Among modern luxury bathing options, deep soaking tubs have steadily gained popularity over the decades. As we highlighted in a previous post detailing its history, Cabuchon introduced the world to the modern incarnation of this luxury in 1991. While the wooden ofuro has been integral to Japanese bathing customs for centuries, it was Cabuchon’s Imersa that tailored this experience to align with western and contemporary tastes.
The Imersa deep-soaking bath, here inset in a surround.
A Journey from the Past to the Present
Since our ground-breaking launch over 30 years ago, Cabuchon’s portfolio has expanded, introducing newer generations of deep soaking tubs. Each iteration was sculpted with the aim of enhancing comfort, functionality, and user-friendliness. Today, as the “horse trough” design gets sidelined, more and more households are embracing the deep soaking revolution. This trend isn’t just a fleeting moment; as the next generation grows up experiencing the luxuries of deep soaking, their purchasing habits are evolving to prioritize such tubs.
Distinguishing Genuine from Imitation
As the popularity of deep soaking tubs continues to rise, the market is becoming inundated with numerous options. So, how can one discern a genuine deep soaking tub from the rest?
1. Understanding the Basics of Deep Soaking Tubs:
Firstly, a genuine deep soaking tub is not just a deeper version of a standard bath. Traditional tubs can be cumbersome, making it challenging to lie down comfortably, submerged up to the neck.
For instance, Cabuchon’s Pleasance Plus, with its depth of 605mm/23¾”, isn’t labelled as a deep soaking tub. While it draws inspiration from the Georgian ‘slipper bath’ and offers a deep water experience, its design prioritizes style over function.
2. The Art of the Design:
True deep soaking tubs prioritize the bather’s posture. Our research revealed the significance of a seated position for western bathers. Not only does it offer comfort, but an upright posture also eases the strain on the neck and shoulders. Furthermore, easy access, cleaning convenience, and optimal size to ensure water stays hot for longer are other crucial design elements.
3. Features to Seek:
When shopping for a genuine deep soaking tub, consider the following:
– Size: Compact footprint with steep internal walls.
– Seating: A sculptured seat for a comfortable semi-reclined posture.
– Depth: Enough to immerse the bather to the neck without hindering entry, exit, or cleaning.
– Versatility: Accommodates bathers of different heights.
– Arm Support: Useful for both comfort and aiding entry/exit.
Key Considerations for Purchasing a Soaking Tub
Comfort: Cabuchon’s offerings are the culmination of extensive research, trials, and feedback, ensuring unparalleled relaxation.
Space-efficiency: With the trend leaning towards space-saving designs, Cabuchon has steered clear from circular or oval soaking tubs. While aesthetically pleasing, oval designs often waste space, leading to a larger footprint.
Durability and Quality: The choice of material is paramount. Cabuchon’s Ficore® is an advanced composite, boasting superior heat retention, rigidity, and resistance to impacts and discoloration.
A Concluding Thought
The booming market for deep soaking tubs is a double-edged sword. While it brings attention to this luxurious bathing experience, it also opens the floodgates for subpar products that merely check boxes without offering the genuine experience. It’s imperative for consumers to be discerning, prioritizing quality and functionality. After all, a true deep soaking tub promises an experience like no other, and that’s a promise Cabuchon has always delivered on.
