What is a copper bath?

Copper tubs are made of – as the name suggests – copper, a durable yet extremely malleable metal that’s able to be molded without cracking. These tubs are rust-proof, mold-resistant, antibacterial, and good for the environment.

What are the pros and cons of copper tubs?

Pros of copper tubs

• Durable and versatile
• Beautiful, classic appearance
• Rust- and corrosion-proof
• Mold-resistant
• Antibacterial
• Retains heat
• Eco-friendly; recyclable
• Large variety of styles available
• Develops unique patina (finish) over time
• Extra-long lifespan

Cons of copper tubs

• High cost
• Requires slightly more maintenance than other materials
• Sensitive to acids and abrasive materials

You may encounter some unfamiliar terms when shopping for a copper bath. The most important indicator of quality is the gauge, or thickness, of the metal; the lower the number, the better the copper. Look for 14- to 16-gauge (or lower) copper; a thinner gauge (higher number) is more prone to damage.

Most copper tubs are made of recycled copper, which contains a small percentage of zinc or another alloy. A high-quality tub should contain at least 97% copper; check for unsafe additives such as mercury and lead, which lower-quality tubs may contain.

You may notice words and phrases like “cold-rolled” or “annealed” in relation to your tub. Those terms refer to the manufacturing process and do not have much impact on the quality or construction of your tub, though it’s recommended that you seek a lower gauge for annealed copper.

If your tub has seams, opt for seams that are welded rather than soldered. Soldering results in a weaker seam that’s prone to splitting, while welded seams will not weaken or break over time.