Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Freestanding Bathtub

There is a certain charm to freestanding baths. When you walk into a bathroom, and you see one, you will immediately think of it as luxurious. The thought of taking a warm bath in an elegant tub will already start to make you relax even before you dip your toes in the water. If you are thinking to add a freestanding bathtub to your bathroom, there are some things you need to consider before making that purchase.

Bathroom space

The first thing that you have to consider when buying a freestanding tub is the size of your bathroom. Do you have space to spare for one? A bathtub will take up a good chunk of your bathroom space. Your bathroom size will determine the tub’s size that you can put inside it. It should be big enough for you to fit in, but small enough not to make the bathroom feel cramped and crowded. You should have at least 4” of space between the wall and the tub – on all sides. Since it is freestanding, you don’t have to put it against the wall. You also have to take into consideration any openings that the tub may go through, like doors and windows. Will it interfere with the openings? The weight is also another thing; if you want to install it on an upper floor, it may be a task to hoist it upstairs. Tubs can range from 43” to 78” long.

Style

There are seven tub styles to choose from: single and double ended, single and double slipper, clawfoot, skirted and Japanese soaking. The single-ended has one sloped end for lounging, with the other end for the tap. The double ended one has both sloped ends and can fit two people. The single slipper is like the single ended tub, but the former has a raised end. The double slipper has two raised ends. A skirted tub has a plinth at the bottom, instead of claw feet. The clawfoot type is the style that is several hundred years old but remains a popular choice among homeowners. The Japanese soaking is most suitable for small bathrooms. It is round and deep, with a seat installed in it.

Material

Acrylic, cast iron, resin, copper, stainless steel and stone are the most common bathtub materials you can choose from. Each of them has its characteristics, pros and cons and its own appeal depending on your taste and preference. Consider your bathroom’s overall look for the tub style that you will choose, so it doesn’t look out of place. Or you can make it a contrast piece to make it really pop. When adding a fixture to your home, it is a wise idea to consult a professional so that they can give you sound advice and tips on what’s best to do with your vision. Whether you are building a new home or remodelling your bathroom, the addition of a freestanding bathtub will make the bathroom more sophisticated and, more importantly, functional. You will be looking forward to bath time every day.

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