Which material is best for a bathtub?

Hello,

we now need to choose a bathtub. We actually wanted to take a steel-enameled tub from Kaldewei (190x90), as we have always had steel tubs so far. Now we have also seen other materials in the plumbing store (e.g. acrylic) and wonder if one should rather choose something else. These acrylic tubs felt nicely warm and somehow soft, the question is whether you notice a difference when bathing? What did you choose and why?

Best regards
Sabine

Specifically, Kaldewei has the reputation of successfully combining elegance and timelessness, so that one gladly makes use of the durability.

I have no opinion or experience with the material sanitary acrylic. I will quote from what I consider a quite useful comparative presentation (acrylic vs. steel enamel - 8 differences - Emero Life): "4. Robustness: point for steel enamel. Because its glass-hard surface does not scratch or discolor. In addition, it is fireproof. So if you happen to forget to blow out your tealights on the edge of the bathtub, there is no danger for your tub. However, you should be careful with impacts and blows from pointed objects, as steel enamel is somewhat more sensitive in this regard. The softer sanitary acrylic is less sensitive to impacts and blows. However, traces can sometimes remain here, such as from hair dyes or essential oils."

When considering the costs, enamel and acrylic are also comparable. Enamel is indeed more expensive than acrylic, but with enamel, no additional frame is needed, which costs quite a bit. Without this frame, an acrylic cannot be set up. This was, among other reasons, why we chose a steel enamel (Kaldewei).

We initially wanted to choose a steel bathtub as well. The reason for this was the robustness and that we currently have one and are satisfied with it. The feeling that it is apparently a bit cooler does not bother us. Ultimately, after some "test lying," it became a stylish acrylic tub from Richter and Frenzel.

We initially also wanted to choose a steel bathtub. The reason for this was the robustness and the fact that we currently have one and are satisfied with it. The feeling that it is apparently somewhat cooler does not bother us. Ultimately, after some “test lying,” it became a stylish acrylic tub from Richter and Frenzel.

Looking at the costs, enamel and acrylic are also comparable. Enamel is indeed more expensive than acrylic, but with enamel, you don't need an additional frame, which costs quite a bit. Without this frame, an acrylic tub cannot be installed. That was, among other reasons, why we chose a steel-enamel (Kaldewei).

Mepa tub frame costs around €50, so not really much.