Choosing a bath is one of the most exciting and considered decisions in any bathroom renovation. 

Beyond the style and shape, the material you choose will determine how the bath looks, feels, performs, and holds up over the years. Two of the most popular options on the market today are acrylic and stone. 

While both have their devoted design fans, they suit very different bathrooms, budgets, and lifestyles. In this expert guide, we break down everything you need to know to choose between these two bath staples for your space.

What is an Acrylic Bath?

Acrylic baths are made from sheets of vacuum-formed acrylic, typically reinforced with fibreglass for added strength and rigidity. They’re the most widely used bath material in Australian homes and have been a renovation staple for decades. 

Available in a huge range of shapes, sizes, and styles, acrylic baths are designed to suit everything from compact family bathrooms to larger ensuite spaces.

Pros of an Acrylic Bath

Affordable: Acrylic is one of the most cost-effective materials available for baths, making it an accessible choice for most budgets and renovation scopes.

Lightweight: Acrylic baths are significantly lighter than stone, making them easier to install and less expensive to transport. They also don’t require any additional floor reinforcement.

Warm to the touch: Acrylic retains heat well and doesn’t feel cold underfoot or on contact, especially beneficial in cooler climates.

Cons of an Acrylic Bath

Less premium feel: While acrylic baths have improved significantly in quality, they don’t carry the same weight or tactile luxury of a stone bath.

Can scratch over time. With regular use, acrylic surfaces are more susceptible to wear, particularly when abrasive cleaning products are used.

What is a Stone Bath?

Stone baths are crafted from a mixture of natural stone particles and resin, cast into a mould to create a dense, solid finish. They're most commonly associated with freestanding bath designs and have become a hallmark of high-end bathroom design across Australia.

Pros of a Stone Bath

Exceptional heat retention: Stone baths hold water temperature longer, creating a more indulgent, spa-like bathing experience.

Premium aesthetic: The weight, depth, and matte finish of a stone bath bring an undeniable sense of luxury to any bathroom.

Highly durable: Stone resin is resistant to chipping, staining, and general wear, and maintains its appearance well over time.

Timeless appeal: A well-chosen stone bath adds lasting value to a home.

Cons of a Stone Bath

Higher price point: Stone baths represent a significant investment compared to acrylic, both in product cost and installation requirements.

Need to account for their heaviness: The density that makes stone baths so appealing also makes them considerably heavier. As a result, floor structure and access need to be considered before purchase.

Which Should You Choose: Acrylic or Stone?

Deciding between acrylic and stone comes down to the bathroom you’re designing, your household’s lifestyle, and who will use the space most. Both materials are available in beautiful designs, and both can look stunning in the right setting.

If you’re renovating a family bathroom that sees heavy daily use and practicality is the priority, a quality acrylic bath offers excellent performance at a sensible price. If you’re creating a master ensuite or a dedicated retreat where the bathing experience is the whole point, a stone bath delivers a level of luxury that’s hard to match.

See The Difference in Person

One of the best ways to decide between acrylic and stone is to see and feel them for yourself. 

Visit theBathroom Space showroom for friendly, personalised support on finding the right bath for your space or browse our fullbath collection online.