In 1910, the world was entering a new era of technological advancements, and one of the more unusual inventions of the time was the electric bathtub. At a time when electricity was revolutionizing daily life, inventors were eager to apply it to household conveniences—including personal hygiene.

The electric bathtub was designed to heat water efficiently, offering a more comfortable and luxurious bathing experience compared to traditional methods of boiling water over a stove and pouring it into the tub. Some designs even claimed to provide therapeutic benefits, using mild electrical currents to stimulate circulation and promote relaxation.

However, the idea of combining water and electricity in the early 20th century was as risky as it sounds. Electrical safety standards were not as advanced as today, and using an electric bathtub carried potential dangers, including shocks and short circuits. Because of this, the concept never gained widespread popularity, and safer water-heating systems soon replaced these early experiments.

Although the electric bathtub itself did not last, it paved the way for modern advancements in home plumbing, leading to the electric water heater, a now-essential feature in homes around the world. This strange and fascinating invention from 1910 serves as a reminder of how innovation, even when imperfect, pushes society toward progress.