Transform Your Bathroom: The Best Bathtub Accessories and Where to Buy Them in the UK

Why bathtub accessories make a bigger difference than you think

Accessories are the little details that turn a functional bathtub into a personal sanctuary. A simple bath caddy, a better showerhead, or a well-placed grab bar can change how you use the tub every day. Think of accessories as the jewelry of your bathroom — they add personality, safety, and comfort without a full renovation. Whether you’re aiming for a spa vibe or practical upgrades for family life, the right buys can be surprisingly affordable and impactful.

Top UK retailers for bathtub accessories

If you want choice, reliable delivery, and a range of price points, the UK market has plenty of options. Some retailers focus on DIY-friendly pieces; others specialise in premium finishes or bathroom suites. Below are stores you’ll want to check first when hunting for tub accessories.

B&Q

B&Q is a go-to for household makeovers and it’s strong on bathtub accessories — bath trays, non-slip mats, taps, and showerheads. Their in-store displays let you feel finishes and test mechanisms before buying, and online listings usually include clear dimensions, often in inches for accessory fit. Expect good seasonal deals and basic installation guides to help you fit items yourself.

Wickes

Wickes combines trade-grade products with consumer-friendly pricing. If you want robust grab rails, strong shower hoses, or easy-fit mixer taps, Wickes is worth a look. Their products often appeal to renovators who need durable parts that last through heavy use, and they publish helpful specification sheets so you can check compatibility in inches and flow rates.

Homebase

Homebase carries a broad selection of bath accessories with an emphasis on style and affordability. From wooden bath trays to plush non-slip mats, they cater to homeowners who want a quick style uplift. Homebase often bundles accessories with bathroom suites, so you can match finishes like chrome or brushed nickel without hunting across multiple shops.

Screwfix

Screwfix is popular with tradespeople, and that means quality fixtures and hard-wearing accessories. If you’re after professional-grade shower heads, taps, or waste kits, Screwfix stocks items designed to withstand heavy daily use. They also provide detailed specs so you can verify measurements — handy when dealing with tight bathtub dimensions measured in inches.

John Lewis & Partners

For a more design-conscious approach, John Lewis offers premium tub accessories and luxury bathware. Their selection leans toward elegant finishes and higher-end materials, perfect for a feature bathroom. Expect curated options like teak bath trays and designer bath pillows, accompanied by generous product descriptions and lifestyle images to help you visualise the end result.

VictoriaPlum

VictoriaPlum specialises in bathrooms and is an excellent choice if you want accessories that match a new suite. They sell coordinated items — overflow covers, taps, and caddies — so you can maintain a coherent look. Their online configurators and room planners are useful if you’re fitting accessories to a specific bathtub size, often shown in inches for easy reference.

Bathstore

Bathstore focuses exclusively on bathrooms, offering a wide array of bathtub accessories, from spa-style showerheads to stylish overflow sets. If you like the idea of a one-stop shop for both large items and finishing touches, Bathstore’s range and design advice can help you build a cohesive scheme, with product dimensions and compatibility notes included.

Plumbworld

Plumbworld is an online specialist for bathroom fittings and accessories. They stock many branded items and have extensive technical details for each product — ideal for buyers who want to drill down into measurements in inches, flow rates in gpm, and compatibility notes before purchasing. They often run clearance events on last-season finishes.

Argos

Argos is convenient and budget-friendly for quick accessory purchases. You’ll find basics like bath mats, plugs, and caddies, plus more decorative pieces. Their click-and-collect model is useful if you need an accessory fast, and product listings are clear about dimensions so you can avoid buying trays that are too wide for your tub.

Amazon UK and other marketplaces

Marketplaces like Amazon carry a massive selection — everything from bamboo bath trays to LED drain covers. Look for trusted sellers and read verified buyer reviews closely. The abundance of options makes Amazon great for finding niche accessories, but cross-check measurements (in inches) and material descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Must-have bathtub accessories and how they upgrade your tub

Not all accessories are created equal. Some deliver comfort, others add safety or storage. Understanding the purpose of each accessory helps you prioritise purchases and avoid cluttering the space with redundant items.

Bath trays and caddies

A bath caddy transforms your soak into an experience. Choose a tray that spans the width of your tub — typical sizes vary from 24 to 36 inches depending on tub width. Look for adjustable arms, book rests, and slots for a glass or candle. Bamboo trays resist moisture and add warmth; metal trays with rubber grips are more durable for heavier items.

Non-slip bath mats and decals

Safety is crucial, especially in homes with children or older adults. Non-slip mats come in full-sheet sizes like 18 by 30 inches for small tubs, up to 30 by 50 inches for larger baths, or as stick-on decals placed strategically near the drain. Choose mats with strong suction cups and mould-resistant materials so they stay put and remain hygienic.

Shower heads and handsets

Upgrading your shower head can change the whole bathing routine. High-pressure fixed heads and multi-mode handsets are common; flow rates typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 gpm for water-saving models. Consider a handset with a 59-78 inch hose if you need reach for cleaning or assisted bathing. Anti-limescale nozzles help maintain spray patterns in hard-water areas.

Taps, valves, and trims

Taps and trims are both functional and highly visible design elements. When replacing trims, match the center-to-center measurement usually given in inches (for example, 8 or 12 inches) to ensure compatible fit with existing fittings. Thermostatic valves improve safety by limiting maximum water temperature — a great accessory if small children use the bath.

Overflow covers, drains, and stoppers

Decorative overflow covers and designer stoppers add a finishing touch while improving function. Pop-up or click-clack stoppers are more modern and easier to clean. Make sure the stopper size matches your waste aperture; common diameters are displayed in inches on retailer sites. Chrome finishes are classic, while brushed finishes hide fingerprints better.

Storage and shelving

Wall-mounted shelves, corner caddies, and suction-basket organisers keep shampoos and soaps tidy. For free-standing units, check shelf depth (usually 6 to 12 inches) so bottles don’t tip into the tub. If you prefer a minimalist look, recessed niches can be installed to keep products out of sight but within arm’s reach.

How to choose the right accessory for your bathtub

Measure twice, buy once. Before you add any accessory, measure your tub in inches: width, length, and the distance between fittings. Check clearances — for example, a tray may need 1 to 2 inches of lip to rest securely. Think about how you use the tub: are you after relaxation, family bathing, or practical cleaning? That determines whether you prioritise comfort items or durable, easy-to-clean accessories.

Materials and finishes: what lasts and what looks great

The right material blends durability with style. Stainless steel resists corrosion and is ideal for fittings, while brass gives a warmer tone and ages well. Bamboo bath trays are sustainable and bring a spa feel, but they require occasional oiling to prevent drying. Chrome and nickel finishes are durable and forgiving of frequent use, though brushed options show fewer fingerprints. When shopping, check product care instructions to match your maintenance preferences.

Stainless steel vs chrome

Stainless steel accessories are rugged and low-maintenance, perfect for showerheads and rails. Chrome plating offers a bright finish that coordinates easily with other bathroom hardware. If you live in a hard-water area, opt for finishes with anti-scale technology or choose stainless components to reduce mineral buildup.

Wood and bamboo accessories

Wooden accessories add warmth but need more care. Bamboo trays are water-resistant by nature but benefit from occasional sealing in humid settings. If you choose wood, look for products treated for moisture resistance and avoid leaving them submerged for long periods — think of them like a towel that needs proper drying after each use.

Budgeting and finding the best deals

Accessories range from a few pounds to several hundred — so set a budget before you browse. High-use items like shower hoses and bath mats don’t need to be premium to perform well, while finishes and designer pieces command higher prices. Watch for mid-season sales at major retailers, and compare prices across online specialists when a particular brand or finish is non-negotiable. Buying bundles (tap sets with matching overflow covers, for example) can save money while ensuring coordinated styling.

DIY installation basics and when to call a pro

Many bathtub accessories are DIY-friendly: bath trays, non-slip mats, and suction storage require no tools. Replacing a shower head or handset is usually simple — most make-fit to a standard 1/2 inch pipe thread and take only a wrench and plumber’s tape. For taps, valves, or anything requiring disruption of the water supply, consider hiring a qualified plumber to avoid leaks or damage. If you’re unsure about pipe connections or the compatibility of trims, a short consultation with a trade professional can save both time and money.

Eco-friendly and accessible options

Green choices are growing in the accessory market. Look for water-saving shower heads with flow rates of 1.5 to 2.0 gpm to reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort. Recycled-material bath mats and sustainably sourced bamboo trays minimise environmental impact. For accessibility, install non-slip surfaces, grab bars rated for weight-bearing, and thermostatic controls to prevent scalding — small changes that make bathing safer and more inclusive.

Customer reviews and what to watch for

Reviews reveal real-world performance: how long a non-slip mat keeps suction, whether a tray warps after repeated exposure, or if a handheld hose kinks after a few months. When reading reviews, look for common themes rather than one-off complaints. Pay attention to comments about compatibility (did the tray fit the tub edge?) and durability (did the finish tarnish?). Cross-referencing reviews across retailers can give a balanced view before you buy.

Conclusion

Bathtub accessories are an affordable way to boost comfort, safety, and style in any bathroom. Whether you prefer the convenience of Argos or the specialist range at Plumbworld, the UK market offers options for every taste and budget. Measure carefully in inches, prioritise materials that match your lifestyle, and don’t be afraid to mix and match stores to build the perfect bathing setup. With the right accessories, even a simple tub can become a daily luxury.