The Best Freestanding Bathtub

What is the best freestanding bathtub?

In the past, freestanding bathtubs were the only type of bathtub you could own. Due to their affordability and ease of installation, built-in tubs have become increasingly popular over the years. Modern freestanding bathtubs represent luxury or, in some cases, an expensive necessity.

The best freestanding tub is the TubToday Acrylic Freestanding Soaking Tub. You can choose from six sizes and 10 designs, so there is always an option that fits your home perfectly.

Learn what you need to know before purchasing a freestanding bathtub

Freestanding bathtub designs are divided into shapes and elements.

Some of the most popular elements are feet, raised or rounded ends, and doors. Colored tubs are rare and are usually determined by the material.

The most common shapes are ovals and rectangles, though there are also round and square options. There are also specialty shapes, such as hearts.

Due to the variety of shapes and design elements, it is difficult to generalize size. It’s best to measure yourself from a seated position and find a freestanding bathtub that fits comfortably.

You should measure the distance from your toe tips to your back to find the length, the distance from shoulder to shoulder to find the width, and the distance from the floor to just below your shoulders to find the depth. While it’s perfectly fine, and even encouraged, to choose a tub that’s a bit longer and wider than necessary, its depth should be as close as possible.

How to choose a quality freestanding bathtub

Acrylic is the most popular material, but cast iron, stone, and copper are also common.

Acrylic is a lightweight, affordable and durable material. Some acrylic tubs are reinforced with resin or fiberglass. Some tubs are insulated to keep their heat.

Cast iron is durable and retains heat well. But it’s too heavy and too expensive to put anywhere but the ground floor. Stone is similar to cast iron in most aspects other than appearance. A copper tub has the durability and heat retention of cast iron and a unique property of developing its own patina over time. If properly maintained, this patina greatly increases the value of the tub, not to mention that each patina is unique.

Considering the importance of overflow protection in bathtubs, it is surprising how few freestanding models include it. It is important that you look for a tub with overflow protection and that you like the design of it.

What is the average cost?

Freestanding bathtubs typically cost around $600 but can easily exceed $2,000. If you spend less than $1,000, you can find acrylic tubs large enough for two people and possibly with a feature or two. As the price increases, so does the size.

What is the best way to care for my freestanding bathtub?

Cleaning a freestanding bathtub is no different from cleaning most bathroom surfaces. Every month, give the interior and exterior of your bathtub a good scrub with your chosen cleaner, which is suitable for its material.

If you prefer not to use chemicals, you can also clean your bathtub with a mixture of vinegar and warm water.

Spray the solution on the surface of the tub and let it sit for 15 minutes.

Use a cloth or sponge to clean the tub.
Rinse everything and wipe it again with a clean cloth.

Is it possible to install one myself?

Depending on the type of freestanding bathtub you buy, it may not be feasible. If you try to install one yourself, there are a lot of steps and factors to consider, including getting the tub into your bathroom, connecting it to your plumbing or installing new plumbing and connecting your faucet. Be sure your prospective tub comes with detailed installation instructions and all the necessary hardware if you plan to install it without professional assistance.

A great alternative to installing a freestanding bathtub yourself is to have TubToday’s expert bathroom remodelers install one for you. Take a look at our large selection of freestanding bathtubs, or fill out our online form to get started.