A bath (IPAEng: bɑːθ or IPAEng: bæθ), bathtub (AmE), or tub (informal) is a plumbing fixture used for bathing. Most modern bathtubs are made of acrylic or fiberglass, but alternatives are available in enamel over steel or cast iron, and occasionally wood. A bathtub is usually placed in a bathroom either as a stand-alone fixture or in conjunction with a shower.

Modern bathtubs have overflow and waste drains and may have taps mounted on them. They may be built-in or free standing or sometimes sunken. Until recently, most bathtubs were roughly rectangular in shape but with the advent of acrylic thermoformed baths, more shapes are becoming available. Bathtubs are commonly white in colour although many other colours can be found. The process for enamelling cast iron bathtubs was invented by the Scottish born American David Dunbar Buick.

Two main styles of bathtub are common:

• Western-style bathtubs in which the bather lies down. These baths are typically shallow and long.
• Eastern style bathtubs in which the bather sits up. These are known as ofuro in Japan and are typically short and deep.

Clawfoot tub

The clawfoot tub or claw-foot tub is typically made of cast iron, or sometimes acrylic. Once considered a luxury item, modern technology has contributed to a drop in the price of clawfoot tubs. Hence, while true antique clawfoot tubs are still considered collectible items, new reproduction clawfoot tubs are chosen by remodellers and new home builders.

Clawfoot tubs come in 5 major styles:

• Classic Roll Rim, Roll Top, or Flat Rim tubs as seen in the picture above.
• Slipper tubs - where one end is raised and sloped creating a more comfortable lounging position.
• Double Slipper Tubs - where both ends are raised and sloped.
• Double Ended Tubs - where both ends of the tub are rounded. Notice how one end of the classic tub is rounded and one is fairly flat.
• Pedestal Tub - Pedestal tubs, unlike all the styles listed above, do not have claw feet. The tub rests on a pedestal in what most would term an art deco style. Evidence of pedestal tubs dates back to the Isle of Crete in 1000 BC.

Baby bathtub

Hot tubs

Hot tubs are common heated pools used for relaxation and sometimes for therapy. The "hippie" era (1950 - 1970) popularized them in America in songs and movies.

Whirlpool tubs

Whirlpool tubs first became popular in America during the 1960s and 70's. A spa is also called a "jacuzzi" in USA since the word became a generic after plumbing component manufacturer Jacuzzi introduced the "Spa Whirlpool" in 1968. Air bubbles may be introduced into the nozzles via an air-bleed venturi pump