

When choosing a bath, it’s important to think about how you’re going to use it. If you have young children, for example, you may want to choose a bath with softer curves so they don’t bump into the corners. You may want to opt for a back to wall bath like the Eldon Quarrycast bath for this purpose.

Additionally, with a back to wall bath, your children only have two or three sides in which to play around, which can greatly contribute to preventing bathtub-related slips, falls, and injuries.

On the other hand, if you have healthcare or accessibility considerations, you may want to consider bathroom solutions designed for limited mobility.

These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when choosing between a free standing bath and a back to wall bath for your bathroom space. By keeping the above factors in mind, you can be sure to choose a bathroom fixture that will suit both your needs and your budget.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, so take your time, do your research and select something that will suit your needs and fit into your budget.

Get in touch with us to find the right bathroom solution for your home. We’ll be more than happy to arrange a meeting.