A bath is usually the focal point of a bathroom and there is now a huge choice of bath types on the market whatever the size of your wallet. So, buying a bath can be a mission - it's important to think of factors such as bath size.

Bath types - bath size

A standard bath size is 30" wide, 60" long and typically about 15" deep. However, you can go up from there, to soaking tubs which are 36" deep, square, sunken tubs, whirlpools or even free-standing claw-foot bath types.

It is possible for the bath size to be too long so that you will slip down unless you hold the sides of the bath. The ideal bath size is long enough for you to rest your head on one end and your feet against the other with your legs straight but not stretched. If you like sharing the most comfortable bath types are the double ended baths with the plug and taps at the side and with sloping head ends (this is referred to as a double-ended bath type).

Remember when you're buying a bath, don't be ashamed to try out the bath for size. You might look like nutters in the shop but it's important to try different bath types before you buy!

If you go for buying a bath that's a larger bath size, check that your hot-water system has the extra capacity needed and not only ensure it fits the space but that you can also get it through any corridors or round any corners that lead to your bathroom.

Bath types - material

Standard baths tend to be made from either moulded acrylic or pressed steel. Acrylic is warmer to the touch and does not absorb heat to the same extent as steel so the bath water remains marginally hotter for longer. It has a somewhat undeserved reputation for scratching easily - but should scratches appear, the bath can be polished with car wax polish so it's not a major problem. Acrylic has shed its image as a substitute for cast iron and is now the standard material for even some of the most expensive baths.

Bath types - shape

When buying a bath, as well as bath size, consider alternative bath types in terms of shape - rectangular baths are popular because of the pragmatic shape, round baths are good for bathing children, while double-ended baths with centred taps are great for two people. Square sit-up baths and corner baths are recommended for unusually shaped rooms.

	Shower bath - purposefully designed for both bathing and showering. It has an extra wide shower area for more comfortable showering. In some baths this part of the bath is also strengthened to improve wear and tear and movement.
	Double-ended bath - great for sharing as two people can lie flat and the taps are normally positioned in the centre of the bath. If you plan to have a shower over this type of bath be careful as you may find yourself leaning over a slope to get to the shower head.
	Round baths - good for bathing children (although takes more water to fill).
	Roll-top bath - if you have the space and are the type of person who likes to take long soaks in the tub, a classic clawfoot bathtub or modern roll-top style might be right for you.
	Spa baths - all singing and dancing baths. If you really fancy it your bath can be a state-of-the-art gadget with specialist jets and even steam. If you have the desire and budget anything is possible!

Does a bath use more water than a shower?

It is said that baths use more water than showers - depending on the kind of shower you have and the bath size this may be a misconception. An average bath is filled at 8.8 to 13.2 gallons (40 to 60 L), a power shower (where a pump is installed to increase water pressure) can gush an extravagant 5.5 gallons (25 L) per minute. To enjoy a shower without wasting excessive amounts of water you can invest in an aerating shower head, which will lower the flow rate to around a satisfying 1.54 gallons 7 L per minute.

You should think carefully before opting for a shower instead of buying a bath (if it's the only one in the house), as it may decrease the resale value of your property.

If you are thinking of buying a bath then make sure you browse our huge range of baths of varying bath sizes and bath types in our Bathroom Ideas gallery.