Shower Screens for Baths: Fixed Panel or Pivot—Which Should You Choose?
There’s a reason more Perth homeowners are saying goodbye to shower curtains and upgrading to shower screens for baths. With a well-chosen glass screen, you get a sleek, water-tight solution that not only looks great but also makes cleaning a breeze. Whether you’re renovating or building new, choosing the right shower screens for bathtubs is one of the best ways to elevate your bathroom’s style and function.
But with the classic debate of fixed panel versus pivot, how do you know which option is best for your space? At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock both fixed and pivot glass shower screens for baths, all in premium frameless glass, so you can find the perfect fit for any style or budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about adding a shower screen to your bath. You’ll discover why so many homeowners are choosing this upgrade, the key differences between fixed and pivot designs, their benefits and honest drawbacks, a side-by-side feature comparison, cost considerations, and answers to common questions. Plus, we’ll let you know where you can view both styles in person and get expert advice for your project.
Why Install a Shower Screen on Your Bath?
There’s a reason more renovators and families are switching from curtains to a bath and shower screen. Installing a glass shower screens for bath is a simple way to make your bathroom more stylish, practical, and easy to maintain. Unlike curtains—which are notorious for leaking, attracting mould, and looking dated—over bath shower screens keep water exactly where it belongs, cutting down on mess and constant cleanups.
A glass bath screen delivers a modern, streamlined look while letting more light into your shower space, making even small bathrooms feel larger. Hygiene is another big win: glass is far easier to wipe clean, and you won’t have to worry about mildew, damp fabric, or that musty curtain smell.
There are plenty of reasons to install a bath with glass shower screen:
- Better water containment (less splashing on the floor)
- Contemporary style (more open, brighter spaces)
- Improved hygiene (no fabric to wash or replace)
- Safety (less water on the floor means fewer slips)
- Easier cleaning (just a quick wipe-down after use)
Want to see even more reasons? Check out our guide to the Benefits of a Shower Bath Combination.
TL;DR: A glass shower screen for your bath keeps water in, looks modern, and is much easier to clean than a curtain—making it a top upgrade for stylish, practical bathrooms.
Fixed vs Pivot Shower Screen for Bath: What’s the Difference?
When you’re shopping for shower screens for baths, you’ll notice two main choices: fixed panel and pivot. Both styles are offered at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, and each has unique advantages for different bathrooms.
Fixed Panel Bath Screen
A fixed shower screen for bath is a single pane of frameless safety glass that’s mounted alongside the shower head. This minimalist style doesn’t move or swing—it’s simply fixed in place with premium hardware. The result? A clean, open, and modern look that maximises light and is perfect for smaller bathrooms or those who want a sleek, fuss-free design.
Pivot Bath Shower Screen
A pivot shower screen for bath is hinged so it can swing open, making it much easier to get in and out of the bath or to clean the space. The panel usually pivots outward (sometimes inward, depending on the design), giving you more access—especially handy for bathing kids or pets, or for anyone with mobility needs. The movement is smooth and sturdy, thanks to quality fixings.
Ross’s Alpine Range: Quality and Style
At Ross’s, you’ll find both the Alpine Fixed (available in curved and square) and Alpine Pivot (also in curved and square) styles. Each is made from durable, frameless glass for a premium finish, and both are priced affordably at $280 per panel (with brackets, mounts, and fixings sold separately). Hardware is available in a huge range of finishes—brushed gold, rose gold, brushed nickel, matte black, white, chrome, and gunmetal—to suit any bathroom décor. View our Alpine Bath Screens collection to see the full range of fixing options.
Tip: If space is tight or you’re not set on a shower bath combo, see our Best Shower Screens for Small Bathrooms for more options.
TL;DR: A fixed bath screen gives a sleek, minimalist look and is best for tight spaces, while a pivot bath screen offers extra access and flexibility—both are available as frameless shower screens for bathtubs at Ross’s.
Benefits of Fixed Shower Screens Over Bath
When it comes to combining style, practicality, and value, a fixed glass screen for bathtub is a standout choice for many Perth homes. Here’s why these glass bath screens have become a favourite in modern renovations and smaller bathrooms.
Simplicity & Reliability
With no moving parts or hinges, a fixed panel design means there’s less to maintain and a much lower risk of water leaks. Just a sturdy, dependable glass screen that does its job every time you shower.
Easy to Clean
A fixed screen is one smooth pane—no pivots, seals, or corners to trap soap scum. This makes cleaning incredibly quick and hassle-free. A wipe with a squeegee or cloth is often all you need, saving you time and effort.
Modern, Minimalist Look
Glass screen for bathtub designs bring a light, open feel to the bathroom. Frameless styles (like those from Ross’s Alpine range) offer a luxury finish that’s ideal for contemporary homes, small ensuites, or guest bathrooms.
Space-Saving
Because the screen doesn’t swing in or out, a fixed bath panel is perfect for tight layouts or smaller bathrooms where every centimetre counts. You get a shower over bath solution without needing extra room for movement.
Cost-Effective
If you’re watching your renovation budget, cheap shower screens for baths don’t have to mean cheap quality. Fixed bath screens are generally more affordable than pivot models and still provide lasting performance—especially when you buy from Ross’s, where quality and value go hand in hand.
Versatile Finishes
At Ross’s, you can match your fixed panel with brackets and mounts in a range of modern finishes: brushed gold, rose gold, brushed nickel, matte black, white, chrome, and gunmetal. This means your glass bath screen can be customised to fit your bathroom’s unique style.
Best For: Singles, couples, small bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and households without small children or anyone who needs extra access.
TL;DR: A fixed glass bath screen is simple, reliable, easy to clean, cost-effective, and ideal for modern, space-saving bathroom designs.
Benefits of Pivot Shower Screens Over Bath
If your bathroom is a busy family zone or you want maximum versatility, a pivot shower screen for bath offers a level of convenience and access that a fixed panel can’t match. Here’s why so many households choose a bath with glass shower screen that pivots.
Full Access
A pivot screen swings open—usually outward—making it much easier to step in and out of the bath. This access is a real bonus for anyone helping kids, assisting elderly family members, or needing extra space to move.
Versatility
Shower screens for bathtubs with a pivot function are great for bathing children or pets, making it simple to reach the whole bath. It’s also easier to use accessories, or to sit and help with shampooing or rinsing.
Flexible for All Users
A pivot design accommodates a wider range of bathroom users, from young kids to grandparents, and is ideal for shared family spaces or homes with changing needs.
Premium, Frameless Look
Just like fixed panels, a frameless pivot shower screen offers a high-end finish—sleek, modern, and open. At Ross’s, our Alpine Pivot range is both sturdy and elegant, matching any bathroom style.
Easier Maintenance of Bath Itself
With the panel swinging out of the way, you can easily clean the bath or reach tricky corners—no need to contort yourself around a fixed screen.
Customisable Finishes
All brackets, mounts, and fixings for pivot screens at Ross’s come in the same wide selection of modern finishes: brushed gold, rose gold, brushed nickel, matte black, white, chrome, and gunmetal. You can achieve a seamless, designer look.
Best For: Families, those with young children or elderly members, shared bathrooms, and anyone wanting a flexible, multi-use bathroom space.
TL;DR: A pivot shower screen for bath delivers superior access, flexibility, and user-friendliness—making it a top pick for families, shared bathrooms, or anyone who wants extra convenience with a luxury look.
Drawbacks & Limitations: Fixed vs Pivot Bath Shower Screens
Every bathroom design has its trade-offs, and shower screens for baths are no exception. Here’s what to keep in mind before deciding between a fixed or pivot panel, so you get the right solution for your needs.
Drawbacks of Fixed Shower Screens Over Bath
- Limited Access: With a fixed screen, getting in and out of the bath can be awkward—especially if you’re bathing kids, pets, or anyone with mobility concerns.
- Harder to Clean Bath: Reaching all corners for cleaning is more difficult when the panel doesn’t swing out of the way.
- Less Flexible: Not ideal for busy family bathrooms or where you need full access to the bath.
Drawbacks of Pivot Shower Screens Over Bath
- More Moving Parts: Pivot panels use hinges and seals, which can mean more maintenance over time and a higher chance of leaks if not installed properly.
- Space Needed: The swinging panel requires enough room for unobstructed movement—can be an issue in tight bathrooms.
- Higher Cost: Usually, pivot screens are slightly more expensive than fixed panels due to the extra hardware and installation.
- Installation Matters: For the best watertight results—especially with frameless shower screens for bathtubs—professional installation is recommended.
Quality Matters
Not all bath screens are created equal. Some cheaper options on the market use thinner glass, which can compromise safety and longevity. Ross’s shower screens use robust 10mm toughened safety glass for maximum durability and peace of mind.
TL;DR: Fixed screens limit access and make cleaning trickier, while pivot screens need more space and care in installation. Always choose a quality screen made with toughened safety glass for long-lasting performance.
Feature Comparison Table: Fixed vs Pivot Bath Shower Screens
Choosing between a fixed or pivot shower screen for your bath comes down to what matters most for your bathroom and lifestyle. Use this quick-glance table to compare the key features and find the best fit.
| Feature | Fixed Bath Screen | Pivot Bath Screen |
| Access | Limited; entry/exit only at one end | Full access; panel swings open for easy entry/exit |
| Cleaning | Easy to clean panel, but harder to reach full bath | Panel swings out for easy cleaning of both panel & bath |
| Space Needed | Minimal; great for small bathrooms | Needs swing space; best in larger bathrooms |
| Maintenance | Low—no moving parts, less to maintain | Hinges/seals may require upkeep over time |
| Aesthetics | Sleek, minimalist, modern look | Premium frameless look, plus added functionality |
| Cost/Value | Generally more affordable, budget-friendly | Slightly higher cost for added convenience |
| Best For | Singles, couples, guest or ensuite bathrooms | Families, shared spaces, accessible bathrooms |
TL;DR: Fixed bath screens are ideal for minimalist, low-maintenance bathrooms with limited space. Pivot bath screens are best for families, those needing flexibility, or anyone who wants easier access to the bath.
Conclusion
Choosing between fixed and pivot glass shower screens for baths comes down to your household’s needs, bathroom size, and design preferences. Both styles deliver a modern look and reliable water control—fixed screens are perfect for minimalist, low-maintenance spaces, while pivot screens offer extra access and versatility for families or shared bathrooms.
If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre in Guildford to see both Alpine fixed and pivot shower screens for bathtubs on display. Our expert team can help you compare finish options, get the right fit for your space, and answer any questions you have about installation or care.
For more details on the pros and cons of bath and shower screens, check out our Bath Screens: Pros & Cons article.
FAQs: Shower Screens for Baths
Looking for quick answers about shower screens for baths? Here are some of the most common questions Perth homeowners ask—answered clearly to help with your decision.
