Cast Iron Baths: Everything You Need
to Know in 2023.
Deciding whether to purchase a cast iron bath can be a big decision. Their popularity is on the rise in recent years as consumers want to own premium quality, timeless, and classic furniture in the home. However, like any other bath of various materials such as acrylic, copper, and stone resin, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a purchase decision.
Our May blog post will guide you through the pros and cons of purchasing a cast iron bath as well as how to maintain a traditional cast iron bath so it lasts a lifetime.
What is a Cast Iron Bath?
Cast iron baths may look, feel, and weigh a little different compared to when they were rising in popularity in the early 1900’s. Nowadays, cast iron bathtubs typically weight under 200kg (originally around 500kg), have a premium enamel protective coating and can have any external colour you could dream of.
Initially more expensive than your average acrylic bathtub, cast iron baths are known to be strong and durable. They are a popular choice for homeowners as they take a little longer to heat, however they retain their heat for a lot longer making them perfect for long relaxing soaks.
As technology progresses, cast iron bathtubs can now be completely unique to your household with custom paint options. These premium paint finishes last a lifetime if cared for. Many businesses, such as Old Fashioned Bathrooms, can custom spray cast iron baths any Farrow & Ball or Little Greene colour. As well as colour match if you have a specific colour already existing in your bathroom you would like to mah.
Is a Cast Iron Tub Right For You? Just Want the Short and Simple?
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of cast iron baths to help you :
+ Long Lasting
These bathtubs are a lot more sturdy and durable than vast majority of standard bathtubs. So much so that most manufacturers of cast iron baths such as Hurlingham Cast Iron Tubs provide a lifetime guarantee.
- Weight
Cast iron bathtubs are much heavier than your average bathtub. With some weighing over 200kg. You may need extra floor support or even consider placing them in a ground-floor bathroom.
+ Customisation
You can customise your cast iron bath with any Farrow & Ball or Little Greene colour to match your bathroom. Alternatively, you can choose an exterior bath colour that stands out, making your cast iron tub the focal point of your bathroom.
- Cost
Cast iron baths typically cost more than your average acrylic bath due to the increasing price of the materials to create them. If a cast iron bathtub is a must in your renovation, make sure you budget not only for the bathtub but for the potential cost of fixings to support your new bath. You can browse cast iron bathtubs here with prices as low as £1054.
+ Heat Retention
Cast iron is an excellent conductor. This means cast iron baths will retain their heat exceptionally well. This makes them ideal for long, relaxing soaks as the water stays warmer for longer.
- Sustainability
When it comes to an old-fashioned bathroom, cast iron bathtubs are unmatched in style. However, if you’re looking to source sustainable materials in your bathroom, cast iron is a non-renewable resource and it is not recyclable when made into a bath. In terms of sustainability, cast iron baths are not as green as other bath options out there.
How To Clean Cast Iron Baths
Cleaning a cast iron bathtub can seem like a daunting task. Fear not, we’ve got expert top tips to deep clean your tub as well as maintenance care so you get the most out of your cast iron bath for life.
,Top 5 Cleaning Tips For Cast Iron Bathtubs
1. Make sure your bathroom is well-ventilated. This will make cleaning easier with strong-smelling ingredients such as vinegar, and your bathroom will last longer!
2. DO NOT use abrasive cleaners such as steel wool and scouring powders. These products will harm the finish over time. Damaging the finish may not only leave visual marks, but it also will eventually cause build-up of grime and hard water.
3. Consistency is key! Having a brief wipe-down of your bath after each use will increase longevity and reduce the number of times you’ll need to have a deep clean.
4. Stubborn stains? Using a sponge in warm water with dish soap is a great way to scrub away marks and stains without causing damage to the finish of your cast iron bath. Make sure you clean off all suds after wiping.
5. For a deep clean, fill your tub with hot water and leave washing up liquid in it, mixed evenly, to soak for 30 minutes.
Avoid using acidic cleaners and even regular branded products aimed at cleaning bathrooms. In the long run they’ll end up causing more harm than good to your cast iron bath.
Are Cast Iron Baths Worth It?
Ultimately, whether a cast iron bath is right for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Not only this but considering the few extra steps to care for a cast iron bath means you can have a tub that will last the rest of your life.
If looked after, the average cast iron tub will last 70 years. Although the initial cost is more expensive due to the price comparison of materials between cast iron and acrylic, these investments save money in the long run as it is likely to be a tub that will never need replacing in your lifetime if cared for.
Where Can You Buy Cast Iron Baths?