Clawfoot Bathtubs

Clawfoot bathtubs exude elegance and a timeless feel. And while most of the draw lies in the classic look that this type of tub gives off, the true convenience is in the flexibility of fixture placement, since there’s typically no need for intrusive changes to walls or flooring. As long as the plumbing can reach the tub, you’re good to go! The deep sides of clawfoot bathtubs make them ideal for a luxury soaking experience that’s sure to help clear your mind.

A Tub Full of History

The clawfoot tub started to gain popularity in the early 19th century, when it was a sign of wealth and social standing. They didn’t require plumbing at the time, and the cast iron held heat to keep the water for longer than any other type of tub. The footings themselves were a statement and have proven to be a timeless feature that continues to withstand centuries of drastic tastes in design. Even with modern amenities and the ability to add built-in bathtubs to your bathroom, the clawfoot style remains in the hearts of design enthusiasts everywhere. However, you don’t need to go scouring antique shops to find the vintage look anymore, as updated versions with the same feel are easy to get your hands on.

Fun Fact: The “clawfoot” is traditionally a ball and claw, with either a lion’s paw or eagle’s talon clutching a ball, although styles have evolved to offer more contemporary options that fit a variety of design tastes.

Know Your Clawfoot Tub Options

All clawfoot bathtubs share the same rolled rim (also called ‘roll top’ or ‘flat rim’) design that adds to its signature look and makes for a smooth transition into and out of the tub. There are a few different style options to choose from, however. You can opt for either a single slipper tub, which is higher on one side for a nice spot to recline and rest your head, or a double slipper tub which has both ends equally elevated to accommodate lounging in either direction (or a two-person soak!). Consider the look and functionality of both to help make your decision.

You’ll also have an abundance of options when it comes to footing finishes and designs (you know, the “claw” part). Since this is purely aesthetic, go with what works best for your overall design style. Think about coordinating or matching your other bathroom fixtures, especially your tub filler. You tub faucet is a particularly important piece to consider before committing to a clawfoot tub. There are three distinct mounting types which may impact your overall design and placement of the entire setup, which you can learn more about below:

• Deck Mounted: The faucet mounts directly to the edge of the bathtub itself. This is a great option if you’re limited on floor space and don’t mind somewhat exposed plumbing.
• Freestanding: The faucet mounts to the floor next to the tub. This style is good if you’re looking to make a statement with the faucet itself and have space to spare around the bathtub.
• Wall Mounted: The faucet mounts to the wall beside the tub. This design works well with limited space and when you want to keep exposed plumbing to a minimum.

Materials Made to Last

Historically, clawfoot bathtubs were made of cast iron because of its scratch-resistant and heat-retaining properties. When coated with porcelain or ceramic enamel, these tubs become smooth and resistant to bacteria, and can also be refinished and restored as needed, which is why there are still so many originals remaining today. The one major drawback to cast iron clawfoot tubs is their weight — don’t even try moving one without professional help! Luckily, updated models made of acrylic or fiberglass are readily available and much, much lighter, making them better suited for placement in second-story bathrooms. It’s also said that acrylic and fiberglass hold heat longer than cast iron, and share the same bacteria-resistant properties. You can’t go wrong with either material, so make your decision based on placement, design and pricing.