Are you looking to buy a new bathtub for your home, but aren’t sure which one to choose?
Choosing the right bathtub can be a difficult decision. In order to pick the right tub for your needs, it’s important to know about the different options available.
Check out this guide to learn about the different types of bathtubs for your home.
Standard Alcove Bathtub
The most common and basic type of bathtub is a standard alcove bathtub.
This is a three-wall tub that is perfect for homes with limited space. The great thing about an alcove bathtub is that you can easily install a showerhead above it without wasting any extra space.
There are two different types of alcove bathtubs: simple alcove bathtubs and luxury alcove bathtubs. Simple alcove bathtubs are the most common and affordable. Luxury alcove bathtubs, on the other hand, are larger and more luxurious. Hence, the name.
A stand alcove bathtub is about 5 feet long, 14 inches high, and 30 inches wide. Typically, you can buy an alcove bathtub for just a few hundred dollars.
Freestanding Bathtub
Another excellent type of bathtub to consider is a freestanding bathtub.
As the name implies, a freestanding tub is not connected to the wall. Therefore, you have more flexibility in terms of placement. You can place it either on the side of the room, against the wall, or in the middle of the room.
If you have extra space in your bathroom, a freestanding tub is a great option. There are several different types of freestanding bathtubs, including:
Clawfoot Bathtubs
Clawfoot bathtubs have a vintage aesthetic that has been popular for decades. One of the most distinctive features of clawfoot bathtubs is that the bottoms come with “feet” rather than the basic flat surface.
If you want your bathroom to have a retro, classic vibe, a clawfoot bathtub is a great option. Clawfoot bathtubs are easy to clean, and they work great in bathrooms with extra space.
Rectangular Free-Standing Tub
A rectangular free-standing tub is the perfect choice for those who want a bathtub with a contemporary feel to it.
The sharp, rigid lines of the tub are its most distinguishing features. However, while the design can certainly add some style, if you like to take baths a lot, you may not like it. Many people find that the lack of a slope makes this type of tub uncomfortable to bathe in.
Angled Free-Standing Tub
Luckily, if you’re looking for great design as well as comfort and back support, you don’t have to settle, as you can always get an angled free-standing tub.
As the name suggests, this type of bathtub’s upper section is angled at a slope. This allows for better relaxation as well as enhanced neck and back support. If you love to take relaxing bubble baths, this is an excellent tub to consider.
Oval Free-Standing Bathtub
Another type of free-standing bathtub to consider is the oval free-standing bathtub.
If you don’t like the sharp appearance of the rectangular bathtub, then this is a great alternative. Like rectangular bathtubs, oval bathtubs also offer a contemporary feel that can enhance the overall look of your bathroom.
Oval free-standing tubs come in all different sizes, with some even being considered an oversized soaking tub.
Walk-In Bathtub
If you or someone in your home has limited mobility, a walk-in bathtub is an excellent choice to consider.
While they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing of tubs, what walk-in bathtubs lack in style they make up for in safety. As the name suggests, you do not need to step over a ledge to enter a walk-in bathtub. Instead, you just need to open a small door and you can walk right in.
Some people don’t consider walk-in bathtubs actually tubs, as you can’t lie down in them. However, these tubs do come with built-in seats so you can still lounge and enjoy the warm bubbles.
Corner Bathtub
If you’re looking to utilize the space in your bathroom as best as possible, a corner bathtub is a great option.
Depending on how much space you have in your bathroom, corner bathtubs can be quite large. In fact, many people mistake corner bathtubs for jacuzzis. This type of bathtub does not require a shower curtain, and it allows you to show off your tub in all of its glory.
The only real downside to corner bathtubs is that they can sometimes be quite expensive.
Drop-In Bathtub
Another excellent bathtub to consider is a drop-in bathtub, also known as a built-in bathtub. This type of bathtub takes its name from its installation procedure and design.
Drop-in bathtubs are installed directly on top of a platform, which is sometimes elevated. It’s also connected to a frame that’s known as a “surround”. The surround serves as a way to fully integrate the bathtub into the bathroom, as it hides the bottom layer of the tub and only laves the rim exposed.
Drop-in bathtubs are affordable, versatile, and they can be installed against a wall or in a freestanding position.
Japanese Style Soaking Tub
Last but not least, there’s the Japanese style soaking tub.
If you want a bathtub that adds aesthetic value to the room and is space-efficient, this is a great option. Unlike typical Western-style tubs that come with a low wall, a Japanese style tub comes with a high wall.
Just like walk-in bathtubs, these tubs aren’t designed for people to lie down in them. These tubs come with a small seat, and once seated, water will reach to around chin height.
Types of Bathtubs: Which is Right for Your Home?
Now that you know about the different types of bathtubs, it’s time to decide which one is right for your home. Pretty soon, you’ll be soaking in your brand new tub.
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more bathroom renovation tips and tricks.
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