Shopping for Small Clawfoot Bathtubs

I abandoned the idea until recently when I discovered many small claw foot bathtubs are now being manufactured.  I did some homework (mainly research) and came up with some pointers for those wanting a small clawfoot bathtub to bring back a vintage era to their bathroom.  Believe me; even if you have a tiny bathroom, small clawfoot bathtubs are out there that just might fit in your space!  Use these tips to help you find the one you are looking for!Tip #1You are going to have to know how much clearance you have for your small clawfoot bathtub. Small clawfoot bathtubs are now being made that fit into a corner; right up against the wall.  There are models available that are a mere four feet in length.  In some models the sides of the small clawfoot tub have been made straighter (up and down) versus the traditional sloped sides to save space.Tip #2It may sound strange; but when you go to look at small clawfoot bathtubs; get in them.  Not all small clawfoot bathtubs will be comfortable to you.  Your body size, your height and physical ability; will all affect how different small clawfoot bathtubs will feel to you when you get in them.  Don’t worry what other people think when you do this.  Small clawfoot bathtubs are an investment that is not cheap.  You want a small clawfoot bathtub you are actually comfortable soaking in.  It defeats the purpose of relaxing if you are uncomfortable during your bath.Tip #3Pay attention to the materials the small clawfoot bathtubs you are looking at are made of.  Materials used in the manufacture of small clawfoot bathtubs are cast iron, acrylic and Americast.  Cast iron is the traditional material in small clawfoot bathtubs.  The cast iron is one of the most durable; but also the heaviest.  If your small clawfoot bathtub is going to be in an upstairs bathroom, cast iron may require floor reinforcement. Americast is an exclusive material available from American Standard Bathtub Company.  It is a combination of cast iron and fiberglass.  This allows the manufacture of very stylish small clawfoot bathtubs that are not as heavy as cast iron but just as durable. Acrylic small clawfoot bathtubs are the most economical of the three.Tip #4Small clawfoot bathtubs do not come with fixtures.  I did not know these had to be purchased separately.  Small clawfoot bathtubs come with the holes already cut in.  You then install your choice of faucets and a hand held shower wand if you desire. Beautiful fixtures are available to complete your small clawfoot bathtub, but be prepared; they can add a substantial amount to the overall cost of small clawfoot bathtubs.Tip # 5Take your time selecting a small clawfoot bathtub!  I am so pleased with my small clawfoot bathtub; however I do not think I would be so satisfied if I had not taken the time to learn about small clawfoot bathtubs.