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A claw foot bathtub can turn an ordinary bathroom into an elegant spa escape. With its smooth enamel surface and solid cast-iron construction, it speaks of a bygone era. However, the claw foot bathtub was first enameled to create a smooth surface for horse troughs and hog scalders. Over time the enamel surface of these tubs became recognized as extremely sanitary, as they were easy to clean and prevented the transfer of disease. Manufactures such as Kohl then added four claw-like feet and began mass-producing claw foot tubs for home use.
Although in 1921 only 1% of American homes had indoor plumbing, the post World War I era saw a significant construction boom, where for the first time homes were built with a bathroom that included a toilet, sink and a bathtub. And the bathtub that was installed was generally a claw foot tub. (Interestingly enough, before flushing toilets were installed; many outhouses were equipped with copies of the Sears catalog. The uncoated and absorbent sheets were considered the toilet paper of choice during that era!) If you are interested in installing a claw foot tub in your home, you have several choices. You can purchase an antique claw foot tub that requires restoration, one that has already been restored or a reproduction. The best place to shop for an antique claw foot tub that you are interested in refinishing is your local salvage yard. Claw foot tubs that require restoration can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on their size, condition and originality – claw foot tubs with cracks or stains in the enamel often cost considerably less than those in original condition. Once you have located and purchased the claw foot tub of your choice, you will then need to take it to a company that specializes in refinishing the enamel. This process entails filling any cracks and chips, sanding it, acid etching it, priming it, and then painting it. A similar process is completed on the outside of the tub as well. Given that it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000 to have your tub refinished, you may want to look online for a tub that has already been refinished or consider buying a reproduction. Today’s claw foot tubs come with all the modern conveniences – including Jacuzzi jets – and with their warranties may be a more cost-effective solution. If you do go ahead and purchase an antique claw foot tub, it is important to note that those with porcelain or enamel finishes should never be cleaned with harsh abrasives. Rather, use a mild cleaner like Bon Ami to clean the tub on a regular basis. Then, sit back, and enjoy a long soak in your piece of vintage history – the claw foot tub!
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Bathtubs 
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