Bathrooms have become one of the hardest working spaces in the modern home. Expected to balance practicality, relaxation and design within increasingly limited square footage, they are evolving rapidly - and in many homes, traditional bathroom staples like the bath are being left behind.
The Great British Soak is under threat. Tubs are being removed from homes, while new builds increasingly exclude them altogether. And online, the debate around whether to keep the bath or ditch it entirely remains deeply divisive.
But our latest research, speaking to estate agents and prospective homebuyers nationwide, has revealed that in today’s property market the presence of a bath can play a pivotal role in both the value and saleability of a home.
Explore the research
New research conducted by Censuswide in May 2026 explores the role baths still play in modern British homes. Drench surveyed 250 estate agents and property valuers alongside 2,000 UK consumers to better understand the relationship between baths, wellbeing, buyer behaviour and modern living.
47% |
45% |
80% |
Say homes without a bath lose value |
Say no bath is a dealbreaker |
Still use their bath regularly |
In this report
- Why baths are disappearing from British homes
- How baths influence buyer appeal
- The ‘shower-only penalty’
- What estate agents really think
- Bathroom trends homeowners are rethinking
- Expert advice for adding value
The rise of the ‘shower-only’ home could be impacting property value
Modern bathrooms are increasingly expected to do more with less. Across social media and renovation platforms, sleek wet rooms and minimalist walk-in showers have become one of the defining bathroom trends of recent years - particularly in smaller homes where space is at a premium.
But while these layouts may appear stylish and practical in the short term, our research suggests that removing the bath altogether could come at a hidden cost.
Key findings
47% of estate agents believe homes without a bath can reduce in value by 3-4% |
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25% estimate the impact could reach 5-6% |
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53% say the presence of at least one bath significantly impacts marketability |
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29% believe shower only homes alienate between 21-40% of potential buyers |
The findings suggest that while bathrooms are increasingly becoming style-led spaces, many buyers still value layouts that support long-term living and evolving household needs.
Brits still emotionally connected to the bath
Despite the shift towards faster living and more compact spaces, Britain’s emotional connection to baths remains surprisingly strong.
For many households, the bath represents more than function alone, it’s offering a place to relax, decompress and step away from the pace of everyday life.
Key findings
80% of homeowners with a bath still use it regularly |
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45% say the lack of a bath is a dealbreaker when searching for a home |
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27% of homeowners who never use their bath refuse to remove it to protect resale value |
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23% of people without a bath either want one or are actively planning to install one |
The findings highlight a growing tension within modern bathrooms; homeowners may want minimalist spaces, but they still want the reassurance of having a bath.
Homes without a bath could take longer to sell
In a slower housing market, buyers are increasingly focused on how homes will work for them not just now, but years into the future.
For many estate agents, the bathroom remains one of the most influential spaces when assessing buyer appeal - particularly in family-sized homes where everyday usability plays an important role in purchasing decisions.
Key findings
34% of estate agents say family homes without a bath typically take 3-4 weeks longer to sell |
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20% report delays of up to 1-2 months compared to comparable homes with a bath |
There is also growing confidence around the return on investment of bathroom upgrades.
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83% believe adding a bath recoups installation costs |
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24% believe installing a bath can add more value than it costs |
For buyers, the bath increasingly represents reassurance, whether for growing families, resale confidence or everyday use.
Experts say today’s bathrooms should balance style with practicality
According to property and staging expert, Liv Conlon, homeowners are increasingly rethinking the role the bathroom plays within the home.
“While walk-in showers have become the ‘quick and convenient’ choice, we’re seeing buyers lean back towards bathtubs as both a lifestyle and resale feature. A beautiful freestanding bath now feels far more Pinterest-worthy and aspirational, whilst also offering practicality for growing families and young children.”
Drench senior bathroom designer, Samantha Lawson also notes that current bathroom trends are shifting towards layouts that combine practicality with considered design.
“We are seeing a growing demand for compact, freestanding tubs that create a luxurious focal point without requiring a massive footprint. When designing with resale in mind, it’s important to prioritise 'zoning' - in other words, ensuring the bath feels like a dedicated sanctuary, rather than an afterthought. This balance of style and practicality is what ultimately secures the highest valuation.”
Together, the insights suggest the conversation is no longer simply “bath or shower?” - but how bathrooms can better balance aesthetics, comfort and long-term living.
Consumers are also being encouraged to plan bathrooms with longevity in mind, choosing thoughtfully designed bathroom suites or using design services to help maximise space, support everyday living and adapt to changing household needs - while also protecting buyer appeal and long-term property value.
Four ways to maximise bathroom value without a full renovation
For homeowners looking to improve buyer appeal without completely redesigning their bathroom, small practical updates can still make a significant difference.
1. Think small, not shower-only
If floor space is tight, don’t assume a walk-in shower is your only option. Opt for a compact 1400mm bath like this Drench Straight Single Ended Bath or the slightly larger Andreia Acrylic White Freestanding Bath - 1500 x 720mm, or a Japanese-style bath as they take up significantly less room than a standard 1700mm tub. You can also get the best of both worlds by introducing a shower head over the bath.
2. Create a spa style feel
Don't just show a bath; show a lifestyle and a hotel-aesthetic. Use rolled towels, a bath rack, and premium toiletries to create a spa feel during viewings. You want the buyer to imagine themselves relaxing there, not just scrubbing the floor!
3. Improve first impressions
Hallways set the tone of your home and create a lasting first impression, but are often neglected. A chic runner rug, a console table with a vase, and a subtle fragrance diffuser instantly signal to a buyer that the home is well-cared for. If the entrance feels premium, they’ll expect the rest of the house to match
4. Refresh rather than replace
You don’t always need new tiles to add value. In fact, a simple grout refresh can do wonders for the look and feel of your space. Professional regrouting or a deep steam clean of existing bathroom tiles can make a ten-year-old suite look brand new for a fraction of the cost of a replacement.
While bathroom trends continue to evolve, the research suggests Britain’s connection to the bath remains deeply rooted in modern life.
Whether valued for relaxation, resale confidence, family routines or comfort, the bath continues to hold emotional and cultural importance for many households across the UK.
From childhood memories to everyday rituals, we think the Great British soak deserves to stay. Join Drench as we rally the nation to Save Our Soak.
Search #SaveOurSoak on socials to join the conversation or visit Save Our Soak to explore the campaign and enter our competition to win £500 towards a bathroom upgrade.
