4 Tips to Get the Best Tubs for Your Bathroom

A nice, long, warm soak in a bathtub may be one of the most relaxing things. A tub is not just for bathing; it’s for easing aches and pains. It’s also for soothing stress, rejuvenating, and contemplating. To enjoy all these fantastic benefits, you need the best type of tub for your needs.

Whether you’re renovating your bathroom or constructing a new one, a bathtub is a welcome upgrade. Here are some timeless tips to help you get the best tub that’s perfect for your bathroom.

Consider the Different Types of Tubs

Tubs come in many sizes, styles, and designs. When it comes to bathtub types, there are six kinds to consider. There are alcove tubs, drop-ins, undermounts, corner tubs, freestanding tubs, and clawfoot tubs.

Alcove Tubs

A three-wall alcove tub saves you space as the unfinished sides face the wall or a handy storage cabinet. Usually, alcove tubs come with a wall-mounted shower, again, to maximize space.

Freestanding Tubs

Homeowners with extra bathroom space prefer freestanding bathtubs. This kind of tub has all the sides exposed and placed in the middle of the room for a more dramatic effect. There are many freestanding tub designs to choose from. Choose a freestanding rectangular tub, a stand-alone tub and shower, and modern freestanding tub designs.

Drop-In Tubs

Drop-in tubs are only a shell and fitted in an enclosure. The enclosure has the same design as the tile or bathroom cabinets.

Undermounts

An undermount tub is like drop-in tubs designed to level the floor. The lip or the edges of the tub are covered with tile or flooring.

Corner Tubs

Corner tubs occupy extra corner bathroom areas. These tubs are larger than alcove tubs and suited for single or dual bathing.

Clawfoot Tubs

Clawfoot bathtubs come with signature Elizabethan-era legs. These tubs come with an elegant design, slipper-style shape, and a high back to cradle the neck and head.

Select the Tub Features You Need

Bathtubs come with a variety of features. Most high-end tub lines are equipped with the latest features users may find helpful. Take note of the following updated features that will make your bathing time more enjoyable.

Bubbly Tubs and Jet Streams

Bubbles and jets are standard features of whirlpool tubs. These features come with in-line heating that keeps the water warm as it moves.

You can also adjust the speed of the water jets. These jets are along with vital massage points such as those along with the footrests and at the back. You can select from bubble-only or micro-bubble streams to suit your moods and tastes.

Bathtub Lighting

Some bathtubs help soothe stress and aches using chromotherapy. LED lights fitted underwater can change color and intensity with one touch of the remote control.

Music

Some updated tubs are fitted with resonant speakers, so sounds move through the water. You will feel these vibrations move over your skin. These speakers connect to your smartphone or any music device via Bluetooth.

Digital Controls for Temperature, Color, Music, and Water Flow

Tub features like jets, lighting, music volume, water temperature, etc., are controlled digitally. Some high-end tubs come with remote controls, or you can use an app on your smartphone. Some manufacturers like Kohler offer an intelligent bathing system to let you configure your bathtub according to your needs and tastes.

Take Note of the Tub Construction

Bathtubs are from a variety of materials. The type of material affects the tub’s design, features, and cost. For instance, a standard alcove tub is acrylic material and costs anywhere from $700 to $900. Include lights, heating, bubbles, and tub electronic controls, and the price can shoot from $16,000 up to $18,000. Here are the most common materials used to make bathtubs:

Fiberglass and Acrylic

Tubs made from fiberglass and acrylic are the most affordable and are available in most home improvement stores. These tubs are very durable and are available in many colors.

Cast-Iron

Cast-iron tubs with an enamel finish better preserve heat, so your bath water stays warm longer. Most cast-iron tubs are reasonably priced, but the downside is these are too heavy to lift and set.

Copper

You’ll find most copper bathtubs as the focal point in elegant bathrooms. These tubs are costly and cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000.

Stone or Wood

Most stone or wooden tubs are specially-made. A designer may carve a tub out of a chunk of limestone or an elegant freestanding tub out of a piece of travertine. These pieces range from $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the designer and the type of material used.

Enameled Steel

Enameled steel tubs are very tough and are resistant to stains and scratches. These are moderately priced from $400 to $1,000.

4. Consider New Bathtub Styles and Designs

If you’re looking for a unique tub style or design, you don’t need to worry. There are new bathtub styles available that will interest you. Here are some found online:

Spa-Inspired Bathtubs

Don’t you wish you could lounge around for hours in this spa-inspired tub? This tub is acrylic or enamel made to look like natural stone.

Exotic Bathtubs

This exotic tub is spacious and can fit two or three people. It looks more like a giant’s wooden soup bowl than a soaking tub.

Old World Stone Forest Bathtub

This freestanding tub with matching fixtures looks like a work of art. It’s inspired by ancient Roman bathtubs with an Old World charm.

Recycled Metal Bathtub

Stainless steel metal tubs may look too small but have a country-style appeal. Consider this bathtub design if you have a small bathroom with not enough space for a full-size tub.

Cool Glowing Stone Bathtub

Mesmerize your visitors with this glowing bathtub carved from natural stone. It’s made from limestone, so the surface has unique, beautiful patterns and colors. Adding lights underneath and along the surface turns it into a stunning fancy soaking tub.

ADA-Compliant Bathtubs

Tubs made for seniors or people with disabilities must follow ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. Some important points include non-slip flooring, wider tub edges for easy sitting and easing, and walk-in tub designs.

Final Words

Don’t settle for a so-so tub. Whether you’re building a new bath or updating an old one, take time to find the best tub to fit your bathroom. Consider the type of tub, the features you need, and the material. If you have a budget in mind, research and compare different tubs to find the best value tub. With these tips, you’ll be steps closer to your dream bathtub in no time.