The Return of the Clawfoot Bathtub

The fall of the Roman Empire also ended the era of bathing as a regular and even recreational activity for people. For hundreds of years after, bathing was regarded as unnecessary or even as a hazardous activity that should not be done unless absolutely necessary.

Starting in the middle of the 1800’s, bathing in the United States began to make a modest return. Bathing occasionally took place in a tin or small copper tub next to a kitchen fire or pot-bellied stove. Soon, cast-iron vats converted from animal troughs were replacing the primitive tubs.

Photo provided by ClassicClawfootTubs.com.

These new tubs had an enamel coating for an attractive surface and easy cleaning, and were larger which made them more comfortable for soaking. The tubs had an addition of four legs, attached to the bottom to stand on resembling animal feet, typically with claws. These “claw foot tubs” caught on quickly with people and bathing came into vogue once more by the late 1800’s. They were viewed as luxurious and refined.

After World War II, new housing construction tripled but the emphasis was on living space. Bathrooms became compact by design, so built-in tub and shower units replaced the vintage clawfoot bathtub due to space constraints. People also began to desire “the modern look”. They wanted new materials, new colors and new styles.

In the late 1990’s, claw foot bathtubs began to make a comeback as homeowners, especially the baby boomer generation, began the home improvement revolution. Bathroom renovations became one of the best investments for home improvement and still are today. People were looking for more than just the utility of personal hygiene — they wanted a bathroom that was part of the home’s living space.

Today, clawfoot tubs are seen more frequently in bathroom renovations and in design magazines than ever before. There are many different shapes and styles that can be painted to match the bathroom, or can stand alone in glossy white. The history and heritage of the clawfoot tub creates an instant elegant and classy look, but can be integrated into any style (modern, vintage, or transitional) — ultimately giving you many different possiblities for your bathroom remodel.

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