How To Find The Right Bathtub

Selecting the right bathtub for your bathroom can be quite a challenge indeed, what with numerous different designs and kinds of tubs to pick from. As tubs come in several different styles and kinds, you need to ensure that you choose one that is in keeping with what you want so that you can enjoy your tub thoroughly. Thus, this article lists all the factors that need to be considered when choosing a bathtub so that you end up buying the ideal one.

1) Functionality: A bathtub is essentially used for bathing, so what functionality are we talking about? Well, although bathtubs are used only for bathing, there are many features that add to the functionality of one. For instance, a whirlpool tub also provides a soothing and relaxing jet massage option in addition to regular bathing. Thus, you need to make sure that you will actually use the jets often and are not simply buying the tub because it has the added features. So, be clear on what your needs are and then pick a bath tub that fulfills them.

2) Size of the tub: Choosing a tub that is too small for you will mean that you cannot fit into it and will not be able to utilize it completely. On the other hand, picking one that is way too big will mean that you are increasing your water usage unnecessarily. So you see, it is essential that you buy a bathtub that is the right size for you, neither way too large nor way too small.

When you are considering the size of the tub, also determine whether you want a one person tub or two person tub. Some people buy a large tub thinking that the added room will allow for two people to bathe at the same time. However, that is not how it works. If you want to share your bath time with another person, go for a two person tub and not a large one person tub.

3) Color and style: Yes, it is true that the functionality and features of the bathtub are what you should primarily look at, but dont overlook its look, color, and style in the process. You do not want a bathtub that does not match in color and style to the other fixtures in your bathroom as that will make your bath look very uninviting. Thus, do ensure that the bathtub has good aesthetic appeal as well.

4) Material of the bathtub: Not all tubs are made from the same material. Different materials used to make bathtubs are - Acrylic, Marble, Porcelain tubs, Wood, Cast iron tubs, and Fiberglass. A fiberglass bath tub is quite an inexpensive buy but is less durable than cast iron or porcelain bath tubs. Cast iron tubs will practically last you for generations but can be very pricey also. As far as looks go, nothing can beat wood and marble bathtubs, but these are extremely difficult to maintain and keep clean. Thus, depending on what your topmost priorities are (durability, strength, looks, cost etc), you should choose a construction material accordingly.

5) Soaking or standard: The difference between a standard bathtub and a soaking tub is that the soaking variety is much deeper and enables you to immerse your entire body into the warm water instead of just your lower half. And since tubs are now being used for their therapeutic value as they help lower stress, relieve pain, and lower hypertension, you need to decide whether you want such a tub or not. If you do, then you will be better off buying a soaking tub instead of a regular bathtub.

6) Special Requirements: Handicapped people, the elderly, and those who have arthritis and other such illnesses are people with special needs and may not be able to use regular bathtubs. This is because regular bathtubs could be dangerous to their health as there is an increased chance of such people slipping in the bath and hurting themselves; that is if they can manage to get in and out of the tubs in the first place. For such people with special requirements, you should buy ADA compliant bathtubs. An ADA tub is constructed so as to be non slippery, is extremely easy to get in and out of (people in wheelchairs can also access these tubs), and the danger of slipping is averted due to the grab bars and grab rails that are present on such tubs. Thus, if there are any people in your family who have such special needs, do pamper them with an ADA bathtub.

Thus, you should choose a bathtub only after taking all the above factors into consideration. Your budget will also determine your choice of tub, but there are bathtubs available in all different price ranges so finding one within your budget should not be a problem.

Although choosing the ideal tub for your bathroom can be a complicated task, this bathtub choosing guide will definitely make your job a lot easier.

By: Rob Barnes
Credit:www.superfeature.com