When purchasing a bathtub, it’s essential to consider the bathroom space, user needs, comfort, and functionality. Below are detailed steps and considerations:
A). Measure Bathroom Space
1. Installation Area Dimensions
– Length: Net length of the wall area (deducting doors, windows, or pipes).
– Width: Leave at least 10-15cm of passage space on both sides of the bathtub.
– Height: Pay attention to ceiling or beam height limits, especially for built-in bathtubs.
– Door Frame Size: Ensure the bathtub can be moved in smoothly (measure diagonal length).
2. Bathroom Area Reference
– Small Bathroom (≤3㎡): Choose a 1.2-1.5m single bathtub or a fan/triangular bathtub.
– Standard Bathroom (4-6㎡): Can accommodate a 1.5-1.8m regular bathtub.
– Large Bathroom(≥6㎡): Opt for a bathtub over 1.8m or a freestanding bathtub.
B). Choose Size Based on User Needs
1. Number of Users Determines Type
– Single Bathtub: Length 1.5-1.7m, width 0.7-0.8m.
– Double Bathtub: Length 1.7-2.2m, width 0.9-1.2m (side-by-side or face-to-face design).
2. Body Size Compatibility
– Height Matching: The internal length of the bathtub should be 15-20cm longer than the user’s height (e.g., for a height of 1.7m, choose a bathtub ≥1.85m).
– Width Comfort: Shoulder width +20cm is ideal (Asian adults have a shoulder width of about 40-45cm, so double bathtubs need ≥80cm).
3. Special Needs
– Elderly/Children: Choose shallow bathtubs (depth ≤50cm) with widened edges for easy access.
– Pregnant or Mobility-Impaired Users: Prioritize sit-in bathtubs (length 1.2-1.5m).
C). Bathtub Types and Size Relationships
| Type | Common Dimensions (L×W) | Usage Scenarios |
|——————|—————————–|————————————-|
| Built-in Bathtub | 1.5-1.8m×0.7-0.8m | Space-saving, suitable for small bathrooms |
| Freestanding Bathtub | 1.7-2.0m×0.8-1.0m | Large bathrooms, aesthetic appeal |
| Whirlpool Bathtub | ≥1.8m×0.9m | Requires space for pumps (leave 10-15cm extra on both sides) |
| Sit-in Bathtub | 1.1-1.4m×0.7-0.8m | Elderly or small spaces |
| Fan/Triangular Bathtub | Side length 1.2-1.5m | Corner installation, space-saving |
D). Shape Impact on Space
1. Rectangular: High space utilization, suitable for most bathrooms, but watch for sharp corners.
2. Oval: Visually soft, but occupies more space (10-15% more than rectangular bathtubs of the same length).
3. Round/Fan-shaped: Suitable for corner installation, but internal usable space is smaller.
4. Asymmetric Design: One side is widened for comfort, but requires custom installation.
E). Material and Size Limitations
1. Acrylic: Customizable non-standard sizes, suitable for irregular bathrooms, but prone to deformation if too long (>1.8m requires reinforcement).
2. Cast Iron/Ceramic: Fixed sizes, good heat retention, but heavy (check floor load capacity).
3. Stone Resin/Transparent Resin: Supports large custom sizes and colors, but higher cost.
4. Wooden: Typically 1.2-1.5m small bathtubs, suitable for Japanese-style bathrooms.
5. Natural Stone: Extremely luxurious with customizable sizes and colors, but heavy, suitable for first-floor installation.
F). Installation Considerations
1. Load-Bearing Safety
– Total weight when filled = Bathtub weight + (L×W×Water depth×1000kg/m³).
– Example: 1.7m×0.8m×0.5m bathtub, total weight ≈ bathtub + 680kg water; ensure floor load capacity ≥800kg/m².
2. Pipe Reservations
– The drainage outlet should be ≥50cm from the wall (to avoid drainage issues).
– Double bathtubs should have dual drainage outlets.
3. Functional Accessories
– Whirlpool bathtubs require power and maintenance access.
– Shower bathtubs should be ≥1.5m long to avoid cramped space.
G). Practical Purchasing Tips
1. Test Lie-Down
– Simulate soaking posture in-store; knee bend angle should be ≥120°, back should fit the cushion.
– For double bathtubs, test sitting together to ensure shoulder spacing ≥20cm.
2. Visual Space-Saving Techniques
– Small bathrooms should choose light-colored, narrow-edged bathtubs.
– Use vertical stripe tiles to visually expand space.
3. Brand Services
– Confirm if custom bathtubs include measurement and installation; non-standard sizes may incur 30%-50% extra charges.
H). Pitfall Avoidance Guide
– ❌ Avoid blindly choosing large sizes, which may overcrowd the bathroom.
– ❌ Don’t ignore door frame size: Bathtub diagonal length should be < bathroom door width +10cm.
– ❌ Deep bathtubs (>65cm) require handrails to prevent slipping.
Summary: Key Steps
1. Measure bathroom → 2. Determine the number of users → 3. Choose type → 4. Test comfort → 5. Check installation conditions.