Variations of Modern Bathtubs

The variations of modern bathtubs available today give consumers options that have never been available before. For instance, many modern bathtubs are designed for comfort and pain relief in mind and not so much for cleansing. The Japanese bathtub is designed around the Japanese ritual of bathing. These bathtubs are deeper and most commonly made from wood. Many have lids that can be placed over the tub to keep the water hot or to keep dust and debris from falling into the tub. They have become popular in North America for soaking and in some instance as Jacuzzi tubs.


A Jacuzzi bathtub is like a spa. It uses heated water and jets to create a whirlpool style swirl that is both relaxing and helps to ease stress and pain. Many people set their Jacuzzi outside for use year round. These are not cleansing bathtubs as we know bathtubs. They are luxury tubs that can be placed almost anywhere inside or outside the home. These are much deeper than your contemporary bathtub because they too are used as a soaking tub. They can be found in fiberglass, acrylic or wood and most are equipped with their own pumps and motors.


If you are considering a more vintage style of bathtub, the claw foot bathtub is making a big comeback. In the early 1900's these bathtubs were deep bathtubs with separate fixtures for the water. Many of the homes that were fitted with the old claw foot bathtubs had a drain in the center of the bathroom floor and the tub drained directly onto the floor and into the drain. They could take a bath, drain the water and mop in one fell swoop. These bathtubs were made primarily of cast iron but are available today in other materials such as fiberglass and acrylic.


For the elderly and handicapped, bathtub manufacturers saw fit to design walk in tubs. Many of these will fit directly into an existing location but make entering and exiting the bathtub much less dangerous. Some of these can be fitted for jetted water flow like a Jacuzzi. As with most corner bathtubs, this one does not have to replace your existing bathtub, it can be placed in a corner with a water source. These are primarily made out of fiberglass because it becomes less slippery when it becomes wet, making a more secure foot hold.


Modern bathtubs can be purchased today in many styles and designs as you can see. Jetted, whirlpool and spa style bathtubs are more for relaxation and soaking than bathing. Contemporary bathtubs can be fitted with jets to give a more relaxing soak. The vintage cast iron, claw foot bathtubs are so versatile that they can be used for both soaking and bathing. When remodeling a bathroom for the elderly, it is recommended your replace or add a walk in bathtub for safety. Almost any style you can imagine can be purchased and help you create a bathroom that is not only functional but relaxing as well.