Groutless Showers Set to Replace Bathtubs as Top Bathroom Trend for 2026

Bathtubs Are Out for 2026 — and This Bathroom Trend Is Replacing It, According to Zillow

For decades, the bathtub was the gold standard in bathroom luxury. Whether it was the allure of a bubble bath, the nostalgia of rubber ducks, or the promise of soaking away a stressful day, bathtubs were once seen as a must-have for every home. But as we approach 2026, a dramatic shift is underway: bathtubs are on their way out, and they’re being replaced by large, groutless showers[2][3][4].

The Decline of the Bathtub

The transition away from bathtubs isn’t a sudden fad, but rather a response to changing lifestyle needs and evolving design priorities. According to a 2024 Angi report highlighted by Zillow and other design authorities, homeowners across the country are remodeling bathrooms and choosing to remove bathtubs altogether[2][3][4]. The reasons for this growing trend are both practical and aesthetic.

Why Are Bathtubs Losing Favor?

• Accessibility: Bathtubs pose a challenge for people of all ages, especially older adults and young children. The high step-over wall required to enter a tub is a common site for at-home falls; in fact, roughly 80% of at-home falls happen in the bathtub[4].
• Functionality and Convenience: Showers are faster, easier to clean, and more pet-friendly. The large basin of a tub requires more effort to maintain, while the nooks and crannies of traditional tiled showers can harbor mold and mildew. Groutless showers—with their smooth, solid surfaces—are a game changer for hygiene and convenience[3][4].
• Water Usage: Environmental consciousness is influencing home design more than ever. A full bathtub can use up to 70 gallons of water, compared to just 10 to 25 gallons for a five-minute shower, according to the Environmental Protection Agency[4]. For many homeowners, the efficiency of showers aligns with sustainability goals.
• Modern Aesthetics: Groutless showers, often featuring sleek, seamless surfaces like porcelain slabs or sintered stone, create a contemporary, spa-like atmosphere that today’s buyers crave[2][3][4].

The Rise of the Groutless Shower

So what exactly is replacing the beloved bathtub? The answer is clear: groutless, walk-in showers. This trend is supported not just by anecdotal evidence, but by data from real estate and design industry leaders like Zillow and the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA)[2][3][4].

What Makes Groutless Showers So Appealing?

• Easy Maintenance: The absence of grout lines means less scrubbing and reduced risk of mold and mildew. Solid-surface showers can be cleaned with a simple wipe-down, saving time and effort[3][4].
• Universal Design: Step-in, barrier-free showers are accessible for everyone, from kids to seniors, and even pets. They make daily routines safer and more convenient[3][4].
• Luxurious Features: The new generation of showers is anything but utilitarian. Homeowners are opting for features like rainfall showerheads, dual sprayers, black or gold finishes, and built-in benches to create a true spa experience at home[2][3][4].
• Space Optimization: Removing a bulky bathtub can make even modest bathrooms feel larger and more open, which is a major selling point for buyers and renovators alike[2][4].

The Broader Shift: Wellness and Personalization

Zillow’s 2026 Home Trends Report points to a growing focus on wellness, spa-inspired design, and personalized spaces[1]. Mentions of wellness features in listings have risen by 33%, and spa-like bathrooms are up 22%. Homeowners want daily relaxation and are willing to invest in features that deliver it—without the hassle and inefficiency of a traditional bathtub[1].

Personalization is also at the forefront. Homeowners are embracing unique artisan touches, bold colors, and whimsical details, moving away from cookie-cutter designs. The groutless shower fits perfectly into this narrative, providing a clean canvas for everything from dramatic tilework to statement fixtures[1][3].

Are There Any Downsides?

Some real estate experts still caution that removing the only bathtub in a home could deter certain buyers—particularly families with small children, who may value a tub for bath time[4]. However, the data shows that the overwhelming trend is toward showers, especially in master and guest bathrooms. In multi-bath homes, many are choosing to keep a single tub in a secondary bathroom while upgrading the primary suite with a luxurious, walk-in shower[2][3][4].

Final Thoughts: The Future of Bathroom Design

The bathtub’s reign as the centerpiece of the bathroom is coming to an end. In its place, the groutless shower is redefining what it means to have a relaxing, modern, and functional space. Driven by a desire for less maintenance, more accessibility, sustainability, and a touch of luxury, homeowners are embracing this trend in record numbers as 2026 approaches[1][2][3][4].

If you’re planning a bathroom remodel, consider the advantages of a groutless shower—it’s not just a fleeting trend, but a reflection of how we live (and relax) today. As Zillow’s analysis makes clear, the bathroom of tomorrow is all about wellness, convenience, and personal style—without the tub[1][2][3][4].

Original source: Apartment Therapy – Bathtubs Are Out for 2026 — and This Bathroom Trend Is Replacing It, According to Zillow