Moving a bathtub requires careful planning and the right equipment. It's a heavy object, often weighing hundreds of pounds, so attempting this alone is ill-advised.
Protecting the Bathtub
First, protect the bathtub from scratches and damage by wrapping it in a light layer of protective material. This could be blankets, cardboard, or bubble wrap.
Moving the Bathtub
Next, carefully tilt the bathtub onto its side. This distributes the weight and makes it easier to maneuver. A dolly or heavy-duty hand truck is essential for moving the tub. Using a ramp can be helpful to navigate stairs or uneven surfaces. Gently roll the bathtub onto the dolly and use the ramp to move it. For extremely heavy tubs, consider hiring professional movers. For extremely heavy cast iron tubs, multiple people are recommended – ideally, three or more. If moving down stairs, a rope and multiple people to control the descent are needed.
Example: To move a heavy cast iron bathtub, wrap it protectively, tilt it onto its side, place it on a dolly, and use a ramp to carefully transport it to its new location. Employing multiple people to assist is highly recommended, especially when navigating stairs.
Additional Considerations
The provided references highlight several scenarios and methods of moving a bathtub. These include moving a bathtub by oneself (requiring significant effort and potentially unsuitable for all bathtub types), professional assistance (recommended for extremely heavy or valuable bathtubs), and the importance of proper preparation, protection and moving equipment. One reference even mentions that if you are moving to the city of Bath (England), it's advisable to research specific areas in order to find the best location for your living space.
