Bathtub or shower? It’s one of the most common questions when renovating a bathroom. The answer depends on your available space, lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans. This guide compares both options to help you make the best choice.
Quick Comparison: Bathtub vs Shower
| Criterion | Bathtub | Shower |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum space | 4 m² minimum | 1.5 m² minimum |
| Installation cost | €600-8,000 | €800-6,000 |
| Water consumption | 120-200 litres/bath | 40-80 litres/shower |
| Accessibility | Difficult | Easy (walk-in shower) |
| Property value | Neutral | Slightly higher |
| Maintenance | Medium | Easy |
The Bathtub: For Whom?
The Advantages
- Relaxation: a hot bath is an incomparable pleasure after sport or in winter
- Children: essential for bathing young children safely
- Variety of styles: standard, spa, freestanding, claw-foot - for all tastes
- Premium image: a freestanding bath adds aesthetic value to your interior
The Disadvantages
- High consumption: a bath uses 2 to 3 times more water than a shower
- Space requirement: a standard bath (170x70 cm) needs at least 4 m²
- Reduced accessibility: stepping over is difficult for elderly people
- Joints: silicone joints require regular monitoring
Costs by Bathtub Type
| Type | Price Installed |
|---|---|
| Standard acrylic bath | €600-1,200 |
| Enamelled cast iron bath | €1,500-3,500 |
| Spa bath (with jets) | €2,500-6,000 |
| Designer freestanding bath | €3,000-8,000 |
| Retro claw-foot bath | €2,000-5,000 |
The Shower: For Whom?
The Advantages
- Practicality: quick, economical on water and energy
- Space optimised: a shower can fit into a 90x90 cm corner
- Accessibility: a walk-in shower (no threshold) is ideal for seniors and those with reduced mobility
- 2026 trend: the large-format walk-in shower is the most requested in Luxembourg
- Easy maintenance: fewer areas prone to mould
The Disadvantages
- Less relaxation: impossible to take a relaxing bath
- Steam: a walk-in shower without an enclosure spreads more steam - ventilation needed
- Young children: a bath remains safer for babies
Costs by Shower Type
| Type | Price Installed |
|---|---|
| 90x90 tray + simple enclosure | €800-1,500 |
| Tiled walk-in 90x120 | €2,000-4,000 |
| Large-format walk-in | €3,500-6,000 |
| Hydromassage shower | €2,000-5,000 |
The Space Factor: A Decisive Criterion
Small Bathroom (under 5 m²)
A shower is almost the natural choice. A well-designed walk-in shower can visually enlarge the room thanks to large tiles without grout lines.
Medium Bathroom (5-8 m²)
You have a choice. A shower will leave more space for a double vanity unit or storage. A bath is possible but will constrain circulation.
Large Bathroom (over 8 m²)
Install both! A walk-in shower for daily use + a spa or freestanding bath for relaxing evenings. This is the most valuable configuration for your property.
Accessibility and Ageing: Think Long Term
In Luxembourg, adaptations for reduced mobility may qualify for variable municipal grants. A walk-in shower with a fold-down seat is the ideal accessibility solution:
- No threshold to step over
- Grab rail easy to install
- Non-slip floor integrated into the tiling
- Fold-down seat optional (€150-400)
If you’re over 55 or planning to stay in your home long-term, an accessible shower is a wise investment.
Impact on Property Value
Luxembourg estate agents confirm a growing preference for:
- A main bathroom with a walk-in shower (daily practicality)
- A secondary bathroom with a bathtub (comfort and relaxation)
For flats with a single bathroom, a modern walk-in shower is generally more valuable. For family homes, keeping a bath in at least one bathroom remains an asset.
Checklist for Making Your Choice
- My bathroom is under 5 m²: opt for a shower
- I have young children: a bath is recommended
- I’m a senior or have reduced mobility: accessible walk-in shower recommended
- I want to save on water: a shower is the solution
- I’m looking for a relaxation space: a bath is ideal
- I have two bathrooms: main shower + secondary bath
- I’m selling my property soon: modern shower recommended
FAQ: Bathtub or Shower?
Can you replace a bathtub with a shower?
Yes, but it’s a significant job. You need to remove the bath, waterproof the floor (especially for a walk-in shower), lay the tiles, and install the enclosure or screen. Expect €2,000 to €4,500 for a complete conversion.
Is a walk-in shower suitable for a wooden floor?
Possible but complex. You need to reinforce the floor and ensure perfect waterproofing to prevent leaks. Allow an extra €500 to €1,000. Always use a qualified professional.
Which solution saves the most water and energy?
A shower is significantly more economical: 40-80 litres versus 120-200 litres for a bath. For a family of 4, the saving can reach €150 to €250 per year on water and energy bills.
Want to renovate your bathroom in Luxembourg? Compare free quotes from qualified plumbers and tilers on tack.lu and complete your project at the best price.
