Bathtub Shopping: How to Choose a Bathtub for Your Home

Bathtub shopping can be overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time buyer. There are so many things to consider unlike when you are purchasing something simple like a bathroom scale. Material, design, size, shape, etc., are among the factors you must consider when looking for a perfect tub. Prices will differ depending on materials and size, but it is best to consider your personal needs and the long-term service of the tub.

The following are some factors to consider when shopping for a new bathtub this year.

Well Known Bathtub Styles

When bathtub shopping, the shape of your bathroom should dictate the bathtub style you choose. There are several styles of tubs that can fit in any size and shape of a bathroom. According to your space, you might have to go for a freestanding tub, oval, or a round one.

Besides shape, the material also determines the style of a bathtub.

Freestanding

Freestanding tubs can fit in any bathroom shape since they do not require wall installation. Most users prefer these freestanding bathtubs because they do not damage the bathroom floor.

Regular

It is the most common and classic type. It is long and rectangular and occupies more space than the other types.

Oval

These tubs are circular and symmetrical, almost resembling a regular water basin. They are popular in little homes and apartments where the space is limited.

Angled Tubs

Angled bathtubs have one side sloping slightly higher to support the user's neck and back while bathing.

Below are more bathtub styles you can consider when bathtub shopping.

• Clawfoot
• Alcove
• Drop-in bathtub
• Corner tub
• Japanese style
•  Walk-in
• Whirlpool
• Air tub

Popular Bathtub Materials

It would help if you considered price against comfort when choosing bathtub material. Every material has a different texture and level of comfort, so you need to select the most comfortable material according to your needs.

Also, note that the best or most comfortable materials are heavier and costlier than the latter. And, be sure that your bathroom floor can comfortably support the tub's weight before settling for heavy materials.

The following are some common bathtub materials in the market.

Stone Resin

Stone resin is a product of crushing natural stone and binding it together using adhesive to make a material that resembles a typical stone. It lies on the upper limit of price and weight.

Fiberglass

It comes from reinforcing plastic sheets and molding them into tubs. It is the cheapest bathtub material on the market.

Below are some other bathtub materials you can opt for when bathtub shopping:

• Porcelain
• Ceramic
• Acrylic
• Wood
• Copper
• Cultured marble

Consider the Size and Weight When Bathtub Shopping

If you have adequate space, freestanding and corner tubs are the best. But if the room is limited, you can go for alcove, walk-in, or Japanese styles. When bathtub shopping, you might also consider water; larger tubs mean more water and higher water bills.

In addition, choose a bathtub weight that your floor can sustain. If you pick one that is too heavy, the floor will not support it when it is full of water and that will be a big problem.

Installing a Bathroom Tub

Depending on the size, weight, and shape, some tubs can be challenging to install without professional assistance. Find out which design is the easiest to install if you plan to DIY. Walk-in and alcove tubs are simpler to install than corner and freestanding ones.

Bathtub Prices

The style and material of a bathtub significantly influence its price. Generally, smaller tubs are cheaper than larger ones, but the size does not affect the quality.

Fiberglass is the most affordable material, with a price range between $200 and $500. The more expensive materials like stone resin, copper, and cast iron range between $500 and $2000 or more.

A freestanding tub can cost between  600 and $3000, exclusive of installation. Corner tubs are the most expensive, with a starting price of $700. Drop-in tubs are the simplest and range from $300 to $900.

Lifestyle and Personal Needs When Choosing a New Bathtub

Before purchasing, you have to consider the people who will use the new bathtub. A taller tub will be ideal for adults who want to soak, but it will challenge young children.

Also, if you have a member of your household with movement issues, a walk-in tub will be the best. However, a soaking tub, Japanese-style, or a round tub could also be suitable for an elderly person.

In addition, consider the height of the user and their physical challenges, if any, when bathtub shopping. There are some customized tubs for disabled individuals in the market as well.

Bottom Line on Bathtub Shopping

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about choosing the perfect bathtub for your home. We hope that this guide has helped make the process a little less daunting and that you are now armed with all of the information necessary to find your dream tub. Thanks for reading!

Tell us about the best bathtub you've ever had below!