Whether you’re performing a complete bathroom renovation or you’re just in the market for a new tub, buying and installing a new bathtub is a major project for your home.
However, not all bathtubs are the same. Finding the best tub for your needs can depend on several different factors, such as your bathroom setup, design preferences, budget, how tall you are, and more. Tubs can vary significantly in price depending on the type. Smaller portable or alcove tubs can sometimes cost as little as $500–$600, while more high-end tubs can exceed $1,000 or even $1,500. You’ll also need to add in extra cost for installation, unless you plan to DIY it.
To help you narrow down your choices and find the best bathtub for you, we researched the best bathtub models available. Overall, our top choice is the FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub, which is a freestanding tub that comes in a variety of finish options and has a 15-inch soaking depth. Read our guide below for more of our top picks.
Top 6 Bathtubs
- FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub: Best Bathtub Overall
- Kingston Brass Alcove Bathtub: Best Alcove Bathtub
- American Standard Apron Bathtub: Best Standard Bathtub
- WOODBRIDGE Freestanding Bathtub: Best Freestanding Bathtub
- Empava Freestanding Walk-In Bathtub: Best Walk-In Bathtub
- KOHLER K-20201 Alcove Bath: Best Design
Compare Top Bathtubs
| Product | Water Capacity | Design Type | Warranty | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FerdY Acrylic Freestanding BathtubCheck Price | 52 gallons | Freestanding | 6-year (structural and surface) | 91 pounds | 55.1 x 28 x 22.8 inches |
Kingston Brass Alcove BathtubCheck Price | 58 gallons | Alcove | Lifetime | 95 pounds | 60 x 30.7 x 22.1 inches |
American Standard Apron BathtubCheck Price | 48 gallons | Alcove | Lifetime | 96 pounds | 60 x 30 x 19 inches |
WOODBRIDGE Freestanding BathtubCheck Price | 55 gallons | Freestanding | 1-year | 114 pounds | 59 x 32 x 23 inches |
Empava Freestanding Walk-In BathtubCheck Price | 94 gallons | Walk-in | 3-year | 160 pounds | 52.5 x 26.5 x 40 inches |
KOHLER K-20201 Alcove BathCheck Price | 68 gallons | Alcove | 1-year | 128 pounds | 60 x 30 x 19 inches |
Best Bathtub Overall
FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub
Good for: Homeowners looking for a for a freestanding tub with a durable design.
Our team liked that this freestanding tub has a high-gloss white surface with a drain finish of your choice. It measures 55 inches across with a 15-inch soaking depth that holds up to 52 gallons of water or 1,750 pounds of weight, making it a high-capacity, heavy-duty tub.
Pros and Cons of FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub
- Made from acrylic that’s reinforced with fiberglass for long-lasting durability
- Has a high load capacity of 1,750 pounds
- Comes with a drain that you can purchase in different finishes
- May be difficult for people with limited mobility to climb into
- Has a six-year surface warranty that doesn’t cover scratches
What People Are Saying About The FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub
We noticed that those who were happy with this soaking tub said that it was comfortable to sit in and made from sturdy materials. They also mentioned its stylish, modern design. However, unhappy customers found installation to be a challenge, and others said it was hard to get in and out of.
Best Alcove Bathtub
Kingston Brass Alcove Bathtub
Good for: Customers seeing a wide-angled alcove tub with left- and right-handed drains.
This tub fits in a three-wall alcove that measures 60 inches long and 30 inches wide. Depending on the layout of your alcove, we like that you can choose between a left- or right-handed drain. It’s also made from durable acrylic that’s reinforced with fiberglass and resin.
Pros and Cons of Kingston Brass Alcove Bathtub
- Has a tile flange and apron
- Can choose a left- or right-facing drain
- Is big enough for most people to stretch their legs out
- Doesn’t include a drain kit
- Fits only in a 60-by-30-inch cutout
What People Are Saying About The Kingston Brass Alcove Bathtub
We found that customers were pleased with how easy to install and comfortable to use this affordable tub was. However, we also noted some users felt that the manufacturer sacrificed durability for this affordability, as the tub didn’t last for them, while others noted a design flaw that caused water to drain unexpectedly.
Best Standard Bathtub
American Standard Apron Bathtub
Good for: Homeowners looking for an alcove tub that’s lower to the ground.
Like most alcove tubs, this one measures 60 inches across and 30 inches wide. However, we appreciated that it’s slightly lower to the ground at 18 inches deep to accommodate those with limited mobility. The side opposite the drain also features a contoured backrest for comfortable soaking sessions.
Pros and Cons of American Standard Apron Bathtub
- Features contoured lumbar support
- Compatible with universal and deep-soak drains
- Has a pre-leveled bottom for easier DIY installation
- Doesn’t have a left drain option
- Not the best for soaking because it’s only 18 inches deep
What People Are Saying About The American Standard Apron Bathtub
Overall, we found that customers thought that this alcove bathtub was durable, specifically noting its scratch-resistant finish. Our research also showed displeased customers did struggle to get water to drain from it properly, though.
Best Freestanding Bathtub
WOODBRIDGE Freestanding Bathtub
Good for: Homeowners seeking a stylish, durable tub that’s big enough for two-person soaking.
Spaciously built for two-person soaking, this freestanding tub is 59 inches long and 23 inches deep to hold 55 gallons of water. We like that this tub uses EnduraClean technology to keep its surface is stain- and scratch-resistant for longevity and cleaning purposes.
Pros and Cons of WOODBRIDGE Freestanding Bathtub
- Offers one- or two-person bathing
- Uses a double-walled design to keep the water at your desired temperature
- Comes with matching drain and overflow hardware
- Comes with a short 1-year warranty
- May not fit in small bathrooms
What People Are Saying About The WOODBRIDGE Freestanding Bathtub
Our research showed that customers found this tub to be both easy to install and drain. They also appreciated how helpful and responsive the manufacturer’s customer service team was. However, we also found that some customers received the incorrect finish. Some shorter reviewers found it difficult to climb out of.
Best Walk-In Bathtub
Empava Freestanding Walk-In Bathtub
Good for: Homeowners seeking a walk-in tub that’s good for those with limited mobility.
Designed for easy and safe access, we like that this walk-in tub is helpful for those with limited mobility. You can use its three handles and door to walk in and its seat and pillow to sit comfortably. Once you’re ready to bathe, you can latch the door to keep water inside.
Pros and Cons of Empava Freestanding Walk-In Bathtub
- Can latch the door once you’re inside
- Has a textured floor to prevent slipping
- Can hold up to 94 gallons of water
- Has extra features that bring up its price
- Weighs 160 pounds without water in it
What People Are Saying About The Empava Freestanding Walk-In Bathtub
Customers who left positive reviews of this model said that it was sturdy and easy to install. They also found it to be the perfect solution for those with limited mobility. However, we did note that some customers who left negative reviews said it was prone to leaks.
Best Design
KOHLER K-20201 Alcove Bath
Good for: Homeowners looking for a well-designed tub that can fit into any bathroom setup.
This 60-by-30-inch alcove tub can easily fit into any bathroom space. It includes molded lumbar support that makes bathing more comfortable, and it also includes a slotted overflow for deep soaking. This tub also has an ADA-compliant 19-inch stepover height that makes it easy to get in and out of.
Pros and Cons of KOHLER K-20201 Alcove Bath
- Has a generous 68-gallon capacity for deep soaking
- Features a contemporary design that fits into any bathroom
- Has a slip-resistant bottom
- Some parts need to be purchased separately
- Is heavy at 128 pounds
What People Are Saying About The KOHLER K-20201 Alcove Bath
We found that customers who gave this bathtub a positive review liked that it had a stylish design and that it was easy to get in and out of. Others appreciated how deep it was, making it good for soaking. However, some customers felt this tub scratched too easily, and others said the acrylic coating was too thin, leading to chipping.
Bathtub Buying Guide
Before purchasing a new bathtub, several important factors must be considered to ensure that it is a good fit for your specific situation. When researching tubs, start off by considering what type of tub (alcove, drop-in, freestanding, walk-in, or portable). Then, consider the size and capacity of the tub to ensure it fits your needs.
From there, you can further narrow down your options by looking at the weight, drain location, finish, design, and materials. Read our buying guide below for more information on finding the best bathtub for your home.
What are the different types of bathtubs?
The right type of bathtub ensures comfort, durability, functionality, and compatibility with your existing bathroom space. Bathtubs fall into the following categories.
- Alcove: Alcove bathtubs fit into an existing space in your bathroom and are enclosed on three sides. They usually have a rectangular shape.
- Drop-In: Drop-in tubs are similar to alcove tubs in that they have a rectangular shape. However, they’re only enclosed on one or two sides instead of three.
- Freestanding: Freestanding bathtubs are open on all sides, and they usually have an oval shape. These tubs are often deep, making them ideal for soaking. Freestanding models with four legs to elevate the tub are known as clawfoot tubs.
- Portable: Portable tubs can be brought with you on the go and are a good fit for small apartments and trailers. They can inflate and deflate or be collapsed in minutes and then stored away when not in use.
- Walk-In: This type of tub has an opening for walking in instead of stepping over the edge. They often have a built-in seat and a rectangular or square shape.
How do you measure bathtub capacity?
Capacity refers to the amount of water, in gallons, a bathtub can hold before it overflows or begins to drain. Choose a bathtub with a higher capacity to cover your entire body with water.
How important is drain location?
Install your bathtub over an existing drain in your bathroom, as this allows the water to drain without pooling. To do that, make sure that you choose a bathtub with a drain on the same side as your floor drain. Manufacturers usually list if the drain is on the left or right side of the tub.
What material are bathtubs made from?
Choose a bathtub material that matches the aesthetics of your bathroom design and doesn’t exceed your floor’s weight limit. While acrylic bathtubs are typically the most affordable, other common materials include:
- Cast iron
- Ceramic
- Copper
- Enameled steel
- Fiberglass
- Porcelain
- Resin
What is the standard size of a bathtub?
Choose a tub that fits in the available space in your bathroom. Standard bathtubs are around 60 inches long and 30 inches wide and generally fit into small spaces. Extended bathtub sizes are suitable for taller users and measure up to 70 inches long.
How much do bathtubs typically weigh?
Bathtubs can range from lightweight plastic models to heavy metal and ceramic models. Add the weight of water to that, and a full tub can weigh anywhere from several hundred to a thousand pounds. Make sure that your bathroom floor can handle the weight of the tub you select. Otherwise, your floor could crack or sag.
Bathtub Cleaning Tips
Regular maintenance and upkeep on your tub are important to ensure you’re keeping it in peak condition. Every once in a while, you will also want to give your tub a good deep cleaning. We created the following guide for cleaning your tub that will help you keep it looking like new.
- Gather Supplies: Before you start cleaning, it’s important to gather the necessary supplies. The items you will need to clean your tub properly are a mild bathroom cleaner, a scrub brush or sponge, a non-abrasive cleaning cloth, baking soda, vinegar, rubber gloves, and a spray bottle.
- Remove Items and Debris: Clear the bathtub of any personal items, such as soap dishes, toys, or removable mats. Remove any visible debris or hair from the bathtub surface.
- Pre-Treat Stains: If you have any stubborn stains or soap scum buildup, pre-treat them before cleaning to ensure they will get removed. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water and applying it to the stains. Allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes to loosen the stain.
- Apply the Cleaner Properly: When applying a spray cleaner to your tub, spray it evenly across the entire surface of the tub and ensure that you cover the walls, corners, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Address Grout and Tile: If your bathtub has tile or grout, clean these areas separately. Use a grout brush or an old toothbrush and a mild tile or grout cleaner to scrub the grout lines in your tub. Rinse with water afterward to remove any leftover residue.
- Rinse the Bathtub After Cleaning: After scrubbing, rinse the entire bathtub with warm water. Ensure that all cleaning residue and cleaner are thoroughly washed away. Use a removable showerhead or a bucket to rinse the walls and corners.
- Dry and Polish: Use a non-abrasive cleaning cloth to dry the bathtub and remove any remaining moisture. This helps prevent water spots and streaks, leaving your tub looking clean and shiny.
Bathtub FAQs
Is an acrylic or a porcelain bathtub better?
Acrylic bathtubs are better than porcelain bathtubs because they’re less expensive, easier to install, and weigh less. Additionally, acrylic bathtubs are more resistant to mildew compared to porcelain bathtubs. However, porcelain tubs are more durable, easier to clean, and typically last longer.
Can I install my bathtub by myself?
DIY enthusiasts can install new bathtubs themselves as long as they follow proper procedures, such as wearing work gloves and shutting off the water. However, because bathtubs are heavy and bulky, we recommend enlisting the help of at least one other person to avoid injury when you’re lifting and placing it. If you’re not confident installing it yourself, the cost of installing a bathtub can be anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the surrounding material and type of bathtub you’re installing.
How often should I clean my bathtub?
Cleaning your bathtub once per week or so to prevent the buildup of grime is recommended.
What do I do if my bathtub develops a crack?
If you see a large crack in your bathtub, it’s probably time to start looking for a new one because cracks can lead to leaking and pooling on the floor. However, if there’s only a small crack or a few chips, you have some other options. You can fix the cracks in a bathtub yourself by refinishing it with a polyurethane coating or gluing a vinyl or acrylic liner to its interior.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best tub recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of tubs with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.