Bathtubs |
The centerpiece of any home spa is the bathtub. This is where the journey to relaxation and tranquility takes place, the vehicle that transports us away from the stress and anxiety of everyday life. Showers are fine as a way to get clean, especially in the morning when most people are in a hurry to get off to work or other activities, but nothing beats a long soaking bath in a bathtub after a long hard day at the office (or with the kids).
Modern bathtubs come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and functions. They are also divided into two main categories - freestanding bathtubs and "built it" bathtubs. Most modern homes come with the built-in variety, but more and more people are turning back the clock to freestanding tubs as a way to add class and distinction to their bathrooms and home spas.
Freestanding bathtubs are defined as tubs that aren't permanently attached to the wall or floor. Almost everyone's been in an older home that has a "claw foot" bathtub in one of the bathrooms. Not only are freestanding tubs more elegant and distinctive then built-in tubs, they also make re-arranging your bathroom a much easier process. Do keep in mind that freestanding bathtubs take up more floor space than built-in tubs, and may not be practical in a smaller bathroom.
Types of bathtubsAmong these two main categories, there are an almost infinite variety of bathtub sub-categories to choose from. From freestanding pedestal tubs to built-in whirlpool tubs to everything in between. So here's a quick list of the various types of bath tubs available today.
Bathtubs by material of manufacture
There are almost as many materials used to make bath tubs as their are bathtub designs. Many older tubs are steel with an enamel coating. You can also get a tube made from wood, fiberglass, and acrylic. Acrylic tubs have become quite popular in recent years, due to their durability, and the fact that the color is molded right into the acrylic, it's not a finish that can chip or wear off over time. If you want a heavy freestanding bathtub, then you should probably go with a steel claw-foot design that will be a stylish addition to your master bathroom. If wood is your thing, however, then mahogany is probably you're best choice, and will give your bathroom home spa a clean, elegant look.
Bathtubs by design and shape
Clawfoot
This is the classic bathtub installed in countless homes and apartments over the years. These tubs get their name from the claws that form their legs. These tubs were very popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and are returning into vogue as people look for a classic, retro theme for their bathrooms. Clawfoot tubs were originally iron with a enamel or porcelain finish, but today you can get one in fiberglass as well.
Drop-in Bathtubs
These are tubs that are built right into the floor, or "sunken" bathtubs. With this design, there are is no exterior portion to the tub, the entire unit is encased in the floor. They can also be mounted on a raised platform that makes entry easier.
Alcove Bathtubs
Alcoves are a type of built-in tub that is enclosed on three sides, with one side open for entry and exit. These tubs save a lot of floor space in your bathroom.
Pedestal Bathtub
This is essentially an offshoot of the standard clawfoot, usually constructed in an oval shape. The front side of the tub is straight, but then it slopes up at the back of the tub. They also have a base or "pedestal" to rest on, hence the name. These type of tubs can be filled to a deeper level than other tubs, and faucets are typically installed in either wall or on the floor.
Whirlpool Bathtubs
There was rage of these during 1960s and 70s in USA but now also whirlpools are quiet popular. It now popular with the name 'jacuzzi'. Air bubbles keep refreshing the water
and give very soft massage thus this is really very relaxing type of bathtub.
Get Organized With Vertical Storage Cubbies - most bathrooms have a lot of horizontal counter space, but items start to pile over time and counters can start to look cluttered.
One solution is to add a vertical storage cubbie with 20 to 24 compartments. Many small bath items can displayed in an organized manner, leaving your valuable counter space for more important things like soap and washcloths.