Bathtubs for the bathroom: varieties, characteristics and photos

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In the past, bathtubs for a bathroom were selected solely by size (based on practical considerations). However, today there are several criteria that buyers of these products pay attention to. In addition to the dimensions, the material used to make the bathtub, as well as its shape, is very important. Many products are equipped with special hydromassage equipment, which also differs in its characteristics.

Modern bathroom models allow you to beautifully arrange your bathroom and comfortably take bath procedures

Types of bathtubs for bathrooms

Having a spacious bathroom makes choosing a bath much easier. But in the modern world, small-sized apartments with small bathrooms of standard sizes are much more common. When choosing a bathtub for a room with limited space, you need to study all the nuances and tricks that will allow you to select equipment of the minimum size without losing comfort.

Freestanding bathroom models require a large amount of free space in the room

Before buying a bathtub, you need to pay attention to 4 main parameters:

• product dimensions;
• form;
• material of manufacture;
• the presence of hydromassage or its absence.

Asymmetrical elegant bathtubs can decorate any interior style

All these factors make it easier to choose this plumbing equipment. Lastly, you need to decide on the color of the bathtub, as well as auxiliary decorative elements. You can find common bathtub models on the Internet. There you can select certain equipment and buy it. What are the most popular bathrooms today?

The bathtub can be equipped with comfortable headrests

Today, acrylic models of standard sizes are very popular among consumers. This material has good technical characteristics and is quite cheap. A lot depends on the material from which the bathtub is made: installation time and complexity, water cooling rate, as well as service life.

Note! Although cast iron products are losing popularity every year, they have the longest shelf life. It is also difficult to leave scratches or other damage on such models.

Acrylic white bathtubs are considered the most popular models for furnishing interiors in a modern style.

The design of the bathtub is also an important selection criterion. The design of the bath can be very different. Many companies sell products that are equipped with handles (for convenience), mirrors and other auxiliary elements. The choice of color scheme for the bowl depends entirely on the taste preferences of the apartment owner and the characteristics of the specific bathroom interior.

Despite the fact that deep bathtubs are not as popular as conventional models, this type of bowl is very convenient to use.

Cast iron bathtubs - features and tips for choosing

Models made of cast iron have recently lost their popularity. This is due to the development of industry and the introduction of new materials into production that have better characteristics at the same price. But, nevertheless, cast iron models are still in certain demand. Cast iron products do not have a wide range of models. On the market you can find cast iron bathtubs of the following shape:

• rectangular;
• ovoid (oval).

Cast iron bathtubs are very susceptible to aggressive cleaning agents, so the choice of chemicals for cleaning such a bowl should be approached with care.

Cast iron bathtubs are heavy, which makes them difficult to transport and install. Depending on the dimensions, there are models weighing from 70 to 200 kg. Caring for such models eliminates the use of abrasive cleaners that can damage the enamel.

The main advantage of such a bath is its low thermal conductivity coefficient. The temperature of heated water in this design decreases by about 5-10°C in 1 hour. They are also quite durable and have good noise insulation properties when drawing water. The cast iron model is one of the most affordable today, in terms of cost.

Cast iron bathtubs can have a wide variety of external designs, which allows them to be used to decorate any interior.

How to choose cast iron bathtubs?

When choosing a product from this material, experts advise paying attention to the quality of the enamel. The enamel coating must be solid, without any visible defects (chips, cracks, roughness, etc.).

Beautiful copper bathtub with mosaic design

When installing such a structure, it is necessary to pay special attention to the material from which the floor is made. Experts strongly advise against installing a cast-iron model in a room that has wooden beams. This is due to the large weight of the cast iron structure.

Modern cast iron models can be equipped with hydromassage equipment, which significantly affects their cost. The price of such a bath can reach 150 thousand rubles. Less technologically advanced models are available in the price range from 30 to 50 thousand rubles.

Water in a cast iron bathtub cools more slowly than in bowls made of other materials

The size of cast iron bathtubs is the main parameter that influences their choice. Depending on the dimensions, there are three types of these products:

• small baths (length 120 or 130 cm and width 70 cm);
• standard (length 140 or 150 cm, width 70 cm);
• large (bathtub length – 170, 180 or 185 cm, and width – 70, 85 cm).

For small spaces, it is recommended to purchase corner cast iron bathtubs. This model will save the usable area of ​​the room.

Related article:

Acrylic bathtub: sizes, shapes and overview of popular products

How to choose the right size product for the bathroom. Popular manufacturers and models of bathtubs. Price policy.

Steel baths - an alternative to cast iron

If you pay attention to the performance characteristics of steel bathtubs, they are most reminiscent of acrylic models. However, they are positioned as an alternative to cast iron structures. Among the advantages of steel products are: low weight (30-40 kg), affordable cost, and a fairly long service life. With normal use, a steel bathtub can last 25 to 30 years.

The shape and size of the bathtub should suit the chosen bathroom interior

Helpful information! In order to retain heat in a structure made of this material, it is recommended to use the principle of a closed space under the bathtub. It must be filled with inexpensive thermal insulation material, which will extend the cooling time of the water. Conventional polyurethane foam is also suitable for these purposes.

Rectangular bathtubs with clear geometry are suitable for decorating rooms in high-tech and minimalist style

The main disadvantage of steel models is their high thermal conductivity coefficient. Such a bath loses heat very quickly. The noise insulation qualities of the steel model are also very weak.

The light weight of the steel structure requires reliable fixation so that the bath does not move from its place during operation.

When purchasing a steel bathtub, it is important to consider that this structure is quite heavy

Based on their shape, the following types of steel structures are distinguished:

• rectangular;
• ovoid (oval);
• corner;
• round.

A steel bathtub usually has adjustable legs, which is very convenient when installing the structure itself and the screen to it

Steel models are often equipped with additional elements necessary to increase comfort of use. Such elements include: armrests, handrails, hydromassage equipment. The coating applied to steel can be enamel or modern polymers. The cost of such baths is usually the lowest.

A steel bathtub can always be updated with an acrylic liner

Acrylic bathtub - a modern option for the bathroom

Acrylic models occupy the largest niche in the plumbing equipment market. Their popularity is due to their reasonable cost, good technical characteristics, and variety of models. The range of acrylic bathtubs is incredibly wide, which allows you to choose the necessary model for a specific case. They differ in size, shape, and color.

Acrylic bathtubs are quite easy to install, as they have a folding design consisting of a bowl, pedestal and screen

Acrylic bathtubs are lightweight. The weight of such products ranges from 15 to 20 kg, which greatly simplifies their installation. Various manufacturers provide a guarantee of 7 to 15 years for such bathtubs.

Which baths are best to choose? Acrylic products are manufactured using two main technologies. The table below shows two types of acrylic structures, depending on the manufacturing technology, as well as their main characteristics and differences.

According to their shape, the following types of acrylic structures are distinguished:

• rectangular;
• ovoid (oval);
• round;
• drop baths;
• multifaceted options.

Modern acrylic bathtubs come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes.

Compact drop-shaped bathtubs deserve special attention. They are great for small spaces and can minimize the loss of space in a small room. There are different sizes of small bathtubs. Prices and photos of these products can be studied using manufacturers' catalogs.

Acrylic models have an attractive appearance, which is an important factor determining their popularity. The low thermal conductivity of acrylic material does not allow water to cool quickly. Acrylic has good sound insulation.

Acrylic bathtubs can be equipped with hydromassage, aromatherapy and self-cleaning functions

Where to buy bathtubs for bathrooms and operating tips

You can purchase a bathtub for your bathroom both in a construction hypermarket and in a specialized store. You can also choose and buy this plumbing product on the market. If necessary, you can order a bath online using the search bar of any browser.

For small bathrooms, you can use deep round or oval bathtubs

The use of acrylic models requires compliance with certain operating rules. Chemicals used to care for your bathroom require careful selection. The use of abrasive products is not recommended. Experts also advise not to place various containers in the bathtub. This applies not only to metal basins, but also to products made from plastic.

Important! Acrylic is a material that is very sensitive to high temperatures. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the water temperature when filling the bath. The surface of the acrylic structure can melt at a temperature of 160 °C.

Example of a built-in acrylic bathtub with a ceramic tile screen

If defects occur on the acrylic surface, you can eliminate them yourself. To do this, you need to use a special polish, which can be found in any specialized store.

Quarryl bathtubs for bathrooms

Quarrylic products are made from a mixture of acrylic material and quartz. Such bathtubs have high technical characteristics and aesthetics. Let's consider the main advantages of quaril models:

• good resistance to mechanical stress (impact);

Quaril baths are quite resistant to mechanical damage

• noiselessness;
• low thermal conductivity coefficient;
• high hygiene;
• large selection of shapes.

They weigh more than their acrylic counterparts. This is due to the fact that quartz sand is added to the quartz composition.

Quaryl bathtubs, as well as their acrylic counterparts, are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes

Due to the acrylic component, the quarryl bath can be deformed as a result of exposure to high temperatures. Therefore, it is not recommended to fill such models with too hot water.

For the manufacture of quaril baths, the casting method is used. The forms used in the production process can be very different. The color range of such bathtubs is usually represented by pastel colors, but there are also radical colors (for example, black). The smallest bathtub of this type is 120 cm long, and the largest is 180 cm.

Quaril baths can be equipped with additional hydromassage functions, but such models are much more expensive than regular ones

The main distinguishing feature of the quaryl structure is its functionality. Most models of such bathtubs include hydro and air massage equipment, armrests and headrests. Some designs feature built-in radios and other high-tech options. The presence of such functionality is reflected in the cost of this product.

It is necessary to choose a bathroom taking into account the physical parameters of the users

Ceramic bathtubs – exclusive products

Ceramic bathtub models are among the least common. This is due to their high cost, as well as fragility. From a practical point of view, such bathtubs are not leading in the sanitary equipment market.

Let's consider the main advantages of ceramics:

• low thermal conductivity coefficient;
• noiselessness;
• long service life.

Ceramic bathtubs are quite fragile, so they are often decorated externally using other materials such as steel, copper or mosaic tiles

The disadvantages of ceramics include:

• high price;
• heavy weight;
• poor resistance to mechanical stress (shocks).

Due to the fragility of ceramic sanitary equipment, its transportation and installation is complicated. Most often, ceramics are made to order for a specific interior.

A designer bathtub of an unusual shape can be purchased to order or at exhibitions

Artificial stone baths

Products made from natural stone look expensive and elegant. This model can decorate any bathroom interior. To make a structure from artificial stone, several components are used, including: soft filler, a binder (polymethyl acrylate), and stone chips.

Bathtubs made from unusual materials can rarely be found in regular stores, so before purchasing, it is better to familiarize yourself with the options in online catalogs

Plumbing equipment made from artificial stone has high technical characteristics. Even natural stone cannot compete with artificial material.

Note! Many manufacturers call artificial stone products environmentally friendly. However, this is not quite true. Acrylic resins included in such baths are capable of releasing chemical compounds.

Creating and installing a bathtub made of natural stone is not only a costly undertaking, but also quite lengthy.

Such products have a number of positive qualities:

• high strength characteristics, shock resistance;
• good ductility coefficient;
• relatively weak thermal conductivity (lower than that of bathtubs made of natural stone);
• noiselessness.

A marble bathtub can beautifully complement a classic-style bathroom

Let's look at the main disadvantages of bathtubs made of artificial stone:

• high price;
• large mass;
• poor environmental friendliness.

Products made of artificial stone can additionally be equipped with hydro and air massage equipment. Today, such bathtubs have a wide range of colors, which allows them to expand their operational area.

Unusual bathtubs made from rare materials are used to decorate exclusive bathroom interiors

Bathtubs for the bathroom made of natural stone and exotic materials

Models made from natural stone are distinguished by the largest weight and high cost. They are used very rarely, usually for exclusive bathrooms. Installing such models is considered a complex and responsible task, and therefore requires highly qualified specialists. Artificial and metal structures are superior in technical characteristics to sanitary equipment made of natural stone.

Baths made of artificial stone can release toxins, so when purchasing such a product it is important to pay attention to quality certificates

Bathtubs made of marble are very popular. They are very expensive, however, they are very aesthetic and are often used as interior decoration. Due to the large mass of such products, they have sound insulation properties.

Today you can find plumbing equipment made from a variety of materials. Various companies produce bathtubs from non-standard, exotic materials, such as:

• tree;
• glass;
• concrete.

Beautiful wooden bathtub

Wooden structures look the most impressive and can decorate any interior. However, in the case of such designs, a certain pattern can be traced - you have to pay for style with technical characteristics. Often, bathtubs made from exotic materials go well with mirrors.

The advantages of wooden baths include:

• environmental friendliness;
• a pleasant natural scent that enhances the relaxation effect when taking a bath.

When choosing a bathtub, it is important to consider its dimensions and the placement of communications.

Glass and wooden models have many disadvantages. The main disadvantage of such structures is considered to be a high thermal conductivity coefficient. The water in such baths cools down very quickly. Plumbing equipment made from exotic materials is large in size.

The dimensions of bathrooms in which such structures are installed significantly exceed standard indicators.

Wooden baths are often used as an element of a sauna or bathhouse as a font

Helpful information! Wooden, glass and concrete models have other disadvantages. Glass is very fragile, which makes storage, transportation and installation difficult. Wood has poor resistance to moisture. Concrete models are characterized by large mass and poor performance characteristics.

Porcelain

Porcelain bathtubs are made from cast iron or pressed steel, which is then coated with a layer of porcelain enamel. This material is made by fusing powdered glass onto a thin substrate by heating it at high temperatures, typically 750 to 850°C. After this, the coating melts and hardens.

pros

Porcelain bathtubs retain a pleasant shine and gloss. Their surfaces are very smooth, replicating the aesthetics of old antiques. The bathtub coating is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. A mild detergent or baking soda with warm water will usually remove any type of stain on a porcelain bathtub.

Minuses

Unfortunately, despite the shine and shine, porcelain bathtubs are actually quite slippery, and there is a high risk of falling. Porcelain does not retain heat very well, causing the water in the bath to cool quickly. Durability is also a tricky topic because porcelain is scratch-resistant, but the material itself can't withstand heavy impacts, which can cause chips and cracks.

Bathtub sizes for bathrooms

Modern bathtubs are made from different materials and can have a wide variety of shapes. Thanks to the wide range of these products, anyone can choose the necessary model that will fit the size of a specific room.

An almost unlimited variety of shapes and sizes greatly simplifies the process of choosing a bathtub for the consumer. The following bath options are distinguished by shape:

• rectangular;
• oval;

Modern bath in Art Nouveau style

• round;
• corner;
• sessile.

Features of classic rectangular and oval bathtubs

For rectangular models, any materials can be used. The most common rectangular bathtubs are acrylic and cast iron. The standard length of the rectangular structure is 180 cm. The width of the standard bathtubs is 80 cm.

The bathtub can be equipped with comfortable handles and doors for showering

Classic rectangular models are best suited for standard, small-sized rooms. Rectangular structures can have a length from 120 to 180 cm. The width of bathtubs of this type varies from 70 to 80 cm.

Oval models are distinguished by their laconic and soft shapes, which are excellent for relaxation. Such structures are in most cases equipped with hydromassage equipment. There are also products with built-in air massage.

If there is a niche in the bathroom, it can be used to install a standard-sized rectangular bathtub

One of the disadvantages of oval models is the lack of additional elements used for convenience (armrests, headrests). The standard length of an oval bathtub ranges from 140 to 210 cm. For small rooms, a short oval-type bathtub is best suited.

An oval bathtub is an excellent solution for a standard bathroom or for a larger room. The materials from which oval models are made can be very different. The most common are oval acrylic designs.

A white acrylic bathtub looks harmonious in a modern bathroom interior

Types of round baths

Round bathtubs belong to an exclusive model range. Depending on the dimensions, there are two main types of round products:

• double;
• multi-seat.

Round bathtubs are only suitable for large bathrooms

The main functional purpose of such a bath is to create a relaxing effect. This is due to the fact that a design of this shape is most suitable for placing hydromassage equipment.

The diameter of the round structure ranges from 140 to 210 cm. Regardless of the diameter of the round model, it requires quite a lot of space for its installation. Therefore, it is not suitable for installation in areas with limited space. The most correct option for placing a round bath is to organize an approach from all sides.

Round bathtubs are often equipped with a hydromassage function

Round structures for relaxation are made from the following materials:

• acrylic;
• steel;
• quaril;
• fake diamond;
• a natural stone.

An example of successful placement of a round bathtub

Helpful information! For older people, seated models are often purchased, the depth of which ranges from 60 to 80 cm.

Comfortable bathing in a round bathtub primarily depends on its size. To increase the depth of the bathtub, the method of flat sides is often used. This method allows you to achieve increased depth without adding bulk.

For small bathrooms, you can use a small deep round or oval bathtub

Acrylic

Acrylic is formed from a single sheet of combined materials such as petrochemicals, stabilizers, resins, fillers and related dyes. They are then heated and molded into the shape of the tub and then reinforced with fiberglass. We wrote in more detail about this type of bathtub in the article: 13 facts: Pros and cons of acrylic bathtubs. We also recommend this publication: Which is better - an acrylic bathtub or a cast iron one? Pros and cons of bathtubs made of acrylic and cast iron.

pros

First of all, it is a non-porous material, unlike regular fiberglass, and therefore will not absorb excess water. In addition, it retains heat well compared to cheap materials (water cools more slowly), and also repels mold and other stains.

Minuses

Like fiberglass, acrylic tubs also warp, making them less stable. Their coating scratches, although not as much as fiberglass. Plus, it's not the cheapest option.

Corner baths – practical and compact

Corner bathtub models are rightfully considered the most rational choice for a small bathroom. Such bathtubs seem bulky and have a specific shape, however, they allow you to organize the space of the room. The most common models are in the shape of a drop or a truncated drop. The dimensions of the droplet bath depend on the symmetry of the shape.

With corner baths you can significantly save bathroom space

When choosing a corner model, you need to pay attention to the following points:

• the corner model can be “right” or “left”. It depends on the design and on the angle for which such a structure is made;
• the choice of a corner bath should also take into account that it can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical.

Corner baths are equipped with a convenient shelf for cosmetics

Corner structures are made from acrylic material. If necessary, you can order a bathtub from another, more expensive and impressive material (for example, artificial stone). In most cases, plumbing products of this type are equipped with hydromassage equipment and other useful functions.

Fiberglass (fiberglass)

Fiberglass is a type of reinforced plastic that is formed into layers, then molded into a tub shape, and then covered with a layer of gelcoat.

pros

Fiberglass bathtubs are good for those on a budget. Due to the lightness of the material used, they are also easy to move around the house and install. Any damage can be easily repaired.

Minuses

Fiberglass is perhaps the most fragile material on the market. Porous in nature, it regularly absorbs water and is prone to cracking. Color and finish also deteriorate over time due to the use of conventional cleaning equipment. The material tends to "bend", causing the bathtub to become deformed and unstable.

Small bathtub for a small bathroom

In some apartments the bathroom is combined and its area is 3.5 m2. The dimensions of such a room are (2.2 x 1.6 m). The short side of the room, which is 1.6 m long, can be used to install a bathtub. This arrangement of the bath will allow you to place other plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, etc.) in the room.

Small corner acrylic bathtub

Which bathtubs should I choose for installation in such conditions? The most suitable option for installation in such a situation is a short rectangular bathtub (120 cm). However, the width of the short side of the room allows you to install a longer model (140 cm). The smallest bathtub on the market will be 100 cm long.

In addition to the rectangular model, you can also install an asymmetrical angular one. The peculiarity of the asymmetrical corner design is that it has one wide side and one narrow side.

A small bathtub of an interesting shape can decorate the interior of the bathroom

Copper

Copper bathtubs are made by beating several sheets of pure copper into the shape of a bathtub.

pros

Similar to a cast iron bathtub, but more attractive to the touch. A copper bathtub is not only aesthetically attractive, but has good durability. It is resistant to scratches and chips that may occur due to mechanical stress. For those who don't like cleaning or maintenance, maintaining a copper bathtub is very easy and does not require the use of harsh cleaning products. The main advantage of a copper bath is the aesthetic aspect.

Minuses

Like the cast iron bathtub, this bathtub is also very heavy. It is also quite rare and harder to find than most, making its price one of the highest compared to other bathtubs on the market. Over time, a copper bathtub develops a patina if it is placed in a damp room.

Sitz baths for bathrooms: photos and characteristics

Separately, it is worth mentioning about sit-down bathtub models. Many consumers are skeptical about such products, however, they are still very popular. This is due to the convenience of such designs. A sitz bath has the following advantages: compactness and versatility.

The seated model is an excellent option for hygiene procedures. Such designs are especially recommended for older people, for whom a very important aspect when choosing a bath is its convenience.

Note! In some cases, seating structures are combined with a shower stall.

Small bathroom with storage shelf

On the sanitary equipment market you can find a large selection of sizes of hip bathtubs for small bathrooms. Seated corner models are used to save usable space.

Using such a bathtub allows you not only to save room space, but also to reduce the consumption of water used for hygiene procedures. Every year, manufacturers are expanding their range of sit-down mini-baths.

An example of an interesting bathroom model that does not take up much space, but at the same time is quite spacious

Artificial stone (stone resin)

Engineered stone is a material used to imitate the appearance of natural stone. It is a hard and non-porous material, usually consisting of a combination of acrylic resin, bauxite, epoxy resin, marble chips and pigments

pros

Like most resins, the color will not fade with repeated use of water. The material is non-porous, which means it does not absorb water and retains the heat of water well. It has an incredibly long service life; the bathtub will last for quite a long time without the need for constant repairs. When it needs to be thrown away, stone tar is 100% recyclable.

Artificial stone is also considered a luxurious material for bathtubs, not to mention that it is quite durable and can withstand heavy loads. Cleaning a bathtub made of this material is simple and easy. Most stains and mildew wash off with plain warm water, but for more stubborn residue you can use a slightly abrasive product such as Comet or Ajax. Artificial stone is the best material for bathtubs in terms of price and quality.

Minuses

Stone resin bathtubs are more expensive than acrylic, fiberglass or ABS plastic. There are few options on the market, so you are limited in your choice of designs and sizes.

Which bath should you choose? Tips for choosing baths

Before purchasing a bathtub, experts advise paying attention to some nuances of their choice. Let's consider recommendations that will help answer the question of how to choose the right bathtubs:

• The dimensions, as well as the shape of the bathtub, in any case, must be selected to suit the area of ​​the specific room;
• It is recommended to purchase models whose installation is not too difficult;
• The design of the bathtub must take into account the location of water and sewer pipes. Otherwise, difficulties will arise during its installation. The siphon and additional elements necessary for operating the bathtub must be purchased at the same time as the bowl;

When purchasing a bathtub, the kit includes all the necessary fasteners, hoses and even faucets with a shower.

• it is very important to ensure that all auxiliary components are made by the same manufacturer as the bowl;
• For children and the elderly, it is recommended to purchase designs that pay special attention to safety. For safety and ease of use, handles are installed on the bathtubs, and their bottom is anti-slip;
• When choosing this plumbing product, it is necessary to take into account the height of all family members. The depth of the bath should correspond to the physical capabilities of the residents;
• Before purchasing a bathtub, carefully examine its internal surface. It should not contain any defects (cracks, chips, roughness, etc.). Inspection of the external surface is also encouraged;
• It is advisable to buy products from well-known brands, as this will reduce the risk of purchasing a low-quality, defective design.

When buying a bathtub, you should pay attention to small design details, because it is by them that you can determine the quality of the product

The above recommendations help answer the question of how to choose a bath for a specific room. In any case, when selecting the required model, the dimensions of the bathroom and the personal preferences of the owners of the apartment or house are taken into account.

Artificial (cultured) marble

Cultured marble is made from crushed limestone and resin and then coated with a layer of gel coat (gelcoat).

pros

Like regular marble, artificial marble retains heat well and at the same time has a simple and natural appearance. Cultured marble bathtubs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colors. Although they are not completely scratch resistant, they can be easily restored using car wax or other silica products.

Minuses

Cultured marble is quite heavy, and given the extra weight, it is also quite expensive. Cleaning is difficult because artificial marble requires special care. The bathtub should be cleaned after each use, while it is still damp, with a mixture of soap and vinegar. If you don't maintain it regularly, you will experience severe discoloration and mildew over time.