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Bath facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Bath (washtub)
A bath (bathtub, washtub)
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Traditional bathtub (19th century) from Italy

A bath (called a bathtub in the US) is a container people use to wash their bodies. It is usually found in a bathroom. Sometimes, people call it a washtub.

People might add nice scents, oils, or salts to the water for a more relaxing experience.

A bath can also be a place where people sit in water, often warm, for their health. The city of Bath in England got its name from this idea.

Types of Bathtubs

Slipper bathtub in Amsterdam store window
Slipper tub
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Wooden bathtubs for children and infants in Haikou, China
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A Jacuzzi whirlpool bathtub

There are many different kinds of bathtubs. Each type has its own special features.

Clawfoot Tubs

Clawfoot tubs were once a luxury item in the late 1800s. They were first made from heavy cast iron with a porcelain lining. Today, new technology means they are more affordable. They can be made from fiberglass, acrylic, or other modern materials.

Clawfoot tubs are usually larger than standard bathtubs. This means they often need more water to fill them. Old clawfoot tubs are still collected by people. New ones are popular for home renovations. Like other bathtubs, clawfoot tubs can have different shower options.

Clawfoot tubs come in four main styles:

  • Classic roll rim tubs: These are also called roll top tubs or flat rim tubs. You can see an example in the picture at the top of this page.
  • Slipper tubs: One end of the tub is raised and sloped. This makes it more comfortable for lounging.
  • Double slipper tubs: Both ends of the tub are raised and sloped.
  • Double ended tubs: Both ends of the tub are rounded. A classic roll rim tub has one rounded end and one flat end.

Pedestal Tubs

Pedestal tubs sit on a base or pedestal. They often have an art deco style. We know that pedestal tubs existed as far back as 1000 BC on the island of Crete.

Baby Bathtubs

A baby bathtub is used for bathing infants. These are for babies who are not yet old enough to sit up by themselves. They can be small, separate tubs filled with water. Or, they can be a support device placed inside a regular bathtub. Many are designed to let the baby lie back while keeping their head out of the water.

Hot Tubs

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People enjoying a hot tub in winter in Keystone, Colorado

Hot tubs are heated pools used for relaxing. They are sometimes used for therapy too. Hot tubs became popular in the U.S. during the late 1960s and 1970s. They started appearing in movies and music.

Whirlpool Tubs

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A Jacuzzi

Whirlpool tubs became popular in the U.S. in the 1960s and 1970s. A spa or hot tub is sometimes called a "Jacuzzi." This is because the company Jacuzzi introduced their "Spa Whirlpool" in 1968. Air bubbles can be added to the water through special nozzles.

Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding tubs have become very popular recently. This is because many new homes have larger bathrooms. Freestanding bathtubs can be made from many materials. These include stone resin, cast stone, acrylic, cast iron, fiberglass, and porcelain.

Soft Bathtubs

Soft tubs are made from soft plastic or foam. They have a special non-slip coating. Soft tubs have been around since the 1970s. By the 1990s, major companies were selling them. These tubs are often sold for children and older people. They help prevent injuries from falls.

Related Pages

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Bath (desambiguación) para niños

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