Not everyone has a bathroom large enough for a luxurious freestanding bathtub. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still find a tub that will provide comfort and relaxation while making the most of your space.
If you want to enjoy the comforts of a bath in a small bathroom, you now have numerous options to choose from. In fact, there are so many units available that you could struggle to find what you’re looking for.
To help you find your ideal model, this article contains what we consider the best small bathtubs for small bathrooms. We chose these tubs based on their size, depth, style, and their value for money.
- 17.8-inch water depth
- Five finish options
- Includes chrome overflow
- Accessible door
- Water & air massage
- Dual drainage system
- Fiberglass reinforcement
- Slotted overflow included
- 10-year non-yellowing warranty
- Slipper shape
- Overflow & drain included
- Adjustable legs
- Durable Americast material
- Slip-resistant floor
- Carry handles for installation
- Three color options
- Premium acrylic material
- Distinctive pentagonal design
- Deep-soak drain available
- Fiberglass reinforcement
- Eight adjustable jets
Best Small Bathtubs for Small Bathrooms of 2023
You have more options for great bathtubs than ever before, even if your bathroom is relatively small. To help you find the right one, we have read feedback from numerous customers and expert opinions to bring you our seven best small bathtub reviews, chosen for their style, depth, size, and cost.
Kohler Drop In Soaking Tub
Best Overall Small Bathtub
At just 48 inches long and 32 inches wide, this Kohler drop-in bathtub has a small footprint that makes it ideal for small bathrooms. It is designed as a drop-in tub but would also fit an alcove.
Made from acrylic, it won’t be as cold to the touch as other materials and should retain heat for longer (1). This could help you save some money, as you won’t need to keep topping up the bath with warm water. Kholer even includes a vinyl bath pillow with this product to enhance your bathing experience.
What We Like
Deep for Soaking
The depth from the floor of the tub to the overflow is 17.875 inches, and the overall depth is 23.4 inches. This makes it deep and comfortable for one person despite being a small soaking tub, especially given its footprint. The back of the tub has a gentle nine-degree angle to provide support while bathing.
Five Finishes Available
This tub is available with five different finishes, so you can ensure it complements the rest of your bathroom. You can choose from almond, sandbar, biscuit, dune or white.
Parts Included
In addition to the bathtub, you also receive an overflow drain, which is finished in polished chrome. Many tubs do not include a drain, so this prevents any hassle in finding one that fits the unit.
What We Don't Like
This Tub is Deep
In many cases, a deeper tub is seen as a positive thing. However, if you have limited mobility and struggle to climb in and out, you might find that this tub is too tall for you.
Product Specs
| Size | 48” Long x 32” Wide x 23.4” Deep |
| Capacity | 68 gallons |
| Weight | 88 pounds |
| Type | Drop-in or three-wall alcove installation |
| Warranty | One year |
Our Ratings
Ella Malibu Air and Hydro Massage Walk-in Bathtub
Best Walk-In Small Bathtub
If you want a walk-in tub with numerous bells and whistles, the Ella Malibu should fit the bill. Its powerful water and air jets will provide a full body massage for excellent relaxation and physical therapy.
It features a patented three-latch door made from a custom-crafted industrial plastic composite with a tempered glass panel. This should provide a more secure watertight seal than a door with a double or single latch.
It is much easier to access the tub through the door as it is so low to the floor. This can be life-changing for people who are unable to climb into a standard bathtub.
What We Like
Safety First
This bathtub is fitted with two stainless steel grab bars and has a slip-resistant floor. This makes it much safer to stand up and get in and out of your tub.
Water and Air Massage
You can enjoy a full spa experience thanks to the 16 air jets and 13 water jets. The water jets work with an inline water heater to keep the water warm throughout your bath. Both types of jets have dedicated controls, so you can adjust the intensity of the water jets or the speed of the airflow.
There is also an infusion microbubble therapy system designed to hydrate and exfoliate your skin.
Dual Drainage System
There are two floor drains in this tub, each measuring 2 inches. This means faster drainage, which is more important with this tub as you need to drain it before you can open the door. It also means that, if one of the drains fails, you will still have a backup.
Both drains are fitted with easy-grip handles to make it easier to get them open.
What We Don't Like
Takes a While to Fill
A walk-in tub means you need to get in before you can fill it. This one has a 20-inch seat, so you won’t need to stand while you wait. Even so, it can take between 15 and 20 minutes to fill, depending on your water pressure.
Product Specs
| Size | 30″ Wide x 52″ Long x 43″ High |
| Capacity | 90 gallons |
| Weight | 220 pounds |
| Type | Walk-In Jet and Air Whirlpool |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty on the door, frame and shell; 5-year parts warranty |
Our Ratings
FerdY Bali Freestanding Bathtub
Best Minimalist Small Bathtub
At 47 inches long, this FerdY bathtub is a great solution for small bathrooms. It has a soaking depth of 15 inches. As a versatile freestanding model, you will be able to install it anywhere in your bathroom.
It has a gloss-white acrylic finish and is reinforced with four layers of fiberglass and an oriented strand board. It also has a double-walled design that retains your bathwater’s heat more effectively.
What We Like
Reinforced with Fiberglass
This tub is reinforced with fiberglass, so there can be little doubt about its durability. The unit’s finish not only makes it more reliable but it is also easier to wipe clean, thanks to its extra smooth surface.
Drain and Overflow Included
This bathtub includes a slotted overflow and a drain system, so you won’t need to buy them separately. It also includes a stainless steel bracket to hold the bath and adjustable nylon feet to ensure it is level.
Non-Yellowing 10-Year Warranty
Most bathtub manufacturers guarantee the structural integrity of their products, but FerdY goes further by also guaranteeing its appearance. The brand provides a non-yellowing warranty for up to ten years. They are confident that it will continue to look pristine thanks to its first-rate lucite-grade acrylic finish.
What We Don't Like
Faucet Not Included
Like many other freestanding bathtubs, this product does not include a faucet. While this does allow for greater customization, it is one more thing you will need to worry about. You could choose a model such as this one from Rozin, which has a handheld showerhead attached.
Product Specs
| Size | 47″ Long x 25.59″ Wide x 15″ Deep |
| Capacity | 39 gallons |
| Weight | 75.8 pounds |
| Type | Freestanding |
| Warranty | 10 years non-yellowing warranty |
Our Ratings
Woodbridge White Acrylic Freestanding Contemporary Bathtub
Best Freestanding Small Bathtub
Woodbridge designed this freestanding tub to be ideal for small bathrooms. It provides the luxury appearance of a freestanding tub while being 28.375 inches wide by 54 long and 28.375 inches tall. This means you can make it the centerpiece of your room, place it in an alcove or fit it against a wall.
The water capacity is 55 gallons and the maximum water depth is 15 inches from the base to the overflow. This means that, despite its small footprint, you will be able to submerge most of your body to relax and clean yourself.
Although it has a sleek modern style, it evokes the past with its slipper shape, meaning it is higher at one end than the other. Its higher end is also sloped and contoured to support your head and back.
What We Like
Durable Construction
A double-walled design helps insulate the bath to keep the water it contains hotter for longer. It is made from fiberglass-reinforced acrylic, which means it is more solid and easy to clean (2). Woodbridge also states that the finish will resist scratching, dulling, and fading.
Overflow and Drain Included
This bath is pre-fitted with an overflow and a pop-up drain, meaning it can be installed as soon as you receive it. This prevents the hassle that comes with buying and installing these parts separately.
Adjustable Legs
Legs are fitted to the base of this tub and can be adjusted to level it during installation. It should be simple to connect it to your existing plumbing using the included flexible tube drain and hose.
What We Don't Like
Not Good If You’re Tall
This tub is ideal for shorter people. Conversely, if you are taller than average, you won’t be able to stretch out and relax in the bath.
Product Specs
| Size | 54″ Long x 28.375″ Deep x 28.375″ Wide |
| Capacity | 55 gallons |
| Weight | 80 pounds |
| Type | Freestanding |
| Warranty | 30-day money-back guarantee, 1-year warranty |
Our Ratings
American Standard Cambridge Integral Apron Bathtub
Best Alcove Small Bathtub
If you want an American-made alcove tub with a simple design, the minimalist style of the American Standard Cambridge is a great option. To match the rest of your bathroom, it is available in four different shades of finish: white, arctic white, bone, and linen.
Measuring 60 inches long by 32 inches wide and 17.75 inches deep, it provides a soaking depth of 14 to 16 inches. This means you can submerge yourself and enjoy a full-body soak even without a large bathroom. It also has a beveled headrest and contoured back support to make it even more comfortable.
What We Like
Patented Americast Construction
This bathtub has been made using American Standard’s patented Americast material. This material was intended to provide the durability of cast iron but at half the weight.
It is formed of a composite outer layer, an enameling grade steel middle layer, and a porcelain enamel finish, making it strong, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean (3). It also helps with heat retention, keeping your bath water warmer for longer.
Slip-Resistant Base
Another patented material, StanSure, can be found on the floor of the tub’s interior. This is intended to increase friction and reduce the risk of slipping while ensuring the tub is still easy to clean.
Ease of Installation
This product includes padded carrying bars and a leveling grid to make installation easier. There is a good chance that you will be able to install it yourself without professional assistance.
What We Don't Like
Slip-Resistant Base Might be Hard to Keep Clean
Although the company claims its slip-resistant base is easy to clean, there are customers that mention being unable to remove some marks. It is unclear whether or not they are using appropriate cleaning products, but it is something to keep in mind when considering this tub.
Product Specs
| Size | 60” Long x 32” Wide x 17.75” Deep |
| Capacity | 60 gallons |
| Weight | 145 pounds |
| Type | Alcove or Recessed |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
Our Ratings
American Acrylic Soaker Bathtub
Best Corner Small Bathtub
This distinctive corner tub from American Acrylic measures just 48 inches long by 48 wide and 19 inches deep. It will hold 70 gallons of water with a soaking depth of 15.5 inches.
Its pentagonal shape means it will grab the attention of anyone who uses your bathroom, but it also makes the most of your available space.
The tub’s generous depth allows for a thorough soak while occupying a small part of your bathroom floor. Corner tubs provide an ideal option for anyone who wants to make the absolute most of their available floor space and this modern design is a great example.
What We Like
Choice of Colors
There are three color options for this bathtub to ensure it combines well with the rest of your bathroom. You can choose from white, bone, or biscuit. This is very helpful if you want your bathtub to feel warmer than the standard white.
Strong Materials
The tub is constructed from premium-quality acrylic, which is strong and long-lasting. American Acrylic also claims that the tub is resistant to rust, tarnishing, scratches, slipping, stains, and fire.
What We Don't Like
No Lip
The edges that are adjacent to your bathroom walls don’t have much of a lip. This means creating a watertight seal between your bathroom tiles, tub, and the wall is more difficult. Some people have overcome this by using chemical bonding materials to ensure the seal is watertight.
Product Specs
| Size | 48” Long x 48” Wide x 19” Deep |
| Capacity | 70 gallons |
| Weight | 60 pounds |
| Type | Corner |
| Warranty | 5 years |
Our Ratings
American Standard Evolution Whirlpool Bath Tub
Best Whirlpool Small Bathtub
If you want luxury in a small space, there is nothing better than a compact tub with a whirlpool spa. This whirlpool bathtub from American Standard features eight adjustable jets and an on/off control mounted on the side of the tub.
The tub is made easier to keep clean by American Standard’s patented Everclean additive. This greatly reduces the possibility of mold and mildew in the bath’s pipes.
To use this tub, it will need to be connected to your home’s electrical supply. This will power the tub’s one-speed motor.
What We Like
Deep-Soak Drain
Although it is not supplied with the tub, a deep-soak drain can be purchased separately to provide 3 extra inches of maximum water depth. This can make a significant difference in how comfortable your bath is.
Reinforced Materials
This small jetted tub is made of fiberglass-reinforced acrylic, making it durable, lightweight, and warmer to the touch than cast iron tubs.
What We Don't Like
Manufacturing Defects
Some unlucky customers have received this bathtub with scratches on the sides. Thankfully, American Standard replaced the tubs on these occasions, so this isn’t an issue you would have to live with.
Product Specs
| Size | 60” Long x 36” Wide x 21.5” Deep |
| Capacity | 87 gallons |
| Weight | 136 pounds |
| Type | Whirlpool, drop-in |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Size | Capacity | Weight | Type | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kohler Drop In Soaking Tub | Overall | 48 x 32 x 23.4” | 68 gal. | 88 lbs | Drop-in, alcove | 1 year |
| Ella Malibu Air and Hydro Massage | Walk-In | 52 x 30 x 43″ | 90 gal. | 220 lbs | Walk-In Jet, Air Whirlpool | Limited lifetime |
| FerdY Bali Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub | Minimalist | 47 x 25.59 x 15″ | 39 gal. | 75.8 lbs | Freestanding | 10 years |
| Woodbridge Acrylic Freestanding | Freestanding | 54 x 28.375 x 28.375″ | 55 gal. | 80 lbs | Freestanding | 1-year |
| American Standard Cambridge | Alcove | 60 x 32 x 17.75” | 60 gal. | 145 lbs | Alcove or Recessed | Limited lifetime |
| American Acrylic Soaker Bathtub | Corner | 48 x 48 x 19” | 70 gal. | 60 lbs | Corner | 5 years |
| American Standard Evolution | Whirlpool | 60 x 36 x 21.5” | 87 gal. | 136 lbs | Whirlpool, drop-in | N/A |
Types of Small Bathtubs
Historically, there has been far less choice in bathtubs for small spaces compared to their larger counterparts. Thankfully, this has changed in recent years and there is now as much variety in small bathtub sizes as in larger ones. The most popular types of small bathtubs include:
If there is a space in your bathroom with three walls around it, you should be able to find a tub that fits, even if it looks tight.
Alcove or recessed tubs usually only have one finished exterior side as the others are fitted flush to your bathroom walls. To complete the built-in look, they are often installed alongside wall-mounted faucets with an attached shower head and shower system.
Corner Tubs
Corner tubs are perfect for saving space, fitting snugly into bathroom corners and freeing up space for other features. They are designed to be installed flush with two bathroom walls, often in a quadrant shape featuring another curved side with an exterior finish.
As with alcove tubs, you can install shower fittings into a bathroom wall to enjoy the best of both worlds. Small corner tubs are very popular, which means you will have plenty of options to choose from.
Drop-In Tubs
Drop-in bathtubs are versatile models that can be surrounded by low walls or installed into a pre-built platform. As the tub will be surrounded by walls, none of its sides are finished. However, it will have a rim that sits on top of its surroundings for a more finished appearance.
This type gives you more flexibility when designing the platform, as you can effectively use any material or style you want.
On the other hand, this freedom comes with a cost. Unlike a freestanding tub, which is a complete unit, you will also need to pay for the mount/platform that a drop-in tub will be installed into. Don’t forget to factor this into your budget.
Freestanding tubs don’t require any extra walls or a platform as every side of the tub is finished. As their name suggests, they are designed to stand alone and can be placed anywhere in your bathroom.
Keep in mind that you might need some extra plumbing with freestanding tubs as they are often separate from their faucets. These faucets can also be freestanding or installed on an adjacent wall.
A major advantage of small freestanding tubs — in addition to being statement pieces — is that there is a huge range of shapes and sizes to choose from. Many modern designs sit flush on the floor, while traditional styles often have a stand, pedestal, or claw feet.
Walk-In Tubs
Designed for people who have difficulty climbing into and out of a standard tub, walk-in bathtubs have a door that opens to provide access. These doors are watertight and are usually at floor level, so there won’t be a big step up to get in.
Many of this bathtub type have a built-in seat, safety bars, and whirlpool features to make your bath more accessible and far easier to use. They are usually deeper than a standard tub while occupying less floor space and fitting into alcoves.
Choosing the Best Small Bathtub
Even if have chosen a particular type of tub, you still have a lot more to consider before you can choose a specific model. Before you buy a bathtub, think about:
Size
This probably seems obvious but the size of your potential bathtub is the most important thing to pay attention to when shopping. Keep in mind that you also need to get the tub into the bathroom to install it, so measure your access points.
Measure
Depth
It is easy to think in two-dimensional terms when measuring your room for a bathtub, but the footprint isn’t the only important thing. You also need to think about the depth, both in terms of how deep you want the water to be and how you will climb in and out.
Make sure you will be able to submerge yourself in your tub, and that you will be comfortable getting in and out of it. This is one of the most common areas where people make a misstep when buying.
Installation
Think about how you will install your tub. Will it need a platform? Is there a suitable alcove where it can be installed? Do you have sufficient floor space for a freestanding tub?
Unless you are renovating your entire bathroom, you also need to consider the existing features and current layout. Check where your faucets and plumbing are, as these will have a major impact on your tub’s ease of installation.
Added Extras
Although they are less common than with larger models, some small tubs feature whirlpool jets, air jets, or walk-in doors. Consider which of these extras you want, and how much money they will add to the cost of your chosen product.
Warning
FAQs
Are Small Baths Any Good?
Small baths are excellent when you don’t have much room in your bathroom, and there aren’t many reasons to try and avoid them. You won’t be able to soak for hours, but you can still take a decent bath.
What Is Better: Fiberglass or Acrylic Bathtubs?
Acrylic bathtubs are better because they last longer, but it depends on your priorities. Because acrylic is a solid material, if it ever exhibits wear and tear, all that needs to be done to repair it is to sand away the damaged layer and put some topcoat on it.
On the other hand, more serious damage, such as a crack, would typically go through the tub’s wall. Cracks in acrylic bathtubs are difficult to repair, and you may need to replace the whole thing with a new one.
Repairing scratches in fiberglass bathtubs is more difficult than with other materials and requires additional processes, including color-matching. Keep in mind the gel coat is what retains the color.
What Is a Japanese Bath?
Bathing customs in Japanese homes differ from the onsen (hot springs) and public baths. A traditional Japanese bathing ritual begins with thoroughly rinsing the entire body outside the tub, either under the shower or in a washbowl.
Once that’s done, it’s time to hop in the soak-only tub.
Get out of the water and use soap to scrub your body down before getting out. Don’t let any of the soap end up in the tub. Indulge in a final soak in the tub after cleaning and rinsing the soap off your body.
When one person uses the bathtub in most households, they leave the water running for the next person. Because dirty water from washing and rinsing can contaminate the bath water for everyone in the house, these activities are best performed in another room.
What Is a Space Saver Bath?
A space saver bath is a tub explicitly designed for a small bathroom or to maximize room inside the bathroom.
What Is a Drop-In Tub?
A drop-in tub is essentially a shell with feet and a rim.
You can install a drop-in tub in the bathroom or in an alcove. It is then lowered into a bespoke raised platform deck, which not only conceals the plumbing and the uncovered sides of the tub but also provides a seating area for when you are entering and exiting the tub.
The bathtub, on the other hand, is not supported by the platform.
Do They Make Bathtubs Smaller Than 60 Inches?
Plenty of bathtubs smaller than 60 inches are perfect for small bathrooms. The standard length for the smallest bathtub, whether an alcove or drop-in form, is 48 inches, while the breadth ranges from 30 to 32 inches.
You might be able to reduce the dimensions by a few inches if you go with a freestanding tub instead of an integrated one.
