Cast Iron, Steel or Aluminium? Choosing the Right Radiator for Your Bathroom.

When it comes to picking the perfect radiator for your bathroom, it’s not just about size or style — the material your radiator is made from can make a big difference in how it performs, how it looks, and how it fits into your lifestyle.

At Brand New Bathrooms, we stock a wide range of cast iron, steel and aluminium radiators, each with its own benefits. So, which is right for you? Let’s break it down.

Cast Iron Radiators – Classic Warmth That Lasts

If you’re after a radiator that combines traditional charm with serious heat retention, cast iron is the way to go.

These radiators take longer to heat up, but once they’re warm, they stay that way — making them perfect for long, luxurious baths or chilly winter mornings.

Pros:

Excellent heat retention – keeps your space warmer for longer.
Elegant, timeless design – great for period homes or classic bathroom styles.
Extremely durable – built to last for decades.

Things to Note:

Heavyweight – installation may need extra support.
Slower to heat – better suited to spaces used for longer periods.

Steel Radiators – Stylish, Versatile & Quick to Heat

For modern bathrooms or smaller spaces, steel radiators are a popular choice. They’re available in a wide variety of designs — from flat panels to ladder-style towel rails — and they heat up fast.

Pros:

Rapid heat-up times – ideal for quick warmth.
Slim and space-saving – perfect for compact bathrooms.
Lots of style options – from minimalist to bold designer looks.

Things to Note:

Less heat retention – cools down faster than cast iron.
Moderate durability – generally not as long-lived as cast iron.

Aluminium Radiators – Lightweight & Super Efficient

Aluminium radiators are the modern multitaskers. They’re ultra-light, incredibly efficient, and eco-friendly too — making them ideal for households looking to save energy and reduce heating bills.

Pros:

Very fast to heat and cool – great for busy homes and fluctuating schedules.
Lightweight – easy to install on almost any wall.
Energy efficient – works well with low-temperature heating systems like underfloor heating or heat pumps.

Things to Note:

Shorter heat retention – cools down quickly once the heating is off.
Typically more expensive – but pays off in energy savings.

Which One Should You Choose?

✅ Go for Cast Iron if you love a traditional look, want a warm bathroom that stays cosy, and value long-term durability.

✅ Choose Steel if you’re looking for fast heat, a wide variety of styles, and a budget-friendly option.

✅ Opt for Aluminium if you want a lightweight, energy-efficient radiator with modern appeal and quick performance.

No matter your choice, Brand New Bathrooms has a radiator to match your home’s style and your lifestyle needs. Have a browse of our full heating collection, or reach out if you need expert help picking the perfect one.

Final Tip:
Don't forget to consider where your radiator will go. For example, towel warmers (usually steel or aluminium) are great for bathrooms, while a feature cast iron piece may work better in a large ensuite or adjoining dressing room.