A Small Clawfoot Bathtub Is Full of Luxury

If you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom, you have some major decisions to make. Do you want a shower, a bathtub or both? If you want a bathtub, you need to check out the different styles of bathtubs available.

The first major decision you need to make is what style of bathtub you want. There are conventional, square, drop-in bathtubs, clawfoot jetted tubs, ofuro or soaking tubs, small clawfoot bathtubs, whirlpool tubs with either air or water jets.

Are you confused yet? In addition to styles, you will need to decide if you want cast iron, acrylic or fiberglass.

While the small clawfoot bathtubs of yesteryear made out of cast iron have a certain charm about them and are very durable, they are porous; they stain; and, over time, the cast iron could rust or crack. Cast iron tubs are also very heavy and expensive. You should consider if your floor sturdy enough to support cast iron or should you go with a lighter acrylic tub?

Small clawfoot bathtubs are also made of acrylic and are lighter in weight, warm and smooth to the touch, non-porous and clean easily with a warm, soapy cloth. These tubs can be scratched and may dull over time. Acrylic clawfoot tubs combine the charm and romance of yesterday with the contemporary functionality of todays tubs.

The ofuro is a Japanese type of bathtub for soaking that is deeper and has more square wells, so that you are sitting upright on a seat rather than lying on a slope.

There are several small clawfoot bathtubs to choose from, including the roll top rim tub, which has style and sophistication and would make a classic centerpiece for your new bathroom.

The double-ended tubs are rounded on both ends with the faucet located in the center of the side or you may find the slipper tubs to your liking. They have an extended backrest, which is great for soaking.

Last, but not least, is the pedestal style. Instead of the claw feet, the bathtub sits on a matching base. You will need to decide on the style of foot, if you decide to go with a clawfoot.

Now you need to consider size, hole placement and material. After you have that decided, you need to select the type of faucet or shower enclosure, and the drain and supply lines in a matching finish.

There are also other accessories you can add like grab bars, towel racks. Mood lights, in line water heaters, massage jets, whirlpools, pillows and slip-resistant surfaces.

Go ahead, remodel and have fun with it!