In today’s busy world, the simple act of taking a bath is one of life’s little luxuries.
Whether you’re an adult looking for a me-time escape, or a parent looking for somewhere to get those little ones squeaky clean, the perfect bath can make all the difference.
These days though, as with most things, choice is abundant, and it’s important to consider your own specific needs, along with space allocations and budget constraints, when choosing which bath is right for you.
Budget
A quality bathtub that is properly installed is a worthy investment that will continue to give you and your family hours of splashable fun and blissful relaxation time for many years.
Your budget will no doubt determine the size and type of the bathtub that you can afford, however it’s worth spending a little more money if you can, as you probably won’t be replacing it in a hurry!
Don’t forget budgeting for a new bathtub also includes not just the tub but the cost of plumbing, fittings and installation as well. All in all, it’s not a cheap exercise, however if it’s constructed well and properly installed, it’s definitely a worthy investment.
Styles
The styles and features of bathtubs can vary enormously, but some of the most common are:
- Recessed or alcove bathtubs
Recessed or alcove baths are the kind of tub the majority of us are most familiar with. Usually installed against a wall on two or three sides, this type of bath is the most common variety and is found in the vast majority of Australian households. These baths are often found with showers over them.
- Drop in bathtubs
A drop-in bath is one that's designed to either drop into a cavity in the floor or a raised platform for a flush finish. These types of baths can be quite aesthetically appealing but depending on how they're designed, they can also be tricky to get out of.
- Freestanding bathtubs
Freestanding baths, in the simplest sense, are those that don’t connect to any walls for support. This is where some of the most innovative ideas in bathtub design have been allowed to grow in recent years resulting in the use of a variety of unconventional shapes, materials and themes.
- Corner bathtubs
Corner baths are triangular in shape and are designed to fit into a corner like a wedge. These sorts of tubs may be a good solution when space is limited and a regularly shaped tub isn't practical. Corner tubs are often enhanced with air jets, turning them into whirlpool baths.
Materials
Bathtubs can be manufactured with a range of materials to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some pros and cons to consider for the more common types:
- Cast iron
Extremely durable, cast-iron baths are baths for life. They also keep the water warm for longer, as the heat transfers to the iron. The only downside is the weight, which makes them unsuitable for certain spaces, such as apartment and upstairs bathrooms.
- Acrylic
Generally the most budget-friendly option, acrylic baths are also lightweight, so ideal for second floors and apartments. They do require gentle cleaning as they can scratch easily.
- Steel enamel
Colder to the touch than acrylic, steel enamel makes up for chilly first impressions by keeping the bath warm for longer. It is very durable and difficult to chip too.
- Stone or composite
Epitomising pure luxury, stone and composite baths are also durable and great at retaining heat. On the downside, stone tubs are very heavy on both your floors and your pocket.
Extra Considerations
When thinking about your bathtub’s functionality don’t forget to consider your households needs. Some bathtubs are multi-functional (used to clean yourself, the kids and the dog!), while others focus on indulgence. Your bathtub’s primary use should dictate your selection, which will ultimately determine what works best for your home.
On a final note, you may not live at your current address forever so don’t forget to consider what may work for potential buyers in the future. Depending on the type of property you live in, a large family with younger children will have different needs to that of a retiree who may need to consider mobility issues.
As a general rule Richardson & Wrench have found that for family homes, at least one bathtub is still a desirable and preferred option, whereas in a one or two bedroom property a bathtub is viewed upon as an added luxury.