Bathing in a bathtub after a tiring day at work is not just a great way to clean yourself but also relaxes you completely. However, your bath may not end up being that relaxing after all if you do not have the right bathtub. It is not just a matter of choosing the right color to go with your bathroom, or ensuring that the style is correct; but a whole lot more. Thus, this article lists all the factors that need to be considered when choosing a bathtub so that you end up buying the ideal one.

1) Features and functionality: Before going from store to store looking at different tubs, make sure you know what all you need the bathtub for, besides regular bathing of course. Different bathtubs have different features and functions, so make sure you will use all the features of a particular tub. For example, whirlpool tubs can tempt anyone as they look so comfortable and fascinating and you may end up buying one simply due to the novelty of the jets. However, will you really be using those jets? Can you justify the increased electricity expense and extra water wastage? If not, stay away from the whirlpool tub and buy one that has features which are more in keeping with your needs.

2) Tub size: The size of the bathtub is a major purchase criterion. People often assume that if the tub is big enough to fit them comfortably then it is the right size. However, there is such a thing as a too big bathtub. While the tub should definitely not be small for you, there shouldnt be too much extra space either, which results in water wastage. Another thing to consider is whether you want a one person or two person tub. If you are likely to want to share your bathtub with your partner, go in for the 2 person one. However, if bath time is when you want to be with your thoughts, then choose the regular sized single person bathtubs.

3) Design, shape, and color: The color of a bathtub may not increase its functionality, but is an important consideration as the tub has to match the rest of your bathroom fixtures and accessories. Same goes for the design and style of the bathtub. A bathtub that is of a different style than your sink or toilet may look very out of place. As far as colors go cream and white are the regular options, but different hues of blue, pink, brown, green, and maroon are also available to match your dcor. Rectangle, corner tubs, heart shaped, and oval are your choices as far as bathtub shape goes.

4) Bathtub material: Not all tubs are made from the same material. Some are made of wood, some marble, some cast iron, whereas others are made of acrylic, porcelain and even fiberglass. The material of the tub is what eventually determines how long lasting the tub will be, how strong it will be, how much it will cost, and how easy or difficult it will be to keep the tub clean. For instance, fiberglass tubs are great if you are looking for a cheaply priced bathtub, but these may not last you for years on end. As far as durability is concerned, cast iron tubs are a great buy but they can set you back by a pretty penny. Thus, you need to look at the pros and cons of different construction materials for bathtubs and then pick one depending on what you want most from your tub durability, attractiveness, ease of maintenance, strength, or cost effectiveness.

5) Soaking or standard: The difference between a standard bathtub and a soaking tub is that the soaking variety is much deeper and enables you to immerse your entire body into the warm water instead of just your lower half. And since tubs are now being used for their therapeutic value as they help lower stress, relieve pain, and lower hypertension, you need to decide whether you want such a tub or not. If you do, then you will be better off buying a soaking tub instead of a regular bathtub.

6) Special Needs: Bathtubs have traditionally not been very user friendly if you are old or handicapped. Getting in and out of bathtubs can be dangerous for people with such special needs, and there is also a danger of slipping and hurting yourself. However, with ADA compliant bathtubs, you need not worry about all this anymore. ADA tubs are manufactured such that entry and exit is extremely easy and they also offer protection from slip and fall accidents due to the presence of grab bars and grab rails. Thus, if you or any family members have special requirements, do consider buying an ADA tub.

Thus, after considering the above factors, you can shortlist a few bathtubs for your home. Your final decision should only be made after actually testing the tub by laying in it. This way, you can gauge that the size is absolutely right and your neck, back and limbs are adequately supported.

This guide on choosing bathtubs should hopefully make the difference between picking the right one and the wrong one.

Rob Barnes writes for Bath Tubs For You, a consumer guide dedicated to helping you find the perfect
bathtub, with reviews of various brands and styles like wood bathtubs and whirlpool tubs.