Which bathtub is better – acrylic or steel? Reviews from experts

If the bathtub is of high quality, it will last at least 30 years without scuffs, small cracks, scratches, bumps or dents. The enamel will remain glossy as when purchased. Steel bathtubs compare favorably with acrylic and cast iron bathtubs in their performance characteristics and ease of installation. Manufacturers offer a wide range of bathtubs and it is often difficult for the buyer to choose a specific model. High-quality models are in great demand. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best steel bathtubs on the Russian market.

When choosing any product, including bathtubs, we always evaluate the purchase in terms of the price-quality ratio, and also pay attention to the manufacturer as a guarantee of this quality.

Pros of steel baths

Speaking about the quality of steel bathtubs, first of all, it is worth noting the following parameters:

• Resistance to deformation . Steel baths are made from metal layers. It is the thickness of the layer that will determine how susceptible they are to deformation. Thick-walled bathtubs are slightly inferior to cast iron ones in strength.
• Durability of the coating . Steel bathtubs have an enamel coating, which itself is resistant to external influences and cleaning agents. Some manufacturers achieve even greater durability through various enamel application technologies.
• Design . Manufacturing technology allows us to produce steel baths of various shapes: rectangular, oval, round. In this they are similar to acrylic bathtubs. Rectangular bathtubs also differ from each other in the size and shape of the bowls, the slope of the walls, etc.
• Ease of installation . Installation of steel bathtubs is easy due to their light weight and strength. You don't have to be a professional to install such a bathroom correctly.

Owner reviews

As reviews from customers who have already installed steel plumbing fixtures show, some models are unstable. For the most part, this is due to the use of uncomfortable feet included in the kit. To correct the situation, manufacturers recommend strengthening the frame and using rubber gaskets during installation.

Installation of a support for a steel bathtub

Some of them note that when taking water procedures they experience some discomfort, feeling how the bottom of the structure bends slightly when changing body position. But, as noted above, this phenomenon can only be observed in thin-walled products. The situation can be corrected by installing a non-sagging base under the bathtub.

The enamel coating on steel plumbing becomes dull over time. The reason for this is too hard tap water, which leaves limescale and rusty stains. In order to preserve the original appearance of the coating for as long as possible, it must be cleaned regularly using special bleaches. But some housewives make do with regular baking soda, ammonia and vinegar.

Soundproofing plates at the bottom of the steel bath

But still, according to user observations, the biggest disadvantage of steel plumbing is the sound “special effects”. You can still come to terms with the “waterfall” effect when filling the bathtub. But a sharp ringing sound, which occurs when an empty steel container is accidentally touched and spreads with a ringing echo throughout the entire area, can wake up all the inhabitants of the house.

Cons of steel baths

• Heat dissipation . This indicator is important for lovers of long water treatments. It depends on the wall thickness. Steel baths are characterized by rapid heat transfer. The thinner the wall of the bath, the faster the water will cool. Some people advise covering the back of the bathtub with foam or spray insulation. This will help by 50-70%.
• Noise level . The criterion characterizes the ability of a material to absorb sound when water hits the surface. For steel baths this indicator is low, but manufacturers are striving to use new technologies to increase it. For example, apply a noise-absorbing sticker on the back of the bathtub. This will reduce noise by 50-80%

What's with the color?

The classic white enamel shade is versatile, but a little boring. But a colored coating will help emphasize the style of the bathroom. Please note that each color has its own influence:

• green – associated with nature, therefore it relieves anxiety, calms and helps relax during water procedures;
• red – improves the feeling of security, stimulates the heart and metabolism. Bathing in such a bath will fill you with vitality and vigor;
• yellow is a sunny, cheerful color that promotes relaxation and fills you with optimism. But it can prevent you from falling asleep peacefully;
• blue - reminds of endless expanses of water, gives peace and tranquility, helps you decide on a bold act without unnecessary doubts;
• blue – relieves fatigue, helps get rid of overstrain.

Which bathtub is better, steel or acrylic?

When comparing acrylic and steel bathtubs, we can conclude that the second option is easier to care for, easier to install, and lasts longer (the limit of acrylic is 15 years). In terms of design, both solutions are generally identical, the polymer is only slightly more flexible. In terms of heat retention and blocking extraneous sounds, plastic is better.

It turns out that a steel bathtub is the “golden mean”, inexpensive, durable, and beautiful. You will have to puzzle yourself with solving the problems of sound insulation and thermal insulation, but there are plenty of materials for this.

Bath size

The area of ​​many apartments is such that there is not enough space for a large bathtub. Logically, you should buy an extremely large bathtub that can fit in the bathroom. The models are presented in the following dimensions:

• 120 centimeters – sitz baths, suitable for installation along short walls. They help save space, but limit comfort;
• 140-150 – standard models. Quite comfortable, but tall people will have to bend their knees;
• 160-170 – if they have a headrest, they are comfortable even for tall people;
• 200 centimeters are the largest designs, contributing to maximum pleasure.

When choosing the width, the main guidelines are the area of ​​the room and the weight of the swimmers. The usual width is 70-75 centimeters, but it is not enough for large people. Sufficient depth, the distance between the bottom and the overflow is half a meter.

ROCA AKIRA

This model can be installed in the traditional way, or inside a special podium. The bathtub is equipped with a long, comfortable handle that does not slip in a wet hand. The bottom of the bathtub has small notches that prevent slipping. The bath is so large that two people can fit in it at once. The total displacement is 225 liters.

Pros:

1. Anti-slip notches;
2. Comfortable handle;
3. Wide sides for cosmetic accessories;
4. Good capacity;
5. There is a choice of installation type.

Minuses:

1. High price.

What types of bathtub coatings are there?

Steel is a rusting metal; the following coatings are used to protect against direct contact with water:

1. Enamel . Inexpensive, practical solution, easy to maintain and clean. Minus - even a small scratch is enough to activate corrosion processes. Do not expose the enamel to shock loads; it is better to use gentle cleaning agents that do not contain rough abrasives, do not scratch the surface or leave abrasions on it;
2. Polymers . The polymer helps the metal better retain thermal energy and block noise. Porosity is minimal, which increases hygiene; dirt does not accumulate. When cleaning, special compounds are used;
3. Glass ceramics . It looks beautiful, new application methods help to create a flat, smooth and durable surface that can withstand even decent impact loads. When cleaning, it is possible to use acid-based products.

Some models do not have a protective coating and are made of special grades of stainless steel. They are well suited for a modern interior in hi-tech or modern style, but they are expensive. The best grade in this case is stainless steel, suitable for use in the food industry. It is not afraid of rust and does not contain components that pose a health hazard. The downside is the tendency to form streaks; after hygiene procedures, the surface is wiped dry with a cloth.

Silver "Prestige" 1.7

The cast iron bathtub has a special design that comes with a slight slope. This provides improved water flow into the drain, so water will not stagnate at the bottom. It is equipped with handles and a headrest, and a unique glassy enamel with silver ions has a disinfecting effect. It also saturates the water with negative charged particles, which is very useful for humans.

Pros:

1. There is a headrest and handles;
2. Bottom with a slope;
3. Disinfecting coating;
4. Unique enamel coating;
5. Affordable price.

Minuses:

1. Slippery surface.

Quality and wall thickness: how to check

Wall thickness is a parameter that determines strength and resistance to external loads without the formation of cracks and deformations. The thicker the walls, the better they block noise and retain heat. A sufficient indicator is 2.5-3 millimeters; in expensive bathtubs it reaches 4.

Dishonest manufacturers often indicate incorrect information in the documentation, believing that the buyer will not pay attention to them. There is another trick - forming a thick side, which is used to determine the cut, but saving material on other areas of the walls. To avoid such deception, it is better to be guided by the masses. If the wall has a thickness of 3 millimeters, then the minimum weight of a compact sitz bathtub is 20 kilograms, a 150-centimeter bath is about 30, and a full-size bath is 40 kg.

The best manufacturers of steel bathtubs

The leader in the production of high-quality steel bathtubs is the German company Kaldewei . The company has been producing plumbing equipment for over 100 years. According to customer reviews on Yandex.Market, the products of this manufacturer are among the top best products in this category.

As a raw material, the company uses its own innovative development, which has no analogues in the world - steel-enamel. The material is obtained in melting furnaces under high temperatures. Technologically, bathtubs are cast entirely from this material, rather than subsequently covering a steel blank with enamel.

Due to the molecular connection of steel and glass, it is possible to achieve high strength of products. Bathtubs made of steel enamel do not deform when heated and cooled, which means that the product “will not move” during use; it will fit tightly to the walls, eliminating leaks and dampness. The enamel does not crack on impact, does not fade, and is resistant to cleaning agents.

The manufacturer is so confident in the quality of its product that it gives a 30-year guarantee.

The company produces bathtubs of various shapes and designs: corner, wall-mounted and free-standing, rectangular, round and oval. The company cooperates with global design agencies and is the winner of more than 150 design awards (including Red dot design, Plus X, Iconic Awards, Interior Innovation, etc.).

It is also worth noting the large range of products. You can find simple ergonomic solutions in the price range of 3,500 - 5,000 rubles, or opt for a more expensive option with hydromassage or anti-slip coating, double or reduced size, or a specially shaped bathtub.

Other manufacturers that have proven themselves in the market include:

• Bette (Germany) . The products are made from titanium steel by thermoforming, which allows bathtubs to be produced in various shapes without losing strength. A unique enamel glaze is used as a coating. It retains its qualities for a long time and is resistant to mechanical damage. The plant produces more than 600 models of bathtubs of various shapes and colors.
• BLB (Portugal) . The company makes bathtubs from pressed steel, making them heat-resistant and impact-resistant. Vitreous enamel used for coating has a longer life cycle and protects the product from mechanical and chemical damage.
• Roca (Spain) . An international concern with a wide production geography. In our country, Roca bathtubs are produced at our own factory near St. Petersburg. Roca steel bathtubs are a combination of elegance and durability. The enamel application technology ensures a smooth, glossy surface and color stability. On the Russian market, the product is known under the trademarks of Roca, Jika and Laufen.
• Verkh-Isetsky Metallurgical Plant . A well-known Russian manufacturer that can compete with Western companies. Advanced technologies are used in production. It produces steel bathtubs under the Reimar and Donna Vanna brands. The bathtubs have a durable coating, some models are equipped with a noise-reducing plate.

From all the variety of steel bathtubs presented on the Russian market, you have chosen the best. The rating is compiled by category, taking into account quality characteristics and customer reviews.

Additional options for complete comfort

Underwater massage systems are the best way to help you relax. The following types are installed in steel baths:

• hydromassage
  – jets of water are pumped under pressure, massaging the body;
• aeromassage
  - the effect is caused by air bubbles mixed with a water flow;
• turbo massage
  – combines both technologies.

The choice of the number of sprayers depends on the size of the product and your wishes.
Typically, the nozzles are positioned to treat the back, buttocks and legs. If you need a more intense massage, then it is better to look for options with a large number of nozzles. The following elements will help increase the comfort of using a steel bathtub:

• headrest – if the product is long, it will be more convenient to rest your head on a special stand;
• adjustable legs - will allow you to choose the desired height of the bath so that all family members can easily step over the side;
• sound-absorbing stands - water will not fall so loudly into the bowl;
• places for bathing accessories - there are recesses on the sides of the bathtubs, where it is convenient to put foam, gel or soap;
• handles - metal or polyurethane, located on the inside of the walls, are needed for support when lifting.

The best models with lengths of 200 and 180 cm

1

KALDEWEI CONODUO 735 Easy-clean

Rating:5.0

• rectangular shape
• 200x100x45 cm, volume 260 l

Average price: RUB 121,409

An ideal high-quality steel bathtub retains heat well and is resistant to deformation. Easy Clean coating for easy cleaning. The bathtub has a hidden drain covered with enamel. The weight is 66 kg, which means good wall thickness.

The disadvantages include the design of the legs - additional reinforcement is required for stability. And also the need for frequent hygienic treatment, as the anti-slip coating collects dirt.

This model is available in different sizes, from 200 cm in length to 170 cm.

ROCA CONTINENTAL

A high-quality cast iron bathtub with an anti-slip coating ensures increased safety and comfort while bathing. The volume of the bathtub will accommodate a person 175 cm tall. The enamel is strong enough, so you don’t have to worry about the shower accidentally slipping out of your hands. Thanks to the good quality of cast iron, the bath retains the heat of the water for a long time.

Pros:

1. Good quality;
2. 10 year warranty;
3. Anti-slip coating;
4. Durable enamel;
5. Keeps warm for a long time;
6. Affordable price.

Minuses

1. The anti-slip coating may darken over time;
2. Sometimes there are problems with attaching the legs.

The best steel bathtubs 170 cm long in terms of quality

1

BETTE BETTELUX 170×75

Rating:5.0

• rectangular shape
• 170x75x45 cm, volume 156 l

Average price: RUB 131,409

A high-quality thick-walled titanium steel bath retains heat well, is resistant to deformation, and in these respects is comparable to cast iron bathtubs. The kit comes with pre-installed sound insulation. The smooth and even surface is not susceptible to chips and scratches; for cleaning, you can use hard sponges and products containing strong chemicals. Anti-slip coating will ensure your safety.

The disadvantages include the design of the legs - additional reinforcement is required for stability. And also the need for frequent hygienic treatment, as the anti-slip coating collects dirt.

2

BETTE BetteOcean 170×75

Rating:4.9

• rectangular shape
• 170x75x45 cm, volume 220 l

Average price: RUB 56,426

Another reliable model of a steel bathtub from the manufacturer BETTE has also proven itself in operation. The wall thickness of 3.5 mm guarantees impact resistance. The bath retains heat well. Virtually silent in use thanks to the built-in sound isolation system. A three-layer glazed enamel coating perfectly protects the surface from chips and scratches. The color of the bathroom does not fade due to the use of detergents. The walls are coated with a special anti-dirt coating, which makes cleaning the bathroom easier.

The disadvantages include the relatively heavy weight of the product, which makes it difficult to install.

3

KALDEWEI SANIFORM PLUS 373-1 Standard

Rating:4.8

• rectangular shape
• 170x75x41 cm, volume 123 l
• detailed equipment: All components must be purchased separately

Average price: RUB 15,848

Kaldewei Saniform Plus steel bathtub. A special feature of this bathtub is its shape, which follows the shape of the human body (wide base and narrower lower part). This shape allows even people with large dimensions and tall stature to feel comfortable. Buyers note that the bathtub is easy to clean due to its special self-cleaning coating. Thick walls retain heat for a long time. The bathtub coating is durable and not subject to abrasion. A plus is the manufacturer's warranty for 30 years.

Among the disadvantages, the most often cited is the need to purchase additional components (legs, sound insulation, etc.). They are not included in the set, and their cost is quite high.

4

BETTE BETTEFORM 170×70

Rating:4.7

• rectangular shape
• 170x70x42 cm, volume 120 l

Average price: RUB 25,100

This model is distinguished by an ergonomic inclined back, which does not affect the useful volume of the bathroom. A good anti-slip system ensures maximum safety, but the differences from the BETTELUX model from the same manufacturer do not make cleaning difficult. The advantages also include the consistent quality of the glossy enamel, which is resistant to damage and cleaning agents.

All components (legs, grips, seals, sound insulation) must be purchased additionally.

It should also be noted that this model has a wall thickness of 2.4 mm, unlike its analogues.

5

Roca Swing 170×75

Rating:4.6

• rectangular shape
• 170x75x43.20 cm, volume 215 l
• detailed equipment: All components must be purchased separately
• handles, adjustable leg heights, anti-slip bottom

Average price: RUB 15,782

Conveniently shaped steel bathtub with armrests. The kit includes sound insulation and anti-slip coating. Due to the special coating on the bottom, it retains heat for a long time.

The bathtub can be called thin-walled. Wall thickness 2.4 mm, of which only 1.5 mm is steel. Buyers noted deflections during use, which returned to their original state and did not affect the integrity of the enamel.

To reduce noise levels, avoid deformation and preserve other functional properties, the manufacturer recommends installing the bathtub on a sand bed, which naturally complicates the installation process.

6

BLB Universal Anatomica HG B75L

Rating:4.5

• rectangular shape
• 170x75x39 cm, volume 120 l

Average price: RUB 14,157

A beautiful and stylish straight-shaped bathtub outperforms its competitors due to its low cost. The successful shape compensates for the small size of the font. High-quality enamel protects the product from chips and cracks. The design of the legs gives stability. In addition, the legs are height adjustable. Easy installation that even a beginner can handle. Sound insulation leaves much to be desired; many buyers noted a high noise level.

The biggest drawback of this bathtub is the anti-slip coating. It absolutely does not cope with its function, this bath is unsafe to use.

The best steel bathtubs 160 cm long

1

BETTE BETTESELECT 160×70

Rating:5.0

• rectangular shape
• 160x70x42 cm, volume 119 l

Average price: RUB 59,506

Another bathtub from the flagship company BETTE will fit well into the interior of small bathrooms due to its size. It has a tiled lip, making it easy to install. The consistent quality of this company's titanium baths with thick walls and a glazed finish ensures their strength and durability.

The geometry of the bath remains unchanged even after prolonged use. The surface retains its shine and integrity when using strong detergents and hard sponges.

2

KALDEWEI CAYONO 748 Easy-clean

Rating:4.9

• rectangular shape
• 160x70x41 cm, volume 107 l
• detailed equipment: All components must be purchased separately
• adjustable leg height

Average price: RUB 33,880

Bathtub made of Kaldewei Cayono 748 steel. The classic rectangular shape with a large amount of internal space is ideal for people of any size. The flat bottom of the bathtub is comfortable for showering. The special steel-enamel used in production guarantees a long service life of the product. Excellent characteristics in terms of noise and heat retention. The Easy-clean coating ensures hygienic water procedures and does not require particularly careful maintenance.

The walls and bottom of the bathtub are resistant to abrasion, scratches and chips. Users did not note any shortcomings during operation and installation, except for the need to purchase additional components.

3

KALDEWEI FORM PLUS 311-1

Rating:4.8

• rectangular shape
• 160x70x41 cm,
• detailed equipment: All components must be purchased separately

Average price: RUB 7,511

The bathtub has all the advantages of KALDEWEI products. Quiet, durable and holds temperature well. The bathtub coating does not change its properties after many years of use. Buyers noted the absence of cracks, chips, and changes in light due to repeated washing and impacts of the surface.

Among the disadvantages, they also note the lack of components in the basic set of bathtubs and their high cost. In addition, the KALDEWEI FORM PLUS bathtub model is distinguished by its small internal space, narrow enough for an adult.

4

Reimar 160

Rating:4.7

• rectangular shape
• 160x70x40 cm, volume 170 l
• detailed equipment: bathtub, legs
• legs/frame included, adjustable leg height

Average price: 9,700 rub.

A Russian-made steel bathtub is a competitive analogue of expensive imported bathtubs. It has a snow-white enamel coating in several layers. The outer polymer layer of enamel retains heat for a long time and suppresses noise well. The inner glassy layer prevents mechanical damage.

The bath, despite its length, is roomy and spacious due to the simple and geometric shapes of the interior space. Easy to care for, does not require special cleaning.

The disadvantages include the lack of anti-slip coating.

PARALLEL E2947

This model is considered one of the deepest. It is perfect for people who like to soak in the bath. It is very roomy and equipped with an anti-slip coating. Narrow sides increase the volume of the bathtub, and its design fits comfortably into a medium-sized bathroom. A comfortable headrest will allow you to take a bath comfortably and thoroughly relax during the procedure.

Pros:

1. One of the deepest models;
2. Anti-slip coating;
3. Equipped with a headrest;
4. Narrow sides;
5. High quality.

Rating of steel bathtubs 150 cm long

1

LAUFEN PRO 221953

Rating:5.0

• rectangular shape
• 150x70x39 cm, volume 205 l

Average price: 9,700 rub.

Another reliable model made in Russia by VIZ. Good quality metal ensures the strength of the bath and does not allow the walls to deform during use.

There are no components included in the kit. In addition, users, despite the manufacturer’s assurances, noted that the enamel coating was not durable. After just a few months of use, scratches and microcracks were observed. There is no soundproofing or painting on the bottom.

2

Roca Contesa

Rating:4.9

• rectangular shape
• 150x70x41.50 cm, volume 165 l
• detailed equipment: All components must be purchased separately
• adjustable leg height

Average price: RUB 11,111

Since the company has its own production in Russia, the main advantage of this steel bathtub is its affordable cost with excellent imported quality.

The simple elegant shape and durability make this bath one of the most popular on the Russian market. To reduce the noise level, it is recommended to carry out additional manipulations - foam the bottom of the bathroom or cover it with insulating material.

Users note the poor quality of the enamel; the formation of cracks and chips is observed after several months of use.

3

BLB Universal HG B50H

Rating:4.8

• rectangular shape
• 150x70x39 cm, volume 160 l
• removable front panel, adjustable leg height

Average price: RUB 12,500

A reliable model from the well-known and well-established BLB company. The significant thickness of the walls retains heat for a long time, and the bottom does not bend due to heavy weight. Factory sound insulation reduces water sound. The super-resistant coating will preserve the original appearance of the bath for years. Buyers note the lack of components in the set.

The only drawback is the shallow depth of the bath. It is ideal for people who are short or overweight.

4

Donna Vanna White orchid (01) 150×70

Rating:4.7

• rectangular shape
• 150x70x40 cm,
• detailed equipment: – legs.
• legs/frame included

Average price: RUB 6,647

One of the most affordable models, not inferior in quality to expensive imported analogues. The bathtub is made from high-quality Russian steel, the wall thickness is 2 mm. This is not the thickest of the bathtubs presented, but this has little effect on heat transfer or noise levels. This model is also equipped with a vibration plate that absorbs sound during operation.

The excellent enamel coating is not subject to abrasion or other damage. A wide range of colors allows you to choose baths to suit any interior design.

External inspection: attention to detail

Even small defects can negatively affect the service life of a steel bathtub, so during inspection you need to make sure that they are absent. A good product should not have:

• bumps, cracks or depressions on the surface, their presence will indicate a violation of the technology by the manufacturer;
• chips on the enamel or drips, a small scratch will become a problem in a year, due to which you will have to repair the bathtub or purchase a new one. The quality of the coating is especially important if it is self-cleaning. A minor defect will prevent you from enjoying this property;
• a rattling sound when knocking on the wall; if the sound is not even, then the steel is not of the same thickness or has other defects;
• irregularities in geometry, modern technologies make it possible to make it ideal.