If you’re looking to upgrade your current bathtub or install a new one in your bathroom remodel, choosing the right tub is key to creating your dream oasis. With so many types, sizes, materials and features to consider, picking the perfect bathtub can be tricky.
Why the Right Bathtub Matters
Your bathtub is arguably the centerpiece of your bathroom – it’s one of the first things guests will notice and a major factor in your everyday comfort and relaxation. Choosing a tub that complements your bathroom’s decor and fits your lifestyle is crucial.
Enhance your bathing experience – The right tub offers the ideal height, depth and reclining angle for your body, allowing you to completely relax in comfort. Features like molded armrests and lumbar support take your bath to the next level.
Reflect your style – Make a statement by selecting a bathtub in a striking color or unique design that reflects your personal taste and complements your bathroom decor. The tub can become a focal point.
Upgrade functionality – Look for tubs with features like whirlpool water jets, air bubble massage or chromotherapy lighting built-in to take your bath from basic to luxurious.
Types of Bathtubs
With many different bathtub styles and configurations to choose from, selecting a type that works best for your space and needs is key.
Freestanding Bathtubs
Freestanding tubs have gained major popularity in recent years for their elegance and versatility. As the name suggests, these bathtubs sit independently in the bathroom, with exposed sides not covered by walls or surrounds. They come in a range of shapely, eye-catching silhouettes like oval, round and rectangular. Other features:
- Placement – Position anywhere, even away from walls. Allow access on all sides.
- Materials – Typically made of acrylic, stone resin, porcelain-enameled cast iron or copper.
- Pros – Stylish focal point, versatile placement, easy maintenance.
- Cons – No support from walls, expensive, needs adequate floor support.
Drop-In Bathtubs
As their name describes, drop-in tubs are lowered into a platform in the floor, surrounded by tile, solid surface or other finished material. The top edges overlap the platform for support. Their features include:
- Placement – Lowered into a custom-built tub platform or deck in the bathroom floor.
- Materials – Made of enameled cast iron, acrylic, natural stone or solid surface.
- Pros – Consistent floor surface, easy cleaning around tub, seamless look.
- Cons – Irreversible installation, high cost, limits flooring options.
Corner Bathtubs
Corner tubs are installed into the corner of a bathroom, typically using two adjoining walls for support. They naturally fit and utilize awkward, angled spaces. Features include:
- Placement – Fits snugly into the corner of a bathroom.
- Materials – Most often enameled cast iron, but also acrylic or fiberglass.
- Pros – Great use of corner space, surrounds on multiple sides.
- Cons – Limited leg room, difficult access through one opening.
Walk-In Bathtubs
Walk-in tubs are designed with an outward-swinging door and low step-over threshold, allowing safe and easy entry for those with mobility challenges. Features include:
- Placement – Set into a alcove or against a wall, like a standard tub.
- Materials – Made from fiberglass, acrylic, porcelain or enameled steel.
- Pros – Safe independent bathing, comfort features, retains heat well.
- Cons – Expensive, uses more floor space, limited style options.
Whirlpool Bathtubs
Whirlpool tubs feature jets that shoot streams of water to massage and relax the user’s body for a spa-like soak. Other features include:
- Placement – Anywhere a standard tub can be installed.
- Materials – Typically made of acrylic or thermoplastic.
- Pros – Invigorating hydro massage, heat features, customized jets.
- Cons – Very expensive, motor maintenance required, may leak.
Soaking Bathtubs
Simple soaking tubs provide a peaceful, relaxing bathing experience and are often minimalist in style. Features include:
- Placement – Any typical bathtub location.
- Materials – Porcelain, enameled cast iron, natural stone, copper, acrylic.
- Pros – Classic style, budget-friendly, easy maintenance.
- Cons – Few special features, basic appearance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathtub
Selecting the right bathtub involves assessing your needs in relation to size, style, features, installation requirements and more.
Size and Shape
Consider both the interior capacity and overall footprint of a tub:
- User height/length – When reclining, your body should fit without bending knees.
- Tub capacity – Look at gallon capacity to estimate water needed to fill. Standard is 50-60 gallons.
- Tub dimensions – Measure your bathroom space carefully to ensure the tub will fit.
- Sizes – Typical sizes range from 60 to 72 inches long and 30 to 42 inches wide. Extra deep/wide tubs are available.
- Shape – Rectangular, oval, round and corner tubs optimize space differently.
You want ample room to move around and stretch out comfortably.
Material
Factors about bathtub materials include:
- Surface feel – Materials like acrylic, enameled steel and solid surface have smooth, nonporous finishes that are easy to clean. Natural stone and copper feel ultra-luxurious.
- Noise – Acrylic makes less noise when filling with water vs. porcelain enameled metal.
- Heat retention – Materials like cast iron retain heat well for longer soaks, while acrylic cools faster.
- Cleaning needs – Nonporous surfaces typically need minimal regular cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Durability – Cast iron and stone resin last longest. Acrylic and fiberglass are prone to scratching.
- Cost – Materials like solid copper, exotic stone and solid surface are premium. Acrylic is highly affordable.
Choose a material aligned with your priorities like feel, noise, heat retention and budget.
Style and Design
Style considerations for your bathtub:
- Freestanding, alcove or built-in – Freestanding tubs make bold statements while alcove and built-in types fit snugly into defined spaces.
- Contemporary or traditional – Sleek, simple designs offer a contemporary vibe while ornamental clawfoot or slipper tubs exude tradition.
- Color/finish – White and neutral tones work everywhere. Bright colors and metallics make dramatic accents. Natural stone and wood finishes bring warmth.
- Special features – Look for unique details like uneven edges, sloped backs, decorative clawfeet or echoing curves.
Your bathtub should complements your bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Your comfort in the tub depends on:
- Reclined position – The ideal backrest angle is between 10-25 degrees. Lumbar curves provide extra support.
- Depth – A deeper tub (20+ inches) allows full body immersion. Standard is 14-17 inches deep.
- Interior surface – Antimicrobial treatments and textured bottoms help you grip. A soaking bath pillow offers neck support.
- Accessories – Look for built-in armrests, grab bars and slip-resistant tub floors for safety and comfort.
Test out showroom tubs to discover what works best for your body.
Water Usage and Efficiency
For water-saving:
- Size – Opt for standard tubs around 50 gallons rather than extra-large spa tubs.
- Capacity – Low-capacity tubs use a fraction of the water of typical models.
- Accessories – Add a flow-restricting tub filler to reduce water volume.
- Air baths – Air baths bubble water for hydrotherapy without filling the whole tub.
Even small tubs allow a relaxing soak if designed ergonomically.
Popular Bathtub Brands and Models
Reputable bathtub manufacturers include:
Kohler
- Overview – Founded in 1873, Kohler is a leader in kitchen and bathroom fixtures. They offer a huge range of tub models.
- Pros – Excellent brand recognition, wide availability, solid warranties. Many 4+ star models on Home Depot.
- Example tub – Kohler Archer 5-foot Bath with Left Drain has clean lines and integral lumbar support. $730 at Home Depot.
American Standard
- Overview – Leading bath fixture brand since 1875, now part of LIXIL. High-quality tubs across styles.
- Pros – Wide selection, reliable performance, easy to clean.
- Example tub – American Standard 2461.012M202 Cadet Curved acrylic tub with lumbar support and pre-leveled bottom. $519 on Home Depot.
Woodbridge
- Overview – Manufactures its own freestanding tubs and whirlpools. Mid-range prices.
- Pros – Contemporary style, good variety of materials like acrylic, stone and porcelain.
- Example tub – Woodbridge 67″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub has double-walled construction. $699 on Wayfair.
Conclusion:
A bathtub is more than just a bathroom fixture; it is a symbol of relaxation and luxury. Whether you prefer a modern or classic design, the right bathtub can transform your space into a serene retreat. Choosing a high-quality bathtub ensures long-lasting durability and a comfortable bathing experience.
Investing in a well-designed bathtub enhances your bathroom’s appeal while providing a relaxing escape after a long day. With various styles and features available, you can find the perfect bathtub that suits your needs and complements your home decor.
