The Best Cast Iron Bathtubs for Your Money| Top 9 Options for Your Home

Replacing your tub or doing a bath remodeling can be a great investment. Hence, a lot of things should be put into consideration when making your decision. Cast iron bathtubs are a perfect choice since they are smartly designed. In them, you can have a relaxing and exceptional bathing experience.

Nonetheless, this can be daunting since there are different models of cast iron bathtubs to choose from. Worry not! Below is a review of the best cast iron bathtub options for your money.

Bathtub Material: Fiberglass vs. Cast Iron

Selecting the best bathtub material can be daunting and overwhelming. Hence, when it comes to choosing the right bathtub material, several factors should be put into consideration. If you are torn between the two, here is a guide that will help you make an informed decision.

• Shape and Features

Are you looking for a tub with special features and shapes other than the traditional oval and round shapes? Then fiberglass material is the best choice for you. Fiberglass is modern and more moldable.

Compared to cast iron, fiberglass tubs are available in an array of features and shapes including molded seats, cradling shape, headrest, armrest, and drink holders.

Another unique style of fiberglass tubs is that they come with matching wall panels or even tub-shower combo. Still, there are models of cast iron tubs that come with special features like handles and jet. However, this can be expensive.

• Construction

Both fiberglass and cast iron differ in their construction, and this will determine their quality. Fiberglass bathtubs have a molded fiberglass base that is coated with a layer of acrylic (gel coat). The gel coat forms the color and protective finish to the acrylic bathtub. The fiberglass material is lightweight with a thickness of ¼ inch.

Cast iron bathtubs start as a molded cast iron base, which is coated with three layers of enamel on the interior and layers of primer on the exterior. With a thickness of about 3/8 inches, cast iron tub material is heavy than its counterpart, fiberglass.

One spec we love about this material is that it is resource-efficient. This is because it contains 80 percent recycled material to give a good finish.

• Floor Structure

The other key consideration when choosing between the two bathtubs is the floor structure under the tub. Basically, concrete surface offers the best support for cast iron tubs that are quite heavy. However, you should choose the type of bathtub material depending on your type of floor structure.

In order to calculate the actual weight of the cast iron, add the dry weight of the tub, weight of water when the tub is full and the body weight of the occupant. If you are uncertain of the right tub for your floor, be sure to consult with an engineer or experienced builder.

• Cost and Maintenance

When it comes to cost, fiberglass bathtubs are less expensive than the cast iron tubs. However, they can be quite expensive to maintain since they require resealing regularly. They are also less sturdy than their cast iron equivalents.

Cast iron tubs, especially classic clawfoot tub, can be quite expensive. Installation can also be difficult and costly. Yet, due to this, these tubs are long lasting and can withstand ordinary wear and tear. If you love copper bathtub, as it is durable, then you’ll love cast iron bathtubs even more as they are made to last longer and even get better with age.

• Thud Factor

If you want a solid with a great thud factor, your choice of material is definitely cast iron. Cast iron is more solid than fiberglass, which is made with plastic and resin. A good example of a cast iron with good thud factor is a cast-iron skillet.

Product Reviews on the Best Cast Iron Bathtubs

1.  Bellwether Raphael Cast Iron Bathtub

This Bellwether model is constructed from enameled cast iron and comes in a contemporary design and industry standard size of 60” * 30”. Its design provides a clean look to match most bathrooms. It comes with a low step-over threshold for easy entry and exit while its wide ledges provide adequate storage. Besides, we love this bath because it is resource-efficient as it is crafted from 80 percent recycled material.

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2.  Kohler Iron Works Historic Freestanding Oval Bath

Measuring 66 inches long and 36 inches wide, this Iron Works bath is great for both traditional and Victorian-style bathing. It’s enhanced with ornate ball-and-claw feet to give it an antique look. With built-in-support and a spacious 36-inch width, this freestanding tub is designed to provide a comfortable bathing experience. It also features a Safeguard slip-resistant surface.

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3.  Kingston Brass Aqua Eden Soaking Bathtub

Soak in all the luxury in this cast iron bathtub that adds a vintage touch to your bathroom. This bathtub also requires a small amount of space. Its cast iron construction ensures durability. It also offers a lot of comfort with its sloped back design.

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4.  Cambridge Plumbing Clawfoot Bathtub

Do you want to add a touch of both luxury and comfort to your bathroom? This clawfoot tub comes with an amazing Swedish soaking design that will give your bathroom a stylish look and offer utmost comfort.

It also comes with cast iron claw foot that offers elegance and warmth as you enjoy your bath. With a water capacity of 52 gallons, this soaker tub will offer the ideal soaking experience that only the best cast iron tub can bring.

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5.  Toto Enameled Soaking Bath

This 60” * 30” Toto soaking bath has an enameled cast iron construction that offers ultimate strength and durability. Its slip-resistance surface enhances safety while making the entry and exit easy.

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6.  MaykkeRosa Clawfoot Soaking Bathtub

This Rosa clawfoot soaking bathtub features an elegant vintage design that complements any bathroom style. In addition to a polished cast iron construction, it also comes with a drain and overflow assembly to prevent spillage and flooding. It also comes with ball and claw foot detailing, giving it an elegant and unique design.

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7.  Cheviot Soaking Bathtub

The Cheviot Products soaking bathtub is one of the best drop in bathtub. It adds class and elegance to any bathroom with its grade AA titanium material. It features more stain resistant finishes that will last you for many years to come.

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8.  Barclay Products 4-5 ft Cast Iron Ball and Claw Feet Roll Top Tub

The Barclay bathtub has an attractive sleek design. The cast iron ball and claw feet design gives it a vintage appearance. Additionally, it is white in color with polished chrome accessories.

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9.  Aqua Eden 6 feet Cast Iron Double Ended Pedestal Bathtub

With modern and vintage designs, this double ended pedestal bathtub is perfect for relaxing after an exhausting day. Crafted from cast iron material, you are bound to enjoy warmth and durability from this bathtub. We love the fact that it comes with painted white exterior and can be repainted to match your room decor.

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Conclusion

As seen above, all the nine cast iron bathtubs are amazing and a great way to unwind after a long day. However, the Kohler K-837-0 Bellwether Cast Iron Bathtub is the best cast iron bathtub and tops them all. Measuring 60” * 30”, this tub features an integral apron and low threshold for easy entry and exit. Unlike other designs, it comes with extra wide ledges to offer adequate storage space.

Its simple yet contemporary look fits most bathroom decors. It is also a great option that won’t break the bank like most cast iron tubs.

Cast iron tubs come in varying designs, shapes, and prices. Hence, you should find one that is comfortable and easily fits your style and bathroom décor. That is how we arrived at our decision for the top cast iron bathtub.