Choosing the right freestanding bathtub for your bathroom can be a difficult task. Selecting the perfect bathtub for your home means considering how the type, shape, material and style of different bathtubs will affect the bathroom space of your home.
Many homeowners may feel overwhelmed by a lack of knowledge and an abundance of choices, but just a touch of insight could help ease the process and have you secure the right freestanding bathtub in no time. Let’s look into some key factors to consider when selecting freestanding bathtubs.
Read more to discover the most important factors to think about in your search for the best freestanding tubs.
Different Types of Freestanding Bathtubs
When choosing the best freestanding bathtub for your bathroom, there are a few tub types you should look at. With different shapes, styles and functions, there are four main bathtub types you need to know about.
Double-Ended Bathtubs
Double-ended tubs are the best freestanding bathtubs for those wanting a larger space to bathe. Often considered one of the most comfortable freestanding tubs, double-ended tubs feature slopes on both ends. This provides the ultimate relaxation experience, as your back will be supported no matter which side you sit on.
To emphasize this, These bathtubs are designed with the tap and drain in the centre rather than on the side. This allows you to relax on either end of the bathtub without worrying about bumping your back against the tap.
Clawfoot Bathtubs
A clawfoot bathtub is a freestanding tub with four pegs directly underneath each corner. Traditionally, these pegs are designed with a claw form – thereby lending it the name.
Their vintage design gives any bathroom an elegant, eclectic aesthetic that brings charm to any bathroom. Its luxurious feel makes the clawfoot the best freestanding tub for anyone wanting a classic design that fits almost any bathroom layout.
Pedestal Bathtubs
As a modern take on the classic clawfoot bathtub, the pedestal bathtub uses plinths or pedestals to rise above the ground. Coming in various shapes and sizes, the versatility of a pedestal tub gives you more aesthetic freedom than a more traditional option.
Pedestal bathtubs are the perfect alternative for anyone wanting the classic feel of a clawfoot without the extra maintenance of needing to clean underneath the freestanding tub.
Slipper Bathtubs
Slipper bathtubs are well-known for their rising sides that provide a deeper, more relaxing soak. The back support provided by these rising sides puts them in competition with double-ended tubs for the title of “most comfortable soaking tub”.
While most tubs come in different bathtub shapes, slipper bathtubs are most commonly oval. As opposed to a rectangular shape, the oval design emphasizes the comfort and ergonomics provided by the rising sides – making a round form the most comfortable bathtub shape.
While you may not have many different bath shapes to choose from for your slipper tub, they are available in both single-slipper and double-slipper options. Double slipper bathtubs have two rising sides on either end of the tub, while single slippers only have one rising side.
Single slippers often have the tap and drain on the opposite end of the slipper, while double slippers place the plumbing in the centre of the bathtub.
Freestanding Tub Materials
Deciding on the best freestanding soaking tub for your bathroom includes choosing the best material for your bath. Between ergonomic features, maintenance and design styles, there are many factors to consider when it comes to tub materials.
Stone Resin Bathtubs
Stone resin bathtubs combine the best features of cast iron and acrylic freestanding tubs in one product. Stone resin is the best choice for longevity, comfort and great heat retention.
These modern freestanding tubs are easy to care for due to their non-porous surface – meaning you don’t have to worry about mold or discoloration. Stone resin freestanding bathtubs fit well into any bathroom aesthetic and layout with their sleek and luxurious finish.
If you’re seeking a comfortable bath that offers both longevity and elegance, a stone resin freestanding tub might be the perfect bathtub for you. Hansel Stone creates bathtubs made from European-sourced mineral composite — products that will bring luxury and comfort into your bathroom for many years to come.
Acrylic Bathtubs
One of the most common materials you will find in bathtubs is acrylic. Its resistance to chipping makes this material easy to maintain over long periods. The versatility and flexibility of acrylic as a material allow for a variety of colors and shapes to be incorporated into the design of a bathtub.
Acrylic is often inexpensive compared to other materials, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. However, its lower price often reflects its less-than-ideal material quality. While the price might be right in the short term, these tubs might not stand the test of time.
Ultimately, acrylic is a fitting choice for anyone looking for a versatile and cost-effective freestanding bathtub.
Cast Iron Bathtubs
Cast iron tubs often have a higher price tag, but this is not without reason. These freestanding bathtubs have excellent heat retention compared to other materials – allowing you to bathe for longer in hotter water.
Cast iron is also ultra scratch resistant, offering extra durability against scrapes, scratches and other damages. These freestanding tubs are susceptible to staining, so you’ll have to take extra care to keep them in top shape.
Bring your dream bathroom to life with a luxe stone resin bathtub from Hansel Stone. Contact us today to discover how our high-quality bathtubs can upgrade your bathtimes.
FAQs About Freestanding Bathtubs
If you’re still curious about buying a freestanding bathtub, read our answers to some common questions below.
How are freestanding tubs different from built-in tubs?
Built-in bathtubs often come with a strenuous installation process that requires many construction and contracting experts. On the other hand, freestanding bathtubs have a relatively painless installation process.
While built-in baths are limited to and secured in one position, modern freestanding tubs of different sizes can be placed almost anywhere with adequate space and easy access. A built-in tub is commonly placed against a wall in most bathrooms. As an increasingly popular choice, a freestanding tub can be placed in the centre of the bathroom without much difficulty.
This freedom of placement allows you to get creative with your bathroom layout. Ultimately, freestanding tubs open up a wide range of possibilities for you to create a space that suits your unique needs.
Can freestanding bathtubs increase the value of a property?
Many real estate experts would agree that having a luxe bathtub in your home could considerably increase the overall value of your property. More specifically, a well-maintained and high-quality bathtub can easily up the value of your house for potential buyers and real estate agents.
While showers are great for day-to-day use, having a bathtub in your home adds versatility and luxury to any bathroom setup. This is very attractive to potential buyers looking to maximize their choices and overall functionality in their future homes.
How long do freestanding bathtubs last?
The lifespan of your bathtub depends on how well it is maintained and the quality of the material. If you don’t regularly clean and maintain your tub, you can expect to knock a few years off of its total lifespan. This is exacerbated if you opt for a low-cost, low-quality bath.
However, choosing a high-quality option, like a stone resin tub, will ensure that your bath stays in good condition for decades. The longevity of a premium-quality bath can be extended if it is well taken care of and given regular cleaning.
Hansel Stone: Masterfully Crafted Luxury Freestanding Bathtubs
At Hansel Stone, we are committed to crafting luxurious freestanding bathtubs that uphold environmental protection. We use eco-friendly manufacturing practices to create luxurious bathware that uses 100% renewable energy.
Made from premium stone resin, our freestanding bathtubs are durable, elegant and ergonomically designed. Our high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship will have you indulging in relaxation with ease and peace of mind.
Choosing from our beautiful collection of stone resin baths will elevate your bathroom and give the space that extra element of luxury and comfort that you’ve been searching for.
Bathe and relax in luxury and find the best freestanding tubs for your bathroom at Hansel Stone. Contact us now to add elegance to your space with our collection of premium stone resin baths.