Steel Baths

Why should I consider a steel bath?

Before the invention of acrylic, all baths were made from steel coated in a thick layer of enamel. Acrylic is cheaper and lighter, but nothing really matches the style and feel of a real steel bath. Steel baths have a longer lifespan, and the enamel can be replaced or reapplied multiple times to keep your bath looking brand new. Steel coated with enamel also retains heat better than acrylic baths, keeping your water warmer for longer. Enamel can also be coloured in your choice of paint shade.

Steel bath styles

Our extensive range of baths contains steel baths in all styles, whether you're looking for a standard rectangular bath designed to sit against the wall, or a freestanding roll top bath for a more traditional look. Of course, it's entirely up to you what you choose, but we'd advise choosing a steel bath which fits in with the other items which you have chosen for your bathroom. As steel baths coated in enamel can be finished in colours other than white, many customers choose a steel bath as a chance to make a statement, and it certainly gives the opportunity to create a bathroom very different from everyone else's.

Installing and caring for a steel bath

Steel and enamel baths are significantly heavier than the same bath made out of acrylic, which is something to consider if you're going to try to move the bath up a flight of stairs. Depending on the size of your bath and the type of floor, you might have to have the floor strengthened, but a plumber will be able to give advice on this. When it comes to cleaning, a little more care needs to be taken on enamel surfaces. Don't use anything abrasive or with granules which might scratch the surface, or anything too acidic which might, over time, eat away at the enamel and discolour it. Washing up liquid or a soapy cleaning liquid usually works best. If your steel and enamel bath does start looking a bit scratched or patchy, you don't have to throw away the whole bath, just have it re-enamelled.

What else will I need to buy?

The other items you'll need to buy with your steel and enamel bath will mostly depend on its style. For traditional rectangular baths, you'll need to source bath panels to hide the underside of the bathtub from view, and the number of panels will depend on where you're positioning your bath. If you're buying a freestanding bath, you might need feet to position the bath on the floor, and whatever the type of bath you'll need some taps. Choosing to add a shower over your new bath also gives additional bathing possibilities, and our wide range of showers ensures that there is the perfect shower out there for your new bath.