Double Slipper Tubs
DOUBLE SLIPPER TUBS
Designed to offer support from either side, double slipper tubs are the epitome of opulence, comfort and functionality. These impressive products of the Victorian era reflect the luxury exclusively enjoyed by the royals and nobles of the late 19th century. With time, however, double slipper tubs were introduced to the commercial market and can now be found in most homes.
What is a double slipper tub? Unlike its close relative the single slipper tub, this tub has both its ends raised to offer a comfortable lounging position from either side. Its walls slope inwards to offer head, neck and back support. Double slipper tubs are available in a myriad of designs to accommodate the ever-growing consumer preferences.
Construction of Double Slipper Tubs
Double slipper tubs have dimensions of approximately 60 to 75 inches in length, 25 to 35 inches width and 15 to 22 inches deep. However, due to the varying designs and human proportions, these values are not standard. A good example is the double ended clawfoot tub which is constructed to comfortably accommodate two people.
The earliest double slipper tubs were made of either cast iron, enamel-covered steel with some designs preferring copper for added glitz and glamour. These tubs are heavy and difficult to move weighing anywhere from 300 to 600 pounds. With this in mind, it is recommended have an additional floor support in the form of bath cradles, bath frames and mortar beds. A cast iron double slipper clawfoot tub should preferably be placed on the ground floor as its unevenly distributed weight exerts pressure on the underlayment.
Modern double slipper tubs are made from Acrylic, stone, wood and fiberglass. Acrylic double slipper tubs are a favorite among many due to its lightweight, durability and a wide range of colours and finishes. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is ideal for short-term purpose due to its short lifespan.
With the advent of modern technology, double slipper tubs are available with features like whirlpools, air jets, body-cradling shapes and moldings for an out-of-this-world relaxation experience.
Designs, Shapes and Sizes
Whether traditional or contemporary, double slipper tubs possess wide variations of shapes, sizes, and finishes. The vintage inspired double slipper tubs mostly take the round or oval shapes for a curvy look synonymous with the Victorian era. Rectangular and square slipper tubs seamlessly complement a modern or transitional bathroom with their sleek lines and minimalistic look.
Nothing else offers versatility quite like freestanding tubs. A double slipper freestanding tub comes with a wide range of placement and style options. Be it that unutilized corner or the center of your bathroom, this tub is guaranteed to be the focal point in your bathing area.
Double slipper tubs either rest on their bases, pedestals or have feet for support. Traditional and country style most times than not have feet. The double slipper clawfoot tub is a classic tub having either imperial, lion or bear claw feet. Newer variations of feet are popping and include square, ball or curved feet and other picturesque designs. A double slipper pedestal tub uses a plinth to give the tub a raised look making them a focal centerpiece in your bathing area. Freestanding tubs resting on their bases work well in modern, unconventional bathroom styles.
Double slipper tubs come in a wide variety of colors ranging from the archaic bronze, white, to the elegant Satin Nickel and chrome giving a refined look without trying too much. A double slipper tub acrylic tub with a matte finish is an excellent example of neat, minimal and modern with a hint of edge and is a great option for modern interiors.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Double Slipper Tubs
With proper care and maintenance, double slipper tubs can last for decades. Luckily, each tub comes with specific cleaning instructions from the manufacturer. All you have to do is follow them.
Tubs made from acrylic are the easiest to maintain owing to their resistance to dust, staining and fading. On the other hand, fiberglass is prone to scratching, and its material wears out poorly, therefore, requires the utmost care and caution. Periodic refinishing of vintage double ended tubs is vital to them remaining as good as new.
Efficient, alluring and functional. These are just but a few words that well describe double slipper tubs.