When remodeling a small bathroom, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing between a shower and a bathtub. While both options have their benefits, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, space limitations, and long-term goals.
In this article, we’ll compare showers and bathtubs for compact spaces, covering functionality, design flexibility, resale value, and maintenance. By the end, you’ll know which solution best fits your needs — and how to make the most of your layout.
Space Efficiency: Showers Win for Small Bathrooms
If your bathroom is under 50 square feet, a walk-in shower can save you significant floor space. Corner or linear showers with glass doors make the room feel more open, while a bathtub generally requires 5 to 6 feet of horizontal wall space.
Showers can also be customized with niches, benches, and sliding doors to further maximize usability.
Functionality and Comfort
Shower Advantages
- Quick and convenient for daily use
- Accessible for seniors and people with mobility issues
- Lower water consumption
Bathtub Advantages
- Relaxing soak after a long day
- Helpful for bathing children
- Some buyers prefer homes with at least one tub
Design and Aesthetic Options
Modern showers offer endless customization: glass enclosures, rain heads, stone tile, LED lighting, and more. For ultra-compact spaces, even a curbless shower with a linear drain can elevate the look while being easy to maintain.
Bathtubs can also be elegant — think freestanding tubs or Japanese-style soaking tubs — but they often demand more square footage.
Resale Value: Keep at Least One Tub If Possible
In family homes, especially those with 2+ bathrooms, real estate agents often advise keeping at least one tub. However, if you’re dealing with a one-bathroom layout or your priority is a spacious feel, replacing a bulky tub with a walk-in shower is a smart upgrade.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Showers are easier to clean and maintain — especially if designed with minimal grout lines and frameless doors. Bathtubs, on the other hand, tend to accumulate soap scum and require more effort to scrub clean.
Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick summary:
| Feature | Shower | Bathtub |
|---|---|---|
| Space Saving | ✓ Excellent | ✗ Requires more space |
| Ease of Access | ✓ Great for mobility | ✗ Harder to get in/out |
| Soaking & Relaxation | ✗ Limited | ✓ Ideal for baths |
| Child-Friendly | ✗ Not ideal | ✓ Easier for parents |
| Resale Value | ✓ If well-designed | ✓ Traditional buyers prefer at least one |
Need Help Deciding? SkillSee Can Help
Whether you’re leaning toward a space-saving shower or a stylish tub, SkillSee’s remodeling experts can help you design, plan, and build the perfect solution for your bathroom.
We work with all budgets, offer material selection support, and handle the full remodeling process — from demolition to final polish.
Final Thoughts
In small bathrooms, every square inch counts. Showers are often the more practical and stylish option, but if your lifestyle demands a bathtub, compact models or combo units can still work well.
Whichever route you take, SkillSee is here to help you transform your space with professionalism and precision.
