What Is a Standard Bath Size?

When it comes to your bathroom, is there a “standard” bath size? Read on, as we help you get the measure of your bathroom layout…

Bathrooms come in all shapes, sizes and layouts, meaning that each and every bathroom project throws up its own unique problems. One of the things you'll likely have to tackle is where and how to position your bath. So, it's no wonder one of the questions we're frequently asked is "What is a standard bath size?".

Whilst things like bathroom plumbing, electrical equipment and heating all come with industry standard sizes, it can often appear that baths do not come with similar standard dimensions. But is this actually true?

What is a standard bath size?

Before the widespread use of the metric system, it was generally accepted that the standard bath size in the UK was 5 foot 6 inches in length. This now translates as a bath size of 1700mm in length x 700mm in width, which is the most common bath size we sell at Victorian Plumbing.

As the average UK bathroom is around 2.3m x 2.7m in size, this would make sense, as it still leaves at least 0.7 metres or 1 metre of clear space, depending on the orientation of your bath.

The popularity of this size is reflected in the fact that 1700mm x 700mm baths are by far the most numerous on our site, too. We stock well over 100 types of 1700mm x 700mm baths from some of the most admired manufacturers in the industry - in designs to suit any kind of bathroom decor.

The second most popular UK bath size is 1700mm x 750mm. Though it may seem like a minor, incremental difference, the additional 50mm of width can really increase comfort and provide a more indulgent feel - especially for larger users.

One important thing to remember when measuring for your straight bath is that tiles may give you a false impression of the space you have available. If you measure from tiled wall to tiled wall, you may have a measurement of, say 1685mm, whereas, in fact, the total space will more than likely be 1700mm.

No matter what type of bath you're installing, whether it's a freestanding tub or a straight bath, find out how to measure correctly with this quick video:

You’ll find over 100 different styles of 1700mm x 750mm bath here at VP, so you’ll be certain to find one that matches your tastes - no matter how distinctive they may be.

What About Bathtub Height?

While plenty of thought goes into selecting the right length and width of a bath, not many of us consider the height. A bathtub’s height from the floor can have a big impact on both the visual appeal and the practicality of a bathroom space.

Choose a bath on the shorter side, and it could end up looking out of place in a large family bathroom. On the flip side, a particularly tall bath installed in a compact bathroom could lead to even the most carefully planned of bathroom layouts feeling cramped and impractical.

Your bathtub’s height from the floor can also (though not always) have a significant impact on the depth of the tub and, in turn, the number of litres of water required to fill it. Imposingly tall freestanding baths tend to be deeper and have a higher capacity. How many litres in a bath can vary wildly though, so it’s always good to check each individual product’s capacity.

For instance, this Verona Large Freestanding Modern Bath in its 1800mm x 750mm size is 580mm tall and takes whopping 213 litres to fill it from the base to the overflow. Comparatively, the technically larger 1800mm x 800mm Banbury Single Ended Bath requires just 182 litres because its internal depth is smaller.

We suggest taking the time to find a combination of depth and capacity that will suit your personal needs as a bather. If you’re looking for indulgent luxury, opt for a deep freestanding tub. If your priorities lie in cutting water bills and increasing energy efficiency, go for a standard bath with a lower capacity instead.

Alternative Bath Sizes

As they are seen as a necessity for many, baths are now available in all sorts of shapes and sizes to suit even the trickiest of bathroom layouts. From stylish corner baths that can free up floor space to innovative shower baths that provide users with a larger showering area, our extensive bathroom baths collection features options for almost any situation.

Shop baths

At Victorian Plumbing, we have tubs to suit all sizes. Why not browse our wide range of baths today and use our simple filters to find the right dimensions for your room. Found our brief guide to standard bath sizes helpful? Want more bathtub tips? Try our recent guide on What to Consider When Hiring a Bathroom Fitter. For all sorts of other bathroom inspiration - from style guides to DIY advice - stick with us here on the Victorian Plumbing Blog.