At one time, bathtubs were an important part of people’s lives. After all, there were few other options if you wanted to get clean. Showers were not created until 1767. Even then, they were not the wonderful conveniences we use today. The first shower had a hand pump that sprayed individuals with cold water. The first hot water shower came in the next century, as modern plumbing became a more common part of everyday life. Naturally, not everyone could afford a shower, so bathtubs remained popular.
Today, bathtubs are still popular. However, unlike in previous centuries, they are more of a luxury item. Most people these days don’t take baths to get clean. Instead, they’re meant for relaxing. There have never been more products for relaxing in the tub, from expensive gels and creams to fancy bath bombs.
But are bathtubs really necessary? Many people are considering a bathtub to shower conversion. Learn whether this option is right for you in our blog!
Benefits of Having a Bathtub
Did you know that baths are good for more than just unwinding after a long day? That’s right! Taking a bath actually promotes physical and mental health. Here are four benefits of keeping your bathtub and bathing regularly:
1. Baths Boost Your Mood
A good bath can help relax and destress you. The combination of warm water, privacy, and silence all help calm your body and mind. According to Dr. John Harcup, baths can remind us of our time in the womb, which also helps stimulate feelings of comfort and security.
2. Baths Help You Sleep
Studies suggest a cooler body temperature can help you sleep better at night. When you take a warm bath, you’re increasing your body temperature. But when you get out of the warm, your body cools rapidly. This drop in body temperature should help you get a full eight hours!
3. Baths Lower Blood Pressure
Immersing yourself in warm water can lower your blood pressure. This means that you can improve your heart health. When you improve your heart health, you reduce the risk of serious medical emergencies, such as strokes and heart attacks.
4. Baths Reduce Inflammation and Muscle Pain
Baths don’t just lower blood pressure. They also improve circulation. Improving circulation helps reduce problems like inflammation and muscle pain. If you frequently suffer from these afflictions, a bath can help you feel better on a regular basis.
Are Baths Better Than Showers?
In the end, neither baths nor showers are better than the other. They each have benefits that the other lacks. For instance, baths, despite their numerous benefits, are not as hygienic as showers. Remember, you’re just soaking in the dirt and oils from your skin when you take a bath. If you want to get clean after a good workout and remove bacteria and sweat, a shower is always a better option.
Showers can also be safer than bathtubs, depending on your age. Elderly individuals often benefit from having an open shower that does require them to step over a ledge and risk falling. There are many safety features for showers, such as seats and railings, that allow for a safer, less stressful environment for cleaning up.
So Should You Do a Bathtub to Shower Conversion?
That depends on your age, lifestyle, and budget. If you are an elderly individual or someone who never takes baths, then there is no reason why a shower conversion wouldn’t benefit you. However, installing a shower can get expensive. You can expect to pay between $450 and $10,000 for a new shower installation.
We Can Help With Bathtub to Shower Conversion!
Hopefully, our blog was able to help you decide whether a bathtub to shower conversion is right for you. Choosing to go through with any remodeling project is a big decision. If you have any questions or concerns, you can consult the team at E & L Star Construction. We are here to help you with bathtub to shower conversions. Contact us today!