The Pros and Cons of Bathtubs vs. Walk-In Showers: Which One Is Right for Your Bathroom?

When remodeling your bathroom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to include a bathtub, a walk-in shower, or both. This choice impacts everything from layout and function to aesthetics and resale value. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make the best decision for your space and lifestyle.

At Beyond the Box Renovations, we guide Florida homeowners through these decisions every day. Here’s what to consider when choosing between a tub, a walk-in shower, or a combination of both.

Bathtubs: Classic Comfort and Family-Friendly

Nothing beats a long soak after a stressful day. A bathtub offers a level of comfort and tranquility that showers simply can’t match. Freestanding and soaking tubs can also serve as visual focal points in a master bath.

If you have young children (or plan to), a bathtub is often more practical for bathtime routines. Many families find a tub essential in at least one bathroom.

In certain markets, buyers expect to see at least one bathtub in the home—especially in the primary bathroom or a full guest bath. This can be a selling point for families or buyers looking for flexibility.

From classic clawfoot tubs to modern freestanding soakers, bathtubs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and finishes, allowing for strong design statements.

A standard tub requires more floor area than a walk-in shower. In a small bathroom, this can make the space feel tighter or limit layout options.

Filling a bathtub typically consumes more water than a standard shower, which may increase your utility bill or feel less eco-friendly.

For aging homeowners or anyone with mobility concerns, stepping over a tub wall can be inconvenient or unsafe compared to the ease of a low-threshold walk-in shower.

Walk-In Showers: Sleek, Spacious, and Practical

Walk-in showers can be designed to fit bathrooms of nearly any size. Frameless glass designs create a seamless, open feel, making even small bathrooms appear larger.

Low or zero-threshold showers are ideal for homeowners looking to age in place or improve everyday accessibility. They also tend to be easier to clean.

A walk-in shower often gives your bathroom a clean, modern look—especially when paired with large-format tile, linear drains, and built-in niches.

From rainfall showerheads and handheld sprayers to built-in benches and body jets, showers offer endless personalization options to match your routine and preferences.

If you enjoy long baths, a shower-only bathroom may feel like it’s missing something. This is especially relevant for primary suites meant to feel luxurious or spa-like.

In certain family-focused markets, removing a tub altogether—especially in a home with only one full bathroom—can deter potential buyers.

If not designed correctly, walk-in showers can lead to water splashing or spreading across the bathroom floor. Professional planning and installation are key.

What About a Tub-Shower Combo?

For homeowners who want the best of both worlds—especially in smaller spaces—a tub-shower combo offers flexibility. It’s a smart solution in hall baths or guest bathrooms where you want to maintain functionality without expanding the footprint.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When deciding between a bathtub, a walk-in shower, or both, consider who will be using the bathroom, how long you plan to stay in the home, whether resale value or personal comfort is more important to you, and how much space you’re working with.

At Beyond the Box Renovations, we help you design bathrooms that reflect your lifestyle while balancing beauty and practicality. Whether you’re dreaming of a spa-like walk-in shower or want to make a bold statement with a freestanding tub, our team will guide you every step of the way.

Let’s create a bathroom that fits your needs—and your future. Contact us today to start planning your remodel with a team that brings expertise, vision, and craftsmanship to every detail.