The bathroom is a place where you don’t just clean, but wash away fatigue, negativity and bad mood, relax and rest not only with your body, but also with your soul. Some people like to soak in a deep bath, others prefer an invigorating shower, but everyone tries to make this room as comfortable as possible. Ideally, of course, you would install both, but, unfortunately, not everyone has enough space to do so. Therefore, owners often have to make difficult choices and settle on just one thing. To understand which is better - a bathtub or a shower cabin, you first need to consider the types and advantages of each of them separately.

What types of baths are there?

Bathtubs can be systematized according to several parameters: material, shape, size, cost and even color. One of the main indicators will be the material of manufacture, namely:

• cast iron,
• steel,
• acrylic,
• quarried

Cast iron bathtubs are a classic from the times of our parents. They were very common during the Soviet Union, and still have fans due to a number of advantages. Cast iron bathtubs are quite strong and durable, retain heat for a long time, however, they do not heat up quickly, and have high noise insulation when filling with water. A one-time drawback can be called the large weight, but you set it and forget it, unless you decide to start repairs again. But the real disadvantage is the fragile enamel, which wears off quite quickly, especially under the influence of modern chemicals. detergents. After this, the surface becomes unpleasantly rough and may even scratch the skin. Of course, now there are many companies offering re-enamel coating of cast iron and steel bathtubs, but, as practice has shown, the second layer is also short-lived, and if applied poorly, it can quickly begin to peel. As a result, the plumbing becomes completely unaesthetic appearance.

Steel baths are the most budget option. Probably, only this and their relative ease can be called advantages. At the same time, steel products are very fragile, both the outer casing and enamel coating(similar to cast iron), in addition, they cool quickly and are very loud when drawing water.

Acrylic and quarryl - modern materials that have revolutionized the concept of bathtubs

Modern materials used today in the manufacture of bathtubs can be said to have made a mini-revolution in this area. Thanks to them, we moved away from the standards of identical rectangular models, and a huge variety of choices appeared.

Acrylic bathtubs are the most popular today, they are widespread, and there are several reasons for this. Such models are quite light, durable, easy to clean, retain heat well and have low level noise. True, they can easily be damaged by a direct strong impact, for example, if something metal, heavy or sharp falls into the bathtub. But restoration is also not difficult and not expensive. And one moment: acrylic bathtubs They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, which has also enhanced their reputation.

Quaril plumbing can be considered a new product. Such bathtubs have recently entered the market and are not yet as popular as acrylic ones. Quaril is a combination of acrylic and quartz sand. Due to quartz, they are more durable, warmer and in weight are between acrylic and cast iron. The downside is the rather high cost.

There are also stone, marble, glass, earthenware, and wooden baths. But this is for a higher budget; they are usually made to order.

Shapes and sizes

Previously, bathtubs were often classified by size, which, in fact, was not special labor, because determining standard dimensions for several models is not a problem. Today, due to the availability of materials that are easier to work with, products of a wide variety of shapes are produced, and it is no longer possible to unify them. When choosing a bathtub, it is necessary to take into account the size of the room itself, since even an asymmetrical model should simply fit and not have protruding sides. And don't forget about the parameters of your family members. After all, if the average height of household members is above average, and the bathroom area allows you to determine only small size plumbing, it makes sense to change the bathtub to a shower stall. We'll talk about the advantages and disadvantages of the latter below.

What can you find now and what is popular? Until recently, there was no option for this; they chose from rectangular or... rectangular. However, today the variety is so great that it’s easy to get confused. The shape of the bathtub is:

• rectangular,
• square,
• round,
• oval,
• corner,
• asymmetrical.

The main thing is to consider the size and convenience of the location. Internal organization baths are also varied. For the comfort of consumers, headrests, armrests, handles are made, the tank can follow the shape of the body, etc.

Which is better - a bath or a shower? Advantages and disadvantages of baths

When trying to answer the question of what is better, you must first consider all the useful points and possible accessories that can improve your bathtub. An undoubted advantage: by taking a full bath and adding aromatic substances, you can completely rest and relax, wash away the stress of the past day. Some people can spend up to several hours in this type of rest. It is impossible to do this in the soul. Moreover, a warm bath has many medicinal properties, it is prescribed for certain diseases. Yes, and for bathing children it is necessary large space, and a shower instead of a bath will not help in this matter.

The downside of bathtubs is the rather large area they occupy. And if this is not a problem for large bathrooms, then in small rooms (a fairly common phenomenon in old houses) certain inconveniences arise. In such a situation, the best solution would be to replace the bathtub with a shower. Well, another negative factor is the large consumption of water required to fill the container. And if several people intend to pamper themselves, then the conclusion suggests itself...

Bath accessories

For greater objectivity, it is worth mentioning modern devices. We are talking about the hydromassage function. Previously available only in sanatoriums and special salons, today they have come to our home along with special hydromassage baths. Of course, such models are much more expensive than regular ones, but the pleasure is worth it. Moreover, manufacturers offer to purchase special hydromassage inserts, which are much cheaper, and they can be installed even on old plumbing fixtures.

For shower lovers, there are now excellent shower panels on sale with a wide range of functions, and they can be adapted to the bathtub. Of course, they do not completely replace the shower box, but they are much closer to it in terms of their purpose.

Differences between showers

Until recently, a shower stall did not evoke as many positive emotions as it does today. Its fans were only people who did not like to waste time taking baths, because the only function of the shower was... a shower. But now there are so many modern technologies, which is increasingly common for many families when asked “Which is better - a bathtub or a shower?” answer: definitely a shower!

The classification of shower cabins is somewhat different from that of bathtubs. There is no point in distinguishing by materials, since now everything is mostly made from acrylic and plastic, except that cheaper models may have a steel tray. They are divided mainly by shape (external and pallet) and by doors (sliding, hinged). There are also open shower cabins that have only doors (without a top), and closed ones - shower boxes. But the main difference between this type of equipment is the number of functions.

Functions of shower cabins

A shower cabin in a bathroom can be either the simplest or with a large number of functions - from small to entire boxes. Some modern models replace the massage parlor and combined. The most popular functions of shower boxes are as follows:

• hydromassage (horizontal and vertical);
• "Turkish bath";
• tropical shower;
• aromatherapy (inhalation);
• chromotherapy;
• voice control and others.

The quantity and quality of such functions directly depends on the cost of such shower cabins. More expensive models are equipped with the most modern devices, the list of which could take a long time.

Advantages of a shower cabin over a bathtub

Why Firstly, it is quite compact and does not take up much space. It is quite economical, moreover, it saves both water and time, which does not need to be wasted while the water is pouring. A wide variety of shapes and models will help even the most demanding buyer decide.

And, of course, a huge variety of functions, many of which are therapeutic, allows such equipment to win the love of more and more people. Also, shower cabins, depending on their parameters, have a fairly wide range of prices. Thus, anyone can choose a model to suit their taste and budget.

Small bathrooms

As mentioned, if you have a large bathroom, you can install both a bathtub and a shower. But, unfortunately, such an ideal picture does not always exist. Therefore, when decorating and equipping rooms with a very small area, there is always a difficult choice: which is better - a bathtub or a shower?

Having considered all the advantages of both, but still taking into account the tiny size of the room, they usually settle on a shower stall. Of course, this may be a little upsetting for those who like to get wet, but, as many people note, a good shower is better than a tiny bath in which you can’t even stretch out to your full height.

However, what to do if you have small children for whom a shower is not suitable for caring for? In this case, an alternative choice may be a shower (hydromassage) box, which has a tray with fairly high sides. Of course, it will not replace a bath for an adult, but its size is quite sufficient for a child to bathe. Which the kids actually do with great pleasure.

Indulge your desires

So which is better? Bath? Or you can hear different things about this. Some people prefer to fill the tank hot water, add foam or sea salt and forget about the fuss and problems for about 1.5 hours. For some, it’s enough to recharge with energy under a cool shower. Give the third one exclusively a jacuzzi...

As they say, how many people - so many opinions. And, it is worth adding, financial opportunities. Therefore, you still need to base it on your personal preferences, and then on factors such as the size of the bathroom, the material of manufacture, functions and accessories, and design. If you are an actively living person who does not like to waste time on water procedures, then it is better to choose a shower. If you like to pamper yourself and relax in a pleasant environment, then it would be better to replace the shower stall with a bathtub. The main thing is that the purchase pleases you and brings you pleasure.

When repairing plumbing units, apartment owners often face the question of choosing plumbing fixtures.

To decide which is better - a bathtub or a shower stall, it is necessary to consider in detail these popular plumbing options, comparing their features and technical characteristics.

The traditional type of plumbing is bathtubs, which became widespread in ancient times.

Today, convenient volumetric bathing tanks have not lost popularity; they are installed in new buildings and installed after renovation.

A bathtub is a multifunctional device: you can not only wash or bathe a child in it, but also soak/rinse laundry, wash large dishes, leave a bouquet of flowers overnight or cool a watermelon

Today, the market is dominated by three types of similar plumbing products (cast iron, acrylic, steel), each of which has its own characteristics.

What are the benefits of cast iron baths?

The most reliable are cast iron bathtubs, which have the following advantages:

• Durability. If you treat the enamel with care, a cast iron product will last for several decades (usually the warranty period is 25 years).
• Thanks to the large heat capacity, they retain heat for a long time.
• Resistant to deformation.
• Easy to clean: there are no pores on the surface, which makes it easy to wash off dirt.
• Due to the soundproofing properties of cast iron, such plumbing fixtures make virtually no noise when drawing water.

Among the disadvantages of such plumbing fixtures are:

• Heavy weight (on average about 120 kilograms), which makes transportation and installation difficult.
• Relatively high cost (manufacturers influence price formation).
• If the enamel is seriously damaged, it is extremely difficult to restore it at home.

The disadvantages include a small selection of models, among which classic rectangular-shaped products predominate.

Plumbing products made of steel

Such products also have their pros and cons.

The coating of any type of bathtub deteriorates over time. It is recommended to periodically update it or change it entirely by calling specialists

Positive qualities include:

• light weight: steel baths weigh 4-5 times less than cast iron counterparts;
• a wide selection of models, the assortment includes plumbing fixtures of different sizes and shapes;
• sufficient durability: the service life of high-quality models is approximately 15 years;
• moderate cost.

Among the weaknesses are:

• slight deformation leading to damage to the enamel coating;
• significant noise level when filling water;
• high thermal conductivity, due to which water in steel baths cools down quickly.

It must be taken into account that the disadvantages are primarily budget options with thin walls, while models made of thick metal are similar in quality to cast iron.

Lightweight acrylic sanitary ware

Due to the advantages, acrylic containers have become the most popular among users.

Bathtubs can have not only the traditional rectangular shape, but also other shapes: oval, triangular, asymmetrical. Particularly pleasing is the variety of configurations for models made of acrylic.

In many respects, such plumbing is ahead of similar items made from metals:

• The thermal conductivity of acrylic bathtubs is even lower than that of cast iron: they are able to retain heat for a long time.
• The quietest type of product compared to other types.
• Damage (if it is not too serious) can be easily restored.
• They have a non-slip surface, which helps avoid injuries.
• Easy to clean.
• They are light in weight.

In addition, acrylic tanks are available in a wide range model range, they are often combined with additional options, such as a jacuzzi.

The disadvantages are:

• Sufficient fragility in comparison with cast iron analogues; Acrylic plumbing fixtures are not suitable for significant mechanical loads.
• The surface of such bathtubs is easily scratched, which is why the attractive gloss is lost over time.
• Inexpensive plumbing fixtures can become stained if you wash faded laundry in a container.

It is worth adding that high-quality acrylic products from well-known companies are quite expensive.

Advantages and disadvantages of baths

The widespread use of baths over the centuries has been due to their many advantages.

Modern bath models can be different colors and shapes, as well as have additional functions, for example, lighting, hydromassage

The advantages of such products are obvious:

• The bath can be filled with water with essential oils, sea or aromatic salt, or whipped up thick foam. Many (and not without reason) consider this procedure the best way to relax after a busy day at work.
• Dive into hot bath, to which you can add medicinal herbs, is an excellent remedy for colds. A similar method with the addition of special substances (milk, honey, oatmeal) is considered an excellent cosmetic procedure that allows you to take care of the skin of the body.
• In the bath, all impurities, as well as sweat after a workout, are washed away faster and more thoroughly.
• The container is perfect for bathing children, and for babies it can even be used as a pool.
• If necessary, this sanitary ware can be used to wash large-format items, such as a bedspread or tablecloth.
• The bathtub is convenient for washing not only people, but also pets, such as dogs.
• The presence of a special nozzle in many faucets allows you to use the bathtub as a shower.

The device is also easy to install with a water supply system, requiring a minimum of qualifications and moderate costs.

Among the main disadvantages are:

• The dimensions are quite large, which is why the bathtub occupies a significant part of the bathroom.
• Water consumption is many times greater than for a shower (200 liters versus 40-50 liters in a shower). In addition, due to the length of the procedure, more electricity is consumed when washing.
• It is not recommended for a number of diseases, for example, hypertension, varicose veins, a tendency to dizziness, and skin problems.
• A wet smooth surface creates a risk of injury.
• Slow filling. It is impossible to take a bath immediately; you have to wait for some time until the water fills the container.

Baths are especially difficult for older people: it is difficult for them to get in and out of the bath; in addition, a sudden change in body position can cause dizziness and even fainting.

Types of shower cabins

Such plumbing fixtures appeared much later than bathtubs. Currently, shower cabins are widespread, especially in small apartments.

There are several classification options. According to the design features, open and closed booths are distinguished. The former have an affordable price, but only partially enclose the structure.

Open shower cabins have a lightweight design without a ceiling, which is why the number of additional functions in them is kept to a minimum

Closed models have not only walls, but also a roof, which allows you to create an airtight space. Thanks to this, you can use the sauna effect in the cabin, as well as other functions.

The plumbing fixtures under consideration also differ in the materials from which they are made. important elements– pallets:

• cast iron is characterized by increased strength, but is heavy and takes a long time to heat up;
• ceramic ones are quite fragile and require careful handling: dropping a heavy object can break the tray;
• steel ones are the noisiest;
• acrylic ones look great and heat up quickly, but easily lose their appearance due to scratches on the surface.

The depth of the pallets can be:

• flat (0-35 mm);
• small (100-180);
• deep (180-450 mm).

Products may have different parameters. Common options are dimensions 90x90, 100x100, 120x80 cm, but designs of other sizes can be found.

Some modern models of shower cabins are almost equal in size to those of a bathtub. Often they have original design and serve as interior decoration

It is advisable to choose models whose length and width exceed 0.8 by 0.8 m - with smaller parameters it is uncomfortable to use shower cabins.

When choosing a cabin, it is important to take into account both the area of ​​the room and the size of the body: the bather should be comfortable using the shower unit.

Pros and cons of shower designs

Fans of such sanitary products cite the following advantages:

• The area of ​​such sanitary products is smaller than a traditional bathtub, which saves space. There is a place for such installations even in the most compact plumbing units.
• Such devices are safe. The pallets are made of non-slip material, which reduces the likelihood of injury.
• Modern models often have many additional features. This could be a telephone, radio, hydromassage, sauna mode. Some options allow you to healing procedures: inhalation, aromatherapy.
• Some models of shower cabins have benches or seats, which makes washing easier for older people or people with health problems.
• Thanks to the wide range, which includes options with different dimensions, design, cost, and a set of additional functions, you can always choose a shower cabin that meets the needs and capabilities of the buyer.
• This device is considered more hygienic than a bathtub, since germs are washed away with the water flow, whereas in the latter these organisms remain in a container of water.
• The shower can be used at any time, you just need to turn the tap.
• It is better to rinse your hair under running water: in this case, you can thoroughly remove all remnants of shampoo and other detergent.

As you can see, the list of advantages of such sanitary products looks quite impressive.

At the same time, one cannot fail to mention the disadvantages of these devices:

• High-quality models with a tight door are usually quite voluminous. They are often slightly smaller in area than bathtubs and are not suitable for installation in a small room.
• Most additional functions (for example, tropical rain or hydromassage) can only be used with a certain water pressure. If it does not reach 1.5 bar in the house or on the floor, then the options will not be available.
• The muscles remain tense under the shower: it is better to relax after a workout in the bath.
• As a result of dried splashes, a white coating appears on doors and walls.
• Shower cabins require more complex care than bathtubs, since they contain numerous metal parts of complex configurations.
• The average cost of a cabin is higher than a bath.
• Installation of such plumbing requires certain skills. As a result of poor quality work, the structure may leak.
• There is no opportunity to lie down and relax in the shower stall.
• Such products are difficult to use for bathing children (this can be done in cabins with a deep cast-iron tray) or pets.

At the same time, the quality of modern shower cabins is quite high, which makes it possible to smooth out many of the disadvantages of such plumbing.

Additional functions of shower cabins

The popularity of this type of plumbing product is influenced by the availability of additional functions that allow you to turn an ordinary shower into an attractive procedure.

The most common options include cold and hot shower. Alternating supply of hot and ice water has an extremely beneficial effect on the body, hardening it and toning the skin.

One of the most popular additional options for shower cabins is vertical hydromassage. The soft touch of streams of water mixed with air bubbles allows you to quickly invigorate, relieve fatigue and stress

"Turkish bath". In this case, the cabin includes a steam generator, with which you can create high temperature(45-60 o) and 100 percent humidity. Air saturated with hot steam helps improve blood circulation and immunity; under its influence, the pores expand, from which toxins are removed along with sweat.

Rain shower. A special nozzle located on the ceiling of the cabin breaks the water flow into a whirlwind of small gentle splashes, simulating summer rain. A similar procedure that helps relax the body is recommended before bed.

Aromatherapy. In models with this function, a special container for aromatic substances is built into the rear wall of the cabin. When the steam generator is turned on, heated water vapor passes through the tank and fills the space with fragrant steam.

Owners of small bathrooms should pay attention to corner models shower cabins that occupy a minimum area of ​​the room

Ventilation. A function that allows you to ventilate the cabins. In versions equipped with the “tropical shower” and “Turkish bath” options, it allows the steam to be evenly distributed inside the cabin.

Vertical hydromassage. The devices are equipped with rotating built-in nozzles from which streams of water are ejected. By manually directing them in different directions, you can arrange a hydromassage of the legs, back or collar area.

Top/multi-color backlight. Lights located on the ceiling illuminate the cabin with uniform, soft light.

The presence of multi-colored LEDs, as well as several mode options, allows you to combine the washing procedure with the contemplation of visual effects that color the streams of water streams alternately in different colors. This also has a beneficial effect on the body, since the healing effect of chromotherapy, that is, light treatment, has been known for a long time.

Mirror. Some models have mirrors that have been treated special means anti-fogging. This accessory is especially convenient when carrying out cosmetic procedures (for example, masks) or shaving in the shower.

Shower cabins can be equipped not only with multi-colored lamps, but also with small ultraviolet lamps. They color the streams of water in an exquisite purple colour and destroy harmful organisms

Shampoo dispenser. To prevent bottles from falling off the shelves and causing problems, it is advisable to purchase a model with several dispensers attached to the inner wall (for shampoo, gel, balm). The newest modifications often have remote control using a remote control, as well as touch panels that respond to hand touch.

The presence of additional functions is directly proportional to the cost of the cabin, so when choosing a model, the buyer should consider the question of how important this or that option is for him, so as not to overpay.

Bath or cabin: making a choice

If the family is not too inclined to soak in the bathroom, it is better to use a shower cabin, which allows you not only to save space, but also to significantly reduce water costs.

Fans of an invigorating sauna should pay attention to special models of shower cabins that successfully imitate the temperature and humidity conditions of Turkish baths

If there are elderly people or chronically ill people in the family who find it difficult to use the bathtub, it is better to prefer a shower with seats. Families with small children, as well as pet owners, are advised to install a comfortable bathtub.

When choosing, it is better to give preference to products from reputable companies. In economical models, after several years of use, the doors often dry out, which reduces the tightness of the products.

Universal option - hydrobox

There is also Alternative option, providing for the combination of a bathtub and a shower. This device is primarily recommended to be considered if some members of the family like to relax in the bathroom, while others do not want to spend a lot of time on water procedures, preferring to rinse off in the shower.

A hydromassage box is a modern and convenient type of plumbing product. Such models are produced by many well-known brands, so the choice of models is quite large.

This model can also be recommended for families with small children: it is perfect for comfortable bathing of babies. Many additional options (hydromassage, steam sauna, tropical rain) turn such a device into a real spa.

At the same time, there are some drawbacks, including:

• solid dimensions, due to which the hydrobox is unlikely to be suitable for a miniature bathroom;
• high cost: prices for such products exceed the cost of a shower stall;
• installation can only be carried out by highly qualified professionals;
• certain requirements for water supply and sewerage.

In addition, hydroboxes, as a rule, have high sides, which is why they are not very suitable for older people or people with mobility problems.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

In the presented video, you will hear the competent opinion of an interior designer about the advantages and disadvantages of the two main options for sanitary products intended for water procedures.

It is impossible to clearly determine which is better, a bath or a shower. When planning to update a bathroom, it is necessary to take into account the opinions of all family members, as well as a number of objective factors, for example, the area of ​​the plumbing room. A wide range of products presented in specialized stores will allow you to find a compromise by choosing a comfortable bathtub, a modern shower cabin or a luxurious hydrobox.

Many people, when arranging their bathroom, are faced with a choice: shower or bath? Now we will try to find out the positive and negative aspects of both solutions.

Shower or bath?

The first thing you need to understand is what you yourself are used to, and what kind of pastime is more enjoyable for you. The bath has a relaxing effect and allows you to relax after a hard day at work. A shower will help you wake up and give you energy for the day.

Let's look at the bath and shower as a means of cleansing. Staying in the bath allows you to gently open the skin pores and thus cleanse them. It should be remembered that it is better to use for the bathroom various varieties soaps, not shower gels, since the latter create a special film on the skin that can only be washed off under a strong stream. In this regard, the shower provides the function of hydromassage and deeper cleansing.

We must not forget about the medical aspect. Doctors advise people with vascular and venous problems (hypotension, hypertension, varicose veins) to refrain from bathing. People with problem skin will also have to carefully select the temperature and time spent in water, since too hot water can harm sensitive skin. The shower has practically no contraindications, except for one of its varieties - contrast shower. Again, such a shower should not be taken by people with problematic blood vessels, since a sharp change in water temperature is not beneficial in such cases. And, of course, if you have a runny nose or a cold, it is better not to experiment with cold water.

Which is more economical?

From an economical point of view, the shower is the clear winner. Since showers themselves take up less space than a bathtub, they are better suited for bathrooms with small square footage, which will preserve useful space.

The shower also wins in terms of the amount of water consumed. On average, taking water procedures in the shower will require 1.5–2 times less water than in the bathroom. This is due to the fact that in the shower, dirt is immediately washed away from the skin with new streams of water, while while lying in the bath, you will have to rinse several more times.

But lying in the bath, you can relax and forget about the problems of a hard day, and steam your skin. Therefore, if the bathroom space allows, then you should not deny yourself this pleasure.

You need to understand what specific style you want to decorate your bathroom in. For modern and aggressive styles, such as “high-tech” and “minimalism”, a shower cabin will be the absolute choice. Here you will need cabins made of transparent glass with metal inserts.

If you adhere to more classic interior, for example, in the Provence style, then you cannot do without a beautiful white bathtub and walls decorated with pastel-colored tiles.

The shape of the bathroom can be different, as well as the material from which it is made: from iron to hardwood. Many design solutions look very stylish, but again are suitable for large rooms.

The editors of the site advise you to make a choice in favor of what you need, because the bathroom is a very personal space and a place for privacy.
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What better bath or shower? December 31st, 2017

Many people, when arranging their bathroom, are faced with a choice: shower or bath? Now we will try to find out the positive and negative aspects of both solutions.

The first thing you need to understand is what you yourself are used to, and what kind of pastime is more enjoyable for you. The bath has a relaxing effect and allows you to relax after a hard day at work. A shower will help you wake up and give you energy for the day. Let's look at the bath and shower as a means of cleansing. Staying in the bath allows you to gently open the skin pores and thus cleanse them. It should be remembered that for the bathroom it is better to use different types of soap, rather than shower gels, since the latter create a special film on the skin that can only be washed off under a strong stream. In this regard, the shower provides the function of hydromassage and deeper cleansing.

In every house and apartment, at the planning stage, a magic room is provided - the bathroom. Its direct purpose is to provide convenience during hygiene procedures. But everything would be very boring if people used the bathroom only for its intended purpose. For most of us, water procedures mean restoration and relaxation, and our hygiene habits are based on the idea of ​​these matters.

Few of us are lucky enough to have a sauna or jacuzzi on our property: most have access to two types of regulated water amenities: a bath and a shower. There are as many adherents of both types of ablutions as there are of each individual: each gives a lot of arguments in favor of his habit. Is there any truth to this question? Which is better - a bath or a shower?

Entering new house and when starting to equip a bathroom, any family will be faced with a choice between a bathtub and a shower. It’s good if the footage allows you to install both. But often you have to choose based on the size of the room. In terms of convenience of placement, a shower is more profitable - it saves space.

However, you must admit that it is impossible to decide what to buy without having an idea of ​​​​the price of the issue. Not so long ago, a shower cabin was a luxury for most consumers: now many specialized centers offer it, competition from manufacturers is at a high level, therefore, like a bathtub, a shower cabin (as well as heating units for them) can be selected according to your size and pocket. Which is cheaper? Same!
Will our acquisition pay off soon? With a water consumption of 8 to 15 liters per minute, 100 liters of water are required for taking a shower, and twice as much for taking a bath. This is explained by the fact that, standing in the shower, we dissolve dirt from our skin and hair with hot water and instantly wash it away with streams from the watering can. The process is continuous, whereas washing in a bath ends in dirty water and requires 2-3 rinses.

In terms of care, however, the housewives will not be pleased with the shower cabin. Every time after taking a shower (especially if the water in your tap is not of very high quality), the walls of the cabin will be covered with a coating, which, in principle, can save us from the need to cover ourselves with a curtain; besides, cleaning products for shower cabins are not yet sold everywhere. Some manufacturers recommend washing their products every time you take a shower - that is, several times a day. In this sense, the bathtub is more convenient: even a child can clean it up (by the way, try bathing a child in the shower!), and the choice of means for caring for it is richer.

In terms of their effects on the body, a shower and a bath occupy two opposite positions. A shower invigorates, a bath relaxes and soothes, but both can “give birth to us again.” In order not to spoil the effect of rebirth from being in the bath, you need to know that a warm bath (36-38 degrees) can be taken for no more than 30 minutes, and a hot bath (more than 38 degrees) - even less: 10-15. A minus for those who like to lie in the bath for hours. While in the shower we can enjoy ourselves until the water runs out.

In terms of cleansing - bath the more useful it is that a long stay in hot water delicately and gently opens the pores, which is difficult to achieve under the shower streams flowing around the body. The state of weightlessness, which gives the hydrostatic factor, frees you from the force of gravity, unloads the musculoskeletal system and promotes the outflow of blood from the veins in the legs. When bathing in the bath, it is recommended to use any convenient soap, since washing gels leave a film of mineral oils on the body, which will clog open pores and interfere with the pore cleansing processes. For showering, gels are more useful, since the dirt, which, as we have already found out above, flows off us during the entire procedure, will slide off the skin along this very film without lingering anywhere. In a bath, however, it is impossible to achieve the hydromassage effect that a shower gives us.

Are there any medical contraindications to taking a bath or shower? It turns out there is. Doctors do not advise people with hypotension, hypertension and varicose veins veins Also frequent baths not recommended for those young ladies who suffer from problem skin - provided that healthy skin can relatively easily tolerate the hostess’s “mistake” in the water temperature and bath duration, sensitive and problematic skin will respond to such rudeness with peeling, tightness, pimples and inflammation. The bath is also contraindicated for patients after surgery and for women during menstruation. The shower is recommended for everyone, with the exception of a contrast shower: it is not recommended for people with cardiovascular diseases, as well as those who have a cold or runny nose.

In matters “for the soul,” the bath is a winner. It’s pleasant to bask in clouds of foam, and nourishing your skin with salts, oils and additives is much more convenient than in the shower. While lying in the bathtub, you can perform facial and hair treatments, which is also impossible in the shower. When bathing children, a bath is also an indispensable assistant.

Well, the last, unexpected argument in favor of a bath is the percentage of injuries. According to online sources, the injury rate from falling in a shower stall is 15% higher than from falling from sliding on tiled floor bathroom. Well, the risk of injury from a fall in the bathtub is negligible: it’s difficult to fall while lying down, as you understand.

You need to understand what specific style you want to decorate your bathroom in. For modern and aggressive styles, such as “high-tech” and “minimalism”, a shower cabin will be the absolute choice. Here you will need cabins made of transparent glass with metal inserts. If you adhere to a more classic interior, for example, in the Provence style, then you cannot do without a beautiful white bathtub and walls decorated with pastel-colored tiles. The shape of the bathroom can be different, as well as the material from which it is made: from iron to hardwood. Many design solutions look very stylish, but again are suitable for large rooms.

And with such a practically no gap, the soul still pulls ahead. Apart from the risk of injury and maintenance, showering is cheaper and healthier. But a bath is healthier, more hygienic and safer. The choice, however, is still ours and our habits.
Especially for those who do not find time to take a bath and prefer to wash in the shower, here are five reasons why you should still run a bath at least once a week and soak in it:

1. Prevention of colds. A bath is indispensable if you or your child is often sick. It is especially useful to lie in a warm bath after a walk outside in bad weather, when your feet are wet or very cold. A bath will help warm up the entire body and thereby prevent the development of cold symptoms. Drink a glass of warm green tea with lemon or chamomile after your bath and you won’t have to worry about a possible cold.


2. Skin cleansing. No one can cleanse their skin as effectively with a shower as a warm bath. In the bath, as in a sauna, the pores open and the skin is completely cleansed of the dirt accumulated in it. To remove dead skin cells, you can exfoliate with ground coffee or honey after a bath. The skin after this procedure will become even and smooth.


3. Relaxation. In order not to get irritated by trifles, you need to do a full course of massage twice a year, take a steam bath once a month, or attend spa treatments. Naturally, not everyone can afford such pleasure. An alternative to all these procedures can be a regular bath. Take water at a comfortable temperature for you and add it essential oil pine, sage, lavender or rosemary. Dim the lights, light some candles and enjoy the relaxation of a soothing, relaxing bath.


4. Cool down and stretch muscles. When you sit at the computer for a long time or do physical exercises, your muscles become very tense and stagnation begins in them. Therefore, when completing any physical workout or after sitting for a long time, you must do a cool-down and stretch your muscles. This could be a short walk or simple exercises, but it is best for this purpose to combine business with pleasure and take a warm bath with the addition of sea ​​salt or herbal extract.


5. Remedy for low blood pressure. Weather-sensitive people are sensitive to weather changes. They are often bothered by headaches and weakness if the sky is covered with clouds and rain is expected. The reason for this is low blood pressure. Improving your well-being in these cases is quite simple - put some in the bath hot water and add pine decoction to it. Lie in the bath for 10-15 minutes and get the effect water procedure will definitely surprise you.

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