Slipper Tub Buying Guide

Ready to relax and rejuvenate in your bathroom? A slipper tub might be just what you need. These comfortable bathtubs offer head and neck support while contributing to the sleek aesthetic of your bathroom. 

What is a slipper tub exactly, though? Before buying one for your bathroom, it’s important to know the different types and materials available, including double slipper tubs. Here is everything you need to know about slipper tubs to create a peaceful bathing experience every time. 

What Is a Slipper Tub?

Slipper tubs originally got their name because they are shaped similar to a high-heeled shoe. In the late 1800s, these shoes were often called slippers. 

One end of the tub is sloped upwards so that you can lay against the higher end for maximum comfort. This design gives your body more support while you recline during bathing. 

A History of Luxury

When slipper tubs first became popular in the 1800s, only the wealthiest households had them. Unlike today, luxurious bathtubs were reserved for prestigious families. The comfort you enjoy in a slipper tub now would have been a royal experience three centuries ago.

Double Slipper Tubs

Double slipper tubs are similar to traditional slipper tubs, but both sides are sloped upwards. The sides dip in the middle to give you the perfect reclining posture without sacrificing the aesthetic of the tub. 

One advantage of a double slipper tub is that it can potentially hold two people at once. Since each side offers a reclining position, both of you would be comfortable. If you like to take warm baths with your partner to decompress, a double slipper tub could be the perfect addition to your bathroom. 

Choosing the Right Material for Your Slipper Tub

Bathtubs are made from different materials. Each type of tub has its own unique benefits, and the right type of tub can complement your bathroom design. 

In general, slipper tub materials differ on the following criteria:

• Heat retention 
• Durability
• Weight
• Ease of cleaning
• Shine
• Crack and chip resistance
• Anti-bacterial and anti-mold properties

Depending on what you’re looking for to enhance your bathing experience, you’ll likely prefer one material over another. 

Some of the most common materials for slipper tubs include:

Acrylic: Versatile and Affordable

Acrylic bathtubs are a most popular choice, especially when it comes to freestanding tubs. This is because acrylic is resistant to chips, cracks, and shattering. The lightweight feel of acrylic tubs makes them easy to install and rearrange as needed. 

Aside from durability, acrylic bathtubs are extremely affordable. This is one of the cheapest materials that you can get without sacrificing quality. You can find acrylic bathtubs in almost any style, including single or double slipper tubs. 

Stainless Steel: Long-Lasting Finish 

As the name suggests, stainless steel is resistant to any permanent stains or discoloration. If you want to avoid markings on your slipper tub, stainless steel may be the best choice for you. 

Stainless steel bathtubs are durable and extremely easy to maintain. They retain their shine and sleek aesthetic in all bathroom conditions. If you’re looking for an industrial-style aesthetic with your slipper tub, stainless steel is the material you need. 

Cast Iron Slipper Tubs: Warmth for Extended Baths

Cast iron slipper tubs will keep your bath water hot and steaming for much longer periods of time. If you enjoy long bathing sessions, a cast iron tub could benefit you. 

Cast iron slipper tubs are extremely durable and tend to last for a long time. They were used in the last few centuries to accent luxurious homes. In fact, they often don’t need to be replaced for several generations, making them the ideal long-lasting addition to your bathroom. 

You won’t have to worry about replacing your cast iron slipper tub anytime soon!

Copper: Rustic and Unique 

Copper slipper tubs make for unique bathroom additions. This material is bronze and beautiful upon first purchase. The appearance of copper tubs changes over time, making them excellent choices for rustic and vintage-style bathrooms. 

As your copper slipper tub ages, you’ll notice a green film forming, which ages your tub stylishly. The appearance of patina — the green film — has become increasingly popular in the last few years and is highly sought-after in the furniture world. 

Another advantage of copper slipper tubs is that they resist what you don’t want in your bathroom. This means you don’t have to worry about health hazards or substantial bathtub maintenance. Copper is a natural anti-bacterial and anti-mold material, so you can keep your tub clean and safe for use with ease. 

Stone Resin: Luxurious and Heat-Loving

Stone bathtubs are sleek, luxurious, and expensive-looking. They also retain heat very well, thanks to the natural properties of this material. You can get stone resin slipper tubs for a modern, elegant aesthetic in your bathroom. 

Stone resin bathtubs are made by mixing fragments of natural stones with resin. This creates a durable, highly polished surface that keeps heat in and stress out. Stone resin tubs are also scratch-resistant, making them a good choice for families with children. 

Some people find that their stone resin bathtubs are even more durable than acrylic tubs. This is great news if you plan to keep your tub for a long time and enjoy many relaxing soaks.

Measuring Your Space Before Installation

Once you’ve decided on the style and material of your slipper or double slipper tub, it’s important to measure your bathroom. There is a wide variety of slipper tub sizes, allowing for customization for your unique bathroom spaces. 

Installers will have to maneuver your new tub through doorways and up flights of stairs. You can make the process go smoothly by having accurate measurements on hand. 

Get Your Bathroom’s Measurements

Start by measuring the general dimensions of your entire bathroom. This can help you figure out the bathtub size you need. Then, measure the desired installation area for your tub. It’s a good idea to take measurements twice and have someone else double-check your numbers, if possible. 

Measure Doorways and Openings 

Make sure you measure any openings or doorways installers will have to go through before reaching your bathroom. You will want to check that the size of your bathtub doesn’t exceed the size of your doorways. 

Choosing Your Bathtub Faucet

The faucet you choose for your slipper tub will add to the overall aesthetic you want for your bathroom. From modern freestanding faucets to tub-mounted fixtures, you can find options for every bathroom setup out there. 

Your bathroom’s piping and plumbing will play a role here. While you can always adjust or renovate things, it’s important to keep your existing plumbing structures in mind. Wall-mounted or tub-mounted faucets require different connections than freestanding faucets. 

Think about the color scheme you’re going for in your bathroom. You can choose between solid brass faucets, porcelain, stainless steel, and other materials to complement your bathroom’s aesthetic. 

Some bathtub faucets come with hand showers that make cleaning yourself and your tub a lot easier. Consider your needs as you choose the best slipper tub faucet for your bathroom. 

Additional Slipper Tub Accessories: Bathtub Pillows and Trays

Enhance your bathing sessions with bathtub pillows and trays. These accessories increase your comfort and the versatility of your slipper tub. 

For example, with a bathtub tray, you can work on your laptop or watch a show on your tablet while you soak in steaming water. Some trays also include spaces to hold wine glasses and other refreshing beverages. What more could you need out of a relaxing and rejuvenating bathing space?

Much like bathtub trays, pillows provide support and comfort for your head and neck. Bathtub pillows are perfect for those who want to rest and get away from the world for a while while soaking in the tub. Just make sure you can stay awake!

Slipper Bathtub Packages: Get Everything You Need at Once

You can find bathtub packages at Vintage Tub & Bath that save you time, money, and effort by including everything you need in one purchase. You can get your favorite slipper tub with an included shower package that doubles the functions of your space. 

No need to limit yourself to either bathing or showering — with Vintage Tub & Bath, you can do both. Some of our packages also include faucet fixtures and other accessories. No matter what aesthetic or design you’re going for, we have options for your space. 

We understand that bathroom renovation is hard work, so we’ve made it as easy as possible. From our diverse range of options, you can choose the best bathtub package for your slipper tub needs to enjoy restful, relaxing bathing experiences for years to come.

Find the Best Slipper Tubs at Vintage Tub & Bath

At Vintage Tub & Bath, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, durable bathtubs that serve you and your family for years to come. With our wide selection of bathtub types, designs, and materials, you have plenty of options to find the right tub for your needs. 

Slipper tubs are versatile and provide plenty of comfort and luxury. Find the perfect slipper tub for your space and shop online at Vintage Tub & Bath today!