Today, in the market of sanitary products, you can find bathtubs made of a variety of materials - cast iron, acrylic or steel. Steel structures are significantly cheaper compared to acrylic and weigh much less than cast-iron bathtubs. Quality steel products are in high demand. However, they should be selected according to certain rules - then the bath will last long enough, it will maintain a pleasant appearance and so on. Therefore, we decided to start our review of the best steel baths of the year with the rules for choosing such products.
Summary of the rating:
What do you pay attention to when buying a steel bath?
The steel bath can be made of stainless or ordinary metal. Products made of stainless steel are much more expensive, but at the same time, users can not be afraid of corrosion. In addition, such material is absolutely safe for human health. Bathtubs made of ordinary steel are much more widespread, they have an enamel coating that facilitates operation and maintenance of the structure. However, an important point must be taken into account: over time, the bath may lose its original appearance, so after each bath or shower, the inner surface should be rubbed to a shine.
The average life of the model directly depends on the thickness of the metal from which it is made. Almost all modern designs are made by stamping technology, thanks to which, regardless of the presence of bends, the thickness of the material is maintained along the entire perimeter.
Steel baths have a large number of positive qualities - first of all, they weigh very little (as a rule, this figure does not exceed 50 kg), so that they can be easily transported from one place to another, installation can be done independently, without involving someone yet. Steel baths are quite durable, characterized by low porosity, in contrast to cast iron. If you follow all the rules of operation, the design is able to last at least 30 years.
The steel bath perfectly withstands significant temperature extremes, hot water. It heats up almost instantly, but also cools down pretty quickly. If the model has various electric elements such as a jacuzzi, then it must be connected to the grounding system without fail. The thickness of the walls of the bath is such that under the influence of water and the mass of the human body they can begin to deform over time, so you should choose products equipped with additional stiffeners that will protect the model from the occurrence of such a defect.
When developing our review of the best steel bathtubs, we took into account user reviews and professional plumbers, so only the highest quality models were included in our rating. In addition, we took into account the price-quality ratio of equipment. We hope that after reading the review, you can make the right choice and buy yourself a steel bath at a very reasonable price that will last you a long time. So, let's move on to our review of steel bathtubs.
The best models of steel bathtubs
10. Kaldewei Form Plus 310-1
This model of German production, which immediately indicates a fairly high quality product.The enamel is polymeric, can withstand decent physical stress during the entire period of operation, it can be easily cleaned with any detergents if necessary. According to users, dirt accumulates on this enamel much faster than on cast iron, but cleaning does not take much time. The manufacturer gives a 10-year product warranty.
The heat for the steel bath holds pretty well, heats up very quickly. Enamel does not have a corrugated surface, so you need to be careful in the bath, as it is slippery. There are no flanges, so there is a high probability that water can spill onto the floor. The frame does not come in the kit - it must be purchased separately. Enamel color persists for a long time, does not turn yellow. The wall thickness is not the largest - only 2.3 mm, weight is 40 kg - it is quite possible to lift and move alone.
Benefits:
- Acceptable price;
- Insignificant mass;
- Polymer enamel.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of sides;
- Made of sheet steel.
9. Roca Swing 180 × 80
This is a very economical model, which will cost about 10 thousand rubles. It is ideal for a small bathroom. The design includes chrome handles, which greatly facilitate the operation of the product - due to them, even a rather overweight person can easily rise to its full height. The height of the product can be changed due to the special legs included in the kit. However, one should be very careful here, since they are fixed using double-sided tape, so if you leave the bathtub just on its legs, then there is a high probability that the model will simply roll over.
The bottom has a special anti-slip coating, thanks to which the feet will adhere well to it even with a fully typed bath. The depth of the bowl is 43.2 cm - the whole body can be immersed in the bath. Capacity is about 240 liters: the design is quite spacious and due to such a large volume it will be much better to keep heat. On the outside there is an additional stiffener that does not allow the model to deform during direct operation.
Benefits:
- There are comfortable chrome steel handles;
- Almost silent during water recruitment;
- Enamel does not turn yellow during operation;
- Acceptable price;
- The bottom has a non-slip coating;
- Large capacity.
Disadvantages:
- Enamel is quite thin, it must be handled very carefully;
- Water is typed for a long time;
- The legs need to be further strengthened;
- Unoriginal design.
8. BLB Universal HG B70H
This design of the Portuguese company, which has been on the market for a very long time - experts say that the products of this company is one of the highest quality among all available. Not only in the enamel, but also in the steel itself, special polymer compositions are added, which can significantly reduce the noise of the bath during the collection of water. Enamel is baked at high temperature, giving it extra strength. It does not turn yellow over time, it will be pleasing to the eye for a long time.
The sides of the bathtub are wide enough; you can put on them all the necessary hygiene products so that they are always at hand. It is made of thick steel sheet (about 4.5 mm), therefore it has a decent mass - its weight is about 50-60 kg. It is problematic to install such a bath alone, but, nevertheless, it weighs significantly less compared to the cast-iron construction. In addition to the addition of polymer compounds during production, the manufacturer glues additional noise-insulating plates on the outside. All corners are streamlined, there are no protruding sharp parts, so the model is absolutely safe in terms of operation.
Benefits:
- Subject to installation technology, the model is practically no noise;
- It is covered with high-quality enamel;
- The initial water temperature lasts about 30 minutes - according to this indicator, this model is as close as possible to acrylic bathtubs.
Disadvantages:
- Slippery bottom;
- It’s quite heavy; it’s difficult to install one;
- The legs will need to be further strengthened.
7. Bette Ocean 180 × 80
This is a freestanding design, ideal for installation in a small bathroom. The model is characterized by a high level of strength, enamel is durable, it is able to maintain its original luster throughout the entire period of operation. It is ideally smooth, therefore it is quite easy to care for it, however, the manufacturer does not recommend using powder products to clean it because of the abrasive materials contained in them. The bath is perfect for both bathing and showering. Its depth is decent - it is about 45 cm, so even a tall person can comfortably sit in it.
The bottom is equipped with anti-slip coating, providing a high level of security. The maximum capacity of the structure is 235 liters, due to which the water will cool quite slowly. The bath is made of 4 mm steel, so it weighs quite a lot. Another original point associated with this product is the location of the drain and overflow - they are located in the central part of the bath, when in most other structures these systems are located on one of the end parts.
Benefits:
- Original appearance;
- Thick steel;
- Non-slip coating.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Flimsy legs;
- Noisy.
6. Antika 170
Produced by a domestic company, it does not cost too much - this is one of the most economical models in our entire review of the best steel bathtubs. The bath bowl is made of cold-rolled steel sheet, the thickness of which is 2 mm. The enamel coating is applied in several stages, due to which such a surface acquires high resistance to abrasive cleaners and even food acids. The enamel is additionally coated with glass ceramics, which is characterized by the absence of pores and high elasticity, due to which microscopic cracks will not occur on it.
The bath well tolerates the effects of hot water, as well as temperature extremes. The design can be used not only to wash, it is allowed to wash clothes, wash street clothes, dye hair and so on. In this case, the coating will retain its original appearance. Legs are included with this model, all the necessary drain and overflow fittings are also provided. Due to the fact that the product is made of steel with a thickness of 2 mm, it weighs not too much. The width of the sides is small - only 2.5 cm, but this problem can easily be solved by installing additional shelves, in addition, this design perfectly protects the floors from water.
Benefits:
- Not slippery;
- Reasonable cost;
- High quality enamel.
Disadvantages:
- Noisy when picking up water;
- You will have to additionally purchase a protective screen, since the attachment to the legs does not look very attractive.
5. Donna Vanna snow-white orchid 160x70
This model has an antibacterial coating, so it is allowed to bathe even babies in it. The bath does not require any special personal care. Comes with a sturdy and reliable stand. It does not look very attractive from the side, so it is advisable to additionally buy a protective screen. It is mounted on the stand very firmly, does not stagger, does not require additional amplification. The bath is made of a sufficiently thick steel sheet - it will not bend under the weight of water and humans.
Enamel resistant to scratches. It has a uniform color, noise during filling is not too strong, cracks and chips are absent, with careful handling do not occur during operation. Enamel withstands the effects of even aggressive detergents. Noise isolation is absent, but the bath, as mentioned earlier, does not make too much noise. If this point does not suit, then sound insulation can be done independently, especially since the market has everything necessary for this.
Benefits:
- Stable stand with adjustable height;
- The bath is not too heavy, easy to install;
- Antibacterial enamel coating;
- Not sensitive to temperature changes, not deformed.
Disadvantages:
- High thermal conductivity.
4. White Wave Classic 170 × 75
Inexpensive design, which is perfect for most compact bathrooms, including dormitories, hospitals and other similar public facilities. Its shape is rectangular, the walls are vertical, there is an overflow system. Comes with legs. The bottom is perfectly smooth, so you should be careful - the probability of falling is high. Many users have solved this problem by laying a rubberized suction cup mat. The side is horizontal, wide enough, does not allow water to drain onto the floor.
The structure is made of metal, the thickness of which is 1.5 mm - the bath weighs only 40 kg, it can easily be lifted even by one person. The depth is less than average - only 38 cm, so it will be difficult for a tall person to take a bath with full immersion.
Benefits:
- Light weight;
- Attractive appearance;
- Low price
- Easy installation.
Disadvantages:
- Thin walls;
- It makes a lot of noise.
3. Kaldewei SANIFORM PLUS 375-1 Easy-clean
This thick-walled model opens the top three - the walls have a thickness of 3.5 mm. This can significantly reduce the noise level and prevent deformation during operation of the model. The manufacturer's warranty is as long as 30 years. Overall dimensions - 175x75x40 cm. As you can see, in depth it is slightly smaller compared to the average. If desired, you can create additional sound insulation. People who already use this design recommend sticking a special car noise isolation.
A metal frame with legs is supplied with this model. The front coating is smooth, scratches are completely absent. The bottom has no corrugation or special coating, so it is slippery enough - it is advisable to lay a bath mat. Enamel over time will not absorb pollution, it can be washed even without the use of special tools. Any plaque is removed with an ordinary soft sponge and warm water, in extreme cases, you can add laundry soap.
Benefits:
- The bathtub is covered with high quality enamel;
- Does not absorb pollution;
- Acceptable price;
- Resistant to chips and scratches;
- Low weight.
Disadvantages:
- Slippery;
- Not very deep.
2. BLB Atlantica B80A
The model is distinguished by excellent value for money. This design is very convenient, reliable, with thick walls - more than 3 mm. The enamel is durable, will last a long time, resists abrasion well, and is insensitive to detergents. The bottom and walls are anti-slip. Chrome-plated stainless steel handles come with the bathtub, making it even more comfortable. Feet stable with the ability to adjust, the design will not stagger.
Due to the decent thickness, the bathtub is almost noisy. The enamel coating is a bit easily soiled, but all contaminants are removed very quickly. The manufacturer's warranty is 5 years.The front surface perfectly withstands significant loads, impacts, and is not scratched. All materials from which the model is made are absolutely safe for human health, and can be disposed of after use.
Benefits:
- Large capacity;
- Very high quality enamel;
- Enamel has an anti-slip coating;
- Reasonable cost.
Disadvantages:
- Marking surface.
1. Roca Contesa 170 × 70
Recognized leader in the Russian market among steel bathtubs. First of all, this design is characterized by low weight - it weighs only 29 kg. If the size of the bathroom does not allow such a long structure to be placed, then you can choose a more compact model - 150 cm. The bath capacity is 195 liters. The set includes reliable legs that will not loosen during operation; they can be adjusted if necessary. The enamel is non-marking, however, a non-slip coating is not provided, so you need to use it carefully so as not to fall and not get injured.
Benefits:
- Price;
- High quality;
- Attractive appearance coupled with modern design.
Disadvantages:
- Slippery.
In conclusion, the video
Well, our review of the best steel baths of 2019 has come to an end. We hope that the information we collected will be more than enough for you to determine which of the presented models will be the most suitable. If you have any questions, wishes, or you just decided with your experience in the selection and operation of such products, then welcome to comment on our article. Your opinion is very important not only for us, but also for all other users who decide to read this rating.