kohler-villager-5ft-bathtubThe bathtub can truly be the centerpiece of your bathroom. Its size almost guarantees it will be a focal point and it does provide a central function. It is after all, the “bath” room. If you’re choosing a new bathtub, how do you make sure you pick the right one?

Here are seven steps to choosing the perfect bathtub.

1. Set your budget. Bathtubs come in a huge variety of styles, colors and functions. If you go shopping without setting a maximum budget, there is virtually no limit to what you might spend. While there’s no doubt that you’re worth it, your home might not be. In other words, don’t install such a super-duper bathtub that you’ll never get your money back when you move. Of course if you never intend to move, then spend what you like. But it would still be better to decide ahead of time how much that is.

2. Check the output of your hot water heater. Unless you enjoy cold baths, you need to make sure that your hot water heater can handle whichever bathtub you choose to install. So find out how many gallons of hot water your heater can produce. And if you have other family members who might be needing hot water also, find out how long it takes your hot water heater to recover after being emptied. This will all have an impact on the size of bathtub you choose and may indicate whether you need to replace your water heater or not.

3. Check your location. Make sure you know how much room you have for your new bathtub. If the perfect bathtub won’t fit in your bathroom, or there’s no way to get it inside the house, then it’s not really the perfect bathtub, is it?

4. Choose the size of your new bathtub. Will you be taking baths alone or with a partner? Bathtubs come in one-person and two-person versions. You may find this hard to believe, but there is such a thing as a bathtub that is too large. Apply the Goldilocks principle and make sure you choose a bathtub that’s “just right.”

5. Choose the functions you want. Are you looking for whirlpool action or do you just prefer a simple bath? There’s no point in buying something you’ll never use.

6. Choose a bathtub that’s easy to maintain. Bathtubs are available in different materials and finishes. Find out how good it is at repelling dirt and soap scum, and how easy it is to clean. A relaxing bath might not be very relaxing if you have to clean the tub every time.

7. Finally, choose a bathtub that will last a long time. The materials used to make your bathtub will also have a big impact on durability. With the time, effort and money you’ve put into the installation of a new bathtub, you want it to last as long as possible.