From taking showers in the wild to creating a spa-like environment, society has come a long way when designing a bathroom. Apart from attending nature’s calls, our bathrooms are a place of isolation where we gather our thoughts and unwind. Taking a bath is a crucial habit instilled in us from birth.
Bathrooms have minimal space to layout cabinets, toilets or showers/bathtubs; that is why it is necessary to plan out the layout correctly. Since a bathtub takes up the most space, it is essential to install one with accurate proportions so it does not crowd your bathroom.
Standard bathrooms only have about forty square feet of space to work with, and if you fancy putting in a bathtub to enjoy those relaxing laid-down warm baths, you need to make sure you choose the right-sized tub for yours. Usually, a basic bathtub takes up to thirteen square feet of space; therefore, reading up on different builds of tubs will help you pick one that works the best for your area. Below is the curated list of bathtubs that will work in any bath space.
Different bathtub sizes and designs to choose from
Alcove-shaped bathtubs
They are often the most commonly shaped bathtubs found in bathrooms. These are pre-built shower/tub combinations surrounded by the three walls on its side to reduce the waste of space in bathrooms with smaller rooms. The two long sides of a wall act as the end sides of the alcove, and the back wall turns into the side that is closed off, thus naturally turning into a cavity.
A minimum of six to seven-foot spaces must be available on the bathroom floor for an alcove bathtub. An alcove bathtub runs from forty-eight to fifty-five inches in total length; hence, they are appropriate for smaller bathrooms. If you wish to install these bathtubs in a larger bathroom, you must form an added dividing wall since the walls are a little further apart for an alcove bathtub.
The alcove bathtub gets made from cast iron, acrylic and stone resin. These tubs are also super affordable and do not dent your budget. They are easy to maintain and last longer. With your tubs taking less space, you can then have room to add extra furniture in your bathrooms, like a cabinet or a vanity.
Freestanding bathtubs
You can play with a more elaborate bathtub size and design for large spaces. If you want to feel like a movie star, taking warm showers for hours, unwinding and enjoying, then go for these freestanding bathtubs.
These freestanding tubs do not need walls to enclose them on their side. But they require enough space around their sides and corners, so place them accordingly. The measurements of these tubs vary from fifteen to twenty inches in depth, fifty to seventy-two inches in length and around thirty-two inches wide.
One can choose from different types of freestanding bathtubs; a clawfoot tub is excellent for people who want to bring fanciness and glamour to their bathrooms, as these tubs get placed on four lofty “claws” that act as its feet. Paint your tub golden or give it a brass texture with a matching sleek tap fixture; everyone will wish they had a bathtub like yours.
Another kind of bathtub is the slipper tub which has one higher and raised side than its other end to support the weight of a person taking a bath. It provides extra support for their back.
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See also: Bathtub price in India: Bathtubs and modern bath spaces that redefine luxury
Whirlpool bathtub
A whirlpool bathtub is another option for bathrooms with medium to ample floor space. They only take up a little more space than any alcove bathtub.
A standard measurement for these bathtubs is almost sixty inches in length, eighteen to twenty-four inches in height, and around thirty-six inches in width. They come in a variety of shapes- from walk-ins to rectangles.
They are made of acrylic and fitted with water jets that create a whirlpool effect when taking a bath. Sleek acrylic dents provide ample space to conceal the jets and water pump. Great for people who want to experience hydrotherapy as they take a bath. They also keep the water hot for an extended time. Fix chrome fixtures to match your white tubs for nice decor.
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Drop-in bathtubs
A drop-in bathtub demands a more expansive space, unlike an alcove bathtub. Sixty inches in length, sixteen inches deep and thirty inches wide, these bathtubs will take up the entire length and width as they have an added deck that requires construction. Leave at least six inches around the side of the body for the deck’s structure, as they also run a foot longer than the leading tub’s body. Bring a finish to your white tubs by adding tiles to the left exposed area. You can make it larger to fit two or more people.
The deck gets built like a nook in a medium-sized space, and only one side gets exposed in medium-sized bathrooms. In even grander bathrooms, if you wish to have a drop-in tub, pedestal decks can be built, which reveals the tub from all sides.
These tubs have the benefit of being easily placed anywhere and provide more tub depth than the other ones.
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Bathtubs in the corner
Opt for a triangular corner bathtub if you want something other than an oval or rectangular-shaped bathtub. Corner bathtubs are an excellent choice to utilise wide primary bathroom spaces fully. With measurements of sixty inches in length and width and around twenty-two inches in height, these tubs make a spot for lounging with a good read. Corner bathtubs are more about pampering yourself.
One can construct them in several ways. Build a triangle-shaped deck, and you can drop in a tub at one corner of your bathroom. Or use a standard triangular shell. They do not require lengthy walls to support their side and utilise underused corners in ample space.
One thing to remember is that corner bathtubs use more hot water than a straight bath. Some corner tubs can have jets installed in them to turn them into fancy bathtubs. Various designs with different cuts and grooves around the edges are available for you to choose from for your taste.
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Guide to bathtub sizes to maximise space
When buying a new bathtub, it is essential to consider the bathroom size. When replacing your bathtub, match the bath tub size, its shape and water connections of the previous tub. Some bathtub types like freestanding units, need more floor space. Consider corner bathtubs if you wish to save space.
How to choose the right bathtub for your home: Tips and tricks?
The style of your house and bathroom is the main factor to consider when selecting bathtubs. For example, copper bathtubs are mostly available as freestanding units and may fit in every bathroom. If your bathroom is spacious, consider these models. alcove, drop-in, and soaking type bathtubs are suited for bathrooms with limited space.
The bathtub’s weight is also another factor to consider when deciding the location of the bathtub. Your floor and house may not be able to support a heavier tub when it is filled with water. Other materials like cast iron, copper and natural stone are also heavy for some homes. One effective solution is to reinforce the floor to enable it to support the increased weight.
Bathtub options for your bathroom: Designing your dream bathroom
Another point to note is that a larger bathtub can lead to high water bills as more water will have to be filled compared to a smaller size bathtub. You can consider other smaller size units such as the Japanese soaking style.
The installation can be another crucial point to consider, besides the size and shape. Alcove and drop-ins are easier to install than freestanding and corner tubs, respectively.
When selecting bathtubs, note the ideal water depth measurement. A minimum depth of 15 inches is suited for most people.
Benefits of bathtubs: Comfort and convenience combined
Bathtubs offer great convenience while giving a luxurious experience for homeowners. Modern bathtubs enhance the décor quotient of bathrooms. Besides, soaking in a bathtub also has many health benefits. It helps one unwind and relieve stress. Those suffering from poor circulation, cold limbs or numbness can benefit from regular baths as it improves blood circulation. It eases muscle pain and helps reduce arthritis.
FAQs
What is the perfect pit size for a bathtub?
A comfortable bathtub must have a pit depth of a minimum of sixteen inches. Unique Japanese tubs do run up to twenty-two inches deeper, though.
Which material makes the most durable bathtub?
Bathtubs made of cast iron have proven to be the most durable and are also easier to clean. Cast polymer, acrylic and ceramic are suitable materials for building a bathtub.
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