Bathroom Furniture Buying Guide

Bathrooms are one of the hardest-working rooms in any home, and the furniture in them takes a daily hit from steam, water, toothpaste, and cleaning products. Good bathroom maintenance is less about grand overhauls and more about small, consistent habits. Get those right, and your bathroom furniture will look and perform as well in ten years as it does on day one. How to care for vanity units and bathroom cabinets Vanity units and bathroom cabinets, including mirrored cabinets and tallboys, are typically made from MDF with a painted, foil-wrapped, or lacquered finish and share a common vulnerability: moisture. Here is how to maintain your vanity units and bathroom cabinets to keep them functioning properly and looking good. Clean every day: Wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and a mild, pH-neutral cleaner, then dry immediately. Avoid leaving standing water, as this is the most common cause of swelling and long-term damage.  Care for your specific finish: Use a dry microfibre cloth for high-gloss or lacquered units and polish occasionally. Check for water damage: Inspect under basins regularly for drips from waste pipes or overflow connections, as even slow leaks can go unnoticed and cause significant internal damage over time. Maintain fittings: Check hinges and soft-close mechanisms once or twice a year, tightening any loose screws. Replace worn dampers where needed to maintain smooth operation without replacing the entire unit. How to care for a basin Bathroom basins are most commonly made from vitreous china, though stone basins are becoming more popular. The material determines how you care for it, but a few habits apply across all types. Clean gently: Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth. Abrasive cleaners scratch the glaze on vitreous china, making future stains harder to remove. For limescale around the waste, apply a targeted limescale remover on a cloth rather than pouring it directly into the basin. Seal stone and composite basins: These are more porous than vitreous china and need sealing periodically, typically once a year. Never use acidic cleaners on stone, as they can permanently etch the surface. Check the trap: Inspect the waste trap underneath for debris build-up once or twice a year. Slow drainage is almost always a blockage in the trap, and clearing it is straightforward with the right tools. How to care for a toilet Toilets are low-maintenance by design, but a few checks will keep yours working properly for longer. Here is what to stay on top of. Check seat fixings annually: Loose fixings cause the seat to shift sideways, putting stress on the pan. Tightening takes two minutes. If you do need a new toilet seat, our guide on how to replace a toilet seat covers the full process for swapping one out. Clean under the rim: If you have a traditional rimmed toilet, this is where limescale and bacteria accumulate most. Rimless toilets have no inner ledge, making them significantly easier to keep hygienic with less effort. Watch the cistern: If the toilet runs continuously or the flush weakens, check the fill valve and flush valve. Catching this early prevents limescale build-up from forcing a more complicated repair later. How to care for a shower Shower enclosures and trays take a daily soaking, which makes consistent upkeep more important here than anywhere else in the bathroom. Here is how to keep yours in good condition. Squeegee the glass after every shower: It takes about fifteen seconds and prevents hard water deposits from baking onto the surface. A water-repellent glass treatment applied every few months makes an even bigger difference.  Inspect door seals and magnetic strips: Seals harden and crack over time, letting water escape onto the floor. Most are inexpensive and straightforward to replace, and far cheaper than dealing with water-damaged flooring. Check tray sealant annually: Whether your tray is stone resin or acrylic, inspect the sealant at the join between the tray and enclosure each year. Cracks allow water behind the enclosure and into the wall or subfloor. Reseal promptly when you spot deterioration. Clear the waste regularly: Hair and soap residue build up quickly. Slow drainage puts extra stress on the trap and waste connection below, so clear blockages as soon as you notice them. For more guidance on giving your shower a deep clean, read our guide on cleaning and maintaining your shower enclosure, or check out our guide to cleaning a shower head. How to care for heated towel rails and radiators Heated towel rails and designer radiators are generally low-effort to maintain, but a couple of annual checks will keep them running efficiently and looking good. Bleed once a year: Trapped air reduces heating efficiency. If any section of the radiator is cold while the rest is warm, bleeding it will fix the problem. Clean the exterior carefully: Wipe down regularly with a soft, damp cloth. On chrome finishes, dry off afterwards to prevent water spotting. On anthracite or matt finishes, avoid abrasive cleaners entirely. A damp cloth is all that's needed. Check radiator valves: Inspect radiator valves for dripping or corrosion around the valve body. A failing valve caught early is a straightforward fix; left too long, it becomes a much more disruptive repair. How to care for a bath Bath panels are often the most overlooked part of the bathroom, but they're worth maintaining properly. Most are MDF with a painted finish or acrylic facing, both of which need protecting from water ingress. Wipe down regularly: Use a mild cleaner and dry off splashes promptly. Don't let water sit against the panel surface or pool at the base. Check the sealant annually: Inspect where the panel meets the floor and bath surround. A cracked or missing sealant lets water seep behind the panel and into the subfloor. Resealing is a straightforward job and should be done straight away when needed. For more help, read our guide on how to seal a bath. Keep access clear: Ensure bath panels are fitted with access hatches or can be removed easily for plumbing inspections. A panel siliconed shut with no access point will cause serious problems if a pipe needs attention later. For more information on keeping your bath hygienic, read our full guide to cleaning a bath. How to care for a bathroom mirror Bathroom mirrors are exposed to steam and humidity every day. Daily maintenance goes a long way in keeping the surface clear and the backing intact. Clean with a microfibre cloth: Apply glass cleaner to the cloth rather than spraying directly onto the mirror face. This protects the edges and any frame from moisture seeping behind the glass, which degrades the silvering over time. Protect framed mirrors from moisture: Wooden and MDF frames are particularly vulnerable near showers. Wipe them down after use and ensure the bathroom is properly ventilated to reduce ambient humidity. Check your ventilation: An extractor fan that's working effectively makes a notable difference to how well every surface in the bathroom holds up. See our range of bathroom extractor fans if yours isn't keeping pace with moisture levels. How to care for taps and brassware Bathroom taps come in a wide range of finishes, and the finish determines how you clean and maintain them. Getting this wrong is one of the most common causes of premature wear. Chrome: The hardest-wearing finish and the easiest to maintain. Wipe with a damp cloth after use to prevent limescale from building up. For existing limescale, use a proprietary remover, but rinse thoroughly and dry off afterwards, as acid-based products left on chrome will dull the finish. Matt black and brushed brass: Require more care. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners entirely. Many manufacturers advise against using any cleaning product on these finishes and instead recommend using warm water and a soft cloth. Brushed nickel and brushed gold: A mild, non-abrasive cleaner is generally safe, but always check the manufacturer's guidance for your specific product. Dry the finish after cleaning to prevent water marks. Regardless of finish, inspect tap cartridges and washers if you notice any dripping. Constant moisture around the base accelerates wear on surrounding surfaces. Caring for different bathroom furniture materials Most bathroom furniture is built from one of two core materials: MDF (medium-density fibreboard) or MFC (melamine-faced chipboard). They look similar from the outside but behave differently. Knowing which you have affects how you should care for it. MDF is made from wood fibres compressed with resin under heat and pressure. It’s dense and smooth, and takes paint and foil finishes well, which is why it's used in higher-quality furniture. However, unprotected MDF swells when wet and won't recover. The outer finish is what stands between the board and moisture, so avoid anything that chips or strips it, dry off standing water immediately, and check the underside of units around waste pipe connections regularly. MFC uses a chipboard core with a melamine sheet bonded to the surface and is typically found in more budget-conscious furniture. The melamine facing is hardwearing and moisture-resistant, but the chipboard core deteriorates quickly once water gets in. If the surface is chipped or cut around hinge fixings, water will penetrate fast. Check the fixings regularly and immediately reseal any exposed chipboard edges with an appropriate edge sealant. Day-to-day care for both is the same: use a soft cloth with a mild cleaner and dry off immediately. The difference is how quickly damage spreads once water gets past the surface. To keep finishes intact and address any deterioration early, both materials will serve you well long-term. Caring for different finishes The finish on bathroom furniture often determines how quickly it wears. Here's what you need to know about the most common ones. Gloss white finishes show marks easily but are very easy to wipe clean. Use only soft cloths and mild cleaners. Gloss will yellow over time if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Matt grey and matt navy finishes are fashionable and fairly forgiving, but they show water marks more obviously than gloss. Dry off splashes as they happen rather than leaving them to dry naturally. Wood-effect foil wraps look great, but the edges are the vulnerable point. Water that gets under a lifting edge will cause the foil to peel further. Keep edges dry, and if a small lift appears, a tiny amount of appropriate adhesive applied promptly will prevent it from spreading. Gold and brass finishes on furniture and brassware require the most careful handling. Many are PVD-coated (physical vapour deposition), which is durable but not invincible. Avoid any acidic or abrasive cleaners. Warm water and a soft cloth are enough for regular upkeep. Tips for maintaining a bathroom Good bathroom maintenance doesn't have to be time-consuming. It requires the right habits applied consistently. Here's what makes the biggest difference. Run your extractor fan during every shower or bath and for at least 15 minutes afterwards: Humidity is the underlying cause of most bathroom furniture damage. If condensation regularly forms on walls and furniture long after use, your ventilation isn't adequate. Open a window whenever possible: Combined with an extractor fan, this clears moisture from the room far faster and reduces the strain on furniture, mirrors, and sealant. Inspect every silicone seal annually: Including on the bath, shower tray, basin, and any wall-mounted furniture. Look for cracks, gaps, or discolouration and reseal anything that needs it. Check all visible waste pipes and trap connections: Such as under basins for drips or moisture, at least once a year. A slow drip caught early is a five-minute fix; one left unnoticed is a cabinet replacement. Inspect tap cartridges and flush mechanisms for wear: Dripping taps and running cisterns are both signs that components need attention. Test your extractor fan: Hold a piece of tissue to the grille. If it doesn't hold the tissue firmly, the fan needs servicing or replacing. Check all cabinet hinges and door fixings: Tighten anything that's worked loose before it puts stress on the frame. For a thorough annual clean, see our guide on how to deep clean your bathroom.  Sometimes bathroom maintenance means knowing when it’s better to replace rather than repair, as ongoing issues can lead to costly damage. However, well-maintained furniture lasts significantly longer, so consistent care is key. If you’re planning an update, explore our bathroom furniture range or visit our Birmingham showroom to see it in person.

Taps are one of the few things in a bathroom you use multiple times a day, so getting the choice right matters. This guide covers the different types of taps available, how they're sized and threaded, what they're made from, and what to think about before you buy. Whether you're fitting a new basin from scratch or replacing an existing tap, you'll find everything you need here to make a confident decision. Types of taps  There's a lot more to choose from than you might expect. Bathroom tap types are broadly split by location (basin or bath), by how hot and cold water is controlled, and by how they're mounted. Here's a quick breakdown of each. ·       Basin taps: Individual hot and cold taps designed for basins. Traditional in style, they require two tap holes in the basin or worktop and are a common choice for classic and period-inspired bathrooms. ·       Basin mixer taps: One of the most popular tap types for contemporary bathrooms. Hot and cold water mix inside the body of the tap, delivering blended water through a single spout. They only require one tap hole. ·       Wall-mounted taps: Fixed directly into the wall rather than the basin or deck. They give a clean, uncluttered look around the basin and work well in contemporary settings. Pipework is concealed within the wall, so professional installation is recommended. ·       Bath taps: Taps designed specifically for filling the bath. Available in a wide range of styles from modern pillar taps to more ornate traditional designs. They usually have separate hot and cold fittings. ·        Bath mixer taps: Blend hot and cold water before it exits the spout, giving precise temperature control. They’re a practical and popular choice for family bathrooms where scalding is a concern. ·       Bath-shower mixer taps: Combine a bath filler with a hand shower attachment, typically with a diverter to switch between the two. They’re a good space-saving option if you want shower functionality without a separate installation. ·       Tall basin taps: Taller than standard basin taps, designed specifically for use with countertop basins. The additional height means the spout clears the rim of a vessel or countertop basin cleanly. ·       Freestanding bathroom taps: Floor-mounted and positioned beside a freestanding bath rather than on it. They make a strong visual statement and work best alongside freestanding baths where the bath deck is clear. ·       Waterfall taps: Water flows in a wide, flat sheet rather than a pressurised stream. They are available for both basins and baths, and are often chosen as a design feature in contemporary bathrooms. Tap handle types  The handle controls the flow and temperature, and affects both usability and appearance. Lever handles are the most common choice today and are easy to operate with one hand. Cross-head handles (four-pointed) suit traditional tap styles, while knurled or round handles offer a more minimal, architectural feel. Thermostatic cartridge taps have a single lever that controls both flow and temperature simultaneously. If anyone in the household has limited grip strength, lever handles are the most practical option. Bath tap sizes Most bath tap dimensions follow standard sizing, with tap bodies typically ranging from around 150mm to 200mm in height and spout reaches of 100mm to 200mm. The key measurement is the distance between tap holes: 180mm centres is the most common spacing for bath taps. Basins vary more, so always check the tap hole diameter (usually 22mm to 35mm) and the distance between holes before buying. How to measure bath tap size If you're replacing an existing tap, measure the diameter of the existing tap hole (the hole in the basin or bath), then measure the distance between the centres of the two holes if applicable. This is your tap hole centres measurement. For deck-mounted taps, also check the thickness of the surface the tap will be mounted through, as some tap tails require adequate length to pass through and connect below. These measurements determine which taps will physically fit. Bath tap thread sizes Thread size refers to the size of the threaded connection on the tap tails (the pipes coming down from the tap body) that attach to your supply pipes. Getting this wrong means your tap won't connect to your existing plumbing without additional adaptors. The most common bathroom tap thread size in the UK is 1/2 inch BSP (British Standard Pipe). This fits the vast majority of basin and bath taps. Some larger bath taps use 3/4 inch BSP tails, particularly those with a higher flow rate. To measure a thread size, count the number of thread peaks across a 1 inch length of the tap tail, or use a thread gauge if you have one. Alternatively, a plumber can identify the size quickly during a pre-installation check. If you're replacing like-for-like, your existing tap tails will tell you everything you need to know. If in doubt, check the product specification or speak to our team for more help. Bathroom tap materials and finishes The body of most bathroom taps is solid brass. It's durable, resistant to corrosion and holds its shape under constant use. Lower-quality taps may use zinc alloy, which is lighter but less long-lasting. The finish is applied over the brass and determines the colour and surface texture. Chromeis the most widely available finish, as it’s easy to clean and suits most bathroom styles. Blackand gold/brasstap finishes are increasingly popular, particularly in contemporary and traditional schemes. Brushed nickel sits between the two, with a softer, matte appearance that tends to show fewer watermarks. Consider your existing bathroom décor and other fittings when choosing. How to fit a bath tap Tap fitting is a straightforward job for a qualified plumber, and we always recommend using one. Turn off the water supply at the mains or isolation valves before starting. Remove the old tap if replacing, clean the mounting surface, feed the new tap tails through the tap hole, and secure with the back nut and washer provided. Connect the hot and cold supply pipes to the correct tails (hot on the left, cold on the right as standard), and check for leaks before restoring the water supply. All fixings required for installation are included with your tap. What to consider when choosing bathroom taps A few practical questions will narrow down your choice considerably. Here are some of the main things to think about. 1.      Water pressure:Some tap types, particularly those with flow restrictors or certain thermostatic cartridges, require a minimum water pressure to function correctly. Check the tap's minimum pressure requirements against your home's water pressure before purchasing. If you're unsure, a plumber can test your system. 2.      Where the tap is going:Basin taps and bath taps are designed for different flow rates and spout heights. Different types of taps are not always interchangeable across applications, so confirm the tap's rating before ordering. 3.      Colour and finish:Match your tap finish to your other fittings, such as towel rails, shower fittings and accessories. Mixing finishes can work, but keeping hardware consistent across the room gives a more considered result. 4.      Installation and plumbing:Wall-mounted taps require pipework to be routed into the wall before tiling. Freestanding taps need supply pipes routed through the floor. Factor in the complexity and cost of the installation when choosing a tap type, not just the purchase price. 5.      How many tap holes your basin or bath has:This is non-negotiable. A mixer tap needs one hole; twin taps need two. Some basins come pre-drilled with one, two or three holes. Check the spec on your basin before choosing your tap, or browse basins with your preferred tap hole count in mind. Choosing the right tap comes down to a handful of practical checks: how many holes your basin or bath has, what finish matches your fittings, and whether your water pressure suits the tap you want. Get those right, and the rest is personal preference. Browse our full bathroom taps rangeonline, or if you need more guidance, visit our Birmingham showroom where our team can help you find the right fit.

Basins are a key component of any bathroom. They’re not just about style; your basin affects how your space functions day to day. With so many shapes, sizes, and installation types available, it’s worth understanding your options before you buy. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the different types of bathroom sinks to sizes, materials, waste types, and how to choose the best option for your home. What is a basin?  A basin is simply another word for a bathroom sink. It's the unit you use to wash your hands and face, brush your teeth, and carry out your daily routine. Basins come in a wide range of styles, shapes, and types, making them one of the most varied products in any bathroom. Types of basins  There are more types of bathroom sinks available than most people realise. The style you choose will largely depend on your space, your plumbing setup, and how you want the bathroom to look and function. ·       Pedestal basins: A basin supported by a full-length pedestal that runs from the floor to the rim, concealing all pipework neatly beneath. ·       Semi-pedestal basins: The basin is wall-fixed with a shorter pedestal that covers only the waste pipe, giving a cleaner, more contemporary look than a full pedestal. ·        Semi-recessed basins: The basin sits partially within a vanity unit and partially overhangs it, saving space while still offering useful worktop and storage space beneath. ·       Wall-hung basins: Fixed directly to the wall with no pedestal, leaving the floor space beneath completely clear. They’re ideal for smaller bathrooms and easy to keep clean. ·       Countertop basins: Designed to sit on top of a surface or vanity unit rather than being set into it, creating a bold, design-led focal point in the bathroom. ·       Vanity unit basins: A basin integrated into or paired with a vanity unit, combining the sink with storage below. These are a practical and popular choice for most bathrooms. ·       Corner basins: Designed to fit neatly into a corner, making them the most space-efficient option for cloakrooms and compact bathrooms. See our corner vanity units for paired options. ·        Inset basins (fully recessed): Set flush into a worktop or vanity unit surface for a sleek, streamlined finish with minimal spillage onto surrounding surfaces. ·       Washstands: A freestanding frame or unit that supports the basin, giving an open, furniture-style look. Bathroom basin sizes Basin size matters more than people often think. Choose one that's too large, and it can overwhelm the room or make it difficult to move around. Too small, and it becomes impractical for daily use. The width of a basin is the most important measurement to check against your available wall space, but you also need to factor in projection (how far it sticks out from the wall) and depth, particularly if you're planning to fit a vanity unit beneath it. What is the standard bathroom sink size? Standard bathroom sink sizes typically range from 450mm to 600mm in width. A 500mm or 600mm basin is the most commonly fitted size in a family bathroom, offering a practical surface area without taking up too much room. If space is tight, sink sizes as narrow as 350mm to 400mm are available and work well in cloakrooms. Explore our small vanity units for compact spaces. How high should a bathroom sink be?  Bathroom basin height is worth measuring carefully before you buy. The standard bathroom sink height from floor to rim is around 800mm to 850mm, which suits most adults comfortably. As a general rule, the basin should sit at roughly waist height so you're not having to hunch over or stretch up. If children or elderly family members will be using the bathroom regularly, a slightly lower position or an adjustable washstand is worth considering. Sink depths Sink dimensions aren't just about width and height. The depth of the bowl (measured from the rim down to the base) affects how much you can fill the basin and how it can be used. Most standard basins have a bowl depth of between 150mm and 200mm. A shallower basin can cause more splashing, while a deeper bowl tends to be more practical, especially if you're filling it to wash your face or rinse items. Bathroom sink shapes and styles Basins come in a wide range of shapes, and the one you choose will have a noticeable effect on the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Round and oval basinshave a softer, more approachable look. They work well in traditional bathrooms and tend to suit classic pedestal or semi-pedestal styles. A round or oval basin works well if you're going for a period or vintage feel. Square and rectangular basinshave clean, straight lines that suit modern and contemporary bathrooms. They pair particularly well with wall-hung vanity units, countertop styles, and frameless mirrors. If you're after a minimalist or urban look, a square or rectangular basin is likely the better choice. Corner basinsare their own category in terms of shape but are worth mentioning, as their angular design is purely functional, making the most of a corner space in a cloakroom or compact bathroom. Bathroom basin materials The material your basin is made of affects its durability, appearance, and how easy it is to maintain. Here's a breakdown of the most common options. ·        Ceramic: The most popular choice by far. It’s durable, easy to clean, resistant to scratches and stains, and available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. ·        Porcelain: A denser, higher-fired version of ceramic that produces a glossier finish. It’s slightly harder-wearing, but more expensive than standard ceramic. ·        Vitreous china: A ceramic material coated with a glassy enamel during firing. This produces a very smooth, non-porous surface that's highly resistant to staining and easy to wipe down. ·        Glass: Toughened glass basins offer a sleek, contemporary look and are particularly effective as countertop bowls. However, they require more regular cleaning to prevent water spots. ·        Natural stone: Marble, granite, and travertine basins bring a genuine sense of luxury to a bathroom. They’re heavy and premium in price, but each one is unique. Make sure your surface or vanity unit can support the weight before installing. ·        Stainless steel: More common in commercial settings, but used in minimalist bathroom designs. They’re lightweight and long-lasting, though prone to visible water marks and light scratching over time. Basin waste types Before you buy a basin, check what type of waste it requires. This is easy to overlook, but fitting the wrong waste type can cause real problems. Basin wastes are not always included with the basin itself, so you’ll likely need to buy the correct one at the same time. ·       Slotted basin waste:‘What is a slotted basin waste?’ is one of the most commonly asked questions. A slotted waste has small slots or holes cut into the plug fitting. These slots allow water to drain through the basin's overflow hole, preventing flooding if the tap is left running. A slotted waste must be used with any basin that has an overflow. ·       Unslotted waste: Used on basins without an overflow. Because there's no overflow to drain through, the waste has no slots. Fitting a slotted waste on a basin without an overflow, or vice versa, will cause drainage issues. ·       Pop-up waste: A lever or push mechanism raises and lowers the plug automatically. Often included with mixer taps, these give a neat, integrated finish with no loose plug to misplace. ·       Click-clack (push-button) waste: The plug is pushed down to close and pushed again to open. They’re simple and effective, with no external controls required. ·       Plug and chain: The traditional option. A rubber or metal plug on a chain sits over the waste hole. They’re straightforward and easy to replace when needed. How to choose a basin With so many options available, it helps to work through a few key considerations before you make a decision. 1.     Consider your space:Measure the wall space available, the projection into the room, and the floor space below. If space is limited, a wall-hung basin or a corner basin will give you more room to move. For more inspiration, read our blog on small bathroom ideas. 2.     Think about your plumbing:The mounting type you choose will determine how your pipework needs to be configured. Wall-hung and pedestal basins expose pipework differently. Some options, such as countertop basins on a vanity unit, are easier to install in certain layouts than others. 3.      Choose your mounting type:Wall-hung basins require fixings into the wall and must be anchored securely, as they carry weight without a floor-mounted support. Pedestal and vanity-mounted basins are generally more straightforward to install. 4.      Decide how many tap holes you need:Most modern basins come with a single tap hole, designed for a mono mixer tap. If you prefer separate hot and cold taps, you'll need a basin with two tap holes. Three tap holes are used for a three-piece tap set. Check this before purchasing your taps. 5.      Think about who will be using it:Standard bathroom basin height suits most adults, but if the basin is for a child's bathroom or for someone who struggles with standard heights, it's worth considering an adjustable washstand or planning a lower installation position. 6.     Don't forget the accessories:You'll need to purchase a basin waste separately in most cases, and you may also need a bottle trap or pipe cover to keep the plumbing tidy beneath a wall-hung basin. You may also want to consider the material and colour of your taps. If you need help deciding which basin is right for your bathroom, our team is on hand to advise. Browse our full basin rangeonline to explore all styles and sizes, or visit our Birmingham showroom to see the products in person.

A bathroom suite is a coordinated package of fixtures that share the same aesthetic, giving your bathroom a considered, uniform look. At its core, a suite includes a washbasin, toilet pan, and cistern. More complete suites add a bath, shower, vanity unit, or fitted furniture. In this guide, we explain how to choose the right combination, style, colour and material for your bathroom so you can create a look that feels both stylish and intentional. Types of bathroom suites Depending on the specific fixtures you intend to include in your bathroom, there are mainly five different types of bathroom suites. 1. Bath suites A bath suite centres on a standalone bath, paired with a basin and toilet. Mid-range options add a vanity unit or fitted furniture, while premium bath suites can include a whirlpool system, bath panels, and a mirror with lights. Because a standalone bath takes up a lot of space, bath suites work best in larger bathrooms. Optional extras like bath taps, bath waste, and a bath shower screen are available depending on the model you choose. 2. Shower bath suites A shower bath suite combines a bath and a shower in one unit, typically with a bath screen, basin, and a toilet. It is the practical choice for smaller bathrooms where you want both bathing and showering without giving up floor space. Mid-range suites add a vanity unit or fitted furniture, while extended options can include a shower riser kit, left-hand or right-hand configurations, a mirrored cabinet, and a tallboy. 3. Shower suites Shower suites replace the bath entirely with a shower enclosure, making them well-suited to modern bathrooms where clean lines and minimal clutter are the priority. Entry-level suites include a basin and a toilet. Mid-range options add a vanity unit and an upgraded shower kit. At the top end, you can spec a double vanity unit with two basins, gold or chrome basin taps, and a choice of shower riser kits and mirrors. 4. Basin and toilet suites Starting with just the essentials, a basin and toilet suite pairs a basin (half or full pedestal) with a toilet. These suites are designed to be built upon. Add a bath or shower enclosure of your choice, and the result is a fully specified bathroom put together on your own terms. Optional features include a basin tap and bottle trap. 5. Cloakroom suites Built for compact spaces, a cloakroom suite pairs a basin with a toilet. Both take up far less wall and floor space than standard-sized fixtures. Basic models can be extended with a basin tap and bottle trap. You can also add a vanity unit or mirror cabinet for storage. For tighter spaces, all-in-one toilet and sink combination units house the basin, toilet, and storage in a single footprint. How to measure for a bathroom suite Before choosing a suite, measure your bathroom carefully. Note the length, width, and ceiling height, and mark the positions of existing soil pipes, waste outlets, and water feeds. These dictate where your toilet and basin can realistically go, and moving them adds cost. Suites come in a wide range of sizes to suit all room types, from compact cloakroom models at under 900mm wide to full bathroom suites spanning 1700mm or more. Always check the exact dimensions of each fixture in the suite, not just the suite as a whole, and leave adequate clearance around each piece for comfortable use and access. Bathroom suite styles There are several bathroom suite styles to choose from, covering everything from period-inspired interiors to stripped-back contemporary rooms. Traditional bathroom suites draw on classic design cues, such as high-level cisterns, flowing pedestals, and roll-top baths, making them the natural choice for period properties or anyone wanting a timeless look. Modern bathroom suites focus on clean lines, wall-hung fixtures, and minimal detailing. They work in most room sizes and layouts, and the right finish choices prevent them from feeling cold. Bathroom suite colours Most bathroom suites are available in white as standard, which reflects light well and pairs with almost any tile or flooring choice. Beyond white, you will find suites and coordinating furniture in grey, black, and gold-finished options. Grey in particular has become one of the most popular choices for vanity units and fitted furniture. For brassware, you can typically choose between chrome, brushed brass, and matt black finishes to tie the overall look together. Bathroom suite materials and finishes Sanitaryware, meaning basins and toilets, is almost universally made from vitreous china. It is hard-wearing, easy to clean, and holds its gloss finish well over time. Baths are typically made from acrylic, which retains heat effectively and is lighter than steel alternatives. Steel and cast-iron baths are heavier and more expensive but extremely durable. Carronite baths sit between the two, offering a reinforced acrylic construction that feels more solid underfoot.  Bathroom furniture fronts are typically made from moisture-resistant MDF, which is designed to withstand humidity and resist warping in damp environments. Our in-house furniture is made in our Birmingham factory and is available in gloss or matt finishes, depending on the range. How much are bathroom suites? Price depends on the type of suite, the number of fixtures included, the materials used, and whether the suite comes with furniture and accessories. Entry-level cloakroom suites start at just over £100 for a basin and toilet. At the other end of the scale, a full bathroom suite with a bath, separate shower enclosure, vanity unit, and toilet can exceed £2,000. Most mid-range suites covering the main fixtures sit somewhere between £300 and £800 before you add furniture or extras. For a broader picture of what a full bathroom project might cost, our new bathroom cost guide breaks down the numbers in detail. What to consider when choosing a bathroom suite There is a fair amount to weigh up before committing to a suite. Here are some of the main things to consider when choosing: What fixtures you actually need: A bath, a separate shower, or both? If the bathroom is used daily by multiple people, that answer matters. Available space: Measure the room before you look at any products. The position of your soil pipe is particularly important as moving it significantly increases installation costs. Your existing décor: If you are keeping your tiles or flooring, make sure the suite style and colour will work with what is already there. Who will be using the bathroom: Young children, elderly users, or anyone with mobility requirements may need specific fixtures such as comfort-height toilets or walk-in shower access rather than a bath-over option. Your plumbing setup: The type of water system in your home (combi boiler, gravity-fed, or pressurised) affects which showers and taps will perform correctly. Check with your installer before specifying. Your budget: The suite itself is only part of the cost. Factor in installation, tiling, and any pipework changes when planning your spend. Choosing the right bathroom suite comes down to balancing layout, functionality and style. Get the essentials right, and the finished space will feel both practical and well put together. Browse our full range of bathroom suites online, or visit our Birmingham showroom to see them in person. If you need any more help choosing, our team is always on hand to offer expert advice.