• Tubs and showers offer endless design possibilities.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of AVID Tile & Design Inc 951-279-4104
  
  

Space

• The size of your bathroom may determine whether you install a shower or a tub. The National Kitchen and Bathroom Association recommends showers be no smaller than 30 by 30 inches to ensure safety and comfort. The smallest tubs available fit into corners and measure 4 square feet.
  
  

Features

• Research features and accessories before buying.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Dennis Wong
  
  Showerheads can provide pounding water jets or simulate gentle rains and can be fixed or handheld. Massage panels, multiple showerheads and steam showers are also available. Tubs offer massage jets, whirlpools and hand showers.
  
  

Safety

• Tubs and showers can be fitted with anti-slip materials, grab bars and bathing chairs. Bathtubs offer side doors that allow you to enter the tub without stepping over the side. Showers can be designed to allow wheelchair accessibility.
  
  

Resale

• Parents may find it easier to bathe children in tubs.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Ryan Ruppe
  
  Consider what type of individual or family may purchase your home in the future. Families with small children may prefer tubs for bathing, while older people may prefer accessible showers.
  
  

Care

• Cleaning a tub requires the ability to squat and bend at the waist. Shower cleaning requires squatting, bending and stretching.