If you are a bathing person, then a house without a bathtub is not a home! For die-hard bath lovers, a shower will just not cut it! And there are several compelling reasons why that bathtub should be in the primary bathroom.
A tub is not an absolute requirement in a primary bathroom (also called a “master bathroom” or “main bathroom”). However, putting a bathtub in the main bathroom can increase the value of a home and provide a unique and relaxing sanctuary. All homes need at least one bathtub and the primary bathroom is usually the best place for one.
Many young professionals claim they are too busy to soak in a bathtub and prefer the modern convenience of a quick shower to get clean. Is a bathtub an absolute requirement in a master bathroom, or is it outdated? Let’s find out!
Is a Bathtub in the Primary Bathroom a Necessity?
Although the answer to the question is a definite no, you do not have to keep a bathtub in the primary bedroom, most people want one bathtub in the home to bathe kids and wash pets.
Many years ago, every house included a tub as a standard bathroom fixture. Over the years, tubs have been replaced with either a shower or a shower/tub combination, offering the convenience of either method to the homeowner according to his preference.
These days, homes are usually built with two or more bathrooms. Generally, the main bathroom is en-suite to the main bathroom, with either a second bathroom or a guest closet installed somewhere else in the home. Many buyers love a house with an equal number of bathrooms and bedrooms.
If you’re building a new home or remodeling, check the Housing Maintenance Code to view your local requirements before adding or removing a tub from any of the bathrooms in your home. Most regulations state a dwelling unit should have either a shower or a tub, but each region is different, so check the rule book before you plan any alterations.
Why You Should Put a Tub in the Main Bathroom
There are many reasons why you’d want to keep or add a bathtub to a main bathroom. A home without a tub is not very practical. That said, which room to install the tub is, of course, at the homeowner’s discretion. That said, I’m of the opinion that every main bathroom needs a tub for a house to feel like an inviting place to come home to! (And if you’re thinking of saving some money on a plumber and putting in the new tub yourself, definitely read How Hard Is It to Install a Bathtub? first.)
Here are a few good reasons to keep a bathtub in the main bathroom:
You Can Create a Luxurious Sanctuary for Relaxation
The main bedroom and bathroom are generally the largest in the house, with the best location. Plus, they are often located a distance from the other bedrooms for extra privacy.
The main bathroom is generally only accessible through the primary bedroom and is for the homeowner’s exclusive use. Even if there’s a tub in another bathroom in the house, it’s unlikely that it shares the private location of the main bathroom.
Because of the unique qualities of the main bedroom and adjoining bathroom, you have an opportunity to create a luxurious sanctuary for relaxation that probably isn’t possible anywhere else in the house.
Add a little luxury by upgrading the standard bathtub to a more oversized, more stylish tub for those romantic moments! Your private bathroom can be a sanctuary to unwind in after a hard day—either yourself or with your partner.
A Tub In The Main Bathroom Can Add Value
On a more practical level, if the master bathroom does not have a bathtub, it can affect the decision of prospective buyers—especially in higher-income markets.
Even though a prospective buyer might enjoy a shower rather than a tub, walking into a serene master bathroom with a freestanding tub in the center of the room, adding to the ambiance, feels upscale!
A Closer Look at Who Loves a Tub
| Age Group | Preference |
|---|---|
| Busy Millennials without Kids | Prefer walk-in shower. They might want something upscale, like a his and hers. |
| Parents With Young Children | Need at least one bathtub for bathing children. Many toddlers won't tolerate the shower. |
| 40-Something Women | US demographic most likely to favor bathing. |
| Elderly | May view bathtubs as inaccessible. Many prefer walk-in bathtubs or walk-in showers with a bench. |
In high-end markets, a bathtub in the main bathroom is often regarded almost as a work of art to be admired, almost like some sports cars. Whether a buyer intends to use the tub is almost beside the point.
Buyers have different requirements, and you never know what they might be looking for. A young couple might need a ready-made home to accommodate a growing family, which could include a bathtub or two. Their needs might include multiple tubs in different bathrooms.
Others might only view a new home if it includes a tub in the master bathroom. Some homeowners enjoy the convenience of a tub in the privacy of the master bathroom, and a well-placed tub could be a really great selling point!
Read my post Keep That Tub! The Market Will Reward You for some compelling reasons to keep your tub in the main bathroom.
How to Choose a Tub for the Main Bathroom
Choosing a tub is very personal. Your requirements for a main bathroom may include a quiet, dimly lit, serene space, or you might enjoy bright flashing lights and loud music while you bathe! Whatever your bathroom requirements are, there is a tub for you!
How To Choose A Bathtub In 8 Easy Steps will guide you through the steps of finding your perfect tub!
A master bathroom can also be an extension of the master bedroom, with the style and décor easily flowing from one room to the other. Bathroom accessories should complement the style of both rooms to create a stylish space.
And this post on mixing metal finishes might really help you create a unified feel between the primary bath and bedroom without being all matchy-matchy.
3 Great Bathtubs for Primary Bathrooms
If you are planning to upgrade your primary bathroom, read my post on 8 Bathtub Types. I’ll show you how to choose the best tub for you, whether that’s a jetted tub, a freestanding soaker tub, or a corner bathtub.
That said, the three bathtubs below make excellent selections for many primary bathrooms. All three are beautiful to look at, durable, and comfortable.
1. 55″ Shangri La Freestanding Acrylic Tub by Ferd Y Ball
Are you are looking for a contemporary stylish tub? The 55″ Freestanding acrylic tub by Ferd Y Ball just might be the ideal choice for you! All Ferd Y products are certified by the U.S. Federal Government for health and safety.
Manufactured from environmentally friendly materials, this non-toxic, non-cracking, high gloss, 55-inch tub is reinforced with 100% acrylic fiberglass.
This bathtub is lightweight, easy to clean, and easy to install. Standard features include a brushed nickel drain, brass drain pipes, and adjustable leveling feet to stabilize the tub on any surface.
This tub’s graceful shape and minimalist design offers a luxury bathing experience with sloped lumbar support and a 15-inch soaking depth.
2. 63” Acrylic Clawfoot Tub by DP Homes
So this is an example of a tub that truly gives you old world charm with new-world benefits! I love this tub. It’s a real showstopper with it’s white interior and glossy black or wine-colored exterior.
The four claw feet are made of chromed brass and will help give your bathroom so much charm.
While a vintage clawfoot would be made of cast iron and likely require you to install extra floor supports, this tub is made of lightweight, easy-to-maintain acrylic and reinforced fiberglass. Plus, it comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
See the DP Homes Acrylic Clawfoot Tub on Amazon.
3. 68” DKB Dylan Jetted Tub by Atlas International
If you’re ready to truly turn your primary bathroom into an oasis of luxury and relaxation, look no further than this combo soaking tub. (I think I’m in love!)
This bathtub has a freestanding, contemporary design. Position it against the wall and use a wall-mounted faucet, or put it in the center of your bathroom and use a freestanding filler.
The hydro-massage system has 14 whirlpool jets and air streams. The combination provides both targeted massage for muscle relaxation and all over body invigoration.
This durable fiberglass and acrylic beauty holds up to 77 gallons of water for deep soaking and comes with a hand shower.
See the DKB Dylan Jetted Tub on Amazon
Ultra-Luxury Tubs
If you’re looking for something ultra-luxury, consider the Stillness Experience bath coming soon from Kohler. This infinity bath is the ultimate in creating a Zen bathroom vibe. Find out more about whether an infinity bathtub is worth it, as well as pros, cons and alternatives.
A Bathtub in the Primary Bathroom
There are a variety of reasons to install a bathtub in your primary bathroom. Even if you never plan to soak in it yourself, you might just love to admire it. And you’ll find it especially tantalizing knowing that it may be adding value to your home.
If the bathtub options presented above are too pricey, check out my post on the 3 Best (Relatively) Inexpensive Bathtubs. You just might find the right tub there.
By the way, are you planning an expensive bathroom remodel? If so, check out my post for genius designer hacks on how to save big money on your bathroom renovation—I’m talking thousands of dollars.
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