Pedestal bathtubs are a type of clawfoot bathtub. They have the same basic oval shape, with a straight front and a sloped back, and can be made from the classic cast iron, as well as steel with a porcelain coating, and more modern materials like acrylic.

Features and Benefits

• They are free standing, with no "feet" to stand on. Pedestal tubs instead sit on an oval base, which is the pedestal. This base may of wood, which allows for easy customization of the look by painting.
• Due to their freestanding nature, pedestal bath tubs are easier to install, since no carpentry or masonry has to be performed. The pipes are exposed, which makes for easier repairs and maintenance.
• They have no drilled holes on the side for a faucet, which allows the water to be filled to a deeper level. Faucets are installed on the floor or on the wall.
• Since the pedestal tub style is not that common, manufacturers usually provide a very small number of options with the tub.

Pedestal Tub Manufacturers

Only a handful of manufacturers still offer pedestal tubs:

• Kohler has the Kohler Vintage Bath, made of cast iron.
• Aquatic Whirlpools offers the Serenity XI Tub made of acrylic and has 60 jets blowing warm air bubbles for a hot spring effect.
• Vintage Tub & Bath offers several pedestal bathtub models from lesser-known manufacturers.
• On the high end, Herbeau Creations has created the Medicis Copper Bathtub.