Selecting the right bathtub for your home is not a simple task, especially when some retailers overlap product features, making it easy to get confused and end up with the wrong product. For this reason, Giving Tree Home explores the differences between garden tubs and soaking tubs, helping you choose the one that suits you best. Let’s get started!
Concept
The term "garden tub" might be unfamiliar to many. Most people select bathtubs based on installation methods, such as freestanding, built-in, or corner tubs. Essentially, a garden tub is a type of freestanding tub. It's called a "garden tub" because one of its purposes is for the user to enjoy a view while bathing. Typically, these tubs are installed in locations with a scenic view, such as facing a garden, balcony, or a large window.
A soaking tub, on the other hand, is one of the most common types of bathtubs and is currently one of the most popular styles. Any bathtub designed for deep soaking can be called a soaking tub, though different brands may define soaking depth differently. Therefore, conceptually, there isn't much difference between garden tubs and soaking tubs, except for their installation locations. You can think of a garden tub as a subset of soaking tubs or understand a soaking tub as a luxurious standalone version of a garden tub.
Features
As mentioned earlier, the primary purpose of a garden tub is to enjoy the view, which means it must provide enough comfort. These tubs often have sufficient soaking depth and size to allow users to lie down comfortably and quietly enjoy the view outside the window. Some oversized garden tubs even allow two people to soak simultaneously. This provides excellent conditions for soaking with your loved one, sipping wine, and enjoying the sights and sounds outside the window.
The ultimate goal of a soaking tub is soaking, so its soaking depth is much greater than that of a garden tub. For example, the soaking depth of the soaking tubs sold by Giving Tree Home is at least about 15 inches, with some special styles around 20 inches. For users seeking an ultimate relaxation experience, there are soaking tubs with seats available. These designs make soaking tubs suitable not only for everyday use but also for providing a deep relaxation effect.
Material
Given the feature of being installed by a window, garden tubs may face the threat of direct sunlight. Although most bathtub materials can resist this, they may discolor over time. Therefore, the preferred material for garden tubs is Corneli material, a type of tub made by melting and casting 100% acrylic material. Additionally, solid surface materials are also a good choice because bathtubs made from this material can be polished to restore their original luster. Some users might consider enameled cast iron, which, although a good choice, is heavy and requires extra support during installation, adding extra cost. Here are two bathtubs made from Corneli materials:
For soaking tubs, there are fewer concerns since more focus is on the ergonomic soaking depth. Therefore, materials such as acrylic, solid surface, enameled cast iron, fiberglass, or wood are all suitable. The important thing is to choose what suits you best, considering factors like price, installation, and aesthetics. If you want to enjoy the comfort of soaking in warm water, consider acrylic soaking tubs, which are inexpensive, easy to install, and maintain, making them a popular choice for many families.
Price
The price of a bathtub mainly depends on its material and size. With the same material and size, the price difference between garden tubs and soaking tubs isn't significant. However, there may be differences in usage and maintenance costs later on.
Since garden tubs are usually larger, they require more hot water, significantly increasing your water and electricity bills, leading to higher usage costs. Additionally, garden tubs are typically installed by a window, which, even with durable materials, may discolor over time. The window environment also tends to gather dust, meaning you will need to spend more time and money on cleaning and maintenance.
How to Choose Between a Garden Tub and a Soaking Tub
Clearly, the primary function of a garden tub is to allow users to enjoy the view by the window, which means your bathroom must have a window and a modern bathroom layout. When considering a garden tub, it's best to choose a large oval model. Also, since garden tubs are usually away from walls and cannot be installed close to them, your bathroom space must be large enough, or it might affect your movement space in the bathroom.
If the above conditions are not met, then a better option is to purchase a soaking tub. Soaking tubs come in various styles, and for users with limited bathroom space, a niche bathtub is a good choice. This type of tub is embedded in the wall and can be paired with a shower system. In some homes, the niche installation location is set by a window, which is almost the same as a garden tub. For users who like freestanding tubs but have limited bathroom space, a 47-inch soaking tub can be considered. Due to its small size, these tubs usually have built-in seats, making them suitable for small bathrooms.
Ending
Whether you choose a garden tub or a soaking tub, you need to decide based on your family needs, bathroom space, and personal preferences. Garden tubs are suitable for those who want to enjoy the view while bathing, while soaking tubs are better for those seeking deep relaxation and versatility. By carefully comparing the concepts, features, materials, and prices of both, you can better understand which tub is more suitable for your home and make an informed choice.
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