With so many different types and styles of bathtubs available nowadays, choosing one which is perfect for you can get pretty confusing indeed. It is not just a matter of choosing the right color to go with your bathroom, or ensuring that the style is correct; but a whole lot more. To help you in this regard, we have put together this article that will show you exactly how to go about choosing a bathtub.



1) Features and functionality: Before going from store to store looking at different tubs, make sure you know what all you need the bathtub for, besides regular bathing of course. Different bathtubs have different features and functions, so make sure you will use all the features of a particular tub. For example, whirlpool tubs can tempt anyone as they look so comfortable and fascinating and you may end up buying one simply due to the novelty of the jets. However, will you really be using those jets? Can you justify the increased electricity expense and extra water wastage? If not, stay away from the whirlpool tub and buy one that has features which are more in keeping with your needs.

2) Size of the bathtub: Choosing a tub that is too small for you will mean that you cannot fit into it and will not be able to utilize it completely. On the other hand, picking one that is way too big will mean that you are increasing your water usage unnecessarily. So you see, it is essential that you buy a bathtub that is the right size for you, neither way too large nor way too small.

When you are considering the size of the tub, also determine whether you want a one person tub or two person tub. Some people buy a large tub thinking that the added room will allow for two people to bathe at the same time. However, that is not how it works. If you want to share your bath time with another person, go for a two person tub and not a large one person tub.

3) Color and style: The color of a bathtub may not increase its functionality, but is an important consideration as the tub has to match the rest of your bathroom fixtures and accessories. Same goes for the design and style of the bathtub. A bathtub that is of a different style than your sink or toilet may look very out of place. As far as colors go cream and white are the regular options, but different hues of blue, pink, brown, green, and maroon are also available to match your dcor. Rectangle, corner tubs, heart shaped, and oval are your choices as far as bathtub shape goes.

4) Material of the bathtub: It is important to look at the construction materials of bathtubs, as their strength, durability, and ease of maintenance depends on that. Different materials used to make bathtubs are - Acrylic, Marble, Porcelain tubs, Wood, Cast iron tubs, and Fiberglass. A fiberglass bath tub is quite an inexpensive buy but is less durable than cast iron or porcelain bath tubs. Cast iron tubs will practically last you for generations but can be very pricey also. As far as looks go, nothing can beat wood and marble bathtubs, but these are extremely difficult to maintain and keep clean. Thus, depending on what your topmost priorities are (durability, strength, looks, cost etc), you should choose a construction material accordingly.

5) Soaking or standard: A bathtub is fast becoming very popular with people because of its therapeutic value. By soaking in a hot water bath, you can give relief to tired muscles and also relieve painful cramps. A good soak can even help to reduce your blood pressure as well as lower your stress levels, both of which bode very well for your heart. Thus, if you are looking to take advantage of the therapeutics involved with bath tubs, you should look for a soaking tub and not a regular one. Soaking tubs are deeper than regular models, whereby a person can soak their entire body comfortably and not just the lower part of their body.

6) Special Requirements: Bathtubs have traditionally not been very user friendly if you are old or handicapped. Getting in and out of bathtubs can be dangerous for people with such special needs, and there is also a danger of slipping and hurting yourself. However, with ADA compliant bathtubs, you need not worry about all this anymore. ADA tubs are manufactured such that entry and exit is extremely easy and they also offer protection from slip and fall accidents due to the presence of grab bars and grab rails. Thus, if you or any family members have special requirements, do consider buying an ADA tub.

Thus, after considering the above factors, you can shortlist a few bathtubs for your home. Your final decision should only be made after actually testing the tub by laying in it. This way, you can gauge that the size is absolutely right and your neck, back and limbs are adequately supported.

Hopefully, this guide will help you to choose a bathtub that is right for you and your family.