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The Best Bathtubs

Last updated on June 1, 2023

We looked at the top 11 Bathtubs and dug through the reviews from 31 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Bathtubs.

Our Review Process

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You may be able to get clean more efficiently in a shower, but when it comes time to relax, most everyone prefers a good soak. There’s no substitute for a tub when it comes to keeping your kids or pets clean, and they can even be configured to allow elderly or disabled bathers to get in and out safely. All in all, you simply can’t call it a bathroom without a bathtub.

While using a tub is almost always relaxing, choosing and installing one can be pretty stressful. To mitigate this, you’ll want to do a little planning before even picking out a style. First of all, measure the space you want your bathtub to go in. Most of the time, this will determine the type of tub you can have. The standard bathtub size is 60 by 30 inches long, but there are quite a few variations if you have room to spare.

It’s also very important to note the location of the drain. Almost every tub will be configured to accommodate a left or right-handed drain connection. Finding out which one you have is as simple as looking at your shower area from the side you would normally enter. Is the drain to your left or right? Make a note and buy your tub accordingly.

Now for the fun part: Choosing what kind of tub suits your style and needs. There are many different bathtub configurations, but the most common modern style is a recessed or alcove tub that sits flush against a corner, or partially walled off on three sides. There’s usually a lot of extra installation involved with this kind of tub since it has to be sealed along the edges, but it tends to be the most sturdy, and the integrated look will work with most any kind of decor.

Freestanding tubs have made something of a comeback lately, however. As the name implies, these bathtubs sit apart from the walls or cabinetry. They can come in a variety of shapes from sleek, sloping bowls to traditional oval tubs supported by four “clawfoot” legs. Installation for these tubs are usually easier, and they can be a space-saver in the right bathroom.

Whatever design you choose, the material is something you don’t want to skimp on if you plan on staying in the house long-term. The least expensive tubs will likely be made out of unfinished fiberglass, which is somewhat porous over time and prone to chipping.

If you’re going to go with any type of plastic, you’re usually better off with acrylic. Acrylic bathtubs are quite common since the material is relatively inexpensive but still durable. Solid acrylic can weather dents or other mishaps very well, and it’s just as light as fiberglass.

Some old school tubs (typically the freestanding type) are made of cast iron coated in porcelain, and you can expect these to last a lifetime. As long as you don’t drop any heavy solid objects on it, the surface will stay glossy and easy to clean. On the other hand, these tubs can be quite heavy — so much so that you may want to check the weight capacity on your flooring if you’re buying for an upstairs bathroom.

Once you settle on a material, you’ll want to look at features that complement the way you bathe. Do you like to like to use the tub for extended relaxation? You may want to spend a little extra on whirlpool jets or a more subtle air jet system that keeps the water nice and bubbly. Do you or other household members have a physical condition? Consider a walk-in tub with a door on the side for easy entry.

Our Picks For The Top Bathtubs

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Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Top Pick

KINGSTON BRASS VTDE603122L Left-Hand Drain Alcove Acrylic Bathtub, 60-Inch

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KINGSTON BRASS

VTDE603122L Left-Hand Drain Alcove Acrylic Bathtub, 60-Inch

This tub is designed for comfort but doesn't sacrifice anything in the way of looks. The fiberglass core is coated with acrylic that can stand up to scratches or dents. The bottom incorporates a flange and other features that make it easy to install.

Overall Take

Durable Yet ElegantThis minimalist bathtub is both comfortable and sturdy.

Pros
" A no-frills model that offers easy installation due to its simplistic construction. It has a left-handed drain with nearly a 14-inch depth, and it is manufactured using acrylic reinforced with fiberglass and resin."
Cons
"Overflow and drain sold separately"
 Runner Up

Empava EMPV-JTX011 Hydrotherapy Fiberglass Bathtub, 48-Inch

Empava

Hydrotherapy Fiberglass Bathtub, 48-Inch

While this bathtub is wide enough for only one, it's deep enough that the experience will feel luxurious. Air jets give bathtime a hot-tub feel, and cleanup is relatively easy. There is even a convenient showerhead that thorough bathers will love.

Overall Take

Deep, Solo SoakingBathe in comfort with this cozy model.

Pros
" Easy cleaning and installation advantage"
Cons
"Room enough for only one person"
 Strong Contender

WOODBRIDGE B-0006 Non-Slip Freestanding Soaking Bathtub, 54-Inch

WOODBRIDGE

Non-Slip Freestanding Soaking Bathtub, 54-Inch

This tub is the perfect way to maximize tight space in the bathroom. It's lightweight, but the resin construction means that water will get hot faster and stay that way. The high-backed design allows bathers to sit back and relax.

Overall Take

Warm, Compact DesignStay steamy with this tub's heat-retention properties.

Pros
" The double wall also means that it will keep water warm for longer. So if you like a leisurely bath, this is a good option."
Cons
"It's not great for larger remodels with space for larger tubs"
 We Also Like

ELDERFLOWER & BERRIES Travel Space Saving Bathtub, 56-Inch

ELDERFLOWER & BERRIES

Travel Space Saving Bathtub, 56-Inch

The portable design of this bathtub means you can use it virtually anywhere. It's made from a plastic/rubber combo that is lightweight and easy to clean. Set it up in a bathroom that only features a shower when you want a soak or take it camping to clean off after a day of fishing or hiking.

Overall Take

Economical PickThis affordable deep soaker bathtub won't break your renovation budget.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
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Products Considered

We identified the majority of the bathtubs available to purchase.
11

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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31

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: Chatter Source, All About Toilets, Allprorev, Best Selected Products, Consumer Today's.

2,119

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 11 Bathtubs and also dug through the reviews from 31 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Bathtubs.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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The Best Bang For Your Buck

ELDERFLOWER & BERRIES Travel Space Saving Bathtub, 56-Inch

User Summarized Score

8.8
129 user reviews

Our Take

The portable design of this bathtub means you can use it virtually anywhere. It's made from a plastic/rubber combo that is lightweight and easy to clean. Set it up in a bathroom that only features a shower when you want a soak or take it camping to clean off after a day of fishing or hiking.

What to Look For

If you’re going to splurge on an indoor hot tub or soaking tub built for two, congratulations! There’s nothing like a little extra legroom and hot water to alleviate stress. Just make sure that your house can actually keep that water hot. Most water heaters can handle the 30-40 gallons that it takes to fill a standard-sized tub, but a walk-in tub might hold 80 or more. Make sure you check your water heater’s capacity or consider buying a separate heating unit.

More to Explore

The job of United States president is a stressful one, so it’s no surprise that many past office holders went to great lengths to make sure they got their relaxing bath time. Franklin Roosevelt had a bathtub installed just for him on the USS Iowa when he sailed to the Middle East in 1943. William Howard Taft actually brought his own specially made tub on board the battleship Arkansas when he had to sail from Key West to Colon, although he didn’t have many other options: The notoriously hefty Taft was known to overflow regular tubs when he tried to have a soak.

More to explore