Old homes often come with fascinating relics of the past—dumbwaiters, milk doors, and even laundry chutes. But one of the most bizarre bathroom features from the 1970s and 1980s has sparked heated debates across online forums. Nestled beside a standard soaking tub, some vintage bathrooms boast a mysterious, faucet-less, and drain-less mini tub.
What was it actually used for? Some say a foot bath, others claim it was meant for icing drinks, while a growing number of enthusiasts believe it was purely decorative. Let’s uncover the truth behind this quirky design choice and explore creative ways to bring it back to life in modern homes.
A Bathroom Mystery That Left Homeowners Baffled
Imagine moving into an old home and finding a tiny tub with no faucet or drain next to the main bathtub. It seems perfectly designed to hold water, yet it has no plumbing connections. Over the years, speculation about its purpose has run wild, with theories ranging from the practical to the downright bizarre.
The top guesses from internet forums include:
- A foot bath – A convenient way to soak feet without filling the entire tub.
- A plant holder – A dedicated space for greenery, perfectly in line with 1970s home decor trends.
- A beverage cooler – A makeshift ice bucket for chilling wine and drinks during a bath.
- A storage nook – A stylish way to hold towels, soaps, and bath essentials.
While all these ideas sound plausible, one theory seems to make the most sense.
Video: Types of Bathtubs | The Home Depot
The Truth: It Was Designed for Plants
The most widely accepted explanation is that this mini tub was originally meant for holding plants. During the 1970s and 1980s, indoor greenery was a massive design trend. Bathrooms, with their humidity and warm temperatures, were considered ideal spaces for certain houseplants to thrive.
Unlike today’s minimalist styles, vintage home decor embraced lush, nature-inspired aesthetics. Many homeowners filled their bathrooms with hanging ferns, leafy vines, and potted plants. The mini tub served as a built-in plant display, allowing people to bring the outdoors inside without cluttering countertops.
Why Didn’t It Have a Drain or Faucet?
One of the biggest points of confusion surrounding these mini tubs is their lack of plumbing. If they were meant to hold water, why wouldn’t they include a faucet or drain?
The reason is simple: they were never designed to hold water. Instead, they functioned as a dry space where people could arrange potted plants or even artificial greenery without worrying about leaks.
Additionally, many of these mini tubs were built using the same material as the main bathtub, making them look like a functional water fixture even when they weren’t.
Bringing the 1970s Aesthetic into the 21st Century
If you’re lucky enough to have one of these mini tubs in your bathroom, consider yourself the owner of a rare vintage feature! Rather than viewing it as outdated, you can repurpose it to complement modern home decor.
Here are a few ways to make the most of this unique bathroom element:
1. Create a Stunning Indoor Plant Display
The original intention of this feature was to showcase greenery, so why not honor that tradition? Fill it with moisture-loving houseplants like:
- Ferns
- Orchids
- Spider plants
- Peace lilies
If your bathroom doesn’t get much natural light, opt for faux plants. You can even use a simple TikTok hack to make artificial greenery look incredibly lifelike.
2. Transform It into a Luxury Towel Nook
Bathrooms should feel spa-like, and nothing screams relaxation more than fluffy, neatly rolled towels. Arrange bath towels, washcloths, and even bathrobes inside the mini tub for a stylish and functional storage solution.
To enhance the aesthetic, add a wooden tray on top with a candle, bath salts, and essential oils for a luxurious touch.
3. Convert It into a Bath-Time Beverage Cooler
Imagine sinking into a hot bath with a glass of chilled prosecco or sparkling water within arm’s reach. One of the most creative uses for this mini tub is turning it into an ice-filled beverage cooler.
Simply:
- Line the tub with a waterproof plastic bag or removable insert.
- Fill it with ice and your favorite drinks.
- Enjoy a perfectly chilled beverage while unwinding in your bath.
While the lack of a drain means you’ll have to manually remove melted ice, the luxury of having a bath-side drink cooler makes it well worth the effort.
4. Use It as Hidden Storage for Bath Essentials
If you prefer clean, clutter-free counters, use the mini tub as a discreet storage spot for:
- Extra shampoo and body wash bottles
- Loofahs and exfoliating brushes
- Candles and aromatherapy oils
By keeping these items neatly tucked away, your bathroom will maintain a sleek, organized appearance.
5. Give It a Seasonal Makeover
Why not change its purpose throughout the year? Get creative and match it with seasonal decor:
- Spring/Summer: Fill it with fresh flowers or a mini herb garden.
- Fall: Add decorative pumpkins, dried flowers, and scented candles.
- Winter: Turn it into a cozy holiday display with string lights and ornaments.
This way, your vintage mini tub can remain a statement piece year-round.
Final Thoughts: An Unusual Feature with Endless Possibilities
The mystery of the mini bathroom tub may have finally been solved—it was likely meant to house plants and greenery, aligning with the lush decor trends of the 1970s and 1980s. However, in today’s world, its potential goes far beyond plants.
Whether you choose to embrace its original purpose or give it a fresh twist, this quirky home feature can be a conversation starter and a stylish addition to your bathroom.
So, if you find one of these unusual mini tubs in your home, don’t dismiss it as outdated—get creative and make it work for you!
