We all know the saying “everything old is new again.” Well, that can be said today of vintage bathtubs. Styles come and go and despite the modern leanings of much of today’s design world, vintage has still managed to make a come back. Many are choosing vintage style tubs over modern counterparts. If this appeals to you, this article will review some vintage styles to look for and how to go about getting a vintage tub for yourself.

Vintage Bathtub Styles

Vintage is kind of a generic term, and vintage bathtubs actually include a range of tub styles. But they do have some things in common. For one, a vintage tub usually means a tub style from around the turn of the twentieth century. These are tubs with Victorian flair and a sense of frou frou. Even if your bathroom is not Victorian inspired, a vintage bathtub may still fit the bill. Some vintage styles are sleek and fairly unadorned, melting into a more modern atmosphere.

Clawfoot tubs are probably the most sought after of all vintage bathtubs. There is something about the shape of tub, the rolled top, the way the legs sprawl out like real animal paws that draws fans, regardless of individual design taste. Clawfoot baths are found in all types of bathrooms. They are a classic and worth considering for any house.

Pedestal tubs provide an anchor in the bathroom. They are solid vintage bathtubs, perfect for long soaks after a day at work. If you love bubble baths, this is the tub to go to. These tubs are a bit more serious looking than clawfoot tubs but are still full of the old-time appeal. Again, they can work well in many design settings, shabby chic to modern.

Buying Vintage Bathtubs

Once you’ve decided upon either a clawfoot tub or a pedestal style, or a variation on either, how do you buy one? You have about three different choices for buying vintage bathtubs.

1. Buy a true vintage bathtub. If you have the money and want to spend it then by all means by a true vintage tub. Browse online for antique sellers or individuals selling vintage bathtubs. If the tub is in good shape, you will pay for it dearly. But having a classic cast iron clawfoot tub may be well worth the expense.

2. Salvage a tub. Salvage yard sometimes have vintage bathtubs in ill repair that you can take home and spruce up. Count the cost though. The money you spend repairing and restoring the tub may not be worth it. And make sure you get a tub that is free of cracks. Once an older tub like that is cracked, it’s unusable.

3. Buy a new vintage tub. It may not be exactly the same as owning an antique, but it is much cheaper and not as much work as restoring a salvaged tub. New vintage bathtubs look just as old and have just as much flair as the originals.

Remember to consider vintage bathtubs during your bathroom renovation or building project. Check the styles available and compare ways to buy the style that you prefer.