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So you are thinking about remodeling your bathroom that currently contains a bathtub.  Should you take the bathtub out and put in a shower or should you keep the bathtub in and give the rest an overhaul?  What is more popular?

The real answer is simple: none is better than the other. But the two options do have their own strengths and weaknesses, so depending on your priorities, one might be better for you than another. Let’s compare the two and see how they stack up.

Skin Care

Long drawn out hot baths can actually dry out your skin which in return becomes itchy and flaky.  If you have eczema or psoriasis it is not advisable that you install a bathtub as long baths are not your friend.  Shorter showers with slightly cooler water can help you avoid any skin problems.

If you do opt for a bathtub and have sensitive skin, there are viable options. Bath bombs, oatmeal blends, Epsom salts and other additives can turn an ordinary bath into a rejuvenating experience, and some of these products are designed to relieve specific skin conditions. If you choose to try these, safeguard against dry skin by making the water no hotter than necessary and moisturizing after drying off.


Showers are quick and to the point — other than the few seconds you’ll spend waiting for the water to warm up, you’ll spend the entire time getting clean and moving on with your day.

A bath is intended to be a more leisurely experience, but even if you have time to take things slow, taking a bath the right way poses some challenges. For instance, shampooing your hair in a bath can be difficult, and rinsing it afterward can be much more so. And when you’re done, it’s important to rinse off your body with clean water before drying so that you aren’t left with an itchy film of soap.  A handheld wand could be installed in a bathtub in order to get fully cleaned without standing up.

Water Consumption

Unless you’re fond of extra long showers, the shower is the more eco-friendly option. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates the average bath uses about 36 gallons of water, whereas a standard showerhead uses five gallons per minute. Showers with water conserving showerheads may use as little as two gallons per minute.

There’s no way around the hefty water consumption of a luxurious bath, but if you want to push your water conservation to the limit, ask Bredahl Plumbing about upgrading to water-saving fixtures.




If all this back and forth about baths versus showers have you wishing for a more luxurious bath experience, maybe it’s time for a bathroom remodel. Feel free to call Bredahl Plumbing to help you with your bathroom remodel.


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