Inset or Built In vs Freestanding Baths – Which One Should You Choose?

Nothing can beat the feeling of hopping into a comfortable bath after a long, hard day of work. When renovating or remodelling your bathroom, choosing the right bath can be a tricky task, with many different styles, shapes, and sizes to consider.

Two of the most popular bath styles are inset baths also known as Built In Baths and freestanding baths, and the amount of space in your bathroom and lifestyle factors can influence which tub you choose. That’s why we break down some advantages and disadvantages of each bath in this blog.

What Is an Inset Bath / Built In Bath?

An inset bath (sometimes called a built-in bath) is attached to its surrounds and can be a more practical bathroom option if you are working with limited space or have younger household members.

This style of bath is also ideal for a bathroom that features a shower over bath installation.

Get inspired: BETTEFree Built-In Bath by Bette

Advantages of an Inset Bath

Price – Inset baths are usually the more affordable bath option.
Cleaning – They are quite low maintenance as they have less cracks and crevices to get to.
Plumbing – Plumbing shouldn’t be a problem as an inset bath will hide the plumbing under the tub itself and be out of sight.

Disadvantages of an Inset Bath

Placement – Compared to a freestanding bath, there are less options for the placement of the bath, normally positioned on the side or corner of a bathroom.

Look – While it does come down to personal taste, there is a reason why freestanding baths are becoming more popular in modern bathrooms. A freestanding bath can be a true design statement and focal point for your next renovation.

What Is A Freestanding Bath?

As you can perhaps gather from its name, a freestanding bath doesn’t require any wall support and it is a style that makes for a strong design feature, be it a traditional clawfoot bath or pedestal bath.

Freestanding baths are offered in a variety of materials and styles, suitable for larger bathroom spaces. One consideration to make with a freestanding bath’s placement is that a sizeable gap should be left around the tub to allow for easy cleaning and access.

Get inspired: Byron Stone Bath by Clearwater Baths

Advantages of a Freestanding Bath

Look – There are freestanding baths available to suit almost any bathroom décor scheme, whether you a designing a contemporary or traditional bathroom.
Placement – Since these tubs can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, even right in the centre, it can allow you to use your floor space more creatively.

Disadvantages of a Freestanding Bath

Safety Concerns – Kids and the elderly need to be accommodated for in terms of getting in and out of the bath as there is an increased risk of slipping with a freestanding bath, for example, you may have to use a bath step and non-slip mat.
Weight – Freestanding baths can be quite heavy, often needing reinforced flooring.

Creating the Perfect Bathroom Design to Suit Your Bath

Whether you choose an inset or freestanding bath, the layout of the room and your personal preferences will influence which bath style you decide on. Consider your lifestyle needs and those of other household members to make the best possible use of the space.

Whichever style you choose, there are many beautiful options available which will help you to create the stylish bathroom you have dreamt about. Come in to see our friendly staff in our designer showrooms in Sydney showrooms, Drummoyne and Crows Nest or contact us online for helpful advice on the right bath for you.