Millcreek Bath & Kitchen > Blog > Freestanding Bathtubs > Choosing the Right Material for Freestanding Tubs
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Freestanding bathtubs are bathtubs that are finished on all sides and able to stand alone. Often they are thought of as more a part of your décor rather than just a bathroom fixture. However, this change in its perception—i.e. from thinking of the bathtub as a decorative accessory rather than a purely functional equipment—is far from a modern phenomenon, and dates back to the first recorded example of a bathtub that was discovered in 1700 BC, on the Grecian Island of Crete.
The First Bathtub was a five feet ceramic structure, constructed using pottery. But unlike the modern day bathtub that is available to the average homeowner, bathtubs in that era were works of art, decorated with intricate figurative paintings, and only made available to royalties due to their high cost. Given the sculptural attributes bestowed upon bathtubs of the time, it comes as no surprise that the First Bathtub was found in the Palace of Knossos.
Following that time, issues of cleanliness and sanitation had taken a backseat over other socio-political debates, with the 19th century having witnessed some of the worst epidemics as a result of uncleanliness, marking a turning point in the world of bathroom sanitation and plumbing. It is the later easy availability and cheaper costs of plumbing pipes in the 20th century that enabled the resurrection of the modern freestanding bathtub as we know it today, allowing for its easy availability to the everyday homeowner, in various sizes, shapes, and materials!
In the contemporary society, a freestanding bathtub functions as a statement piece, that can serve as a focal point of a bathroom, influencing the look and feel of your space.
There are a wide variety of options available, sometimes making it tricky to decide on the perfect freestanding tub for your bathroom.
Acrylic Freestanding Bathtubs
Cast Iron Freestanding Bathtubs
Solid Surface Freestanding Bathtubs
Wood or stone tubs also exist and are bold choices that make a distinctive style statement, however they are both very expensive and require a high level of maintenance to retain their luxe.
Other things to consider when shopping for your freestanding tub are the tub design – you have to decide on whether you want Clawfoot, Pedestal and corner and back to the wall tubs. It is generally recommended to get a tub that is at least 67” long for your own comfort.
Freestanding tubs allow for lots of room around them, giving the room an airy feel and making the room seem larger than it is. If you want your bathroom to be a haven of relaxation where you can escape the stresses of the world then a freestanding bathtub is the right choice for you.