The earliest bathtub known to us was a several meters long water pool known as the “Great Bath,” built by the Indus Civilization in the 3rd millennium BC. It could fit many people at one time and was mainly used for public bathing or cultural rituals. Since then, bathtubs have gone through continuous design changes, where the most significant change is the introduction of the claw-foot tub in the late 19th century.
Today, modern bathtubs have evolved into a private bathroom accessory that offers many comfort features for a relaxing bath for you and your family members. This article will explain the essential bits and factors that you need to understand before installing a bathtub or replacing an old one.
What is a bathtub?
A bathtub is an everyday bathroom accessory that features a large container to hold water so a person or animal can bathe. They come in different shapes and sizes to better fit the bathroom architecture. Most modern bathtubs are a standalone accessory for your washroom, while some also have a shower attached to them.
You May Also Enjoy: What Are The Different Types Of Bathtubs? What Is The Perfect One For Your Washroom?
Bathtubs were a royal, luxurious accessory not so long ago, where only the rich were able to afford it for their bathing needs. However, the modernization of bathroom products made it possible for manufacturers to use cheaper materials to make tubs, which led to their mainstream usage. Now, we have countless variations of bathtubs in the market, and you can personally pick and choose the best suited for your bathroom.
So now, let’s look into what makes a bathtub such a popular accessory.
How do bathtubs work?
Bathtubs are typically easy to operate and only require a basic understanding of the product. There might be variations in some of the features, but most baths have the following main parts:
- A faucet: Most bathtubs have a designated space on either side of the tub to attach a water faucet that you can use to fill up the container with water. Some bathtubs require wall-mounted faucets and do not have an attached water source.
- Overflow: Overflow is a small sealable hole located at the top of the bathtub, which has a direct connection with the drain pipe. It prevents the tub from overflowing if the water is left running for too long.
- A Drain: A small hole at the bottom of the tub works as a drain to remove contaminated water after usage. Of course, the drain is connected to the waste pipes, and you should make sure you purchase a bathtub that is compatible with your plumbing. Some tubs also have multiple holes at the bottom to quickly drain the container.
Are bathtubs safe for my family and me?
Not many people can deny the comforting benefits of an immersing bath after a long day at work or even on your day off. However, bathtubs do come with some safety risks and hazards, especially for smaller children and older people.
According to lifespan.org, almost 43,000 children get injured in a bathtub or shower every year in the U.S. alone. Similarly, another study suggests that nearly 1.6 million senior citizens seek medical help due to bathroom falls every year. Therefore, intricate precaution is necessary even if you’re a healthy adult because bathroom injuries can be pretty serious.
We are listing a few safety precautions that may help you stay safe during and after your bath.
- Modifying your bathroom as per your needs could help you avoid many accidents. Install grab bars and shower seats for maximum support, even in slippery situations.
- Renovate the floor with a non-skid material or carpet the floor to avoid slips.
- Do not rush into doing or grabbing anything while in the bathtub. Take your time and make slow purposeful movements.
- Make sure that your washroom has proper lighting, especially when you’re getting out of the tub.
- Do not clutter things around the bathtub.
- Ensure that your feet are thoroughly dry before leaving the bathtub.
- If you’re bathing your baby, ensure constant supervision and do not fill the tub with more than two inches of water
What is the best bathtub for my bathroom?
The best bathtub for your washroom is the one that suits your budgets, looks classy, and, most importantly, is compatible with your washroom’s size and plumbing. Of course, it is a personal choice, and not all bathtubs suit every user’s needs. E.g., Senior citizens prefer walk-in bathtubs with seats, while younger people want a soaking tub for their bathroom.
How do I clean a bathtub?
Most bathtubs are made using easy-to-clean, wipe-able materials that require minimal maintenance but a regular cleanup for smooth operation. Soap or hard water residue may stick to the outer layer of the bathtub, contaminating the surface or changing its color. Here’s a step-by-step on how to rid your bathtub of harmful substances:
- Wash off any solid material or grit in the tub using a directional showerhead
- Spray vinegar inside and outside the tub, especially the edges
- Let the vinegar sit for a few minutes and then rinse it off
- Wipe the bathtub clean with a soft cloth
How much do bathtubs cost?
The cost of a bathtub entirely depends upon its style, make, and manufacturing expense. You can find a standard bathtub between a price range of $400 to $600. However, altered or customized tubs with extra features can cost you a lot more. The market also has many high-end bathtubs that start from a whopping $1000 and go up to $4000 with installation and plumbing costs.
Where do I purchase a bathtub?
Naturally, you’ll want a convenient way to purchase a bathtub for your bathroom, and many of your nearest local stores offer a wide range of bathtubs. You can also make an online purchase through an internet store to get it delivered straight to your home. However, you do need to choose a bathtub first, and we have the perfect bathtub buying guide for you that compares the best bathtubs on Amazon.
You May Also Enjoy : Top Best Toilet Reviews
Leave a Reply