Sitz baths - the optimal solution for small bathrooms: sizes, prices for popular models

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What is the functional purpose of the bath? Provide conditions for hygiene procedures, relaxation, and treatment. The first and last functions are a necessity. But relaxation refers more to relaxation and pleasure. You can relax lying on the sofa or leaning back in your chair. These positions are also convenient when taking a bath. A sitz bath does not in any way detract from the positive effects of water on the body.

Saving water reduces costs for the owner of a sitz bath

Compact baths: desired or forced choice

According to many unofficial sources, the sitz bath was created for therapeutic and hygienic purposes for people with disabilities. Such a statement could be accepted as true if such plumbing equipment had not been installed in small one-room apartments of the “Soviet” era: sitz baths - for small bathrooms.

Sitz baths are in great demand among small bathrooms.

And indeed, how can you use the modest space allocated for hygiene procedures even more wisely than by installing appropriately sized plumbing fixtures?!

It is worth noting that many people try to place a bathtub and shower together. Taking a shower and taking a bath are procedures that are significantly different in the degree and characteristics of thermal, mechanical and chemical effects on the human body. Alternating them is the optimal opportunity to fully use the healing properties of water. In such cases, compact plumbing options are also suitable.

Today you can find a bathtub size of 1 meter in a spacious room of a modern private house or in a two-level apartment. This choice is determined by the preference of the owners. The models of plumbing fixtures chosen are not classic bathtubs of small dimensions, but containers of various shapes with additional functionality.

A huge selection of small-sized plumbing fixtures confirms the demand for it. Regardless of the reasons behind the choice: taste, physical features or the size of the room, the bath should be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

Sitz baths are taken exclusively while sitting, which cannot be said about showers and regular baths.

Expert reviews: which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron

For a long time, the only material from which bathtubs were made was metal. With the development of technologies for improving synthetic compounds, polymers were added to it. Today, manufacturers offer bathtubs from the following materials:

• cast iron;
• become;
• acrylic

There is no absolute leader among products. Based on the opinions of experts, it is worth considering the characteristics of bathtubs made of different materials in three planes:

1. Sizes and prices. Steel sitz baths are the cheapest option. Acrylics come in a variety of sizes. Cast iron is characterized by an average price.
2. Environmentally friendly. None of the products are toxic. Cast iron and steel bathtubs should not be considered safer. Both options have an internal coating of a metal base - enamel, which contains chemicals.
3. Performance characteristics. Metal baths are more resistant to mechanical stress, and the enamel coating is easy to clean. Cast iron retains the water temperature longer. Acrylic models are lighter, have a variety of shapes, often require protection of the external surface, and are demanding in the use of cleaning agents.

Acrylic sitz baths come in a variety of sizes and shapes

Helpful advice! When choosing a bathtub, you should also consider the method of its installation. For a solo position, a heavy bath is more suitable. Acrylic products, although they have legs included, it is advisable to additionally fix them.

Tips for choosing

If your home does not have a spacious bathroom, and you want to place in this room not only a sink, toilet, bathtub, but also a washing machine, design experts advise choosing a seating product. The variety of types of such plumbing fixtures today is very wide. The choice of shapes and manufacturing materials has expanded, which allows everyone to decide which model is most suitable for them.

Various shapes of small sitz baths

The catalog of any online plumbing store will pleasantly surprise you with the presence of sitz baths. First of all, manufacturers strive to satisfy two consumer needs with a variety of forms: convenience and compliance with the interior. All products of this type of plumbing can be divided into the following types:

1. Classic models. These bathtubs have a rectangular shape with rounded corners. That is, these are the usual standard options of reduced length.
2. Angular. They can be divided into classic (the bowl has two straight sides, located along the walls, and a rounded one) and non-standard: trapezoidal, triangular, rhombic, etc.
3. Designer ones. This species does not lend itself to any internal classification. The shapes of mini-baths are original; they can imitate various objects: a ball, a chair, a boat, etc.

As for the latest bathtub models, it is worth highlighting products that follow the lines of the human body in a sitting position, and decorative ones. The first models are ergonomic and are in demand among customers who are demanding of comfort. Decorative designs are chosen to give originality to the interior. You can only sit in them with a straight back due to the lack of supporting sides.

A sitz bath can be either rounded or triangular (if necessary, place it in a corner)

Options are also offered that combine interesting design and ergonomics.

Sitz baths differ in the degree of immersion in water during the procedures. Many models assume the possibility of maximum contact in full capacity conditions. Products with simulated seats limit immersion to some extent.

Dimensions of sitz bathtubs of standard and original shapes

As for sizes, it should be noted that standards can only be discussed regarding classical forms. The width is practically fixed, it is 70 cm. This is the maximum minimum that, given the peculiarities of these designs, ensures a comfortable fit.

When choosing a model, the size of the bathroom is very important. The size of a sitz bathtub relative to its length can vary from 100 to 120 cm. Models 100x70 cm are usually installed in rooms whose area does not exceed 4 m².

Helpful advice! When trying to arrange a small bathroom as rationally as possible, it is worth taking into account the physical characteristics of the users. An uncomfortable body position will reduce the functionality of the bathtub solely to hygienic procedures.

The standard width of a sitz bath is 70 cm

Sometimes bathtubs measuring 150x70 cm are classified as sitting bathtubs. They may indeed have a ledge, which is an indicator of belonging to this type of plumbing fixture. But more often this is done based on size.

The most popular are the classic models with bathtub dimensions of 110 by 70 cm. They are most often made of steel or acrylic; among cast iron there are practically no such options.

As for bathtubs of original shape, not only the length and width are important here, but also the diameter, height of various parts, angles, etc. Typically, the total area occupied by products of this type does not exceed 1.5 m².

Sitz acrylic baths: variety of options and advantages of models

Methacrylic and ABC acrylic are used as materials for the manufacture of polymer baths. Products are made using a molding machine. The acrylic sheet is heated to a temperature of 150-160 °C, softens, then it is placed under a press, having previously been given a certain shape. The product is cooled and then reinforced. The strength of the bath depends on the number of such layers.

Acrylic sitz baths are created using the latest technology

Manufacturing technology allows products to be given various configurations and sizes.

Even small sitz baths of 100 by 70 cm can be classic rectangular, oval, follow the contours of a chair, have wavy sides, etc. Some models come complete with protective screens, but most have an open outer surface that can be damaged as a result mechanical influences. That is why such bathtubs are more often built-in.

The main positive performance characteristics of acrylic bathtubs include:

• ease;
• good thermal conductivity. Such baths, even without water, are warm to the touch. This is very important when the bowl also serves as a shower tray;
• interesting design, including a variety of shapes and colors;
• possibility of restoring damaged surfaces.

Many models of sitz acrylic bathtubs (120x70, 110x70, 100x70 cm) of a classic rectangular shape have a ledge that makes the body position comfortable. Products are affordable. Thanks to the above qualities, such bathtubs are considered a universal option for small rooms. Non-standard models are equipped with wide sides and sometimes with handrails.

Today, acrylic sitz baths are the best option.

Cast iron sitz bathtub: main performance characteristics

A cast iron sitz bath is much less common. Perhaps someone will classify such models as fading models, losing their attractiveness. But the reason for the small number of products is most likely something else. Making a bathtub from such a material is a rather complex and time-consuming process. That is why there is no variety of forms. Bathtubs made of cast iron are mostly rectangular and oval in shape, with exclusive models being round.

The smallest bathtub is 120 by 70 cm. Depending on the height, the bowl can be equipped with handles. Almost all modern models have an anti-slip bottom texture.

The main advantages of cast iron baths include:

• stability due to heavy weight;
• long-term preservation of water temperature;
• durability of use;
• moderate cost.

Many people tend to classify a significant number of them as shortcomings. It is worth noting that there is no more reliable option for an island position than a cast iron bathtub. It does not require additional fencing; the outer surface can be treated with various types of coatings to add decorativeness in accordance with the style of the room.

The impracticality of a cast iron bathtub is due to its enormous weight.

Today, few people do not change their interior for several decades. The internal enamel coating of a cast iron bathtub retains its aesthetics with proper care for more than 10-15 years. To damage it, you need to drop a metal object (or glass, stone) weighing about 1 kg into the bathtub. Considering that typical conditions in rooms do not require the presence of such, the danger of mechanical impact is practically eliminated.

Helpful advice! When choosing cast iron bathtubs, special attention should be paid to the outer surface. High-quality casting is characterized by uniform roughness. The presence of irregularities and bumps indicates a violation of the manufacturing technology.

Performance indicators and popular sizes of steel bathtubs (120x70 cm)

Externally, a steel bathtub can be easily confused with a cast iron one: the same metal base with an enamel coating. However, the technical and operational characteristics differ significantly. The steel structure is much thinner and therefore lighter. For example, with dimensions of 120 x 70 cm, it can be 23-28 kg (a cast iron analogue weighs 75-80 kg). Among steel bathtubs, products with dimensions of 120x70 cm are the most popular: the length allows them to accommodate a person of any build.

The main positive performance characteristics of steel bathtubs:

1. Good thermal conductivity. The container heats up quickly.
2. Hygienic enamel coating. The absence of pores prevents unwanted particles from accumulating on the surface.
3. Variety of models. Even with a bathtub size of 110x70 cm, the product can have a rectangular or oval shape, a headrest, handrails, and a ledge.
4. Durability of use.

Steel baths are lightweight, which is an important advantage during transportation.

Almost all steel bathtubs have an anti-slip bottom coating. The products have a low price.

The following indicators are noted as disadvantages:

1. Excessive noise. The problem is aggravated when the bathtub is not fixed rigidly.
2. The need for strapping. It is caused by both an unaesthetic external coating and the possibility of deformation of the walls.
3. The appearance of corrosion. In damaged areas this happens quite quickly.

Steel baths can be classified as a social option with good quality indicators.

Related article:

Whirlpool bath: the best way to make your bathroom a relaxing place

How to decide on a purchase and what to pay attention to. Features of various materials. Are additional functions needed?

What shape can the structure take?

And the shape of a sitz bath can be very diverse. These can be, for example, standard rectangular structures, as well as round or oval. The best option for a small bathroom is a triangular corner seat design. And if you want to simplify the ablution process for an elderly member of your family, we recommend giving preference to a model equipped with a door. The last bath can save a person from the time-consuming (and in some cases it really is) step over the side - instead, he will enter through the door, and then, after closing it, he can draw hot water. When the procedures are completed, the water will need to be drained, and only then can the door be opened.

Seated structures with hydromassage systems are extremely popular today - they are distinguished by the fact that they perform several functions simultaneously (cleanse the body, restore the elasticity of blood vessels and normalize blood circulation; they also stimulate the functioning of the digestive system, kidneys and heart).

Also, the baths described may vary depending on the material used in manufacturing; from this point of view they can be:

• cast iron;
• steel;
• acrylic.

Let's take a closer look at each of the categories. Let's start with the first one.

Bathtubs 100x70 in the interior: possible installation methods

Among the classic models, the smallest bathtubs are 100x70 cm. Despite the modest size, choosing a comfortable position for such sanitary ware is much more difficult than for a full-sized product. The product must not only be placed, but also provide communications, a convenient approach, and fit harmoniously into the interior.

Such bathtubs can occupy a wall position, corner position, or solo position. A built-in option is most often placed along the walls. If the bathtub is standard, white, there is no need to focus on it; it is better to decorate the frame in the same style as the wall. When using a colored interior coating, special attention should be paid to the surrounding elements. Such a bathtub, even of a tiny size, should become a decoration of the room. The cladding of walls, floors, and details should emphasize the originality of the plumbing design.

Choosing a convenient location for a sitz bathtub is much more difficult than for a full-sized product

A rather complicated way to place small baths is solo. The challenge most often lies in sustainability. In this position, it is impossible to use an additional frame or strapping; it is necessary to install it on legs or other decorative stands that perform their functions. It is almost impossible to find a classically shaped sit-down cast iron bathtub 100x70. If you want to purchase a product of exactly this quality, it would be reasonable to choose a round design.

Important! The most stable bathtub models for solo installation are the round ones. Products of this shape can be further strengthened without losing aesthetics.

How to properly prepare the room?

The complexity and speed of the subsequent installation of a sitz bath will depend on how well you prepare the bathroom. Therefore, you must definitely follow these steps.

Step one . First you need to make the measurements required to select the most suitable model. It is worth noting that if the room is not empty, you will have to first think through the careful placement of the bathtub so as not to accidentally damage anything there.

Step two . Next, you need to check the horizontalness of the floor.

Step three . If you find any serious defects (more than 3-4 millimeters), they will have to be sealed with cement screed. If the floor surface is not level enough, then you will have to forget about the stability of the bowl.

Step four . The next stage is the preparation of the water supply, as well as the sewer drain.

Step five . All pipes must be checked for internal blockages, and if there are any, they must be removed immediately.

Step six . After this, all plumbing parts are checked for integrity and functionality.

Note! If we are talking about installing an acrylic model, then decorative finishing of the floor/walls should be done after the bath is installed, or before. For cast iron bathtubs, finishing is permissible only after installation is completed.

When everything is properly prepared, proceed directly to installation and connection.

Bathtub with a door: solving complex sanitary problems

A bathtub with a door is the only possible way to take water procedures for people with disabilities and the elderly. A few decades ago, such structures were only found in medical and sanatorium institutions. Today, many people prefer to have such a bath at home.

Sitz baths for the elderly are distinguished by design features that provide a large support area, making the bowls stable. Many models have a height of 80-90 cm, are equipped with additional massage functions, the mixer and switches are located at the level of the upper edge of the container. This position simplifies the process of turning the water on and off as much as possible.

A sitz bath with a door is an excellent device in which disabled people and the elderly can shower quite comfortably

Despite the undeniable usefulness and high technicality of designs with a door, it is worth noting that they have an objective but significant drawback: you can enter the bathtub only in the absence of water, and exit after draining it.

Important! Given the user population, it is essential for bathtubs with doors to ensure a safe water supply. For these purposes, it is worth using faucets with thermostats that maintain the set temperature throughout the entire procedure and installing an intensive drain.

You can’t buy a hip bathtub with a door in any store that sells plumbing fixtures. It is better to contact direct suppliers of well-known brands. This will not only help you find the desired option, but will also provide a guarantee of quality.

Photos of sitz baths on the Internet: what needs to be assessed

All photos of bathtubs posted on the Internet should be divided into two categories: exhibition models demonstrating an interesting design, and commercial products being sold. Both selections are worth checking out. This will significantly supplement the information baggage about this type of plumbing.

Some sit-down bathtub models decorate the interior rather than provide comfortable use

You just need to use the acquired knowledge correctly. Online stores and selling sites offer photos of sitz baths, sizes and prices. The information is specific; all that remains is to compare your own desires, capabilities and compliance with existing technical conditions.

The presented interiors with sitz baths can suggest design ideas and demonstrate standard and exclusive plumbing options. But it is not always possible to find the model you saw on sale.

It should be noted that trading companies most often equate small-sized and sitz baths. Therefore, if you want to find an option with a ledge, you will have to spend a decent amount of time searching.

Small sitz bathtubs with a classic rectangular shape are presented in limited quantities in interiors, but they are the most common among the examples sold. And this is also not an accident. Many models that are interesting in terms of design decorate the interior more than they provide comfortable use.

Bathtubs of a classic rectangular shape are most often found on sale.

Helpful advice! Before purchasing a sitz bathtub through an online store (based on a visual assessment), you should definitely calculate whether the internal volume of the product corresponds to real needs.

Modern acrylic

Acrylic is the leader among modern bathtub models. Practical material allows consumers to choose from seating models of various shapes and colors. If the owner of a bathroom prefers a non-trivial interior, a bright bathtub will be a godsend for him. Subdued lighting will help highlight the whimsical design. The spacious room allows you to install an example of asymmetrical outlines.

One of the significant advantages of acrylic is its ability to imitate the texture of various materials. An acrylic sit-down bathtub imitated in marble or onyx will help add a touch of aristocracy to the bathtub interior. The effect will be enhanced by wall decoration made to look like silk. To make a hip bath look luxurious in the interior, it is recommended to select the rest of the sanitary ware of high quality and take care of suitable lighting.

Comment! Foreign-made acrylic sitz baths do not always withstand the harsh operating conditions in their native lands.

The reason is excessive water hardness. Products from domestic manufacturers are characterized by greater practicality, the production of which takes into account the nuances of the chemical composition of water.

Sitz baths: prices and the main factors that shape them

Prices for sitz baths vary widely. The main indicators influencing pricing are:

• material of manufacture;
• technology. Some acrylic bathtubs with the same size and shape have a 30% difference in price. Most often this is due to the number of reinforcing layers;
• size and shape;
• design feature: presence of screen, headrest, handrails, additional options;
• brand.

Acrylic rectangular sitting bathtub 120x70 cm Besco Majka Nova WAM-120-PK made in Poland costs 11,450 rubles. The same domestically produced product Aquatek Mia has a price of 10,200 rubles. Czech goods with similar dimensional indicators are valued at 28,320 rubles.

There are many indicators that influence pricing

A Russian-made Donna Vanna steel bathtub 120x70 cm costs 5,400 rubles. The cost of a cast-iron domestic bathtub of similar size “Universal” is 12 thousand rubles. The Chinese cast iron version is estimated at 17 thousand rubles.

The price of corner sitz baths is significantly higher . It is difficult to make an exact comparison with the classic ones, but with the same volume, material and manufacturer category, the cost is 40-50% more. Exclusive models equipped with massage functions and a door can have a price of 50-100 thousand rubles.

Budget steel

If the issue of price comes first, the choice falls on steel sitz baths. Light weight and ease of installation are other positive qualities of steel products. This is where the short list of advantages ends, and the negative aspects that await the consumer during operation begin:

• The high thermal conductivity of the material provokes rapid cooling of the water in a sitz bath. It will not be possible to stay in the container for a long time. Therefore, if a bathtub is purchased for the purpose of carrying out medical procedures, it is better to opt for a different material.
• The outer covering of a steel sitz bathtub is not durable. A thin layer of enamel is prone to rapid destruction. Restoration procedures will help prevent the problem, otherwise the bath will be affected by rust.

Manufacturers are trying to eliminate the disadvantages of steel bathtubs. To do this, seated models are equipped with a plastic body and fill the voids between the steel structure and the outer shell material with low thermal conductivity. This measure slows down the water cooling process. The second plus is that the sound of the water jet becomes less harsh.

Rating of design developments for the smallest bathtubs

Any rating is compiled based on a combination of user opinions. This assessment has a slightly different mechanism. The presented models have not been tested by consumers, they are interesting ideas, and have earned recognition for their combination of miniature size and visual appeal.

Sitz bath 100x70 cm in the shape of a drop. The model is designed for corner installation. A significant difference in the length of the straight sides allows you to simulate the desired configuration. The semicircular outer line, set back a short distance from the wall, really and visually saves bathroom space.

Designer sitz baths are a combination of miniature size and visual appeal

The glamorous design makes the small bathtub the centerpiece of the interior. Figured massive legs supporting a bowl with soft rounded top lines, white internal surfaces contrasting with the natural color of blackened metal - this model can be considered a work of art.

A short bathtub, shaped like an egg, is placed on the floor without any supports. The absence of additional elements gives the product a special laconicism. Some difficulty is caused by the installation of communications: they must be built into the floor. This bathtub is the most compact model of all those presented on the Internet.

How to install a cast iron structure

When installing a cast iron product, special attention should be paid to the correct connection to the water supply/sewage system. In addition, a sitz bath must be carried into the room correctly, because it weighs a lot, as mentioned earlier.

Note! To simplify and speed up the process, enlist the help of a few friends in advance.

Step one . First, the supports are prepared (provided that the installation will not be carried out using special legs).

As a rule, such baths are installed on bricks. In this case, select the required number of pieces so that you can build a couple of blocks of suitable height from them. To connect the bricks, use the same cement mortar. Do not forget to check the horizontal position to avoid distortion of the structure.

Step two . The bowl unfolds so that after it is brought in, the drain hole is on the desired side.

Step three . Now the bowl is brought into the room - carefully and always in a horizontal position.

Step four . After this, she lies on her side.

Step five . The legs are screwed on, but the bolts should not be overtightened. After this, the bowl is installed.

Step six . The position of the bowl is checked and, if necessary, adjustments are made by adjusting the supports. The structure is then checked for stability.

Step seven . You can cement the legs to make the bathtub more secure. Or, as an option, you can use rubber gaskets.

Step eight . Engineering systems are assembled in accordance with the manufacturer's diagram.

Step nine . Next, grounding is installed (use a cable with a 4 mm cross-section for this).

Note! Grounding is also required when installing a steel model. In this case, the line should not be laid along a surface where water may subsequently enter.

Step ten . The joints are sealed with silicone-based sealant, after which you need to wait for complete drying.

Step eleven . At the end, a screen is installed, while access to the pipeline and drainage into the sewer must be maintained.