The 10 BEST Bathtubs in 2022: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

If you are planning to renovate your bathroom to include a bathtub, you might think that buying a tub is as simple as going into a home improvement store and picking one. However, depending on your family’s needs, your bathtub choice can make the difference between a truly comfortable bathroom experience, or a huge regret.

You want to choose the best, but bathtub reviews online can be daunting and confusing. It is why we came up with a straightforward, no-nonsense guide to the best bathtubs available on the market.

In this guide, we have provided you with the key features and the pros and cons of the top 10 bathtubs today. You can look at each one and decide which fits your family’s needs best. There’s no need to waste time scouring the internet for suggestions; in our review, you can find the highlight of each bathtub, such as their soaking depth, the material they are made of, the insulation offered, how easy it is to install, and why you should (or shouldn’t) consider them for this integral part of your home.

While we stand by all the bathtubs, we have mentioned here. If we have to choose one, we will recommend the American Standard Cadet Freestanding Tub. It offers all the best features a bathtub should have, including a clean and modern style that can enhance any bathroom décor.

It is made of light, but durable fiberglass-reinforced high-gloss acrylic has a soaking depth of over 14 ½ inches, is easy to install, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Reviewers raved about this tub and included some beautiful pictures of it in their bathrooms.

Everyone’s needs and preferences are different, though, so take time to read the summary of the 10 bathtubs we recommended. Look at their pros and cons, and see which one is best for your bathroom.

Best Bathtubs Review

Product NameLatest PriceMaterialType
WOODBRIDGE 67" Acrylic Freestanding BathtubCheck PriceAcrylicFreestanding
KINGSTON BRASS VTDE603122R 60" Contemporary Alcove BathtubCheck PriceAcrylicDrop-in
American Standard 2461.002.020 Cambridge 5-Feet Bath TubCheck PricePorcelain SteelRecessed
AKDY F210 Standing Acrylic BathtubCheck PriceAcrylicFreestanding
American Standard 2764014M202.011 Cadet Freestanding TubCheck PriceAcrylicFreestanding
Empava 67" Luxury Freestanding Acrylic Soaking SPA TubCheck PriceAcrylicFreestanding
FerdY 68'' Acrylic Stand Alone BathtubCheck PriceAcrylicFreestanding
Kohler K-837-0 Bellwether 60" by 30" Cast Iron BathCheck PriceCast IronRecessed
Sinkology TBT-6631CL Heisenberg Handmade Pure Freestanding Claw Foot TubCheck PriceCopperClawfoot
ALFI brand AB1105 63" Free Standing Cedar Wood Bath TubCheck PriceWoodFreestanding

1. WOODBRIDGE 67″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub

WOODBRIDGE 67" Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub

Modern, elegant and functional, WOODBRIDGE 67 is rated as one of the best free-floating acrylic tubs on Amazon. It holds 60 gallons of water and allows a soaking depth of 15 inches. It features a timeless brushed nickel integrated overflow and pushes the pop-up drain, which is pre-installed.

The tub’s hidden, adjustable legs ensure a stable install, even if your bathroom floor is slightly uneven. It comes with a full-year limited warranty from Woodbridge. Reviewers mentioned that the tub came well-packaged from the seller. Some users had trouble with slow drainage or leaking around the drainage hookups, which many were able to fix on their own with a different hose.

The WOODBRIDGE 67″ Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub is a great choice for both a complete bathroom remodel and the replacement of an existing tub because it fits perfectly into many pre-existing tub areas.

Pros

  • The material of the tub, fiberglass with an acrylic topcoat, is lightweight, non-porous, and easy to keep clean for busy bathrooms.
  • The freestanding design makes full-body immersion possible in a smaller space.
  • The double-walled insulation keeps water hotter longer.
  • The gentle slope of the tub makes a great spot for relaxation.

Cons

  • Some owners reported trouble with the drainage hose.
  • The tub filler must be purchased separately, adding to the cost of the tub.
  • The depth of this tub, while great for the average adult, may make bathing small children harder than in a shallower tub, and it may be difficult for someone with limited mobility to get into.
  • Acrylic can scratch under heavy scrubbing but is easily repaired.

If you’re looking for an affordable soaking tub that combines style and comfort, this would be a great choice. Many reviews of this product included pictures of the tubs in their new homes, which fit well into existing tub spaces but added a big upgrade to the overall look and feel of the bathroom.

With one of the higher depth measurements for soaking, it also uses less water than the average tub of its size, saving you money in the long run. It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Amazon out of a possible 5 stars.

2. KINGSTON BRASS VTDE603122R 60″ Contemporary Alcove Bathtub

KINGSTON BRASS VTDE603122R 60" Contemporary Alcove Bathtub

The Kingston Brass 60-inch Contemporary Alcove Acrylic Tub is an alcove tub—which means it can be converted into a shower and tub—and has an integral apron to make install and repairs easier. The acrylic can stand up to the normal wear-and-tear of life in a family home. It is also easy to clean.

This tub has a large capacity while fitting into the pre-existing tub space of most bathrooms. It can be ordered with either a left or right-handed drain, depending on the position of your drain hook-ups, and features two adjustable legs on the wall-side of the tub to easily level it upon install. This tub is reinforced with fiberglass and a resin material for maximum heat retention without the heavyweight of a cast iron tub.

This acrylic bathtub has a 63.5-gallon capacity and a soaking depth of 15 ½ inches. It comes with a 10-year limited warranty to ensure you’re completely happy with your new tub for a long time. Reviewers mentioned that the drain is elevated about three inches from the floor, which gives the tub a deeper appearance than it actually has, and can cause some extra work for installation, depending on your drain setup.

Pros

  • The construction of the tub with fiberglass and resin material allows heat retention without the weight of metal.
  • The integral apron and back adjustable feet make installation and repairs easier.
  • It has a great soaking depth without taking up much space in the bathroom.
  • At 94.8 lbs, it is easily moved and installed to the bathroom being renovated.
  • This tub comes with a 10-year limited warranty to ensure your satisfaction.
  • Reviewers mentioned that the tub came extremely well packaged from the seller.

Cons

  • The acrylic material of the tub can be scratched under heavy scrubbing but repaired easily.
  • Reviewers mentioned that the overflow spout was lower than needed, which could affect the soaking depth since the drain is already raised about 3 inches off the ground.

This tub, which has a 3.6 rating on Amazon out of a possible 5, is a good choice for individuals wanting to increase their tub experience without a complete redo of an already existing bathroom.

This tub will fit into the space left by many builder-grade, shallow tubs, and offer a luxurious soaking space that can also hold up to the frequent use of families. Reviewers have noted. However, that customer support, as well as the quality of the material of the tub itself, could be improved.

3. American Standard 2461.002.020 Cambridge 5-Feet Bath Tub

American Standard 2461.002.020 Cambridge 5-Feet Bath Tub

The American Standard Cambridge 5-feet Bath Tub features the patented Americast material. Fifty percent lighter than cast iron, it is a composite material comprising three layers and covered in scratch-resistant enamel. It comes in three colors—bone, linen, and white—and has a water capacity of 60 gallons with a soaking depth of 14 inches.

This ADA (American with Disabilities Act)-compliant tub features anti-slipping matting and angled lumbar support with a beveled headrest for maximum soaking comfort. On the construction site, it features an integral apron for easy access to the inner working of the tub for repairs and maintenance, and also an integral tile flange to make the tiling of the wall perfectly meet the edge of the tub, keeping the wall dry.

Pros

  • The enamel coating of this tub is extremely strong, scratch-resistant, and won’t stain, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.
  • This tub fits into the standard tub space, making it a good choice for those wanting to replace their cheaper tub without doing a complete remodel of the entire bathroom.
  • Installation of this tub against the wall is made easier by the integral tile flange.
  • It is an ADA-compliant tub.

Cons

  • For soaking depth vs. gallon capacity, it may not be the thriftiest choice. With 50 gallons of water and only a 14” soaking depth, it may be better suited as a guest or children’s tub than for the daily adult bather.
  • The color choices are limited compared to some other brands and materials.
  • It does not appear to have a warranty, and if it does, it’s not made clear on their site.

This highly-rated tub in Amazon (4.4 stars out of 5) is an upgrade from the typical tub in most homes. It would be a great choice for a guest bathroom, a children’s bathroom, or occasional soaking tub in the master bath. Its lightweight material makes it easy to transport and install.

4. AKDY F210 Standing Acrylic Bathtub

AKDY F210 Standing Acrylic Bathtub

The AKDY Freestanding Acrylic bathtub is a 67” tub with style and comfort for the clean, modern bathroom look. It holds 65 gallons with a soaking depth of 13 ½ inches. It is double-walled for warmth and insulation and has curved contours for a relaxing recline. Its adjustable feet allow for easy leveling on not-so-great bathroom floors. The acrylic is easy to clean and maintain, too, making it a great choice for a family tub.

There is a one-year warranty on parts from the company. Some reviewers reported problems with the drainage hosing that required more extensive plumbing help, while others mentioned that it was a smaller soaking space than they were expecting.

Pros

  • The freestanding style is easy to install.
  • The double-walled insulation offers increased soaking time.
  • The acrylic material is easy to clean and maintain.
  • Adjustable feet allow for install on uneven floor surfaces.
  • A one-year parts warranty is included by the builder.

Cons

  • While the tub holds a larger amount of water (65 gallons), the actual soaking depth isn’t very deep for a freestanding tub style.
  • Reviewers reported the soaking tub area was smaller than expected, with taller people not able to stretch out like in the typical 67” tub.
  • Reviewers also reported that the drainage hook-ups included leaked easily and had to be replaced.

Rated at an impressive 4.4 stars out of 5 on Amazon despite its limitations, this portable tub would be a welcome addition to any bathroom.

5. American Standard 2764014M202.011 Cadet Freestanding Tub

American Standard 2764014M202.011 Cadet Freestanding Tub

Another product made by a quality brand, this American Standard Cadet Freestanding tub combines style with functionality. It is a freestanding tub with faucet included; most freestanding styles require the purchase of the tub filler separately.

It has a clean, contemporary look that works in a variety of bathroom styles, with a 58-gallon capacity and a soaking depth of 14.625 inches; these are great specs for a low-profile freestanding tub. The material is fiberglass-reinforced high-gloss acrylic—which means it’s easy to clean and able to hold up under frequent use.

American Standard offers a limited lifetime warranty, which tells you how sure they are of the quality of their product. Reviewers raved about the tub, from its easy installation to its comfort.

Pros

  • The faucet is included in the purchase and easy to install, according to reviewers.
  • It has a great water capacity while still offering a comfortable soaking depth.
  • It has a large soaking area—enough for some couples!—while still fitting into tight spaces.
  • There is a limited lifetime warranty.
  • The fiberglass-reinforced acrylic is strong and easy to clean.

Cons

  • Reviewers stated that after contacting the company, they found out that the installation and use of the faucet with the tub voids the warranty because the filler faucet is not made by American Standard.
  • A few reviewers also stated that the tub had a sharp, rough “lip” on the outer edge that caused many of them to return the tub. However, there are just as many reviewers that say this isn’t a problem.

Due to the cons mentioned above, this great-looking bathtub only has a 3.9-star rating on Amazon. It hasn’t stopped other reviewers from raving over tub, though, even sharing photos of their great-looking bathrooms.

The tub is lightweight, made of long-lasting material, and offers a lot of bathing room in a small package. It looks like it’s an excellent choice for a small bathroom renovation, both in the master and kids’ bathroom!

6. Empava 67″ Luxury Freestanding Acrylic Soaking SPA Tub

Empava 67" Luxury Freestanding Acrylic Soaking SPA Tub

From Empava comes a freestanding, acrylic soaking tub for your modern, contemporary bathroom. With brushed nickel overflow and pop-up drain, this tub offers style and class and guaranteed to make any bathroom look great.

It holds a little over 58 gallons of water and has a soaking depth of 13 ½ inches. Its adjustable metal feet ensure a great install, even on an uneven floor. Reviewers noted that it lives up to its description of comfortably hosting 1-2 bathers at a time—a great choice for couples who want to enjoy a soak together with a more compact freestyle tub. It comes with a 1-year warranty, too.

However, there is no tub filler included, so that increases the total cost a little bit as it must be purchased separately. Some reviewers also had trouble with the drain leaking and getting in touch with the company.

Pros

  • This freestanding, soaking tub fits into a small space.
  • It can comfortably bathe 1-2 adults.
  • The adjustable metal feet help with a sturdy install.
  • The acrylic is easy to maintain and clean—great for a big household.

Cons

  • Reviewers stated they had some trouble with the drain leaking.
  • Some also mentioned that the company was hard to reach.
  • No tub filler is included, so the extra purchase is necessary.
  • It doesn’t offer as much soaking depth as other options.

According to the reviewers, this is a great tub for soaking and bathing. It was easy to install (although some may have some drain issues that need further work) and looks great. Others mentioned that it offered a large soaking capacity in their smaller bathrooms. It has a high rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 stars on Amazon.

7. FerdY 68” Acrylic Stand Alone Bathtub

FerdY 68'' Acrylic Stand Alone Bathtub

The last of the acrylic tub models, the FerdY freestanding soaking tub, is another choice for the modern bathroom look. Its curved design makes every bath experience comfortable and enjoyable, although some reviewers reported that its tapered shape makes it harder to stretch out than they expected.

This standalone bathtub is made of acrylic reinforced with fiberglass, so it is easy to clean and durable. It offers adjustable leveling feet to make installation easier and weighs a light 90 lbs. It holds 66 gallons of water with a 14.4-inch soaking depth and is double-walled for maximum insulation. This FerdY tub comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • The acrylic is easily cleaned and maintained, even in busy areas.
  • The double-walled reinforcement gives increased temperature insulation.
  • It is light and easy to install.
  • Reviewers claimed it worked well in their smaller bathrooms.
  • The purchase includes two different types of connectors, for whichever works best in your situation.
  • There is a 2-year warranty on this product.

Cons

  • Reviewers stated that the tapered look of the tub offered less soaking space than they initially anticipated.
  • Because of its lightweight, make sure it is secured to the floor.
  • The tub filler must be purchased separately, adding to the tub’s overall cost.

Its lightweight and deep soaking depth make this tub both easy to install and to relax to use. Buyers liked it, giving it an impressive rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 on Amazon. With this FerdY freestanding bathtub, a new (or even an old) bathroom will be given an instant facelift.

8. Kohler K-837-0 Bellwether 60″ by 30″ Cast Iron Bath

Kohler K-837-0 Bellwether 60" by 30" Cast Iron Bath

For homeowners wanting the ageless benefits of cast iron, Kohler offers the Bellwether 60-inch by the 30-inch rectangle tub. While the 310-lb weight of this tub (without water!) may require extra supports and consideration for your bathroom, its benefits are considered well worth it.

First, the enamel coating on the cast iron is durable and easily cleaned, great for frequent use. It comes in four modern color choices, too: White, Biscuit, Sandbar, and Almond. It has a 32.6-gallon water capacity with 9-inch water depth. It also features a 14-inch step-over height, which is great for people who are bathing their children over the edge of the tub or those with decreased mobility.

The tile flange of this Kohler tub keeps water from seeping behind the wall between the tile and tub, and the integral apron makes installation and repairs easy, all while hiding the bones of the tub from view. It has a slip-resistant floor to keep the users safe, plus a limited lifetime warranty. The very nature of cast iron ensures that the water temperature will stay nice and warm for a longer time of use!

Pros

  • Cast iron is a great investment for a tub and keeps the water temperature warm longer.
  • The height of the tub side makes it a great choice for families with young children or individuals with decreased mobility.
  • The enamel is easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

  • The weight of this tub (especially when it’s full of water) needs to be taken into consideration when deciding if it’s the right tub for your bathroom.
  • Reviewers have said that the tub arrived filthy from the seller—some were struggling to get it clean even after installation and use.
  • The water depth does not allow for adult soaking.

With the great construction and design plus time-tested material of cast iron, the Kohler K-837-0 Bellwether Cast Iron Bath offers a good investment for most homeowners, especially those with children or family members with decreased mobility.

While not the modern, deep beauties known as soaker tubs, this tub is more of a family workhorse, providing heavy-duty power with functionality. If weight is a concern for installation or transport, another material may be a better choice.

9. Sinkology TBT-6631CL Heisenberg Handmade Pure Freestanding Claw Foot Tub

Sinkology TBT-6631CL Heisenberg Handmade Pure Freestanding Claw Foot Tub

A tub for the eye, this Heisenberg Pure Solid Copper Claw Foot tub from Sinkology, is both stunning and functional. It is made by an expert craftsman and finished by hand, so each tub is as unique as the family it belongs to. It has a large soaking area, with 14-inch soaking depth and 48-gallon water capacity.

There is no overflow with his copper tub, which may be a plus for those who want to fill the tub as full as possible, but could be a drawback for those families with children or forgetful adults. It has a limited lifetime warranty from Sinkology.

With only three five-star reviews, it has a 100+ approval rating on Amazon—making it the best copper bathtub review on the site.

Pros

  • This piece will make any boring bathroom into a stunning one.
  • The material will not crack or chip.
  • The copper holds heat for longer soaking times.
  • It has a high soaking depth while not using as much water as other soaking tubs.
  • The tub is naturally antimicrobial, thanks to the copper, so cleaning only requires gentle dish soap and a soft sponge.
  • It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • The tub has no overflow, which could lead to flooding of the bathroom for forgetful and distracted owners.
  • The tub filler must be purchased separately, adding to the cost of the tub.

While a copper tub may not be for anyone, all can agree that it has both stunning and dramatic effect on the average bathroom. More consideration would need to be given to the design and décor of a bathroom, though, to show off this gorgeous tub fully.

10. ALFI brand AB1105 63″ Free Standing Cedar Wood Bath Tub

ALFI brand AB1105 63" Free Standing Cedar Wood Bath Tub

The ALFI Freestanding Cedar Wood bathtub is another statement piece made of a very different material. This rustic tub is constructed of cedarwood and reinforced by three electroplated iron wraps painted black and gold for durability and style.

Weighing 122 lbs, it isn’t heavier or bulkier than the average tub, but it definitely has a huge “wow” factor that you won’t find in the average acrylic bathtub. To ensure the wood is able to withstand the water usage of a bath, it is treated with a poly-type sealant to keep the wood protected from moisture.

There is no overflow for this tub, and it holds 113 gallons of water and has a 24-inch soaking depth. Clearly, this is the deepest tub on the list—almost 9 inches deeper than the second deepest one—so it would offer a truly luxurious soak. ALFI includes two removable wooden seats for a couple’s seated bathing.

There is no warranty on the tub, though, and reviewers have said it is prone to cracking and leaking, which must be repaired with a polyurethane sealant.

Pros

  • This cedar tub is a statement piece with a lot of showiness for the right type of bathroom.
  • The tub offers a very deep soaking depth of 24 inches.
  • It is light enough to be easily moved and installed in a bathroom.

Cons

  • There is no overflow, which could lead to flooding of the bathroom.
  • Because of its depth, it might not be the best choice for a family with young children who can’t swim, who may try to fill the tub as full as possible.
  • Reviewers noted it was prone to cracks and leaks, need to be repaired with sealant.
  • There is no warranty provided.

Like the copper tub, this tub isn’t for everyone. It would be great in a themed bathroom or rustic “lodge” type atmosphere. The flooding reality is something to be taken into consideration when assessing who will be using this tub.

It can also be challenging to clean than the typical tub, as regular cleaners would damage the wood. If you’re looking for this style, definitely check out this tub and its reviews to determine if it’s the one for you.

Best Bathtubs Buying Guide

Bathtub

Types of Tubs

Standard Bathtubs: These tubs come in the common sizes to fit in most bathrooms without many renovations. It may have a smaller, shallower bathing area than other tubs, which sometimes makes it great for families with kids, pets, or individuals with decreased mobility. They are typically constructed of heavy-duty cast iron or cheaper, and lighter, fiberglass.

Clawfoot Tubs: With a nod at times past, the clawfoot tub is a statement piece with historical significance. Popular during the Victorian era, these tubs typically look best in ornate, highly-stylized settings. These tubs are usually of durable cast iron, and their main pull is their aesthetic quality.

Freestanding Tubs: Popular in many renovations today, the freestanding tub is a cross between the more ornate clawfoot tub and the standard alcove tub. They typically include hidden metal feet for stabilizing on uneven bathroom floors. The tub faucet must be purchased separately for most freestanding tubs, and the position of the draining plumbing should be taken into consideration when shopping for one.

Soaking Tubs: For the serious bather, a soaking tub offers the ultimate in comfort and luxury. They usually feature sloped sides for reclining, a high depth to overflow (somewhere around 14-15 inches seems to be the norm, while the standard tub is usually below 10 inches), and a modern look to them that makes them popular for both fancies remodels and family tubs. They are usually longer than the standard tub—measuring around 6.5 feet long—and use a lot more water. They may not be great for kids, pets, or the elderly, as they are very deep, making getting into them and leaning over the side to bathe children difficult.

Whirlpool Tubs: These therapeutic tubs take all the advantages of the typical soaking tub, with the added benefit of jet streams of water, bubblers, LED lights for mood, and other features. While these are the epitome of luxury, many people are abandoning them because of fears of molding and sludgy water accumulating in the jets between uses. Many owners have had success using pool chemicals and specially-formulated cleaning packets on their jets, but for some people, it’s not worth it.

Walk-in Tubs: Walk-in tubs are usually deeper and not so wide and long, featuring a door for entering the tub, handlebars for help when sitting and standing, and various seats for sitting inside the tub. These tubs are great for individuals who may have chronic conditions that make stepping into the typical slippery tub a challenge.

Tub Materials

Fiberglass: This material is one of the least expensive on the market, but is well-loved for its lightweight, variety of colors, and easy installation. Fiberglass is prone to fading, scratching, and cracking—no surprise when you consider what fiberglass looks like when used in other items. When combined with another material, it can help to reinforce it, but fiberglass tubs are usually considered the cheaper end of tub quality.

Porcelain-Enameled Steel: These types of tubs tend to be considered a “mid-range” tub, with a lot of quality for less price. The porcelain is scratch-resistant and won’t stain, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas. It comes in more basic and limited colors but is much lighter than cast iron while still offering some of the insulation benefits that come from using metal. These durable and long-lasting tubs can be compromised by rust if the porcelain is chipped, but should hold up to the normal wear and tear of everyday life.

Enamel-Coated Cast Iron: Historically known as one of the best bathtub materials, cast iron is extremely sturdy and well-insulated, keeping the water hot for longer than most other materials. Because of its weight, great consideration should be given to the floor beneath its location, as a cast iron tub full of water may not be supported by the average floor. These tubs are easy to clean but can’t be scrubbed too harshly without damage to the enamel. They are usually available in a variety of colors and styles, and a great choice for serious bath lovers.

Acrylic: Less expensive than some of the metal tubs, acrylic is popular as an affordable upgrade from most of the builder-grade tubs placed in homes today. It can be molded into a variety of shapes, including the popular whirlpool tubs. Acrylic can break and be scratched from too much scrubbing, but it can be easily repaired, unlike other materials.

Composite: This material varies between manufacturers, so it’s best to look into each brand’s own material. It’s a catch-all term for a blend of materials that usually results in a lighter product that has a lot of the benefits of heavier substances like cast iron. American Standard has a composite known as Americast, which comprises three levels of different materials, resulting in tubs that are 50{4193c13e7d74d564244d6885f3dbc8975341f68b6a47422c5ac617b73ba3b2c7} lighter than their cast iron companions, with a lot of the same insulation benefits.

Cultured Stone: On the pricier but more dramatic side of materials, cultured stone is still less expensive than a tub carved from stone. It is composed of crushed stone. Usually, marble, combined with a resin to be molded into a smooth, seamless tub. It is usually chosen for its aesthetic appeal, and not for its durability. Cultured stone tubs can be difficult to repair, and can be easily cracked with the installation of things like tight-fitting faucets and spouts. Cracks are irreparable, which may not make it a great material for big families.

Wood: Another aesthetic material, wood can be on the pricier side of tubs, and often fit a very certain style of bathroom. They need to be sealed and treated correctly to keep from leaking or being ruined by cleaning. The type of water being used on them should also be taken into consideration, as some could promote deterioration quicker than normal.

Copper: Stunning and easy to maintain, a copper tub comes with a higher price tag but a lot of great features and benefits. Copper is antimicrobial, so cleaning requires no harsh chemicals. Copper can develop a beautiful and unique patina with age and holds heat very well. It is becoming more popular with the minimalistic, bohemian styles in home décors today, and could definitely be an easy-to-maintain addition for fun and style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. How much does a bathtub full of water weigh?

A. It depends on the material and size of the tub, but a safe guess is between 400-700 lbs. A gallon of water weighs 8.3 lbs. The typical cast iron tub, like the one reviewed in this article, holds 32.6 gallons of water and weighs about 580 lbs when full. A lighter bathtub material, like the American Standard Cadet Freestanding Tub made from acrylic, holds 58 gallons and weighs about 600 lbs when full.

Q. What is the standard size for a bathtub?

A. The standard tub sizes are 60×30 and 60×32. For soaking tubs, 60-67 inches seems to be the norm. Many companies are making soaking, freestanding tubs that can fit into the spaces left by the standard tubs, avoiding a major renovation of the bathroom.

Q. How much room do you need for a bathtub?

A. It depends on the type of tub. A freestanding tub will need enough room to fit lengthwise—usually about 60-67 feet. An alcove or standard tub will need to fit flush against the three walls, and those tubs usually measure at 60”x30” and 60”x32”. Besides the room, consideration should also be given to the location of the water and drainage plumbing when picking a tub.

Q. How do you clean a tub?

A. It depends on the material and the amount of use. Many owners prefer to use an antibacterial cleaning agent on their tubs. Many of these cleaners can be sprayed on, left to sit for as many minutes as stated on the bottle, and then wiped/rinsed clean. For tougher stains, powder-based cleaners can offer a little scrubbing power with the help of heavy-duty sponges.

This type of cleaning shouldn’t be done often, especially on materials like fiberglass, enamel, and acrylic. Natural cleaners made of vinegar and essential oils can be a good daily choice for cleaning, as they are gentler on the materials with a lot of the same cleaning and germ-killing properties of harsh chemicals.

Q. What is the best tub for children?

A. While soaking tubs are becoming more popular in master bathroom renovations, the depths and capacity of these tubs are not always conducive to bathing young children. Often, they lack anti-slip strips on the bottom of the tub, and it can be hard on the back of the adult to be standing and leaning into the tub to be able to reach the bottom.

Standard tubs are more conducive to bathing young children, as the adult can often sit by the side and reach into the tub. It also saves money on the water bill, as these tubs need less water to fill up. Another option is a mini tub—an adorable statement piece and fun way to add a tub for kids into a small space.

Q. How can I figure out which type of tub to buy for our bathroom?

A. The first thing to ask yourself is what space or plumbing constraints you have. If you’re doing a complete bathroom remodel, you can choose the layout around the type of tub you want to have. If you’re just replacing the current tub, you’ll need to measure your space, figure out where the drain and water plumbing is, and have someone assess the supports of the floor and what type of weight it can hold.

It’s also a good idea to consider what type of resell value the bathtub choice will add to the house. Families with lots of people using the tub will want to make sure they choose an easy to clean and durable material for their tub.

Q. Will I be able to update the finishes of the metal pieces?

A. Styles change—the brassy gold of the ’90s was soon replaced by chrome, which then became “oil-rubbed bronze”…and now the gold is coming back in. The good news is that most of the drains, overflow spouts, and faucets are removable and can be changed, and for those that can’t (sometimes the overflow spouts), there are great metal paint options available to make them match the rest of the fixtures.

Q. How long of a tub should I get?

A. If space is not an issue, many people find that the longer 67” tub allows for maximum soaking comfort that some 60” bathtubs don’t allow. It’s best to measure the bottom of the tub, as many of the sloping angles popular in today’s modern, reclining tubs can make the bottom area shorter than it appears.

Conclusion

As you can see, picking your next bathtub may not be as easy of a task as you first thought. With the wide number of choices available today, the best route is to check out the bathrooms and tubs of your friends, find one you like, then check those out yourself in home improvement stores. Once you have had a look at the bathtub, you like, shop around online for the best deals—and have it delivered right to your door!

While renovating a bathroom may be stressful, choosing one from a list of the best bathtubs on the market can be enjoyable, especially when you can imagine yourself soaking in it after a long hard day of work. Don’t skip the tub in your new bathroom renovation—discover the art of relaxation that humans have enjoyed for centuries, in the bathtub of your dreams.

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