Top 10 best Freestanding Bathtubs products

Freestanding Bathtubs: A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing The Right One

Freestanding bathtubs are now recognized as a luxurious and chic choice for bathrooms, providing a harmonious mix of both practicality and visual allure. These independent installations have gained popularity among homeowners seeking to enhance the design of their bathrooms. Their adaptability, diverse styles, material variations, and installation choices have made them a highly desired inclusion in contemporary interior design. Here's an extensive manual encompassing all the essential information about freestanding bathtubs.

What Are Freestanding Bathtubs?

As their name implies, freestanding bathtubs are independent tubs not affixed to any walls. In contrast to conventional built-in tubs, freestanding tubs sit atop a sturdy base, frequently adorned with a decorative exterior, presenting a sophisticated focal point in a bathroom. Available in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials, they accommodate various design tastes.

Types of Freestanding Bathtubs

There is an array of choices available for freestanding tubs. Material options range from fiberglass, acrylic, cultured marble, solid surface, cast iron, copper, stainless steel, and even cedar. Shapes and features also vary:

• Single- or double-ended tubs: These come with one or two sloped, rounded ends for support. Single-ended tubs have plumbing at one end, while double-ended tubs have it in the middle.
• Slipper tubs: These are shaped like a high-heeled shoe. Options include a single slipper tub with a raised interior at one end for comfortable seating, or a double slipper tub raised at both ends.
• Pedestal tubs: These tubs sit on a base that matches or complements the tub itself.
• Footed (clawfoot) tubs: Supported by four feet, the traditional clawfoot style features feet resembling a claw wrapped around a ball.
• Freestanding corner tubs: Triangular in shape, they have two straight sides fitting into a corner.
• Freestanding tubs with showers: While most bathrooms with freestanding tubs come with a separate shower, you can add a shower feature by installing a circular shower rod to enclose the tub with curtains. This was a common practice with clawfoot tubs before alcove tubs gained popularity.
• Freestanding soaking tubs: These can be round or oval and are notably deep. A Japanese soaking tub might have a smaller footprint and an integrated seat. Despite being shorter, it compensates with its depth, allowing you to sit with water up to your shoulders.
• Freestanding jetted tubs: Equipped with jets providing hydrotherapy.

Freestanding Bathtubs Pros and Cons

Is a freestanding tub a no-brainer investment? Not necessarily. You need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

• It’s a luxury feature that can be affordable.
• A deeper tub makes it easier to have a relaxing soak.
• You have lots of style and material options.

Cons

• Usually more expensive than built-in tubs.
• Require more space and may need additional plumbing considerations.
• Some materials require more maintenance than others.

What To Consider When Shopping For A Freestanding Bathtubs

When shopping for a freestanding bathtub, several key considerations should be taken into account to ensure you select the ideal one for your space. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

Style and Design

Freestanding tubs are available in various designs ranging from classic clawfoot to modern, sleek styles. Consider the aesthetic of your bathroom and choose a design that harmonizes with the overall decor. Classic styles may suit traditional bathrooms, while contemporary designs might complement modern spaces.

Freestanding Tub Sizes

Similar to the diversity in style options, freestanding tubs come in various sizes. They generally possess greater depth compared to alcove tubs and can also differ in length and width. However, it's crucial to ensure the tub's size aligns well with the dimensions of your bathroom. Pay close attention to not choosing a tub that's too narrow in width.

Materials

Freestanding tubs are available in a range of materials, each offering unique characteristics:

• Acrylic: Known for its dependability, lightweight nature, and affordability, acrylic has seen significant improvements in today's design applications. This synthetic plastic retains heat well, providing a comforting warmth, and is highly adaptable for shaping into various forms and designs. Nonetheless, it is prone to scratches and still retains a distinctly plastic feel upon touch.
• Solid Surface: A solid surface bathtub utilizes a composite material that mirrors the durability of stone without being overly heavy. In Australia, freestanding corner baths made from a mix of minerals and resin tend to be more expensive. On the positive side, these tubs offer excellent heat retention and come in striking designs.
• Stone Composite: The most refined stone freestanding bathtubs often feature various formulations, typically comprising an epoxy base and marble granules. These tubs are non-leaching and non-porous. However, the trade-off is that a stone-look bathtub may take longer to warm up.
• Enamelled Steel: Freestanding metal bathtubs in Australia start off naturally cold but rapidly conduct and retain heat throughout the material. Unlike other models, steel tubs keep bathwater hot for a prolonged period. However, caution is required to prevent the dropping of heavy items that may cause abrasions on the surface.

Installation Considerations

Installing a freestanding tub requires careful planning:

• Plumbing: Freestanding tubs often have exposed plumbing, so the location and design should consider this aspect for an aesthetically pleasing setup.
• Space: These tubs need ample space and should be installed with enough room around them for cleaning and maintenance.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The comfort of a freestanding bathtub is crucial. Consider the shape and depth of the tub, as well as the angle of its backrest. Some tubs are designed with ergonomic features to offer a more comfortable bathing experience. Sit in the tub if possible or look for reviews to ensure it meets your comfort preferences.

Budget

Before purchasing a freestanding bathtub, it's essential to establish a budget. Prices can significantly differ depending on the material, brand, and included features. A freestanding tub paired with a floor-mounted faucet might range between $3,000 and $4,500. It's crucial to take into account not just the tub's cost, but also expenses related to installation, plumbing, and potential additional fixtures or accessories.

Maintenance

The maintenance of freestanding tubs depends on the material. Routine cleaning and maintenance, avoiding abrasive cleaners for delicate materials, and regular inspections for any signs of damage are recommended.

Conclusion

Freestanding bathtubs make a remarkable statement in any bathroom, providing both grace and practicality while adding a hint of opulence. They come in an extensive range of styles, materials, and designs, making them adaptable to diverse tastes and decorative motifs. Whether it's the classic charm of a vintage clawfoot tub or the streamlined appeal of a modern design, these bathtubs have the potential to turn a bathroom into a serene and aesthetically captivating area. It's essential to carefully consider factors such as available space, plumbing requirements, material resilience, and design preferences when choosing the ideal freestanding tub for your home.