Bathtubs and Bathing, Ancient and Modern
When viewing so many different styles, sizes and types of bathtubs on offer in these modern times when bathroom design is such a booming business, it is amazing to note research indicating the evidence of ancient baths found by archaeologists and historians. This seems to date back as far as about 3300 BC, in the Indus region of India.
The advent of more modern, indoor bathtubs appears to be from approximately 1880, when they were made of wood, lined with metal and placed indoors in Western cultures. The Eastern countries on the other hand, particularly Japan, made their bathtubs from wood and placed them outdoors. The Japanese did not lie in the water, but stood, believing the latter to be more hygienic.
The use of baths and practice of bathing has for many centuries been part of religious rites. Ancient Egyptians bathed before religious ceremonies, and Hindus do likewise annually in the river Ganges. Early Christian baptism involved full immersion in water. The Roman public baths, equipped with lead and bronze water piping, were as much a meeting place for socialising as a place to perform ablutions.
Early styles of more modern tubs included the claw foot unit, lined with porcelain, and the slipper or double slipper type. These styles are back in vogue again for period type décor. Enamel over steel or cast iron units are still an option presently, but those made of acrylic or fibreglass have taken the major share of the market in modern times.
 This trend is to be expected, since these lightweight items are competitively priced, create less heat loss and are available in many different shapes and sizes, suitable for small and large spaces and multiple uses. They can double as shower bases with the addition of a shower head and curtain, screen or enclosure. White tubs are back in fashion, although still available in a range of colours for those who prefer something brighter.
Jetted tubs turn bath time into a truly luxurious experience, with the additional health and stress relieving benefits of hydrotherapy. Lying back with water temperature just right, whilst jets of water mixed with air gently massage tired muscles and remove the day’s stresses, is simply one of the best ways to end a busy day.
Spa baths are larger than average, seating several persons, and usually placed outside or in a sheltered leisure area, designed for relaxation and not ablutions.
Make an informed choice when selecting a new bathtub, decide what features are important to you and how much space is available for this item which uses the most space of all bathroom furnishings, and look forward to many happy years of daily, relaxing bliss.
To contact Summer Place Spas and Baths,
Please call 011-463-7775 (SA)
or email sales@summerplace.co.za
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