Tips for choosing the right clawfoot tub to suit your bathroom

If your idea of total luxury is soaking in a bubble bath in a clawfoot tub, it’s time to make this dream a reality. These tubs are certainly standout features in bathroom design and make excellent focal points. You can develop a space around the vintage feel of a clawfoot tub or you can incorporate modern and old-world aspects for a room that’s uniquely you.

There are many considerations that go into choosing the best clawfoot tub to suit your space. Follow these suggestions when purchasing a new clawfoot tub to make sure you find the right fit for you and your bathroom:

Style
Clawfoot tubs come in a variety of styles, the most traditional of which is the classic roll top. It’s square on one end for the faucets and rounded on the other where you rest your head. The slipper tub is similar to the classic but one end is raised for additional neck support (making it ideal if you love reading in the tub!). A double slipper tub has both ends raised, and a double ended tub is rounded on both sides with the faucet placed in the center. This option is useful if you like to switch sides while soaking.

Material
Once you determine what style of clawfoot tub you prefer, you must choose a material. These soakers are traditionally made from cast iron, so opting for this material will have a true classic feel, and this is often the better option if you are also installing a clawfoot tub shower enclosure. Cast iron tubs are incredibly durable and have a long lifespan, so you can be sure that you will get your money’s worth. Keep in mind, though, that cast iron is very heavy, so make sure your floors can withstand the weight.

Another optional is an acrylic clawfoot tub. These are more lightweight, so they’re easier to move and install. Acrylic tubs will be warm to the touch (since they’re not made of metal), which helps the water stay hotter for longer. While it doesn’t quite have the lifespan of cast iron, acrylic is durable and can resist chips, but keep in mind that it can be scratched. Luckily, these are often easily buffed out.

Color
Traditionally, clawfoot tubs are white, but nowadays they come in a variety of colors. Choose a hue that complements your bathroom’s palette or make a real statement with a bold, vibrant shade.

Feet
Another important decision is to decide on the type of feet you prefer for your clawfoot type. Feet come in chrome, brushed, nickel, antique bronze, white or black or brass, among other options. More modern tubs may also forego the traditional feet for a flat bottom.

Faucets
Like the feet, color and design, there are a variety to choose from when it comes to the faucet. First you’ll need to decide if you wanted something that’s wall mounted or a faucet that attaches to the tub. To keep with the vintage theme, you might consider antique brass bathroom faucets. Another option is an oil rubbed bronze bathroom faucet. Whatever faucet style you choose, you’ll want to make sure it complements the the tub’s overall design.