The clawfoot bathtub was introduced in the market in 1883. A process of enameling cast iron was developed to form a smooth, easy to clean surface for the bath tubs. This process led to the design of the cast iron clawfoot bathtubs that have the rolled over rims that we have all grown to know and love. The company was known as Standard Manufacturing and is still operating today as American Standard Brands. It is estimated that three out of every five homes built in the United States have some of their products. 

The antique clawfoot bath tub comes in basically four different designs. The first and most basic is the classic clawfoot style that most people think of . One of the ends is curved so the back of the person bathing will be comfortable. The opposite end where your feet will be is more of a squared or straight end. This is also where the drain and faucets are located. 

The next style is the slipper tub. This is like the classic with only one distinction. The rounded end the fits the back of the bather is extended higher to be used as a headrest. Then the double ended and the double slipper was introduced. The double ended has both of the ends curved to fit two people. The double slipper has the two rounded ends that are raised and has a “u” or a banana shape. Two people could use this tub at the same time as both of the ends are rounded. The faucets have been moved to one of the sides to allow for two people.  

There are several different designs of the clawfoot faucets to choose from as well. The tub wall or the side mount faucet will fit into the end of the side of the tubs. There is the freestanding faucets that are designed to use a water supply that is ran from the floor. The deck mount faucet will bolt into the rim of the tubs. There is also a bathroom wall mount faucet that is designed to use a water supply that comes out of the wall and some of the wall mount faucets can also be used for the side of the tubs. 

Another great choice for the look and feel of the clawfoot tub is the acrylic clawfoot bathtub. These are designed and manufactured to be lighter then the cast iron. But the best development of the acrylic is the option to have the whirlpool or jet air. Great for relaxing.