Clawfoot Tubs: Everything You Need to Know

Remodeling a bathroom? Replacing a bathtub? No doubt about it: you’ve considered a freestanding tub. These striking fixtures boast loads of benefits – in addition to their fabulously stylish look. To learn everything you need to know when choosing a freestanding tub, check out our user-friendly, comprehensive guide to freestanding tubs.

One favorite among freestanding tubs is the clawfoot tub.

What is a clawfoot tub?

A claw foot bathtub is just what it sounds like: a freestanding tub that rests on four feet. But these tubs are so much more than just a bathtub with feet! These nostalgic tubs are the ultimate classic: they’ll never go out of style.

What are the pros of a clawfoot tub?

• Classic style (and current trend); vintage tubs can be refurbished
• Empty space beneath tub facilitates cleaning and creates illusion of space
• Typically larger and deeper than other tub styles
• Varied finish and style options

What are the cons of a clawfoot tub?

• May be difficult to climb in and out (especially for children, seniors, or those with disabilities)
• Impractical to combine with shower
• Limited storage and deck space for toiletries (some feature a flat rim for added space)
• Often costly; increased installation costs
• When placed in close proximity to a wall, splashed water may be difficult to clean up

Buy new or refinish?

There’s something special about a vintage tub, but it’s not for everyone.

Vintage tubs

• Cast iron and porcelain
• Very heavy
• Retain heat very well
• May be cost-effective, depending on age, location, and condition (factor in refinishing costs)
• Feel-good factor of recycling and refurbishing
• May require one or more of the following:
  • Deep-cleaning
  • Reglazing the interior
  • Finishing the exterior (sandblasting or scraping and sanding, then painting)

New tubs

• Do not require extra effort
• May be more costly, depending on material, size, and other factors
• Often lighter than vintage tubs
• May scratch or damage more easily
• Some newer materials do not retain heat as well

How big is a clawfoot tub?

Typically, a clawfoot tub is generously sized. Ensure that the tub you want will fit through all doors, halls, and stairwells to get into the bathroom, and allow for at least 3-6 inches of space on each side of the tub.

These tubs are designed to be large, deep, and comfortable – be sure that your bathroom can accommodate one, physically and visually!

Clawfoot tub lengths range from a compact 54” to an oversized 72”, with 59” lengths most commonly purchased; widths range from 30” to 40” or more, with 32” widths especially popular (choose a wide tub if you plan on bathing a deux); and depths range from 24” to 30” or more.

How heavy is a clawfoot tub?

All bathtubs are heavy, but clawfoot tubs tend to be especially heavy – particularly the cast-iron models. A cast-iron tub can easily weight 200-400 pounds while empty – fill it with water and climb in and you’re looking at several hundred pounds of weight. Before installing, check the weight of the tub you have your eye on and ensure that your floor can handle it.

What kind of feet can I get on a footed tub?

Feet options have evolved to suit changing styles. In addition to the classic lion-paw or bear-claw feet found on vintage tubs, the options vary widely: modern feet, traditional feet, contemporary feet, square feet, round feet, curved feet… the choices are practically endless.

What materials do clawfoot bathtubs come in?

The traditional clawfoot tub is made of cast iron and finished in porcelain, but today the options are more varied. Tubs made of acrylic or fiberglass are lighter-weight than cast iron but do not retain heat as well as cast iron. Cast iron also tends to be more durable than acrylic (and it can offer custom color options), but it’s correspondingly more expensive.

A truly striking option is a copper clawfoot tub, which adds an extra element of luxury and elegance to any bathroom. Other choices include stone clawfoot tubs (heavy like cast iron but easy to clean) and solid surface tubs, which are lighter weight and low-maintenance but retain heat better than acrylic.

If you’d prefer a more subtle focal point (is that an oxymoron?), consider a white or biscuit tub with contrasting feet for visual interest without the overwhelming factor.

What are the shape and finish options for a clawfoot tub?

Many clawfoot tubs are classically oval-shaped, but you can easily choose other shapes like rectangular tubs, hourglass tubs, slipper or double slipper tubs.

As for the finish, many wrongly assume that clawfoot tubs (or most tubs, for that matter) are strictly white. That’s incorrect! Clawfoot tubs may be finished in virtually any color; in fact, many vintage cast-iron tubs are refinished and powder-coated for an extra dose of visual interest and beauty. Bonus: when the exterior is colored, the interior usually remains white for contrast.

Can a clawfoot tub have jets?

Just because it looks like a relic of the past doesn’t mean it can’t offer modern conveniences! Clawfoot tubs can be (and are) outfitted with jets – as whirlpool and air tubs – for a bathing experience that feels as awesome as it looks. And of course, standard soaking tubs are widely available with feet.

Does a clawfoot tub need special plumbing?

Good news: installing a clawfoot tub is not too different from installing a regular tub (when it comes to plumbing, at least). One thing to keep in mind: since there’s no surround on the tub, the plumbing will be exposed, so you’ll want it to look good!

How much does a clawfoot tub cost?

Prices vary, but clawfoot tubs are among the more expensive tub styles. The cost of a clawfoot tub can range from $2,300 to $7,000 or more, depending on shape, material, size, brand, and features.

How should one clean and maintain a clawfoot tub?

Cleaning and maintenance depends on the tub material. Some general tips:

• If your tub is near a wall, check the space between tub and wall periodically to catch any splashed water on the floor
• Tubs with a porcelain interior should be cleaned with a mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent; clean regularly with a mixture of hot water and dishwashing detergent
• To deep-clean a porcelain tub, combine warm water with ¼ cup baking soda and ¼ cup ammonia; scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth and wipe thoroughly to remove all traces of baking soda
• Shine the sides of the tub (not the bottom!) with a bit of lemon oil
• Acrylic tubs are nonporous and easy to clean; use non-abrasive soap for regular cleaning
• To deep-clean an acrylic tub, use a cleaner like 409, Glass Plus, Windex, Fantastik, or Clorox – do not use Scrubbing Bubbles or any chemicals not approved for use on plastics
• Remove scratches and dull spots on an acrylic tub with a liquid polisher; deep scratches may be gently buffed out with 600-grit or finer sandpaper, then polished
• Refinished tubs can be finicky and prone to damage. Do not place any objects – including shampoo or soap bottles – on the finish; do not use abrasive cleaners; do not use nonslip mats with suction cups; wax your tub regularly (follow your finisher’s guidelines to care for a refinished tub)

What are the best brands of clawfoot tub?

Like every product at Quality Bath, each piece in our selection of clawfoot tubs is hand-selected for ultimate quality and customer satisfaction. Some of our favorites include the regal, elegant clawfoot tubs by Victoria & Albert, with fabulous feet options; classically chic tubs by Cheviot, in versatile cast iron and optional custom finish colors; subtly artistic tubs by Barclay, including luxurious copper clawfoot tubs; and updated-yet-timeless clawfoot tubs by MTI, with options for distinctive colored feet.

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