How to Pick the Right Bathtubs for Your Lifestyle?

In the United States, whether you live in a small apartment in Manhattan, New York, a townhouse in Dallas, Texas, or a single-family home in the suburbs of California, the bathtub has long been more than just a tool for cleaning the body; it has become a manifestation of a lifestyle.

Some people like to take a hot bath to relieve stress after work, while others enjoy a quiet bath on weekends. Additionally, some families hope that their children can play safely in bathtubs. What about you? Does the bathtub you choose fit your lifestyle?

 

Today we are not talking about "which is cheaper" or "which is more beautiful", but to help you start from your lifestyle and find the bathtub that is both practical and suitable for you.

 

1. Starting from living habits: What kind of "bath person" are you?

Before choosing a bathtub, ask yourself two questions:

①　How often do I take a bath?

 

②　What do I pursue when taking a bath? Relaxation? Convenience? Or function?

 

Here are several common "bath user portraits", see which category you belong to:

User Type	Lifestyle Description	Recommended Tub Type
Busy Professionals	Quick showers daily, occasional relaxing baths	Alcove Tub
Families with Kids	Frequent use, safety matters, bath time convenience	Soaking or Walk-in Tub
Minimalist Homeowners	Occasional baths, prefer simple design, space-conscious	Corner Tub
Bath Enthusiasts	Daily soaking, value comfort and spa-like features	Freestanding or Whirlpool Tub
Design Lovers	Style is a priority, want a centerpiece for their bathroom	Modern Freestanding Tub

 

Once you understand your needs, you will be less likely to be confused by promotional advertisements or complex product parameters, and you can accurately find products that suit your lifestyle.

 

2. There is more than one type of bathtub: understand different functions and designs

There are many types of bathtubs on the US market. The following are several mainstream styles and their functions:

 Alcove Tub

The standard size is 60 x 30 x 14 inches

Advantages: saves space and is easy to install

Suitable for: small-sized families with limited budgets

Price: about $300-$700

 Freestanding Tub

No need to lean against the wall, free placement

Various designs, including retro claw feet, modern minimalism, etc.

Suitable for: mid-to-high-end decoration style, users who pay attention to design

Price: ranging from $700-$2,000+

 Whirlpool Tub or Jacuzzi

Built-in water jet system

Provide a spa-level, comfortable experience.

Suitable for: users who need health care and shoulder and neck relaxation

Price: usually $1,200-$3,500+

 Walk-in Tub

Equipped with doors and seats, it is easy to get in and out

Used mainly by older people and those with limited mobility.

Higher price, generally $2,000 – $6,000+

 Corner Tub

Triangular design, space-saving

Large capacity, suitable for double bathing

Price: about $600 – $1,500

 

3. Size, layout and plumbing issues: Can your home fit it?

Don't ignore this! The bathroom layouts of many old houses in the United States are not suitable for large, independent bathtubs. The following points must be confirmed in advance:

Ø Bathtub size: Standard bathtubs are generally 60 x 30 inches, and high-end models are 72 inches or longer. Ensure that the entrance and corners are accessible for passage.

Ø Drainage direction: right row, left row, centre row, must match your home's drainage system.

Ø Floor load-bearing: Cast iron bathtubs are heavy. If placed on the second floor, you need to confirm that the floor structure can withstand a weight of more than 300-500 pounds.

It is recommended to measure the size before purchasing and take photos of the installation area to ensure a proper fit. You can ask the salesperson or plumber to determine if it is suitable.

 

4. Budget does not mean cheap: spending money wisely is the real saving

 

In the US market, the total cost of a bathtub includes not only the product itself, but also the following aspects:

Cost Component	Average Price Range (USD)
Bathtub	$300 – $3,500+
Professional Installation	$500 – $1,500+
Plumbing Adjustments	$200 – $800
Old Tub Removal	$150 – $600

 

For example, a $600 built-in bathtub may cost more than $1,200 after installation, while a $1,000 whirlpool bathtub may cost more than $2,500 due to the complexity of the plumbing and electrical systems.

Therefore, choosing a product with high cost performance is far more critical than simply considering the price.

 

5. Purchase channel recommendation: An Online and offline combination is the most cost-effective

The main channels for purchasing bathtubs in the United States include:

 

1) Offline retailers:

 Home Depot, Lowe's

 Advantages: Quality, colour and size can be checked on site

 Disadvantages: Limited styles, slightly higher prices

 

2）E-commerce platforms:

 Amazon, Wayfair, Build.com

 Advantages: Many choices, frequent discounts, convenient price comparison

 Disadvantages: Need to inspect and install by yourself

 

3）Official website of bathroom brands:

 American Standard, Kohler, Delta

 Sometimes the official website has special discounts or clearance activities.

 

4）Discount channels:

 Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Habitat for Humanity ReStores

 You can buy low-priced/second-hand bathtubs of good quality, but you need to be careful to identify them.

 

Combination strategy recommendation: online price comparison + in-store experience + seize promotion time points (such as Labour Day, Black Friday).

6. Final suggestion: Choose a bathtub for your "daily life" instead of paying for the "ideal life" in the eyes of others

A bathtub is a product that is frequently used and difficult to replace. The starting point for choosing should be your own "lifestyle":

 Like a simple daily life? Choose a practical embedded bathtub.

 

 Seeking relaxation and enjoyment? Investing in a massage bathtub will bring long-term happiness.

 

 Do you have elderly or children at home? A safe and easy-to-enter walk-in bathtub is the most suitable.

 

 Have a design sentiment? A free-standing bathtub is both beautiful and tasteful.

 

7.Conclusion: A good bathtub makes life more relaxed

A bathtub that suits you is not only a part of the bathroom, but also an extension of your lifestyle and personal taste.

In the US market, as long as you start with lifestyle, combined with function, space and budget, it is not difficult to choose the one that "suits you". It does not need to be the most expensive or the largest, but it must be the most suitable for you.

This article will help you make a more informed decision when choosing a bathtub, allowing you to confidently and accurately find the one that truly suits you.