Clawfoot Tubs: Interesting History

Keep in mind that daily bathing did not become popular until much later during the Roman Empire era. At this time, the plumbing system had become quite sophisticated for the time with materials such as copper, bronze, and marble being used. Although some of the more wealthy families or royalty had indoor bathing, the majority of people bathed using outdoor bathtubs, which were actually large swimming pool type systems.

Things took another major turn after the fall of the Roman Empire at which time daily bathing ceased with perfume being used to cover body odors instead. In fact, the entire sanitation system was completely fallen with waste being thrown into rivers that were also used for drinking water. With a plague soon to follow, people realized something had to be done so an underground system was installed. Over the years, other inventions showed up to include the flushing toilet, the water closet, and then, clawfoot tubs.

By the middle of the 1800s, cast iron was a popular materials used, which was the primary material for clawfoot tubs. However, to make the tubs more comfortable and visually appealing, smooth enamel was used on the inside. Although other manufacturers made clawfoot tubs, when the reputable company of Kohler first introduced their version, it was actually called a horse trough or hog scalder. Because of the popularity of this design, as well as the sanitary surface, clawfoot tubs as they would later be called became big sellers.

Then after WWI, the actual bathroom was created, a room that contained not just the toilet but also the sinks and clawfoot tubs.  Although the initial design of clawfoot tubs remained the same for many years, it was eventually transformed into a built-in unit designed with an apron.  The result was easier maintenance and a cleaner look.  While you can still purchase clawfoot tubs made from original cast iron, often purchased from special manufacturers or salvage companies, a new type is made from acrylic, giving you the same gorgeous design but a much lighter weight one too.