When I walked into a friend’s newly-purchased home, one of the first things I noticed was the large, unused jacuzzi tub. Its glossy white surface, with water jets lined neatly at the bottom, appeared to be in pristine condition. However, my friend confessed that despite its visual appeal, the tub had remained unused for months. As it turns out, this isn’t an isolated experience.

The appeal of jacuzzi tubs is easy to understand: They promise a spa-like experience at home, a place to unwind and relax after a long day. However, reality often doesn’t meet these expectations. The tubs are large and unwieldy, often requiring significant water to fill. The noise of the water jets can be grating, rather than soothing. And in a world where time is often scarce, the sheer amount of time required to fill, use, and then clean a jacuzzi tub makes it an impractical luxury for many homeowners.

In contrast, a more traditional bathtub or a luxurious enclosed shower can offer many of the same benefits without the drawbacks. Here’s why you should consider making the switch.

Space-Efficiency: Traditional bathtubs and enclosed showers typically require less space than jacuzzi tubs. This not only makes them more suitable for smaller bathrooms but also frees up room for other features, such as a larger vanity or additional storage space.  On average, a shower takes up 40% less space than a jacuzzi jet tub.

Energy Efficiency: Jacuzzi tubs consume a lot of water and energy. It takes a significant amount of water to fill them, and the water jets require electricity to operate. Traditional tubs and showers generally consume less water and energy, making them a more environmentally-friendly choice.

Ease of Maintenance: Jacuzzi tubs require regular maintenance to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew in the water jets and pipes. Traditional tubs and showers are easier to clean and maintain, saving you time and effort in the long run.

Versatility: An enclosed shower can be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose from a wide range of showerheads, from rainfall to handheld, and add features like built-in shelves, benches, or even steam options. This versatility can make your shower experience more enjoyable and tailored to your needs.

Accessibility: For those with mobility issues, getting in and out of a jacuzzi tub can be challenging. Traditional bathtubs or walk-in showers with grab bars and non-slip flooring can provide a safer and more accessible alternative.

Resale Value: While a jacuzzi tub may initially seem like an attractive feature to potential homebuyers, the reality is that they can be seen as high-maintenance and outdated. On the other hand, a modern, well-designed shower can increase the appeal of your home and potentially boost its resale value.

 Half-way to heated floors!

Jacuzzi tubs typically come with their own dedicated circuit, complete with a specific breaker on the electrical panel. When considering a bathroom renovation, this pre-existing setup provides a golden opportunity. Instead of letting that dedicated circuit go to waste, why not repurpose it for a heated bathroom floor? Not only will this add a touch of luxury to your renovated space, but it also saves on costs. Engaging an electrician to fish a wire up to the bathroom constitutes roughly half the expense of your heated floor installation, making the transition both smart and budget-friendly.

The case against jacuzzi tubs isn’t just a matter of practicality—it’s also about reclaiming the true purpose of your bathroom space. A bathroom should be a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, where you can unwind and take care of yourself. By replacing your unused jacuzzi tub with a traditional tub or a luxurious enclosed shower, you can create a more functional, efficient, and enjoyable space that better serves your needs.

So, before you fill that jacuzzi tub with water again or consider installing one in your home, take a moment to think about whether it’s really the best fit for your lifestyle. You may find that a simpler, more traditional option is what you’ve been looking for all along.