Transforming Your Bathroom: The Rise of Soaker Tubs in Modern Home Design

A quick browse through home improvement stores shows that demand for the soaker tub is consistently high. If you've been eyeing this bathroom fixture, it's a good time to spoil yourself with one. To help you along, we'll discuss soaking tubs and explore the unique features and benefits of soaker tubs in detail.

The Soaker Tub: What Is It?

The soaking tub is similar to a regular tub, and as the name denotes, the soaker tub allows you to settle in and soak. The only difference is that it's deeper than the typical bathtub. While regular tubs are about 12 inches deep, soaker tub depth is between 14 and 36 inches on the extreme, with the average depth being 23–24 inches.

Soaker tubs don't come with many embellishments. The bath only needs a drain-and-overflow kit and a faucet. Most bathtub manufacturers have soaker bath models with options for right- and left-hand drain configurations, so buyers can pick the configuration that works for their plumbing. 

One can use a stand-alone faucet to fill the bathtub, an option that allows you to select a faucet that complements your chosen bathroom style.

What Are the Features of a Soaker Tub?

Below are some of the factors to consider when selecting a soaking tub:

Size

Soaker tubs don't come in one size. Some are longer, wider, and deeper than others. The shape, too, varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. So, when picking one, consider the size of your bathroom. Don't be so focused on how deep the tub is that you overlook the length and end up with a bathtub that is too short, hence uncomfortable. 

A practical way to ensure you choose the correct size is by considering the tallest member of your family. Would they comfortably fit in the tub? If choosing a soaker tub for the guest bathroom, it's best to go for the biggest to accommodate people of different sizes.

Shape

Oval is arguably the most widely seen soaker bath shape. Not to mention, it allows for super comfortable use. But it is certainly not the only one. These soaking tubs come in other exciting shapes, including:

• Rectangular
• Square
• Corner
• Straight
• And a range of irregular and custom shapes

Because the shape can affect how comfortable the tub is, it is advisable to go for a bigger size when choosing an irregular bathtub.
 

Source: Unsplash

Design

You can choose a soaking bathtub that matches your style preference. Do you have a big bathroom and want a tub that functions as a statement piece in this space? Go for a freestanding model. These are typically the largest of all designs and may come with a base on which they stand. Some have feet instead of a base, but both types are designed to stand independently. Some can be heavy. So consult a building engineer before buying a freestanding soaking tub to evaluate whether your floor is strong enough to hold the tub's weight. 

Built-in soaking tubs are another popular choice. These are a perfect choice for homeowners who want a bespoke bathroom since you can customize the bathtub. 

Drop-in soaking tubs are great, too, for homeowners who want a custom look. Here, you design a frame for the tub, and there is no limit to what the frame can look like. Take precise measurements so that when you insert the tub into the frame, it will snug right in without leaving gaps between the tub and the frame. 

Material

Soaker bathtubs come in a wide range of materials, the most common being:

• Stone resin.
• Marble.
• Acrylic.
• Cast iron.
• Wood.
• Ceramic.
• Porcelain.

Each material has pros and cons, so it helps to evaluate each carefully when choosing your bathtub. Some materials are more porous than others, and while cheaper, they require more attention in terms of maintenance.

Other factors to consider when choosing a material for your soaking bathtub are:

• How heavy is it?
• Does it stain easily?
• Is it easy to clean?
• Is it scratch- and chip-resistant?
• Does it retain heat?
• What about its cost?
• Is it long-lasting?

Benefits of Soaker Tubs

Soaker tubs are attractive for several reasons, including:

Easy Installation

Soaker tubs are easy to install. Since they do not have plenty of attachments and moving components, as is the case with jetted bathtubs, it becomes easy to set the soaking tub in the space you choose. 

Source: Unsplash

Easy Maintenance

Soaker bathtubs have fewer parts and are, therefore, easy to maintain. Compared to air and whirlpool tubs, soaking tubs use way less water. You'll enjoy water and energy savings, plus the compound benefits this has on the environment. 

Use Less Water

It takes more water to fill soaking tubs compared to regular tubs. But they do not use as much water as whirlpools and air tubs. So you will not run up an excessively high water bill if you use the tub often.

Final Thoughts

Installing a soaker bathtub is a great way to add luxury to the bathroom. They come in various shapes, sizes, designs, and materials. All these different features can impact their price, but the good thing about it is that there is a price point for every budget.