There is a big divide in our office for peoples opinions on baths. Many agree that there are many amazing benefits to a long relaxing bath. While others debate that it just gets cold too quickly and why would you want to sit in a pool of your own dirt?
So, we have decided to battle out the debate by looking at the key benefits when choosing where to bath or to shower.
Which saves you more time?
Unsurprisingly, a shower on average takes up far less time than baths. The average shower takes 8.2 minutes. In contrast it takes 7.5 minutes just to fill up a 45-gallon bath with a standard bath taps running 6 gallons per minute. If you’re in a rush, a shower will always win hands down.
Shower 1 - Bath 0
Which is better for the environment?
Showers also beat baths on an environmental view point. A 10-minute shower only uses 5 gallons per minute on average, where as an average bath, takes about 36 gallons to fill a tub. An electric shower is on average the most environmentally friendly, due to the fact they only heat the water amount of water that is need.
Shower 2 - Bath 0
What’s better for hygiene?
Despite what most shower lovers think, there is no evidence a bath leaves you any less clean than a shower. However, it is true that you shed dead skin cells when you bathe and so it is recommended you give yourself a quick rinse after a long soak, to avoid these being stuck to you after - doesn't sound very appealing does it?!
The same goes for when you are washing your hair, as research has suggested that excess shampoo and conditioner can strip your skin of its natural oils and so a quick rinse off does not hurt.
Shower 3 - Bath - 1
What’s better for your skin?
According to research, a warm bath can reduce feelings of loneliness, as well as helping moisturise your skin. On top of this, a nice long soak is the perfect time to relax, unwind and de-stress. In comparison, hot showers have been known to ease anxiety and loneliness. It has been shown that the hot pressure perhaps from a power shower on your back is good for sore muscles, and the steam showers create is a natural decongestant when you have a cold. In contrast, cold showers have the most health benefits as they wake you up, stimulate weight loss, increase the speed of muscle recovery and can boost immunity.
Shower 4 - Bath - 2
What’s better for your well-being?
Both! This one really does come down to personal choice, if you are a strong believer that baths are not going to give you a good clean, that it probably isn't the best place to be sat when you need a little pick me up. Studies have shown that if you are feeling down both showers and baths can help release tension and endorphins which can boost your mood.
So, if you are feeling slightly blue, either a steamy shower or soak in the tub should help you feel a bit brighter.
Shower 5 - Bath - 3
So we have it for the showers at 5 points to 3 for the bath.
At the end of the day, it is whatever you feel most comfortable in, maybe mix and match the two!? But if you are eco-conscious ir pushed for time. Then a shower is definitely the way to go!
