What are the Different Types of Bathtubs and Which One is Right for You?

If you are into the luxurious experience of unwinding while cleansing your body thoroughly, you definitely need a bathtub. Nothing beats soaking in warm, fragrant water while pondering over life and melting the stress that accumulated throughout the day.

Much to your delight, there are many kinds of bathtubs to choose from. However, the kind of bathtub that is right for you depends on your specific needs and available bathroom space. In this guide, we will help you find the perfect tub of your dreams!

Different Types of Bathtubs

1. Standard Baths

Standard-sized bathrooms are often ideal for basic bathtubs. These tubs are convenient because they are usually about the same length, width, and height. The standard bathtub has the following dimensions: 1.70 meters by .70 meters or 1.80 meters by .80 meters.

This means that if you ever fancied to replace your tub, finding a replacement with the same dimension will be quite easy. Standard tubs are single ended, which allow just one person to bathe comfortably.

However, if you are over 6 feet tall, you might want to consider getting bigger tubs for you to bathe comfortably. Also, if you’d like to soak your whole body, it is better to get deeper tubs specialized for soaking.

2. Corner Baths

Corner tubs are most commonly installed in compact bathrooms which are less spacious. It is a sensible choice because this tub does not occupy that much of space while providing all the holistic benefits of a fully functional bath. The only downside is that you cannot stretch out your legs.

These tubs often come in two variations: a simple triangular tub tucked in the corner, and an offset corner bathtub. There are also many combinations available, such as whirlpool corner tubs or soaking corner tubs.

They are also offered in right-hand or left-hand options, so these tubs are the ideal solution for space crunches resulting from an odd-shaped or small bathroom.

3. Whirlpool Baths

If you are a fan of luxurious bathing, whirlpool baths are for you. These tubs were once only found in luxury suites in hotels because they were very expensive. Nowadays though, they are much more reasonably priced and easily accessible to all. 

Whirlpool baths are so popular–all thanks to their relaxing properties. It is possible to incorporate different jet options–from water jets, air jets, or even with a combination of air and water.

It also comes with the option to install kinetic lights to create an even more serene and relaxing ambiance. These baths can range from large freestanding hot tubs to compact corner models, which can fit even in the smallest bathrooms.

4. Garden Tub or Free-standing Tub

The Garden tub baths look specially elegant with its rounded frames. If you prefer to have more sitting and reclining space that can soak your whole body, then garden tubs would definitely suit your taste. 

Garden tubs are much larger than standard bathtubs as they often resemble an oval jacuzzi or hot tub rather than a regular bath. These tubs are also always freestanding tubs, which means that there is never a shower-head attachment and the tub is only intended for soaking.

As such, bathrooms with garden tubs almost always have a separate shower area.

5. Inset Baths

If you have a small bathroom but you still want to install a bathtub, then inset tubs are perfect for you. Inset bathtubs–also known as three-wall alcove baths–are often recessed between walls.

With this type of bath, only the ledge displays decorative styles, and the whole bathtub can be concealed. Recessed baths come with built-in nailing flanges and integral bath aprons, which makes them easier to install between three-wall alcoves.

Such a setup is an excellent way to efficiently conserve space in a small bathroom as this achieves more room and elegance through concealed under mound baths.

Moreover, these tubs may also be used for showering when combined with showerhead attachments, which is ideal in smaller bathrooms that do not allow for separate bath and shower. 

6. Steel Baths

Meanwhile, if you are aiming for a heavy-duty and durable bathtub that will last you for decades, steel baths are for you. These bathtubs come with different enamel coatings and offer durability as well as longer heat retention.

Porcelain enamel is a material made by fusing powdered porcelain to a substrate by firing to high temperatures in a kiln. This results in a smooth, durable vitreous coating that is formed on the metal.

Steel enamel is known to offer superior durability and high resistance to breakages and scratches. Hence, you don’t have to worry so much about having it repaired or replaced any time soon.

7. Double Ended

If you and your partner enjoy taking relaxing baths together, getting a double ended bathtub is a great idea. This type of bath can accommodate two people at a time as it has two identical ends for each bather to face the other.

Taking a bath with this luxurious tub is a phenomenal experience because it offers backrests that are inherently designed to be comfortable for two people. The taps of this bath are fitted in the centre of the tub or mounted on the wall.

That way, both bathers could stretch out their legs in the tub and relax comfortably without bumping into taps or other fittings.

8. Shower Baths or Combined-type Baths

Those with small bathrooms but still wish to incorporate a tub will surely find shower baths convenient. As the name suggests, this combines the shower area and the bathtub to save on space while achieving the full bath experience.

Shower baths are typically installed against a wall, and a glass screen is then installed at one end to create an enclosed cubicle so that the water will not splash around the bathroom. It usually comes in different configurations.

It can be in P or L-shaped, or a straight tub with an alcove installation. It can also be a freestanding tub with exposed hardware and a shower ring. This type of bath is versatile enough to allow you to take a bath or a shower as you please. 

9. Walk-in Bathtubs

As the name suggests, you literally walk in on this type of bathtub because it has a door that opens to let the bather get in. These tubs are most often designed for people with mobility issues such as those with physical disabilities or seniors who find it difficult to climb into a regular tub.

Walk-in tubs have doors that open and close very near to the floor. As such, this relieves the problems of lifting and bending legs which may be inflexible or unstable. It also has a seat and an interior rail which provides comfort and stability when soaking and standing up.

In exchange for the ultimate comfort it provides, walk-in bathtubs are quite expensive and they can cost up to $6000 or more. 

What to do When Bathtubs Becomes Rundown? 

Once you’ve finally chosen the right bathtub for you, the next step is to care for it to make it last. However, nothing is permanent in this world so no matter how much you take care of it, the bathtub will eventually look worn out.

You need not worry though, for Wilmington Tub Reglazing offers professional services that can reglaze all types of bathtubs – from cast iron, pressed steels, jacuzzi, shower pans and stalls to porcelain finishes, and even the new fiberglass gel coat tubs!

Give us a call at 302-600-1635 and we will surely restore your bathtub to its former glory.