What is a Clawfoot Bathtub?
Clawfoot bathtubs are freestanding bathtubs with decorative foot; they are usually made of highly durable cast iron or lightweight acrylic. Clawfoot bathtubs are known for their elegant, traditional aesthetic and can add a touch of vintage charm to any bathroom. The earliest clawfoot bathtubs were made of pewter or copper and date back to the mid-1800s. The clawfoot bathtub design originated in the Netherlands and was probably inspired by the Chinese dragon claw pattern. The bathtub soon found its way to England, where it became popular with the aristocracy. Coinciding with the Victorian desire for grandeur and detail, as well as the increasing sophistication of indoor plumbing systems, there was a growing demand for a luxurious bathing experience. The introduction of cast iron, with a porcelain coating, revolutionized the manufacturing process of bathtubs, making them more durable and easier to clean. This era also saw a fusion of artistic elements, with clawfoot bathtubs often modeled after animal claws or other elaborate motifs, complete with intricate foot molding.
In recent years, clawfoot bathtubs have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, thanks to a renewed appreciation for vintage aesthetics and craftsmanship. Modern replicas often feature advanced materials and innovative designs while retaining the classic look of clawfoot bathtubs. Interior designers and homeowners often incorporate them into modern spaces to create a focal point that exudes sophistication and nostalgia.
Originally popular for their practicality and beauty, clawfoot bathtubs have evolved into a symbol of luxury and vintage glamour. The evolution from a practical bathing vessel to a highly prized design element highlights its enduring appeal. Its ability to adapt and transcend generations reflects the timeless nature of true craftsmanship and the human quest for beauty and comfort in everyday life.
Clawfoot Bathtub Materials
The two most commonly used materials for clawfoot bathtubs are acrylic and cast iron. Both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages that need to be carefully considered before installation. We've outlined the differences between them so you can make a more informed choice for your home.
Clawfoot bathtubs typically come in two styles: slipper and roll top. Slipper bathtubs have one end that is taller and raised, making it easier for bathers to support themselves. A double slipper bathtub, on the other hand, has two raised ends. Roll top bathtubs have a flat top, but have rolled or rounded edges. Both acrylic and cast iron bathtubs are available in both slipper and roll top styles, and in single or double slipper configurations. They may also have a drain at one end or in the center for easy installation.
Traditionally, clawfoot bathtubs are painted on the inside only, as the exterior is designed to be paintable. Acrylic bathtubs are usually finished at the factory, so the bathtubs arrive with a smooth, polished surface. However, cast iron tubs arrive with the exterior unpainted. After installation is complete, you must paint, usually lacquer.
Both bathtub bases come in a variety of styles and finishes. In most cases, an acrylic bathtub will use an acrylic base, but the choice of finishes and styles will be relatively limited.
Cast iron bathtubs have removable bases, making them available in a variety of materials and styles. For installation, the base is screwed to the bathtub and leveled.
At first glance, it is often difficult to distinguish between the two materials. However, acrylic bathtubs are smoother overall with a plastic sheen. Cast iron bathtubs are smooth and porcelain on the inside, but can look rough when painted on the outside.
Advantages of Clawfoot Bathtubs
Aesthetics
Timeless Design: clawfoot bathtubs have a classic, elegant look that enhances the aesthetics of any bathroom, making it feel more luxurious and vintage.
Versatile Style: they can accommodate a variety of design schemes, from traditional to eclectic, and even fit into modern spaces when paired with the right fixtures.
Comfort
Deep Soaking: clawfoot bathtubs are often deeper than standard bathtubs, providing a more immersive and relaxing soaking experience.
Ergonomically Shaped: The curved, sloping design of a bathtub is often more suitable for lying down than a standard bathtub. Clawfoot bathtubs feature an ergonomic design and deep bathing tank, making them a more luxurious bathing option (compared to most standard built-in bathtubs).
Mobility
Freestanding Flexibility: clawfoot bathtubs are freestanding and can be placed virtually anywhere in the bathroom, giving you more flexibility in layout and design. Clawfoot bathtubs can be placed against a wall or even in the center of the room to create a visual focal point in your bathroom.
Easier to Clean the Bathtub Surrounds: The space underneath the bathtub allows for easier cleaning of the bathroom floor.
Customizable: Clawfoot bathtubs are available in a wide range of materials, shapes and sizes, making it easy to choose a style that matches your personal style and preferences. Clawfoot bathtubs can even be refinished or painted to match your bathroom décor, providing a high degree of customization.
Durability
High-quality Materials: clawfoot bathtubs are usually made of durable materials such as cast iron or acrylic, and can last for decades with proper care.
Disadvantages of Clawfoot Bathtubs
Cost
Expensive: A quality clawfoot bathtub is usually a sizable investment and is often more expensive than a built-in bathtub. However, the total cost depends on a variety of factors, including the material, manufacturer, and additional features (bathtub faucets and shower conversion kits may be sold separately). In addition, installation costs can add to the total cost.
Extra Plumbing: freestanding bathtubs may require special plumbing fixtures, which can add to the cost.
Space Requirements
Large Footprint: Clawfoot bathtubs are typically larger and bulkier than built-in bathtubs. They take up more floor space, which may not be ideal for smaller bathrooms or bathrooms with limited square footage. However, smaller clawfoot bathtubs are also available.
Heavy Weight: The weight of a clawfoot bathtub, especially if made of cast iron, may require structural reinforcement of the bathroom floor, adding to the complexity and cost of installation.
Installation Challenges: The installation of a clawfoot bathtub can be more complex and time-consuming than a standard bathtub. It often requires additional plumbing work and may require reinforcement of the bathroom floor to support the weight of the bathtub.
Maintenance
Difficult to Clean: While the space underneath can make floor cleaning easier, the bathtub itself can be more difficult to clean due to its complex design and exposed plumbing.
Prone to Scratches: The exterior of the bathtub, especially the painted exterior, is prone to scratches and chips and requires more careful maintenance.
Comfort Considerations
Cold to the Touch: cast iron bathtubs can feel cold when you first enter them, which can be uncomfortable unless preheated.
Lack of Integrated Support: If you have limited mobility or poor balance, getting out of a clawfoot bathtub may be more challenging than a walk-in bathtub. The smooth interior surfaces can be slippery, increasing the risk of falls when getting in and out of the bathtub. Due to the lack of grab bars or other built-in support, you may need to take extra precautions or assistive devices to ensure a safe exit.
No Place to Put Soap and Detergent: standard bathtubs will have a flange around the edge that can be used to hold shampoo bottles, scrubbers, and so on. Most clawfoot bathtubs do not have this design. You can design a shelf in your bathroom, but this is not possible for everyone.
Types and Sizes of Clawfoot Bathtubs
Clawfoot bathtubs are a great addition to many vintage themed bathrooms. But before you start looking for the perfect vintage bathtub for your bathroom remodel, it's crucial to know how to measure the bathtub dimensions.
To ensure that the bathtub you purchase fits both your aesthetic requirements and the available space in your bathroom, check out clawfoot bathtub dimensions first to help you choose the best clawfoot bathtub for your bathroom.
Standard Clawfoot Bathtub Dimensions
When choosing the best vintage bathtub for your bathroom, it helps to know the dimensions of a standard clawfoot bathtub first.
The average size of a clawfoot bathtub is slightly larger than a traditional rectangular bathtub, but still smaller than a whirlpool or hot bathtub. Standard dimensions are 60 inches long and 33 to 36 inches wide, making them suitable for smaller bathrooms. The standard clawfoot bathtub depth is 60 inches.
One advantage of clawfoot bathtubs is that many come with adjustable feet. This makes it easy to lower or raise the height of the bathtub by a few inches. As a result, the average size of a clawfoot bathtub makes it suitable for almost any size bathroom.
Small Clawfoot Bathtub Dimensions
If you have a small bathroom or irregular space dimensions, it's important to know how to measure bathtub dimensions. In this case, a small clawfoot bathtub that measures 60 inches in length and 30 inches in width may be ideal.
Small bathtubs are only 16 to 19 inches tall. These clawfoot tubs can hold up to 40 gallons of water.
Small clawfoot tubs can free up more bathroom space or help you create a more comfortable bathroom. Additionally, vintage-designed small bathtubs tend to be more luxurious and come with more features to enhance the bathing experience.
Large Clawfoot Bathtub Sizes
While small and regular clawfoot bathtub sizes are typically five to six feet long and three feet wide, larger bathtubs will go beyond these ranges. You can find large clawfoot vintage bathtubs up to seven feet in length. Even larger tubs are only three feet wide.
Large clawfoot tubs can hold up to 80 gallons of water, and small clawfoot tubs can hold up to 40 gallons of water. Standard clawfoot bathtubs have a capacity of between 50 and 77 gallons.
Extra Large Clawfoot Bathtub Sizes
If you have a spacious bathroom, an extra large clawfoot bathtub will provide better convenience and comfort. Extra-large models range from 72 inches to 80 inches in length.
The width of these tubs is wider, ranging from 36 inches to 42 inches. These freestanding tubs have a greater depth of up to 22 inches for easy full-body immersion.
Vintage Clawfoot Bathtub Sizes
Since clawfoot bathtubs of almost any size are easy to find, the selection of clawfoot bathtubs is extensive. Almost any size cast iron or acrylic clawfoot tub will fit your needs.
Generally, you will find antique clawfoot bathtubs between 5 feet and 7 feet in length. They are usually 24 inches to 32 inches wide. The depth of clawfoot tubs ranges from 14 inches to 22 inches.
Slipper Clawfoot Bathtub Dimensions
The slipper clawfoot tub is named for its stylized design. It is taller at one end and slopes downward, creating a design that resembles a slipper or shoe. This design was very popular during the Victorian era and is perfect for vintage style bathroom designs.
Clawfoot bathtubs range in length from 60 to 72 inches (about 5 to 6 feet). The standard width of a clawfoot tub is between 28 and 32 inches. The depth of a clawfoot tub is between 20 and 24 inches.
When measuring clawfoot tub dimensions, be sure to take into account the particular shape of a slipper bathtub. You may need additional space to accommodate a sloped, high-end tub as well as the tub's plumbing connections. Also, allow enough space - 12 to 18 inches - to get in and out of the tub.
Clawfoot Bathtub Cost
If you purchase a new clawfoot bathtub, whether it's made of cast iron or acrylic, the price is about the same. However, if you can find a refurbished (or ready to be refurbished) antique clawfoot bathtub, you can save a significant amount of money. However, as with all high-value antiques, finding a tub in good condition and worth investing in takes some searching. And, for something as heavy as a clawfoot bathtub, you certainly need to consider how far from home you're willing to look.
Refinishing Clawfoot Bathtubs
Experts and DIY bloggers alike agree that if you can find a bathtub that just needs a thorough cleaning, or a refinishing or painting of the exterior of the tub, then you've found the right solution. If the bathtub's ceramic interior has been damaged, then it will need to be repaired by a professional. Depending on how much you paid for the tub, professional refinishing may cost less than buying a brand new tub, with professional refinishing costing around $500 to $1,200.
Consider Other Costs
In addition to the bathtub itself and any refinishing costs, other costs to consider include shipping and installation, new faucets and hardware, and outfitting your bathroom plumbing for a freestanding bathtub. So, be sure to weigh all potential costs before you buy a bathtub. Ultimately, it may make more sense to purchase a new bathtub.
Maintenance Costs
In addition to the purchase and installation costs, there are some drawbacks to using and maintaining a clawfoot bathtub. Clawfoot bathtubs are sometimes less than comfortable, require a lot of water to really soak well, and water can splash everywhere when reaching for things like shampoo. In order to clean them, the space at the bottom of the bathtub tends to collect dust, and with wear and tear you may need to re-glaze the inside of the bathtub or repaint the exterior, whereas acrylic bathtubs are prone to scratching and staining.
How to Install Clawfoot Bathtub Foot
To ensure accuracy, install the clawfoot bathtub foot with the tub upside down.
Step1: insert the bolts into the lugs facing the ceiling
Step2: place the foot on the bolt and lower it until the bolt is fully inserted and the foot is flush with the bottom of the bathtub
Step3: use a wrench to screw the nuts onto the bolts until they are fully tightened. Flip the bathtub over and place it in the desired position.
If your bathroom floor is uneven, consider turning the bathtub over again and adjusting the feet (if this is available).