Which is better - a bath or a shower? The choice between bath and shower: recommendations and comparative characteristics

More recently, the main element of the bathroom was the bath itself, regardless of the material, shape or size. But here on sale there were shower cabins - comfortable, practical, large and small, with many functions. And immediately there was a dilemma - what is better to choose?

The range of baths and showers is now huge, you can choose an option for every taste and purse, but it is not always easy to determine. Well, if the premises are large, and the financial possibilities allow you to install both a cabin and a bath simultaneously, but what should those who do not have such opportunities have? To solve this problem, you need to compare their main characteristics, as well as learn more about all the nuances - advantages, disadvantages, features of the installation.

Differences in construction

Any bath is a monolithic bowl with high sides and a hole for draining the water. The exception is the combined models of acrylic and glass, which have hermetic seams on the body. Thanks to the large capacity, the baths are given the opportunity not only to wash, but also to relax, to enjoy the bathing procedure.

Standard models have an oval and rectangular shape, which allows a person to lie comfortably and straighten their legs, if, of course, the size is correctly chosen. For small rooms there are corner models, in which you can comfortably accommodate in the reclining position. And still there are sedentary baths, which appeared not so long ago, but already in demand. They are compact, ergonomic, ideal for the elderly and people with disabilities.

Baths differ in size, height of the sides, the presence of additional accessories. Many models have legs that facilitate connection to the sewer. Lightweight structures require a support frame, which is usually closed with a decorative screen.

Depending on the type, the bath is installed close to the wall, in a corner or in the middle of the room, in addition, they can be built into the floor.

Dimensions of a standard rectangular bath:

• length 150-180 cm;
• width 70-85 cm;
• height of the sides 40-75 cm.

Depending on the material, the weight of the product varies in a very wide range - from 25 kg (acrylic) to 1200 kg (natural stone).

Shower enclosure

Unlike the bath, the shower enclosure includes several elements: walls, shower panel, drip tray and lid. There are three types of such structures - open top, fully closed and combined.

Cabins without top cover  (open) is the most budgetary option. To assemble the cabin in one of the corners of the bathroom set the pallet, connect it to the sewer, from the open side along the edge mount the walls and door on the aluminum profile.

The shower cabin for today is not just an alternative to a bath, but also a detail of the interior that should harmoniously fit into the bathroom

The mixer and shower head are attached to the bathroom walls. Due to the simplicity of the design, the dimensions of the cabin can be selected at your discretion, and the installation process does not require special knowledge. But there are open cabins and minuses: because of the lack of a top cover, it is not possible to install additional options in the form of a steam generator, several shower modes and ozonation, and during the procedures, wet evaporation spreads to the entire room.

Shower cabin - comfortable and practical

Closed models - this is an autonomous design, isolated from the microclimate of the bathroom. It consists of a pallet, walls with a door, a top base and a multifunctional panel. Such a cabin can be put in any convenient place, the main thing - to be able to connect it to the water pipe and the drain pipe. In the case of overhaul of the bathroom or moving the structure is easily dismantled and folded, and install it will not be difficult even for the layman.

Combined structures, or shower boxes, instead of a pallet equipped with baths, and the walls are attached to the edge of the sides of the bowl. They are made both in open and in closed options, depending on the model. Here are combined all the pluses and cabs, and baths, for example, simultaneously with a Jacuzzi you can install a cascade shower or a shower of Charcot. Disadvantages of construction: high price and large dimensions (compared to a conventional cabin).

Standard sizes of shower cabins:

• open and closed models  symmetrical shape - 80x80, 90x90 and 100x100, 120x120 cm;
• asymmetric shape - 100x80, 120x80, 110x90, 120x90 cm;
• height - from 170 to 240 cm.

Materials of manufacture

What are the baths?

The list of materials used in the manufacture of bathtubs is quite wide:

• acrylic;
• kvaril;
• enamelled steel;
• cast iron;
• toughened high impact glass;
• copper;
• faience;
• natural stone;
• casting stone;
• tree.

The most common and affordable are steel and acrylic products, followed by baths made of cast iron. They can not boast of special decorative features, but still the appearance of such plumbing is very aesthetic, the surface is easy to clean and with appropriate care long retains the external appeal.

Glass, copper, faience models, as well as products made of artificial stone look much more impressive, and although at a price they far exceed traditional bathtubs, too, are in great demand. In addition to decorative, they have high performance characteristics, long service, convenient to use.

But the most luxurious and beautiful are baths made of wood and natural stone - marble, granite, onyx. These materials have their own characteristic pattern, thanks to which the finished products look very elegant, original and stylish.

Such a variety of materials and forms allows you to choose a bath for any interior, even the most extraordinary. Many manufacturers make plumbing to order on an individual design. The walls of the bowl can be decorated with artistic painting, use laced forged stands or figured legs - there are a lot of options.

What do showers do?

Any cabin is a prefabricated structure in which each part is made of a certain material. The most diverse in this regard are shower trays, for the production of which cast iron, acrylic, enameled steel, faience, artificial and natural stone are used.

The most visible part of the cabin is its walls and door. It depends on them the appearance of the design, which determines the choice of the product. These elements are made of tempered glass, Plexiglas and polystyrene, complemented by chrome fittings.

1. Polystyrene is a transparent or matte plastic with a thickness of 3 mm. It can be colorless or colored in different colors, smooth and with a relief pattern. This material is much lighter than glass, which facilitates the transportation and installation of the structure, and is cheaper, thanks to which the polystyrene cabins are classified as a budget option. As for the shortcomings: polystyrene is short-lived, it is easy to damage, the surface becomes dull with time and is covered with small scratches and scuffs.
2. Glass for walls and doors has a thickness of 4 to 8 mm, and it is very difficult to break it. If this does happen, the risk of injury is zero, since the fragments do not have sharp edges. Glasses are transparent and toned, with different patterns, relief or smooth surface. This material is reliable, durable, highly hygienic, because the glass does not develop mold and other microorganisms. The disadvantages of the material are high weight and high cost.
3. Plexiglas is a synthetic polymer based on acrylic resin. This material is stronger than polystyrene and lighter than glass, well tolerates temperature changes and high humidity, is characterized by a large variety of textures and a wide range of colors. Thanks to this, shower cabins made of Plexiglas can be very decorative.

Equipment and functionality

Than baths are convenient

A modern bath is not just a bathtub. Thanks to additional equipment, it turns into an ideal place for relaxation and recovery. Such equipment includes:

• hydromassage nozzles;
• aeromassage systems;
• underwater illumination;
• control panels;
• headrests;
• seats and handles for bathtubs;
• dry-start protection sensors;
• automatic cleaning devices.

Baths with Jacuzzi and built-in massage systems are of high cost, so not everyone can afford it. But complement the bathroom with a comfortable ergonomic headrest, seat or handles will not be so expensive. These products are not always included in the bath kit, but on sale they are very widely available. A variety of models allows you to choose the best option  equipment for plumbing of any type and material. Nowadays, LED lighting for chromotherapy is very popular. They can be installed on any bath, but it is most convenient to mount it on acrylic surfaces. The backlight has different shades, a waterproof case and compact dimensions, so it does not interfere with bathing at all.

For fans of aromatherapy began to produce hydromassage systems with special containers, in which before the procedure is filled with aromatic oils. After filling the bath with water, oil from the tanks is served in small portions, which means that the effect of the effect lasts all the time, while you are enjoying the bath.

In addition to relaxing and hygienic procedures, the bath performs other functions. For example, it is convenient to put a small bath if there is a child in the house. So the water does not splash onto the floor, saving time for cleaning.

In the bathroom it is convenient to bathe animals, soak laundry and wash large items. If suddenly there will be interruptions in water supply, this is the best storage capacity for water.

Functions of shower cabins

Simple open cabins are equipped with only the most necessary - a mixer, watering can and standard backlight. Closed and combined models, on the contrary, are equipped very well and include several different functions. In expensive designs, electronic control of these functions is provided, through a special console with a digital display.

The list of claimed functions of shower cabins includes:

Different shower modes provide watering cans and nozzles arranged in a certain order on the ceiling and walls of the cabin. For example, the mode of a tropical shower is a large number of very thin water jets directed strictly vertically.

In the cascade shower mode, water at a temperature of 35-36 ° C is supplied from a height of at least 1 meter by a powerful stream, in the form of a waterfall.

Charcot's shower is characterized by jets of varying intensity, directed from different directions.

Ozone therapy involves exposure to the skin of the smallest air bubbles. This procedure perfectly tones up the body, promotes elimination of harmful substances, rejuvenates the skin. In the presence of a deep tray, this mode allows you to use a shower cabin as a whirlpool.

For aromatherapy, a compact device with oil tanks and buttons is attached to the cabin walls. When taking a shower, just press the appropriate button, and the cabin is filled with the selected fragrance.

The function of the steam generator makes it possible to recreate the microclimate of a real bath in the shower cubicle. Feelings after the adoption of procedures will be exactly the same as after visiting this steam room. For convenience, the cab can be equipped with a seat, ergonomic handles, footrests.

Shower Enclosures

Combined cabins are a complete range of all water procedures. Upper watering cans provide water supply in different modes, hydromassage jets are built in both the bath itself and the walls of the cabin. There are devices for aroma and ozonotherapy, LED lighting and other technological facilities.

Most models of these cabs are equipped with soft headrests, folding seats, compact shelves for toiletries, handrails.

By functionality, the shower cubicles outperform both the bath and the shower: you can quickly cheer up the contrast shower, soak in the tub with hydromassage, take off the fatigue under Charcot's shower while enjoying the pleasant aroma of essential oils and listening to your favorite music.

Self-installation technology

The degree of complexity of installation also plays an important role in the choice between a bathroom and a shower. If you plan to install everything yourself, you must learn all the nuances in advance so that the purchase does not cause additional problems.

Installation of the bathtub

All baths are installed according to the same principle, but with some nuances, depending on the type of construction and material of manufacture. For example, for an acrylic bath it is necessary to have a supporting frame, otherwise the bowl will bend under the weight of a person. The legs of metal baths should be securely fixed to the floor in order to increase stability, and for models made of cast iron, natural and cast stone, a very strong base is needed. Wall and corner baths are installed close to the walls, built-in structures need to be deepened into the floor or erect a special podium along the perimeter of the bowls.

Let's consider the order of installation on an example of a standard steel bath on legs and with a protective screen.

Step-by-step execution	Process description
	If necessary, remove the old finish from the wall and floor covering, seal all the cracks, level the surface with plaster. If the floor is too uneven, it is necessary to make a new screed. The prepared surface is covered with coating waterproofing in 2-3 layers
	The bath is brought into the room, released from the packaging, laid upside down. The first pair of legs are applied to the bottom at a distance of 2-3 cm from the drain hole towards the center of the bath, the second - along the edge of the bottom with the opposite side. Between the bottom and the surface of the legs must be inserted rubber lining, after which the supports are firmly fixed with bolts
	On the branch pipe of the siphon receptacle put a rubber gasket, insert it from the inside of the bowl into the drain hole, connect the bottom and attach the two screws to the outside. Then insert the overflow pipe, fasten to it a flexible hose
	To the bath does not thunder under the streams of water and does not cool down too quickly, on the outside it is covered with a mounting foam. Usually it takes from 3 to 4 cylinders
	A coupling is inserted into the hole of the drain pipe, then a plastic adapter for the siphon is inserted. The bath is gently turned over, set to the prepared place, connect the siphon outlet pipe to the adapter. All joints should be smeared with silicone for sealing. After the siphon is securely fastened to the neck of the adapter, the end of the flexible hose from the overflow pipe is connected to it. To do this, the siphon housing has a special threaded hole
	Now you need to make sure that the bathtub is level. For this purpose, the construction level is laid on its sides - both along and across the bowl. If there is a horizontal deviation, adjust the height of the legs of the bathroom, and only then screw them to the floor
	When the bath is level and tightly attached to the wall, it remains only to seal the joints. If the gap is more than 3 cm, it is best to blow it with a mounting foam, if less - use a waterproof sealant. On top, you can fix a special plinth for a bath or a self-adhesive ribbon-curb
	To hide the layout of the pipes and give the bath a more aesthetic appearance, from the outside they mount a purchase or homemade protective screen. The structure should be removable or have a door to facilitate access to communications

The easiest way is to install acrylic and steel bathtubs, even with the installation of the support frame. Heavy models require more physical effort and greater caution when installing the bowl, so you definitely need an assistant for mounting. The most difficult option is the installation of a built-in bathtub, the distribution of pipes for which is made in the thickness of the floor. If you do not have building skills, it will be very difficult to manage on your own, and most homeowners prefer to hire specialists for this.

Video - Bath installation

Mounting the shower enclosure

It is not harder to assemble and connect a shower cabin than to install a bathtub, and in some cases even much easier. Everything depends on the size of the structure and the number of elements. Before assembly, make sure that all components are in place, there are no defective parts. Typically, the standard cabin includes:

• pallet;
• side walls;
• back panel;
• doors;
• guides;
• screen.

To work, you will need a set of screwdrivers, a level and a wrench, as well as a sealant and a tape-tape. It is necessary to start with the preparation of a place, as for a bath. The surface of the floor and walls should be as strong and even as possible, and therefore carefully inspect the lining. If the tile does not hold well, it will have to be completely dismantled and a new one laid. On the floor, if necessary, make a new screed and also lay out the tiles. If the floor and walls are in good condition, you can immediately begin the installation process.

Stages of installation	Step-by-step description
	The pallet is placed close to the wall where the cabin will be. Pull it and pencil through the drain hole mark the location of the siphon
	Take the bottom of the siphon, connect it to the plastic pipe  and, guided by the mark on the floor, cut the pipe to the desired length. That is, after connecting to the sewer, the siphon body must be located strictly under the drain hole in the pan
	To the bottom of the pallet attach the legs with the help of nuts from the kit. While it is enough just to make nuts, in fact it is still necessary to adjust the height of the legs according to the level
	The pallet is turned over and put on the prepared place close to the walls. Apply to the sides of the building level and set the horizontal method of adjusting the legs. Next, with a pencil on the wall, the fixing points of the latches are marked. These latches keep the pallet from moving to the side under loads
	Put the pallet aside and mark holes in the wall for 8 mm dowels. Fasten the latches, and then return the pallet to its place, inserting its edges into the recesses on the latches
	The upper part of the siphon is inserted into the hole and connected to the bottom with the screws that come with the cab
	On the outside, the pallet is covered with a decorative plastic panel. Then, with the help of silicone, joints along the perimeter of the walls are sealed
	Take one of the side walls and insert it first into the lower profile, and then into the upper one. Similarly, a second wall is inserted. Both webs should sit in the grooves of the profile very tightly, do not move when the structure is tilted
	Then fix vertical guides, and then fix both horizontal and vertical profiles to the walls of the cabin with screws
	On the outer side, three wall fasteners are mounted on the vertical posts: the top and bottom are mounted at a distance of 10 cm from the end of the profile, the third in the middle of the post. The assembled structure is put on a pallet, the level is verified by the vertical of the walls, pencils are made with labels under the fasteners
	Fixing the walls of the cabin, prepare the doors. On the horizontal profiles and the door frame, drill neat holes and fasten the corresponding parts of the hinges. Insert the door leaf, put on the hinges and screw the screws a little. Check the horizontal level, and if it's okay, twist the screws
	Between the profile and the glass, a sealing tape is laid from inside the cabin, then the sealing line of the doors is sealed in the same way. Outside, all joints are treated with silicone sealant

This completes the build process. If the cabin is closed, the lid is mounted after the installation of the walls and is fixed in the same way as the rest of the elements - screws with dowels to the walls of the bathroom. As you can see, there are no special difficulties here, the main thing is to accurately perform measurements and control the level of the arrangement of the elements. Even small misalignments will cause problems with the operation of the cab.

Now it remains to install the shower panel and connect the cabin to the water supply. To do this, it is best to use flexible hoses - they greatly simplify installation and make it easy to verify the system during operation. As a rule, on the panel of a place for hot and cold water  are denoted by dots of the corresponding color.

Council. If you are planning to purchase a multifunctional cabin, first find out what pressure is in the pipes of your house. If it is less than 2-3 bar, most functions in the shower cubicle will not work.

After connecting to the water pipe, it remains to fix the mirror, shelves, seats and other accessories inside the cabin. If the design assumes the presence of a backlight and a receiver, the outlet is recommended to be installed from the back side of the cabin. Be sure to choose a socket with protection from moisture and dust, and preferably a hidden type. In the absence of experience with wiring, an electrician should be invited, so it will be much safer.

Video - Shower enclosure installation

Cost of baths and showers

The choice between bath and shower is not the last role is the cost of the product. For many, this factor remains decisive, regardless of comfort, practicality and other criteria that determine the choice. It is worth noting that cheap products are not always of low quality, although it is very difficult to determine when buying. Choosing the cheapest products (especially Chinese products), you run the risk of buying plumbing, which will not last for a year. As a result, replacement and repair will cost significantly more than a bath or a cubicle of an average price category from a decent manufacturer.

The most inexpensive baths of relatively good quality cost from 8 to 10 thousand rubles. This is not only Russian brands, but well-known European ones - Riho, Novitek, Marmorin.

Shower cabins of this price category will cost a little more expensive - from 10 to 15 thousand rubles. The cost of the baths of the middle class varies in the range of 20-25 thousand, and the shower cabins - from 30 to 45 thousand. Prices for luxury plumbing depend on many factors, and there are bathtubs that are more expensive than shower boxes. On average, the cost of showers of elite class starts from 80 thousand rubles, baths from 50 thousand.

Conclusion

So, what is better - a bath or a shower cabin after all?

If you proceed from practical considerations, it is better to choose a shower. It is more compact, it is more convenient to mount, during bathing less water is consumed, surfaces are easier to clean. Saving water and detergents  the high cost of the cabin pays off. In addition, even the simplest models of shower cabins look modern and attractive. And if you choose a pattern with patterns on the walls or colored decorative inserts, this design will become a real decoration of the bathroom.

As for baths, the main advantage of them in front of showers is the ability to take lying procedures. This is especially appreciated by women, since men prefer to go around with a shower. But the soul box is an excellent alternative here. It occupies no more space than a standard bath, and it is much more comfortable to use. However, for small baths, it does not fit, and the price is not affordable for everyone.

If you can not decide in any way, the best decision will be the choice of a shower with a deep pallet. The price of such products does not much exceed the cost of standard models, and it is more convenient to use the cabin. For example, in deep pallet you can bathe animals or soak things if necessary. For small apartments this option is the most optimal.

Video - Bath or shower: which is better?

Video - Types and installation of shower cabins

Let's restore justice and consider the benefits of bath and shower ...

From the physiological point of view

The most important criterion in this round is a duel VS bath -   health.  The shower in simple variation (not contrasting) has no contraindications. At the same time, taking a bath (especially with hot water  or a long time) contraindicated  with a number of diseases, physiological conditions. For example, it is necessary to refrain from such water procedures to pregnant women, "cores" having problems with pressure, veins (varicose veins). Still people with problem skin, especially excessively dry, and some dermatological diseases should be more careful with taking a bath and carefully choose temperature regime   for swimming.

It is necessary to pay tribute to the adoption procedure   baths: in some cases it is extremely useful. With a cold (without raising the temperature) or coming from a cold, it will be useful to keep warm in a warm water. Especially if you add a few drops to it essential oil  with bactericidal, antiviral action and beneficial effect on immunity. These are oils of tea tree, lemon, coniferous trees. And only in the bath you can add a decoction of medicinal herbs (especially useful for children), relaxing sea salt or, according to the recipe of Cleopatra, milk with honey. Recipes of the mixtures added to bath water for the purpose of improving the skin and health in general, a lot. A photo:

Speaking   about the soul, it should be noted that its standard procedure has no contraindications, but it does not bring much health benefits either. In addition to one criterion - quality purification.  Under the shower, dirt is easier to remove from the skin, the dead skin cells and excess fat layer are better removed (it is important not to overdo it).

More health benefits, of course, bring special kinds of soul. For example, cold and hot shower  (with alternating hot and cool water) has, in the first place, a hardening effect. Also, this way of bathing promotes the removal of metabolic products, muscle tone, blood circulation, the endocrine system, etc. Despite the seeming continuous advantages of the contrast shower, this procedure must be followed caution.Do not start with a large contrast of water temperatures, you need to increase the degree gradually, without leaving the norm at 30 degrees.
A photo:

From a psychological point of view

Any water procedures, whether taking a bath / shower at home, swimming in the sea and the pool or visiting the bath, are beneficial both for our health and physical well-being, and for   mood.  Bath and shower affect the emotional state in different ways, you can even say - the opposite.

While the bath helps to relax, the shower is designed   invigorate  and charge with energy. Therefore it is useful to take it as after a hard day, and as part of the daily ritual of "awakening," together or instead of a cup of coffee. Standing under the shower, you can improve your mood, "wash away" the load of fatigue.
A photo:

In the bath, along with warming and relaxation of the muscles comes emotional rest. Also, the feeling of weightlessness (hydrostatic factor), which senses the body in the bath, removal of emotional stress.  For hours in a bath, of course, you can not luxuriate (no matter how much you want peace and relaxation). For fans of "hot" (that is, water above 38 degrees), the procedure is limited to 15 minutes. Cooler water can be enjoyed up to half an hour.
A photo:

From the energy point of view

The least valid and proven effect of the shower and bath on the energy component of the body. But if you think logically and imagine the shower as running water, and the bath as standing ( by analogy with nature), then their influence on man is quite understandable.

The calm standing bath water, like in a lake, pond, pacifies, calms, helps to gather thoughts, "calm down" raging emotions, balance the energy balance.

A photo:

The shower, being running water  (like a river, a waterfall), can easily "carry away" negative energy. Is it because many psychologists advise after a hard day or unpleasant events to come home and without fail (and better and immediately) take a shower? It will wash away in a literal and figurative sense the dirt and negative accumulated over the day. Also, this simple method will help a little to ensure that the problems that have arisen, say, at work, can not be carried home.
A photo:

So, it turns out that both ways of washing (and shower and bath) are not just helping to cleanse the skin. These water procedures in their own way bring a considerable benefit all aspects of a person's condition:  health, well-being and mood.

One of the main advantages of the shower in front of the bathroom, which is primarily taken into account when choosing, is a small size. For modest bathrooms in most apartments, narrow and tall shower cabins are more suitable than wide baths occupying a large area. Saving space allows you to put in the room a washing machine, which previously did not fit.

In addition, to take a shower in the shower is several times more convenient and pleasant than in the bathroom: there are no high sides, you need to climb through, there is no slippery bottom, you do not need to make sure that the water does not spill onto the floor. In the booth, a comfortable floor, it is closed from all sides. And many models are equipped with various functions: a rain shower, a contrast shower, a hydromassage, a steam shower and others. This will make the water procedures not only diverse, but also useful. Some functions do not directly apply to bathing, but offer additional entertainment: the cabs are equipped with radio, telephone, sound and aromatherapy devices.

The water consumption during showering in the shower is several times less than when you are typing a whole bath. If you buy a model with a high pallet, it is very convenient to wash small children without spending a large amount of water. Shower cabins are easy to install.

The main drawback of the shower is the inability to soak in the bathroom, for some people this is one of the most pleasurable pleasures. In addition, such a device is not suitable for many apartments in high-rise buildings, where the water pressure is small and does not allow the use of most functions. It is quite difficult to wash the walls of the shower cubicle, it is difficult to remove the white coating. And, finally, shower cabins are on average more expensive than bathtubs.

Pros and cons of the bath

The bath takes 2.5 times more space than the shower. It is slippery, not very comfortable for taking a shower, it requires a significant flow of water. But on this, its minuses end. And the main advantage is that the bath can be washed in both vertical and horizontal position, which the shower cabin can not provide. Therapeutic baths with healing herbs, relaxing baths with fragrant foam, skin-friendly procedures with sea salt are all available to the owners of ordinary baths. And in them it is much more convenient to bathe small children. Baths are cheaper than shower cabins.