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7 Best Portable Bathtubs of 2024

Updated
No bath, no problem. Get a portable bathtub instead.

You might be surprised how useful a portable bathtub actually is. If you are in the middle of a bathroom remodel, a portable bathtub is a life-saver because it allows you to stay clean, even when your shower has been ripped out.

We rate the 7 best portable bathtubs for performance, cost, portability, and overall quality.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the W WEYLAN TEC Foldable Bathtub for Toddlers
Best for Toddlers
W WEYLAN TEC Foldable Bathtub for Toddlers
  • Suitable for toddlers, twins, and petite adults
  • Folds almost entirely flat, easier to store and transport
  • Durable PP and TPE material are BPA-free, ideal for children
Product Image of the G Ganen Unisex Foldable 3-Layer PVC Spa Bathtub
Best Foldable
G Ganen Unisex Foldable 3-Layer PVC Spa Bathtub
  • Super-lightweight design (weighs just 6.29 lbs)
  • 30'' deep, immerse your entire body
  • 3-layers of materials, including 2 PVC and a mesh foam layer
Product Image of the LUCKUP Portable Freestanding Bathtub
Best for Adults
LUCKUP Portable Freestanding Bathtub
  • One of the lightest bathtubs on the market(4.69 lbs)
  • 3 layers of material, including insulating flocking and waterproof PVC
  • Holds over 26 gal of water, ideal for adult use
Product Image of the CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bathtub
Best Inflatable
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bathtub
  • Made from eco-friendly PVC, is non-toxic, won’t pose any threat to the family
  • Lightweight and easy to store and transport
  • 110V electric pump, which inflates the bath in 3 minutes flat
Product Image of the PPBathtub XL Inflatable Bathtub
Best for Couples
PPBathtub XL Inflatable Bathtub
  • Fits 2 adults with ease
  • Doubles up as a kid’s summer pool on hot days
  • Electric pump to make inflating it easier
Product Image of the MESINURS Medical Inflatable Bathtub
Best for Elderly
MESINURS Medical Inflatable Bathtub
  • Fits under existing mattresses, lying entirely flat
  • Inflate it with a foot pump and it fills via a bag attached to an IV pole, the bed frame or another mount
  • Wash and shower in the comfort of your room
Product Image of the KELIXU Foldable Portable Bathtub
Best for Camping
KELIXU Foldable Portable Bathtub
  • Folds down for easy storage and portability
  • 4 layers of material for increased insulation and durability
  • Strong support poles and a detachable drain valve

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we draw on our hands-on experience and professional expertise to evaluate the best portable bathtubs from a user’s perspective. We conduct thorough research and use stringent criteria to measure and rank each product’s performance. Through our analysis, we compare design choices, assess functionality, and track user experiences to identify key decision-making factors such as portability, durability, comfort, and ease of installation. Our reviews are based on factual data and evidence, providing a clear benchmark for you to make an informed decision. With our findings, you can trust that our recommendations are backed by rigorous testing and assessment.



The Best Portable Bathtubs of 2024

We chose the 7 top-performing bathtubs for usability, price, construction, and quality.

W WEYLAN TEC Foldable Bathtub for Toddlers

Best Portable Bathtub for Toddlers

If you want a foldable bathtub that is suitable for toddlers, twins and even petite adults, this model hits the mark. It is constructed from polypropylene and TPS, so it is durable and foldable and yet is BPA-free.

You also get superior heat insulation to keep the water hotter for longer and a non-slip rib to stop falls in the bathtub. The material has been tested to be used up to 15,000 times before you experience any defects. That’s a lot of bathing.

This tub folds almost flat, so you can pack it in the car and take it with you for family holidays or overnight stops. It only weighs 14.55 pounds when folded and empty, so it is lightweight too. And thanks to the slimline design, it stores away easily too.

Pros

  • Suitable for toddlers, twins, and petite adults.
  • It folds almost entirely flat, making it easier to store and transport.
  • The durable PP and TPE material are BPA-free, which is ideal for children.
  • It can be used up to 15,000 times before you notice any defects with the material.

Cons

  • Not suitable for larger adults, which restricts the use.
  • It costs a lot compared to other portable bathtubs.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 14.55
Dimensions (inches) 37.8 x 22.83 x 3.94
Material PP and TPE
Type Foldable
Suitable for Toddlers and small adults
BPA-free Yes
Price $$$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

Love the versatility of this foldable tub! It's a fantastic solution for those like me who live in a place with only a stand-up shower. It's compact and slides right between the shower and vanity, making it a breeze to store. Cleaning it is a snap too, as water beads and wipes right off. While it's perfect for giving my kid a bath, I've also found that it's just right for a relaxing soak after a long day. Just remember to grab a bath mat to avoid slipping, and prepare for a cozy, not spacious, soak if you're using it yourself.

G Ganen Unisex Foldable 3-Layer PVC Spa Bathtub

Best Portable Foldable Bathtub

This is a barrel-shaped portable tub, enabling the user to immerse themselves in water up to the shoulders. While it may not be as comfortable as other bathtubs, it is an excellent portable option.

It stands almost 30 inches tall and 30 inches in width, so it only fits one person at a time, but it is super-lightweight, at just 6.29 pounds. You also get 3-layers of high-quality materials, consisting of 2 layers of PVC and a layer of mesh cloth.

The rim is inflatable for added comfort, and the drain tap is detachable, and you can extend the drain reach to about 30 inches, so you drain the water into an outlet.

The company claims you can fit two adults in this tub, but looking at the dimensions, that’s stretching it a bit. On the plus side, it is cheaper than other models to feature, especially the W WEYLAN TEC model.

Pros

  • Its super-lightweight design means it weighs just 6.29 pounds.
  • The tub is deep, at 30 inches, which means you can immerse your entire body in the water.
  • You get 3-layers of materials, including 2 PVC and a mesh foam layer.
  • It has an Inflatable rim for added comfort.

Cons

  • The barrel shape is awkward for some to enter and exit the tub.
  • Not as comfortable as some models because you need to sit cross-legged.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 6.29
Dimensions (inches) 29.5 x 29.5 x 33.46
Material PVC
Type Foldable
Suitable for Adults
BPA-free Yes
Price $$
Warranty Not stated

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Comfort
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've been using this tub for a while now, and I must say it's a nice solution for those without traditional bathtubs in their homes. It's roomy and comfortable, allowing me to fully submerge and enjoy a relaxing soak. However, maneuvering in and out can be a bit of a challenge if you're not careful. The plastic drainage hose can be a nuisance, sometimes blocking the water flow if you accidentally step on it. Also, it takes some time to get used to the strong plastic smell initially, but it does fade away after some time. Despite these minor inconveniences, this tub has been a great addition to my self-care routine, providing much-needed relief for my aching joints.

LUCKUP Portable Freestanding Bathtub

Best Portable Bathtub for Adults

Like the G Ganen model, this one has 3 layers of material. You get a layer of insulating and wear-resistant flocking fabric, a layer of reinforced cotton, followed by a waterproof coating of PVC.

This bathtub measures just 27.5 x 7.87 x 1.97 inches when folded, making it a breeze to store away and transport in the car. It holds a maximum of 120 liters of water, or about 26 gallons, which is more than enough for an average-sized adult to immerse themselves up to the shoulders.

This model has a bottom drain as well as a side drain tap, so you can choose, plus you get a tubular high-support frame with thickened PVC brackets.

Thanks to his portable bathtub’s dimensions, it is the ideal model to fit into your shower enclosure to turn it into a bath, and because one of the drain valves is on the base, you can let the water flow down the shower drain.

The company doesn’t state whether this material is BPA-free, which is something that will require further investigation before you purchase.

Pros

  • It only weighs 4.69 pounds, making it one of the lightest bathtubs on the market.
  • You get 3 layers of material, including insulating flocking and waterproof PVC.
  • It holds over 26 gallons of water, so it’s ideal for adult use.
  • It folds away to make it easier to store and transport in the car.

Cons

  • The barrel shape is awkward for some to enter and exit the tub.
  • Not suitable for children because it is too deep

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 4.69
Dimensions (inches) 27.6 x 27.6
Material PVC
Type Foldable
Suitable for Adults
BPA-free Not stated
Price $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Comfort
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

Excellent, this portable bath tub has been a refreshing addition to my routine. Despite its seemingly flimsy construction, it surprisingly holds up well once filled with water, providing me with a spacious and comfortable soaking experience. The liner has proven durable, maintaining its original condition even with regular use of abrasive salts and detox products. While the bottom plug can't be fully utilized when the tub is filled, the side plug works perfectly for draining. However, it's essential to allow the tub to air dry completely before storing, but once you get the hang of assembly and disassembly, it becomes a quick and straightforward process.

CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bathtub

Best Inflatable Portable Bathtub

This bathtub is different, because unlike those features so far, where you have to sit in a barrel-shaped tub, this one is more traditional in shape. You can lay down and soak as you would in your bathtub at home.

It is entirely inflatable, which means that it should be lightweight when deflated and take up minimal storage space. For that reason, it also scores highly for portability and maneuverability, plus erecting it just takes a pump rather than joining poles and brackets.

You get a covered bathing area to protect your modesty, a cup holder, inflatable headrest, and pillow, plus a bottom and side drain valve to empty faster. It only takes 3 minutes to erect, thanks to the included electric pump. The only issue is it is rated at 110 volts, so it won’t plug into your 12V car socket.

The material is eco-friendly PVC, which is non-toxic, so it is safe for all the family.

Pros

  • It’s made from eco-friendly PVC, which is non-toxic, so won’t pose any threat to the family.
  • It’s lightweight and easy to store and transport.
  • You get a 110V electric pump, which inflates the bath in 3 minutes flat.
  • No construction is needed. Just attach the pump, and you are done.

Cons

  • It’s better suited to adults because of the covered bathing area.
  • Inflatable baths are not as durable because they develop punctures.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 7.48
Dimensions (inches) 63 x 33 x 25
Material PVC
Type Inflatable
Suitable for Adults
BPA-free Non-toxic
Price $$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

When I first got this inflatable tub, setting it up in my small kitchen was a breeze and filling it up was no hassle at all. The water remained pleasantly hot throughout my soak, but draining it afterwards was a bit of a chore due to a leaky drain pipe. Despite this issue, I've found the tub remarkably comfortable and spacious, even more so than I initially expected, making my bath times a truly enjoyable experience.

PPBathtub XL Inflatable Bathtub

Best Portable Bathtub for Couples

If you like sharing your soak under the stars on the campsite, this 2-person inflatable tub is the ideal choice. You get a backrest at both ends, and because it is inflatable, it deflates to a tiny size, making it suitable for the trunk of the car or for storing under a cabinet in the home.

It has 2 cup holders to keep your beers steady and a ridged floor with anti-slip qualities. Like the other inflatable model, it comes with an electric pump, so inflating it should be a breeze. The drain plug is on the bottom, but you get a pipe that extends the reach to the nearest outlet.

The downside with this bathtub is the size. You might struggle to find space for it indoors. On the plus side, it does double-up as a kid’s summer pool.

The other black mark against this tub is the company doesn’t state whether it is BPA-free plastic. This is crucial for peace of mind, especially if you have kids.

Pros

  • It fits 2 adults with ease, making a great sociable space.
  • It doubles up as a kid’s summer pool on hot days.
  • You get an electric pump to make inflating it easier.
  • It packs down to a small size for better storage and portability.

Cons

  • It takes up a lot of space, so you might struggle to inflate it indoors.
  • There is a lack of clarity about whether the material is BPA-free.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 9.04
Dimensions (inches) 62.99 x 47.24 x 23.62
Material PVC
Type Inflatable
Suitable for 2 Adults
BPA-free Not stated
Price $$$$
Warranty Not stated

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

My experiences with this bathtub have been mostly positive, with a few minor drawbacks. The bathtub is impressively spacious, comfortably accommodating my 5'7" frame and would easily hold two people. However, I did notice a slow leak in the top tube and one of the inflatable floors which required patching. I was also slightly taken aback by the strong PVC smell when warm water was added, so those with sensitivities should take note. Despite these minor issues, the bathtub's comfort, quick inflation, and unique solution to space limitations in my apartment make it a worthwhile investment.

MESINURS Medical Inflatable Bathtub

Best Portable Bathtub for Elderly

When you are looking after elderly relatives, getting them into the bathtub can be a challenge. This inflatable model lies entirely flat so that you can store it under the mattress and the water filling comes courtesy of a bag that hangs from an IV post, the bed frame, or another mount,

It also doubles as a portable shower, so when your uncle or aunt are settled in the bath, you can bathe them in gentle water. This system removes the need for bed or sponge baths, and it turns a bed into a bathtub, meaning they never need to leave their room to stay clean.

It’s why it is the clear winner as a bathtub for elderly, infirm, bedridden, and disabled relatives.

Pros

  • It fits under existing mattresses, lying entirely flat.
  • You inflate it with a foot pump and it fills via a bag attached to an IV pole, the bed frame or another mount.
  • It allows you to wash and shower in the comfort of your room.
  • Ideal for the infirm, bedridden, disabled, and mobility-challenged.

Cons

  • Only suitable for a specific audience, making it unsuitable for everyone else.
  • Expensive compared to other inflatable bathtubs to feature.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 6.95
Dimensions (inches) 18.27 x 9.21 x 6.61
Material PVC
Type Inflatable
Suitable for Elderly, infirm, disabled and bedridden
BPA-free Not stated
Price $$$$$
Warranty Not stated

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

I used this bathtub for an elderly family member who can't move around much. The size is perfect, fitting comfortably on a hospital bed, and the material is strong enough to prevent the mattress from getting wet. However, I did have some issues with the draining system, as the water tended to pool under the person. The portable shower bag provided also didn't hold enough water for a proper bath and had a tendency to come off and spill everywhere. To solve these problems, I used a handheld pump to remove the excess water and opted for a bucket and scoop for bathing instead of the bag.

KELIXU Foldable Portable Bathtub

Best Portable Camping Bathtub

Nothing quite beats bringing the creature comforts from home when you are out in the back and beyond. This barrel-shaped bathtub has 4 layers, including an outer suede material, a thermal coating and pearl cotton, plus a layer of internal PVC to make it waterproof.

You also get strong support poles and a detachable drain valve, plus a simple folding action to easily transport or store it away.

Unfolded, it measures 27.6 inches by 27.6 inches. When folded away, it only measures 27.6 x 7.87 x 1.97 inches. This model packs down and quickly assembles when you reach your destination.

The maker claims the material is safe, but they don’t go into detail about whether that means BPA-free or non-toxic. Sometimes a little bit of clarity makes you feel more confident when buying.

On the plus side, this tub is incredible value for money, so if you are making your first portable bathtub purchase, this is a wise investment.

Pros

  • It folds down for easy storage and portability.
  • You get 4 layers of material for increased insulation and durability.
  • It has strong support poles and a detachable drain valve.
  • The great price makes this an ideal entry-level portable tub.

Cons

  • It’s only suitable for adults due to the depth of the bathtub.

Product Specs

Weight (pounds) 6.54
Dimensions (inches) 27.6 x 27.6
Material PVC
Type Foldable
Suitable for Adults
BPA-free Only stated as “safe”
Price $$
Warranty Not stated

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Comfort
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

Love the compact size of this tub, it fits perfectly in my double shower stall, giving me the pleasure of a bath in a setup that only accommodated showers. This tub retains heat for hours, allowing for multiple uses in a day, though getting in and out might be a bit tricky if flexibility is an issue. I found replacing the thin tubes that hold it upright with half inch PVC made it more sturdy. Draining it can be a bit of a hassle, particularly in a shower stall where the drain is centered. Lastly, forget about the inflatable pillow; it's a dud, I found a foam pillow to be a more comfortable alternative.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight Dimensions Material Type Suitable for BPA-free Price Warranty
W WEYLAN TEC Foldable Bathtub for Toddlers Best for Toddlers 14.55 lbs 37.8″ x 22.83″ x 3.94″ PP & TPE Foldable Toddlers & small adults Yes $$$$ 1-year
G Ganen Unisex Foldable 3-Layer PVC Spa Bathtub Best Foldable 6.29 lbs 29.5″ x 29.5″ x 33.46″ PVC Foldable Adults Yes $$ Not stated
LUCKUP Portable Freestanding Bathtub Best for Adults 4.69 lbs 27.6″ x 27.6″ PVC Foldable Adults Not stated $$ 1-year
CO-Z Inflatable Adult Bathtub Best Inflatable 7.48 lbs 63″ x 33″ x 25″ PVC Inflatable Adults Non-toxic $$$ 1-year
PPBathtub XL Inflatable Bathtub Best for Couples 9.04 lbs 62.99″ x 47.24″ x 23.62″ PVC Inflatable 2 Adults Not stated $$$$ Not stated
MESINURS Medical Inflatable Bathtub Best for Elderly 6.95 lbs 18.27″ x 9.21″ x 6.61″ PVC Inflatable Elderly, infirm, disabled & bedridden Not stated $$$$$ Not stated
KELIXU Foldable Portable Bathtub Best for Camping 6.54 lbs 27.6″ x 27.6″ PVC Foldable Adults Only stated as “safe” $$ Not stated

Benefits of Portable Bathtubs

If you are in the middle of a bathroom remodel, a portable bathtub is an ideal alternative if your shower and bathtub have been removed. You can also convert a shower enclosure by placing the portable tub in the shower tray and filling it like a bath.

You might like taking a bath in the open air, to make the most of a view from your veranda. A portable bathtub allows you to do this, and when you are done, the prize roses get a good watering.

If you are camping and want to bring some of the luxuries from home, a foldable bathtub gives you that option. Plus, if you or a relative are recovering from an illness or surgery, a portable bathtub next to their bed makes it easier to bathe without all the hassle.

How To Choose the Best Portable Bathtub

There are so many factors that make up the perfect portable bathtub, but what are the crucial elements you should be looking for?

Let’s Talk About the Shape

Not all shapes suit all people. Most portable bathtubs are barrel-shaped, so you can immerse yourself in the water. So, do you want a deep soak or to stretch your legs? If you want a deep soak, a cylinder-shaped bathtub is just fine, but you are restricted with legroom.

Just bear in mind that getting into a deep bathtub is not that easy, especially if you are recovering from a medical procedure or you have elderly relatives who have mobility issues.

If stretching your legs is a priority, look for a rectangular bathtub, but be sure to check the dimensions because even then they can be pretty small.

If the tub is going inside your shower cubicle, check the measurements to see that it fits. It is more likely you will need a barrel-shaped model for the shower unless you have a super-luxury enclosure that is big enough.

What Do You Put in the Water?

Whatever additive you pour in the water will likely penetrate the bathtub lining. Bubble baths and soap are the biggest culprits, so check with the manufacturer before adding them.

Plus, soap suds make the floor and sides of the bathtub slippery. Epsom salts are generally okay, but for soapy bubbles, maybe consider a bath liner.

Check the Drainage

Once you get the water in, you have to get it out. The tub will be very heavy when it is full, so maneuvering it is impossible. Some tubs drain from the button, but if you are emptying it into a shower tray, be careful it doesn’t overwhelm the pipes and cause flooding.

Tubs with side taps located at the base are more convenient, especially those that allow you to connect an extension pipe to reach a nearby outlet.

Let’s Talk About the Material

Most of the bathtubs featured are made from 3 layers of material, with PVC or polypropylene being the most common. Check that your favorite tub is BPA-free. It means that the plastic is free of Bisphenol A, a compound that can damage the human body and cause serious side effects and diseases.

It was banned in 11 states in the USA in 2012, and since then, manufacturers have removed it from their products.


How To Drain a Portable Bathtub

Getting water in is easy, but getting it out is another conversation. Some have drain holes in the base that allow you to open a valve, and the water runs out. This is great for when you are camping, and the tub sits on the grass, but not effective in a shower enclosure.

Other models have a drain tap on the side near the base, so the principle is the same; open the tap and let the water run free. If you need to reach a drain or other outlet, some come with extendable pipes you can attach to increase the drainage span.

Just remember that when you are draining the tub using a side tap, there will always be a small amount of water you will need to tip out of the tub.


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Headshot of Mark Weir

About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.