There are many different styles, shapes, sizes, prices, and features to consider when buying a new bath. When it comes to choosing the right type of bath for your bathroom, however, you should start with deciding whether you need a single-ended or double-ended bath.

If you aren’t familiar with the differences between single and double-ended bathtubs, then this guide will help. The experts at Showers to You explain the pros and cons of both single-ended and double-ended baths to help you decide which type of bath you should buy.

What’s the Difference Between Single-Ended and Double-Ended Baths?

The two main differences between single and double-ended bathtubs are the positioning of the faucets and the number of bathers each tub can accommodate.

  • Single-ended baths feature taps and a drain at one end of the bath, with the other end shaped and sloped for back support. Because of this design, this type of bath is only suitable for one bather at a time.
  • Double-ended baths tend to feature taps and a drain in the centre of the tub. Each end is sloped to accommodate up to two bathers at one time.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Single-Ended Bath?

If you need help choosing between single or double-ended baths, then consider these pros and cons:

Pros of Single-Ended Baths

  • A good space-saving option—best for small bathrooms.
  • Some designs include a shower head that can be affixed to the wall.
  • You can attach a bath screen to single-ended baths, to allow for showering.
  • Single-ended tubs tend to be more affordable than larger, double-ended baths.

Cons of Single-Ended Baths

  • Can only accommodate one bather at one time.
  • The basic design of single-tubs doesn’t always provide a luxury finish.
  • You can only face one direction in a single-ended bath.

You can buy freestanding single-ended bathtubs, which give you more flexibility on placement with this type of tub—adding a touch of luxury to your bathroom. Check out our freestanding bath buying guide for more information.

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Double-Ended Bath?

Pros of Double-Ended Baths

  • Can accommodate two bathers at the same time.
  • Provide a luxurious feel to bathrooms, thanks to the freestanding design.
  • Tend to be longer and deeper than single-ended tubs, making them ideal for taller or larger persons.

Cons of Double-Ended Baths

  • Tend to be more expensive than single-ended baths.
  • Sometimes requires a larger space to allow for the two sloped ends—suitable for larger bathrooms.
  • Few designs feature a showerhead and can’t be affixed to a wall.

If you’re considering a space-saving bath in a different style, take a look at our corner bath buying guide.

Things to Consider When Choosing Between a Single or Double-Ended Bath

Now that you’re aware of the pros and cons of both single and double-ended baths, it’s time to look at other important features you should consider to help you make the right decision.

Positioning

When it comes to choosing between a single-ended or double-ended bath, positioning plays a vital role in widening or narrowing your choice of tub.

Single-ended tubs tend to be inset into an existing structure in a bathroom, whereas double-ended baths are often freestanding. This gives you more flexibility on where to position your double-ended bath. The downside, however, is that double-ended baths can be too large for smaller bathrooms.

Consider whether you need a space-saving single-ended bath with a fixed position, or if you have more space to play with and can afford the flexibility of a freestanding double-ended bath.

Shape

Single-ended baths are usually rectangle-shaped to better fit the corners of your bathroom, whereas double-ended baths can come in a wider range of shapes.

If you want a stylish tub that can be oval-shaped, then a double-ended bath might be your best choice.

Materials

There are various different materials to choose from for both single and double-ended baths.

For single-ended baths, you can choose between reinforced (fibreglass), acrylic and steel tubs. Reinforced (or fibreglass) is the most affordable material, whereas acrylic tubs are a little more expensive for their more attractive finish. Steel bathtubs are great as they’re durable and economic—you can even recycle them! (Check out our guide to buying a steel bathtub for more information).

With double-ended baths, your choice of material includes reinforced (fibreglass), acrylic and stone. Stone baths naturally retain heat, meaning you can enjoy a long soak without the heat escaping. They are also incredibly durable but can be on the more expensive end of the bath price spectrum.

Check out our guide on the different types of baths you can buy for more information.

Budget

There are several features of both single-ended and double-ended baths that will affect your budget. These come down to:

  • Which bath brand you choose (Showers to You features a variety of both affordable and premium bath brands).
  • Whether you choose a single-ended, double-ended or shower bath.
  • The size of your tub (small baths can save money, whereas large baths can add value to your room).
  • What finish you choose (as mentioned above, acrylic baths tend to be the most affordable, whilst steel or stone baths can be more expensive).
  • The type of bath taps or bath fillers you choose for your tub.

Read more: Shower bath buying guide

Are Single-Ended or Double-Ended Baths More Comfortable?

If you’re choosing between a single or double-ended bath based on comfort, then there are some key factors to consider.

If you’re a tall person who needs more space to stretch out, or if you’re likely to share your tub with another person, then a double-ended bath may be more comfortable for you.

If you’re smaller or if your children will be using your bath, then a single-ended bath may provide more comfort and support for you.

Check out our expert guide on how to pick the right-sized bath for further advice.

Expert Advice on Choosing Between a Single or Double-Ended Bath From Showers to You

If you need help choosing between a single-ended or double-ended bath, then don’t hesitate to contact Showers to You for expert advice.

Contact us via our online form, email us at info@showerstoyou.co.uk, or call us on 01472 242 159 to speak directly to one of our friendly team members.