The 8 Best Bathtubs for a Satisfying Soak

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Best Overall

Avalon NativeStone Freestanding Cement Bathtub

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Installation Type: Freestanding | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 62 in. x 36 in. x 21 in. | Shape: Oval | Material: Concrete composite

The Avalon NativeStone tub has a chic and sophisticated design that makes it one of the best bathtubs, but it’s also made of a proprietary sustainable material that combines jute and concrete. It weighs 40% less than traditional concrete, which saves money on shipping and stress on your floor. This tub comes in five natural colors that will beautifully showcase whatever faucet you choose.

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Best Budget

Grayley Alcove Soaking Bathtub

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Installation Type: Alcove | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 60 in. x 32 in. x  22 in. | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Acrylic

For an all-around, affordable, alcove-style winner, look no further than the Grayley Alcove Soaking Bathtub from the Wyndham Collection. It scores on its competitive price, its easy-to-clean acrylic material, the molded lumbar support and its simple installation. The built-in tile flange means you can easily choose your favorite tile to surround the tub for a custom finish.

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Best Drop-In Bathtub

Kohler Archer Drop-In Soaking Bathtub

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Installation Type: Drop-In | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 60 in. x 32 in. x 19 in. | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Acrylic

Drop-in tubs generally allow for a deeper soak with a lower step-over height and as they don’t have sides, they can be used in a variety of placements. If you have a more custom look in mind, consider a drop-in tub, such as Archer from Kohler. It consists of only the shell, offering the design flexibility you crave (however, if your subfloor is compromised, consider the final weight before committing). The Archer features Craftsman-style beveled edges and a textured non-slip bottom.

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Best Clawfoot

AKDY Clawfoot Soaking Bathtub

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Installation Type: Freestanding | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 68.9 in. x 27.9 in. x 30.3 in. | Shape: Oval | Material: Fiberglass

For a vintage-style bathroom or a historic home, a clawfoot tub is a must. This clawfoot bathtub makes for a charming soaking station, and the glossy black finish and chrome feet give it a modern twist. Keep in mind that cleaning a bathtub with feet is a little more difficult as dust and debris can gather underneath the tub. And if you have sloping floors, it might not be a practical choice.

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Best Bathtub-Shower Combo

Utile by Maax Marble Carrara Bathtub and Shower

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Installation Type: Bathtub & Shower Combo | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 32 in. x 60 in. x 81 in. | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Acrylic, Fiberglass

This marble-look bathtub and shower gives you the convenience of an all-in-one bathtub-shower combo with the look of tile. The fiberglass walls are molded with faux grout lines that are much easier to maintain than real grout. The acrylic tub features a non-slip bottom and discreet armrests for added comfort.

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Best Freestanding

Rebecca Soaking Bathtub

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Installation Type: Freestanding | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 60 in. x 32 in. x 23 in. | Shape: Oval | Material: Acrylic

The Rebecca freestanding tub makes a statement with its simple, elegant style. It’s sure to be the focal point of your bathroom. The acrylic finish feels warmer than enamel, and the gently reclining sides allow for mega relaxation. A side-mount faucet placement is prime for a statement fixture—and your toes will never brush that cold metal in your warm bath.

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Best Walk-In

Mansfield Restore ACR Walk-In Tub

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Installation Type: Walk-In | Bath Therapy Type: Soaking | Size: 51.5 in. x 30 in. x by 40 in. | Shape: Rectangular | Material: Acrylic

This walk-in tub takes top marks for the low step-in height, right or left drain location and acrylic material with fiberglass reinforcement. Despite being easy to climb into, it offers a substantial depth, making it an ideal spot to soak and relax the day’s worries away. There’s a spacious integrated seat with a sloped backrest for added comfort. As if it wasn’t already one of the best bathtubs, this walk-in has adjustable leveling legs to make installation as painless as possible.

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Best Whirlpool

Empava Freestanding Whirlpool Bathtub

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Installation Type: Freestanding | Bath Therapy Type: Whirlpool | Size: 71 in. x 33.8 in. x by 22 in. | Shape: Oval | Material: Acrylic

This is not the outdated jetted bathtub from years past! The Empava Whirlpool Bathtub has a sleek, freestanding design, with water jets discreetly located near the bottom of the tub. The hydro-massage system features seven jets to target aches and sore areas, and the tub’s 71-inch length leaves plenty of room to stretch out and relax. Unlike other bathtubs, the faucet includes a handheld shower head with three soothing spray settings.

What to Consider When Buying a Bathtub

Materials

Bathtub materials and weight go hand in hand. Concrete and cast iron are typically expensive and extremely heavy, but their durability makes them among the best bathtubs you can buy. Fiberglass is lighter and stronger (and requires less maintenance) but can be prone to scratches or warpages over time, according to Arnold Long, general operations manager at Mr. Blue Plumbing. “While higher-quality materials, like cast iron, natural stone and copper, are very popular and desirable, they tend to be too heavy for many homes,” he says. Here are some of the most common materials and how they compare:

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is made from several layers of reinforced plastic molded into the shape of a bathtub. It is affordable, so it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget, and it’s relatively easy to install. Remember that fiberglass is a porous material; it is more likely to absorb water and may crack over time. It can also be prone to warping; unlike other materials, it is not stain-resistant.
• Acrylic: Acrylic bathtubs are made by heating a combination of materials—including resins, fillers, stabilizers and petrochemicals—and then forming them into a bathtub. Acrylic is non-porous, so it does not absorb moisture and helps repel mold and mildew. The material also helps retain heat when you fill it with hot water. Acrylic is similar to fiberglass in that it is not resistant to cracking or scratching.
• Cast polymer: Cast polymer bathtubs—comprising cultured marble, onyx or granite—are known for their affordable price point. They are stain-resistant and easy to maintain. Like fiberglass, they are prone to cracking over time.
• Cast iron: Cast iron is a material often used in cookware, and if you’ve ever used cast iron cookware, you may already be familiar with how sturdy and heavy it is. Cast iron bathtubs are made by pouring molten iron into a mold and then covering it with a layer of enamel to give it a smooth finish. Cast iron is resistant to cracking and can be easily cleaned. Best of all, it can keep your bathwater warmer than other materials.
• Copper: Copper bathtubs are made from several sheets of solid copper hammered into the shape of a tub. They are very durable and resistant to chipping and scratches. One of the biggest benefits of a copper bathtub is that it is visually striking. Just remember that copper is almost as heavy as cast iron and can be very expensive.
• Stone: Stone bathtubs are often considered very luxurious and beautiful from a visual perspective. They are durable and excel at retaining heat to warm your bathwater. The material is non-porous, and stone bathtubs are very easy to clean. While they may be expensive, they will last a very long time.

Size and Depth

The available space determines a lot when it comes to purchasing a bathtub. “With a smaller-sized space, some people choose to have a dual shower/bathtub, while those with ample space have the luxury of choosing a freestanding style,” says Katie Simpson, interior designer at Mackenzie Collier Interiors in Phoenix. You’ll also need to consider the height of your potential tub’s walls, especially if you have little ones or someone with balance issues who may struggle to get in and out.

Installation Requirements

Before installing any new bathtub, the first thing to consider is the area of the right size to accommodate your tub. Make sure the space has the right length, width and depth, and be sure that the area is level and has the necessary drainage. You’ll also need to level the subfloor, as an uneven surface can cause water to pool. If you decide to install the tub yourself, adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid issues. If you are not experienced in installing bathtubs, you may want to consider hiring an experienced professional to install them for you.

Types of Bathtubs

Are you considering a traditional, rectangular alcove or freestanding tub, perhaps with a shower elsewhere? Do you want a corner tub or a deep soaker? Whatever you’re thinking of purchasing, remember that the shape can influence the room’s overall style. “Oval and round tubs tend to lean more modern,” Simpson says, “while rectangular tubs are more traditional.”

Alcove Bathtub

An alcove bathtub fits into a three-wall nook in your bathroom with only one exposed side. It is ideal for smaller bathrooms where the tub doesn’t take up too much space. Alcove bathtubs are great if you’re looking for a combination bathtub and shower, and they are usually very affordable compared to other styles. They are the easiest to install, so an alcove bathtub is a smart choice if you plan to do it yourself. The only downside to an alcove bathtub is that they are typically not as deep as soaker tubs, so if you are in the habit of taking long, luxurious baths, you may want to consider other options.

Drop-in Bathtub

A drop-in bathtub “drops in” to a pre-built deck, so it only lacks finished sides and consists of the shell. This is one of the best bathtubs for people who want a custom look that blends seamlessly with a bathroom’s design. A drop-in bathtub can usually be installed in an alcove, but they take up quite a bit more space and are often more expensive. Drop-in bathtubs can be crafted from various materials, including acrylic, fiberglass and cast iron. Drop-in bathtubs can be difficult to install yourself; you’ll want to hire an experienced professional, which can add a significant additional cost.

Freestanding Bathtub

Consider a freestanding tub to make a statement in your bathroom. They come in various styles, from vintage clawfoot to sleek and modern basins. A freestanding tub doesn’t connect to any walls and is usually paired with a freestanding floor-mounted faucet—but all of this means the setup will take up a lot of floor space. While freestanding bathtubs are beautiful and striking, they are usually far more expensive than standard options, like alcove or drop-in bathtubs. They also call for very specific, often exposed, plumbing. You’ll likely need to hire a professional to install a freestanding bathtub in your home.

Walk-in Bathtub

Often used by older adults or folks with disabilities, a walk-in bathtub is easier to enter through a watertight door, eliminating the need to step over the side. Often, walk-in tubs include additional accessibility and safety features, such as a seat and grab bars. They are sometimes less stylish than other models but lack visual appeal, which they make up for in safety and functionality. Walk-in bathtubs tend to be far more expensive than standard bathtubs, and they can be difficult to install, so it’s best to hire a professional.

Corner Bathtub

If you have the space, a corner bathtub is a large and luxurious option that can be triangular, rectangular or square-shaped. They’re perfect if you have an awkward bathroom layout. Keep in mind that because corner bathtubs are so wide, they can take quite a while to fill, but because most of them have jets and a whirlpool feature, it may be well worth the wait. Corner bathtubs can be expensive depending on your chosen material, though more budget-friendly materials include fiberglass and acrylic.

Garden Bathtub

Garden bathtubs are similar to soaker tubs and shower and bathtub combos but are usually wider, longer, and deeper. They are designed for full submersion and are widely regarded as an ultra-luxurious style. Because garden tubs are so large, they require a lot of space and are really only suited to huge bathrooms. They also tend to be pricier, so consider your budget if your heart is set on a garden bathtub.

Jetted Bathtub

A jetted bathtub blends everything you love about a hot tub with your standard bathtub fare. They’re perfect if you like a gentle massage instead of a long soak in the tub. Jetted bathtubs can be very relaxing and fall somewhere in the middle price-wise, but they can be high maintenance. Residue, mildew, and limescale can collect in jets, especially in regions with hard water.

Shower and Tub Combo

Consider a shower and tub combination if you want your bathroom to be as versatile as possible. A shower and tub combo uses less space than building a shower separate from your bathtub, making it ideal for smaller spaces or homes with only one full bathroom. Surprisingly, they aren’t necessarily any more expensive than standalone bathtubs. However, they may be more difficult to clean and harder to install. Also, remember that some shower and tub combos are not accessible for people with disabilities.

Undermount Bathtub

Like an under-mount kitchen sink, an under-mount bathtub must be installed beneath a rim. The floor supports the bathtub, and its surrounding deck is covered. Undermount bathtubs are similar to drop-in bathtubs in how they are installed, the main difference between them being that a drop-in bathtub is installed above the rim. Undermount tubs are tricky to get in and out of, making them less than ideal for anyone with mobility issues.

Japanese Soaking Bathtub

Japanese soaking tubs are ideal if you prefer to sit while you soak. They’re better for your posture than a traditional soaking tub, and they come in a wide range of sizes and materials. Depending on the materials, they vary quite a bit in price, so there are both affordable and costly options. Remember that they may not be as relaxing as more standard-shaped tubs.

Why You Should Trust Us

I, Erica Young, am passionate about home decor, organization, cleaning, landscaping, and DIY projects. I’ve been working and specializing in home trends—including home decor, organization, cleaning, landscaping and DIY projects—for years. I regularly contribute to Family Handyman, Taste of Home, POPSUGAR, The Belladonna, Your Tango, The Organized Mom, Reader’s Digest and Curbly. Furthermore, I’m a product testing veteran and a pro at scouring the internet to find the best products, including this list of the best bathtubs.

I consulted two interior design and plumbing experts, Kate Simpson and Arnold Long, to bolster my expertise. Kate Simpson is an interior designer at Mackenzie Collier Interiors, a firm specializing in residential and commercial interior design. Simpson’s work includes private homes, multi-family buildings, office spaces, restaurants, retail establishments and wellness facilities. Arnold Long is the general operations manager at Mr. Blue Plumbing, a plumbing company that services various areas across California.

How We Found the Best Bathtubs

To compile this guide to the best bathtubs, we considered a broad assortment of models, paying close attention to size, shape and material. We looked for models that offer the ideal blend of aesthetic beauty and functionality while keeping the price in mind. While concrete and cast iron are among the most durable, they are also the heaviest and most expensive, making them too heavy for most homes. We considered fiberglass options in several shapes and sizes because they are the best models for most homes.

FAQs

What is the most durable material for a bathtub?

Cast iron is the most durable bathtub material, copper is the closest second, and stone comes third, but these three might not be the best choice for everyone. Made with iron ore and coated with enamel, cast iron is resistant to scratching, chipping, denting and staining. However, that makes it both extremely heavy and expensive. Copper and stone tubs are similarly heavy and expensive, though not always at the same level as cast iron. While not as durable as cast iron, copper or stone, acrylic makes for an extremely durable material that’s a lot lighter. However, it’s also more prone to chipping.

As is the case with most things, your choice of material will be a balance between several factors. Metal or stone tubs last longer than others and are less likely to chip or crack, but the tradeoff is the investment and weight. Settle for something cheaper, however, and you run a greater risk of damage.

How much does it cost to install a bathtub?

To install a new freestanding, drop-in or alcove bathtub, you can expect to spend about $500 to $2,000 or more, plus labor. This doesn’t include walk-in bathtubs, which usually require more labor and custom design. This will also be affected by the installation location, the amount of work it will take (like swapping out an existing tub and potentially having to do a small remodel to suit the new tub) and more. Remember: you can always ask for a quote before settling on installation.

Can I install a bathtub myself?

You can install a bathtub yourself, but it’s not for beginners. You should have some experience with plumbing (P-traps and faucets) and basic carpentry skills. If you replace the shower valve and have copper supply lines, you’ll also need to know how to solder. We wouldn’t recommend it if you’re not certain you can do the job yourself. Plumbing work has many caveats and potential risks, including a homeowner’s worst nightmare: flooding damage.