Should I choose an acrylic or steel enamel bathtub?

Hello everyone,

I am currently dealing with the topic of bathtubs. I have read many great things about acrylic bathtubs regarding warmth sensation, durability, variety of shapes, and other advantages. :rolleyes: Steel enamel bathtubs are probably more robust but definitely "colder" and "harder." Can you share your experiences with me? What have you had installed?

Best regards

I have acrylic, and I have to say that is completely sufficient, especially when it comes to the topic of thermal insulation. I used to have a steel tub, and the water would get cold quickly, which is annoying when you want to sit in the tub for a while. So you have to refill less hot water, and over time this should also be noticeable because you have to pay less for water and heating costs.

I have the same feeling with our current bathtub as well. Always have to add new water. How about the sensitivity of the material? Any experience with that? Can you use scouring cream on it without worries?

Well, scouring cream is not really suitable for either bathtub; it's best to clean the tub with regular cleaning products. I always use just shampoo with a brush for that myself.

Regarding heat retention, an acrylic tub of course retains heat much better than enamel, the downside is that you should avoid scratches, and after a few years the tub becomes more dull, that is rougher; whether something can be done with other cleaning methods to better seal it, I don't know. But I can imagine something like a nano-sealing.

Scouring milk should definitely be avoided because the small particles cause scratches on acrylic similar to sand. For limescale, it is better to use vinegar or lemon juice. Lemon juice naturally smells much more pleasant. Use soft sponges or white paper for this. This protects the surface.

I have an acrylic bathtub and am extremely satisfied with it. After bathing, I just wipe it down with a cloth, but without any cleaning agents. With some lemon juice added.