If your bath’s looking a bit tired but you don’t fancy replacing the whole thing, a new bath panel is one of the quickest upgrades you can make. Swap out the old one and your bath looks instantly fresher. Here’s everything you need to know, plus the tips most guides miss.
What does a bath panel actually do?
A bath panel hides the frame, feet and plumbing under the tub. It protects the floor from splashes and gives the bath a fitted finish. You also get a little insulation, which helps the water stay warm for longer. Fitters always say a neat panel is what makes a bath look "finished".
Do you need an end panel?
If one end of the bath is exposed, yes. If both ends sit against walls, a front panel alone is enough. Any open edge needs covering; simple as that.
What are bath panels made from?
Here’s where the details matter. Each material behaves differently once it’s in a real bathroom, and the cost differences reflect how they perform over time:
- Acrylic: Acrylic bath panels are light, flexible and easy to clean, making them ideal for shaped or curved baths. They’re the most affordable option and don’t warp, although they can scratch if toys or pets knock against them.
- Laminated MDF: Laminated MDF bath panels feel solid and premium, with matt, gloss or wood effect finishes, and they last well if you seal any cut edges along the floor line. Fitters like them because they stay straight and are easy to line up neatly.
- Solid wood: Solid wood panels suit period-style bathrooms thanks to their classic look. They’re strong and long lasting but need drying after use, as they don’t love constant splashes or power shower zones.
- PVC: PVC bath panels are waterproof, lightweight, low maintenance and very budget-friendly. They keep their shape well and are splash-friendly, which makes them ideal for busy family bathrooms.
- HIP and polystyrene: HIP and polystyrene panels are naturally insulating and more robust than you’d expect, making them a good pick for cooler bathrooms or for anyone who enjoys long, hot baths.
Should I choose a standard or adjustable bath panel?
Standard panels are a fixed size and sturdy. This makes them great for straight baths or shower baths on level floors. Adjustable panels come with a height-adjustable plinth. They’re ideal for older homes where floors aren’t quite level. Fitters rely on them in Victorian and 1930s houses because they make lining everything up so much easier.
What are tiled bath panels and how do I fit them?
A tiled bath panel is simply a solid board that you tile over. These panels are usually made from moisture resistant MDF, marine plywood or tile backer board, all of which can handle the weight of tiles and the moisture around a bath.
To fit one, you’ll need flexible tile adhesive, grout and a waterproof membrane to prepare the area properly. The hardest part is getting the tiles perfectly level with the bath edge, so take your time marking everything out. If you’re not confident with tiling, bringing in a professional is worth it. A neat tiled panel makes a huge difference to how finished the whole room feels.
What colours and finishes do bath panels come in?
You’ve got loads of options. Colours include white, grey, blue, green, black and wood effect. Finishes range from matt and gloss to textured and woodgrain. Woodgrain is especially handy because it hides scuffs and splashes better than solid colours.
What size bath panel do I need?
Most straight baths use a 1500, 1600, 1700 or 1800 mm front panel, and a 700, 750 or 800 mm end panel. Some panels also come with adjustable plinths so you can fine-tune the height.
Always measure the bath itself, not the old panel. Older panels can bow or warp over time, which throws your measurements off.
Can you cut a bath panel to fit?
Yes, most can be trimmed at home. Here’s what to expect:
- Acrylic cuts cleanly with a fine-tooth blade
- MDF cuts well but you must seal the exposed edge
- Tileable boards need careful marking and a steady hand
In order to cut a panel to size, you’ll want to use a hacksaw, ensuring that the edges are sanded down. If you’re cutting MDF, seal the edge straight after cutting to protect it.
Are bath panels easy to replace?
Yes. Most clip or screw into place. If you’re doing it yourself:
- Dry-fit everything first
- Check the floor level
- Make sure the panel lip sits neatly under the bath rim
A crooked panel is the first thing you notice when you walk in. If the old panel’s been on for years, new clips help keep it snug and stop rattling.
Can you paint a bath panel?
You can paint some bath panels but not all of them. MDF panels can be repainted using moisture-resistant paint. However, acrylic panels don’t take paint well, so choose your colour at the start. Make sure the surface is clean, dry and lightly sanded for the best finish.
