How to choose the perfect bathtub for your bathroom
Imagine it: a peaceful moment all to yourself, warm water easing your mind, and a bathroom that radiates style and comfort. A bath is more than just a functional fixture - it’s the ultimate place to unwind, reset, and let the day fade away. But how do you choose the bath that truly suits both your bathroom and your lifestyle? From freestanding and luxurious to sleek built-in designs, from lightweight acrylic to premium Solid Surface - there’s a whole world of possibilities.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through your options, share smart tips, and show you how to find a bath that’s as beautiful as it is comfortable. The result? Your bathroom becomes your own private wellness retreat.
1. What should you consider when buying a bath?
When purchasing a bath, several factors play an important role:
- Bath dimensions: Measure your bathroom carefully to determine exactly how long and wide your bath can be.
- Capacity: Consider how much water your bath should hold. A standard bathtub typically contains around 180-220 litres of water.
- Usage: Do you plan to enjoy a short soak every day or occasional wellness moments? For two people, a double bath is ideal. These hold between 250 and 350 litres on average.
- Installation type: Will you choose a built-in bath, a freestanding bath, or a semi-freestanding model? This choice also defines the overall look of your bathroom.
2. How do you know if a bath is high quality?
A high-quality bathtub feels sturdy, has a smooth surface, and is resistant to scratches and discolouration. Check the following:
- Material: Acrylic is lightweight and easy to maintain, while Solid Surface feels heavier, warmer, and more luxurious.
- Material thickness: Thin acrylic baths may flex over time, which can reduce durability.
- Finish and warranty: A reputable manufacturer usually offers longer warranties. We offer a 10-year warranty on our acrylic baths and 5 years on our Solid Surface baths.
Which is better: Solid Surface or acrylic?
- Solid Surface: This premium material is more expensive but delivers outstanding durability and a luxurious feel. It’s warmer and sturdier than acrylic and ideal for sleek, contemporary designs. Its versatility allows for seamless, elegant shapes – perfect if you’re after a high-end, refined look. Matching washbasins are also available for a harmonious bathroom design.
- Acrylic: Lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean. Our range includes modern (semi-)freestanding and built-in models in both glossy and matt white. Acrylic offers a practical, low-maintenance solution for those who value convenience.
3. Which type of bath is best?
The type of bath you choose affects not only your bathroom’s look but also its comfort and layout. Below are the three most popular options.
Freestanding baths
A freestanding bath is a real statement piece. Positioned independently in the room, it instantly adds a sense of luxury. These baths are generally longer and wider, making them ideal for spacious bathrooms.
Semi-freestanding bathtubs
A semi-freestanding bath sits with one side against the wall, combining the style of a freestanding bath with the practical benefits of a built-in one. It’s a great choice for medium-sized bathrooms.
Built-in baths
Built-in baths are space-efficient and neatly integrated into a tiled surround. At RIHO, built-in baths range from compact 120 cm (such as the Petit bath) to a generous 200 cm (like the Rethink Cubic model), with widths between 70 and 90 cm. With such variety, there’s always a model that fits your space perfectly.
RIHO Plug & Play bathtubs
We also offer Plug & Play baths: acrylic built-in models pre-fitted with bonded acrylic panels. This eliminates the need for tiling and gives the look of a semi-freestanding bath. The ready-made construction allows for quick installation, as each bath comes preassembled with an adjustable leg set. They’re also easy to maintain, with minimal joints and no grout lines.
4. Which colour and finish suits you best?
In addition to the type and shape of a bathtub, colour and finish also play a major role in defining your bathroom’s character.
Our baths are available in glossy white, and the majority also in matt white. Do you prefer a Japandi, country, or simply a serene look? Then you’ll love our Phatos collection in Stone Grey or our Bilbao Solid Surface bath in Pebble Grey.
For design enthusiasts seeking a true showpiece, our unique Solid Frosted semi-transparent baths in Frosted Smoke and Frosted Umber offer something truly distinctive.
Would you like a custom colour to perfectly match your interior? At RIHO, you can order a Solid Surface bath in any Sikkens shade of your choice. The exterior is lacquered in your preferred glossy or matt colour, allowing you to tailor your bath entirely to your personal style.
5. Looking for ultimate relaxation?
If you love wellness, a whirlpool or massage bath is a fantastic choice. These combine luxury with deep relaxation, perfect for unwinding at home.
RIHO Pools
Our RIHO Pools are available in four whirlpool systems: Air, Flow, Joy, and Bliss – each with its own functions and features. The advantage? Your chosen system is integrated into your favourite acrylic bath, so you always get a combination that suits you perfectly.
Sparkle Mood
For certain freestanding and semi-freestanding acrylic baths, we offer the Sparkle Mood system – providing gentle bubbles and Bluetooth connectivity for listening to your favourite music. The ultimate fusion of relaxation and experience.
Thermae baths
For the most complete at-home spa experience, choose a Thermae bath. These spacious baths come equipped with numerous hydro and air jets, chromotherapy lighting, heating, and even a cleaning system. Everything you need for pure relaxation and recovery.
6. What is the ideal bath size?
One of the key questions: how long and how wide should your bath be? Here’s a guide:
- Length: 160-180 cm is standard for a single bath; 190-200 cm for extra comfort.
- Width: 70-90 cm for a standard bath; 100 cm or more for a double bath.
- Depth: A height of 50-60 cm provides enough water for a comfortable soak.
Wondering how many litres your bath holds? A typical bath contains between 180 and 220 litres of water, while a double bath holds 250-350 litres.
7. Does a bath add value to your home?
Yes, a well-designed, high-quality bath can increase your home’s value. It adds a sense of luxury and appeals to buyers who appreciate comfort and elegance.
8. Additional practical tips for choosing a bathtub
- Measure your bathroom carefully before deciding.
- Consider how often and in what way you’ll use the bath.
- Choose a material that fits your maintenance preferences and budget.
- Pay attention to ergonomics: how comfortable is the shape?
- Check product warranties and customer reviews.
Ready to choose your ideal bath?
A bath is so much more than a place to unwind - it defines the style, comfort, and even the value of your bathroom.
Still unsure which model or layout best suits your space? Our certified RIHO dealers will be happy to offer personal advice and help design a thoughtful bathroom layout. That way, you can be confident that you’re choosing the bath that perfectly matches both your needs and your home.