Guide to Choosing a New Bathtub

By Susan M. Keenan

Whether you are looking for the ultimate soaking experience or for a simple and basic washing location, an entire array of bathtubs awaits your decision. Several practical factors come into play when choosing a new bathtub. How much space do you have for it? What do you want it to provide? How much money can you afford to spend? Are you concerned with the resale value of your home?

Today's choices have far outreached the choices of the past when colors began to emerge onto the bathtub scene. Today's bathtubs are for more than simple washing. Discover the various models of bathtubs before you make your decision.

Standard Bathtub. The standard bathtub is generally an inexpensive investment. Typically, it sits upon the floor, is attached to the wall, and is often located in a corner of the room. Fortunately, the standard bathtub is offered in a variety of colors.

Soft Bathtub. The soft bathtub offers a totally unique experience with its soft cushioning. As you add water to this bathtub, you create an even softer environment that lends itself to total relaxation. Its non-slippery surface helps to prevent accidents.

Two Person Tubs. Although a two person tub takes up a lot more space and uses more water, it also offers the opportunity for romantic encounters. If you elect to purchase a two person bathtub, you need to think about the size of your hot water tank first. Is it large enough?

Realize that if you completely fill the bathtub, at least two thirds of that will be hot water. Find out what the capacity of the tub is before you purchase it. If your hot water tank does not have a large enough capacity to provide the sufficient amount of water, you will need to do one of three things: purchase a new and larger hot water heater, purchase a smaller bathtub, or purchase a tankless heater that services only the bathtub.

Sok Bath. The Sok bath comes to us from Kohler and features the distinctively unique idea of chromatherapy. In addition to offering an extremely deep bathing space, it also offers the ability to add a bit of color to your bathing experience. With a simple touch of a finger, you can select from among an entire spectrum of colors to enhance the atmosphere while bathing. The colors create moods that range from soothing and calming to invigorating and exhilarating.

If you are considering a Sok bathtub, you will need to ensure a few things first. Most importantly, you need to refer to your state's guidelines for electrical wiring, as well as following the guidelines set forth by the manufacturer. Also, you need to check on the space you have available.

Claw Foot Bathtubs. A claw foot bathtub is probably one of those things that you either love or hate. However, one of the benefits of a claw foot tub is the soft and soothing nature of its curves. Unlike the boxy style of the more common bathtubs, the softness of the claw foot's curves are often more comfortable. Additionally, repairs are generally easy to accomplish due to the exposure of the pipes.

Jetted Tubs. If you are thinking along the lines of a whirlpool tub, then you need to decide whether you want air jets or water jets. The water jets have fewer openings, but present a much stronger blast. The air jets have smaller, although more numerous, openings that present less vigorous blasts of water.

Currently, a larger variety of whirlpool tubs exist with water jets. However, the air jetted tubs are quieter and offer the opportunity to add bubble bath, scented oils, and sea slats unlike their water jetted counterparts. This type of bathtub will invariably be the most expensive.

Guidelines at a Glance:

Check that you electrical panel has sufficient space for the type of circuit that you need.
If you purchase a tub with jets, make sure that the jets are located where they will provide the most benefit to the area of your body that needs it.
Make sure that the area where you plan to place your bathtub is sufficient.

To make the most of whatever bathtub you select, consider the décor of the room carefully. Consider your color combinations. Add mood lighting. Select something comfortable. The perfect bathtub in the perfect setting can provide hours of relaxation.