“When it comes to installing freestanding bathtubs, there are two major details that need to be addressed: weight of the tub and the precise stubbing for the rough plumbing,” says Chris Conoan of CJC Construction. “Most tubs come with instructions that need to be meticulously followed. Center drain freestanding tubs receive a blind plumbing connection when the tub is dropped in place, so that alignment needs to be just about perfect.” The weight is the other issue. “The tub’s weight can weigh several hundred pounds,” Conoan says. “And then you fill it with heavy water, then you put a person inside the tub, and it’s very likely that you have 1,000 pounds or more sitting in one small spot on your floor with only a few floor joists for support. Extra blocking or framing may be required.” Whether you’re ready to call a plumber tomorrow to get started or just daydreaming about what could be, we found the best freestanding tubs for you to consider. Our overall best pick for the best freestanding tub is the Soleil by Starck freestanding oval tub from Duravit. It is a sleek soaking tub made from a durable solid-surfacing material, and it’s about half the price of the more high-end freestanding tubs. Here are the 14 best freestanding tubs.
It is made with a durable but soft-to-the-touch solid surfacing called DuraSolid.It holds up to 82 gallons of water for a deep luxurious soak.
Filling it to capacity every time could impact your water bill. It requires plumbing features and the drain to be at the center of the tub.
This tub is made from Duravit’s solid surfacing material called DuraSolid. Solid surfacing is a durable material for tubs as it’s harder to scratch or damage than acrylic, but it weighs less than a cast iron tub. Having a lightweight tub makes it easier on your installers and doesn’t need as much framing support under the floor. This tub can hold up to two bathers, but we also love this deep tub for long luxurious soaks alone to let your cares fade away. Bryan Huie, technical support manager at Duravit North America says it’s important to “have a licensed plumber assess the plumbing location points and bathroom layout. From here they can provide realistic options and feedback on whether this change is possible and what it would entail to make it happen.” Price at time of publish: $3,796 Size: 63 x 31.5 x 23.625 inches | Material: DuraSolid | Water Capacity: 82.7 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
Get the look of a high-end freestanding tub for a fraction of the cost. Its lightweight material makes it easier to install than other tubs.
It is not designed for more than one user. It comes with chrome finishes on the overflow and pop-up drain, which may not match other plumbing fixtures in your bath.
The smaller size and lighter weight material is helpful in a remodel when the installers move it inside your house. Even though acrylic is a lightweight material, the tub still weighs more than 90 pounds. This is not a DIY job—we recommend using a professional plumber to install a freestanding tub. Acrylic is a durable, easy-to-clean option that will look great in your bathroom for years to come. The drain is in the center of the tub and comes with a chrome pop-up drain cover and a chrome overflow. If you haven’t already picked out a tub filler faucet for this tub, be sure to shop for one with a chrome finish to match this budget-friendly freestanding tub. Price at time of publish: $1,070 Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 23.2 inches | Material: Acrylic | Water Capacity: 57 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: One
The sides of the tub are heated so you can recline on a warm surface. There are more than 100 air jets that release thousands of relaxing bubbles.
It requires two dedicated circuits protected with GFCI outlets to run the heated blower and air bath.One side of the tub is wider than the other side, to accommodate deck-mounted tub faucets and the motors for the blower and heater.
What makes this one of the best freestanding tubs is the air bath feature. This tub has more than 100 air jets that release thousands of tiny bubbles that massage your body. To make all these high-tech features work, there are a few special considerations you need to make before it can be installed. You will need two dedicated electrical circuits with GFCI outlets to safely run the heater and airbath. The drain is located in the center of the tub, but you can install the tub-filler faucet on the deck of the tub. One side of the tub is wider than the other to accommodate the motors and plumbing fixtures. Consult with an electrician and a plumbing professional to make sure your home is properly equipped for this splurge-worthy freestanding tub. Price at time of publish: $5,706 Size: 72 x 36 x 25 inches | Material: Acrylic | Water Capacity: 90 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
It’s almost 75 inches long and 47 inches wide. It comes in a matte or glossy black finish for a distinctive look.
It weighs more than 550 pounds, so getting it installed will require extra labor. It is a special order with a lead time of eight to 12 weeks.
One feature we really like is the matte black finish—it’s sleek but feels like natural stone. There is also a glossy finish available if you prefer an ultra-modern vibe. With either finish, it’s easy to clean. The manufacturer recommends using a mild cleaning product, but you will want to stay away from cleansers with grit or abrasive products. One important consideration is the weight of the tub—it weighs 551 pounds. It is made from a heavy, durable stone resin material, so you will have to recruit the help of several installers to get it inside your home and set it in place. You may also want to consider reinforcing the floor beneath the tub so you can rest easy, knowing that the tub is well supported. Price at time of publish: $3,890 Size: 74.8 x 47.2 x 23.6 inches | Material: Stone resin | Water Capacity: 140 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
You can enjoy a deep soaking tub that doesn’t take up too much floor space.There is an integrated seat in the tub for a comfortable experience.
You can’t lie back in a reclined position. It costs extra to add foam insulation that increases heat retention.
This tub takes up less space than a traditional freestanding tub,which makes it a smart solution for a small bathroom. And even if you have a generously sized bathroom, this option allows you to have both a deep soaking tub and a large walk-in shower without dominating your bathroom floor plan with an oversized tub. Price at time of publish: $2,209 Size: 41.125 x 41.125 x 26.563 inches | Material: Acrylic | Water Capacity: Information not available | Max. Number of Occupants: One
It comes with a heated backrest and an option to have a second heated backrest.You can activate the air jet bath from an app on your mobile device.
Some features, including the chromatherapy, are optional and cost extra to include.Controls for the tub must be installed on the wall or another surface near the tub, but not on the tub itself.
It has a heated backrest so your water stays warmer even longer. You can also upgrade to have two heated backrests so that two bathers can comfortably use the tub at the same time. With matching reclined walls on each end of the tub, both sides are equally enjoyable. There are 34 jets that make up the air jet system, and you can control the settings via a control panel installed on a wall near the tub. It can also be controlled by the BU-Touch app from a mobile device. There are a few extra features that are optional, but they would give this freestanding tub an extra special spa-like feel. You can choose to add six colored LED lights to the tub to create a soothing sensory experience. If you like the idea of the heated backrest, you might also want to consider the WarmTouchShell option, which offers three heating zones built into the bath’s inner shell. Price at time of publish: $6,675 Size: 66 x 35 x 27 inches | Material: Acrylic | Water Capacity: 56 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
It is handcrafted out of recycled copper. It is 6 feet long, which is longer than many other deep soaking tubs on our list.
Copper will age over time and develop a patina.Due to the handcrafted nature of the tub, each one will look a little bit different.
Each tub is hammered by hand by artisans in Mexico. This best freestanding tub is made from 99.7% recycled copper. If you purchase one of these 72-inch copper tubs, it will continue to display its own distinctive character as the copper develops a patina over time. If cleaning copper makes you nervous, don’t worry. It is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial. Regular bath products will not damage the metal. After each use, just wipe it dry to prevent the calcium deposits from staining the surface. Once in a while you can clean it with a mild clear dish soap. (Don’t use citrus scented products as it could damage the finish.) When you wipe it dry, there may be some brown coloring on the rag, but don’t panic—it’s just patina, and the copper will continue to change with time. Price at time of publish: $4,200 Size: 72 x 32 x 28 inches | Material: Copper | Water Capacity: Information not available | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
The thick stone walls ensure that the water stays warm for a long time. Sleek angles give this freestanding bath modern style.
It weighs 788 pounds, which requires extra labor to install. You may need to reinforce the floor to safely hold the extra weight.
The stone composite is made from a combination of natural jute fiber and cement. It naturally retains the water’s temperature longer so you can enjoy your bath for a little longer than you would in a tub without any insulation. This material is durable, and it comes with a sealant that protects the surface from scratches or stains. The sealer should offer years of protection, but you can buy more of the sealer and apply it yourself every five years to keep your stone tub looking its best. While the composite material is lighter than if it were 100% cement, the tub still weighs 788 pounds. A tub of that size will require extra muscle when it comes time to move the tub into your home and install it. You may also want to talk with your contractor about reinforcing the floor so that the tub will be well supported. Price at time of publish: $7,493 Size: 66 x 34 x 23 inches | Material: Stone composite | Water Capacity: 88 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
It comes in a dark moody blue color. Cast iron is one of the most durable materials for bath products.
This cast iron tub weighs 488 pounds. This tub requires a wall-mounted or floor-mounted tub-filler faucet.
This cast iron freestanding tub caught our attention because of its dramatic color. This model comes in Signature Hardware’s 2022 color of the year, Pacific Night. It’s a stormy blue color that works well with a variety of bathroom styles. If this watery color doesn’t float your boat, there are other color options available on their website. This cast iron tub weighs in at 488 pounds, so it will require extra labor to get it in your house and properly installed. But once it’s there, it will be a stunning showpiece for decades. You can also rest easy, knowing that Signature Hardware stands behind its products, as this tub is covered with a 25-year warranty. Price at time of publish: $3,099 Size: 66 x 26.75 x 26 x 26.94 inches | Material: Cast iron | Water Capacity: 47 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: One
It has an ultra-modern oval design. It is available in six exterior colors.
It is one of the most expensive options on our list and doesn’t include jets or heated elements. Faucet valves can not be mounted to the tub.
The tub is made with a material called SculptureStone, which is a mixture of ground natural minerals and high-performance resins that are liquefied, poured, and then hardened. This allows for the material to be used to create such a distinctive shape. It also helps naturally insulate the water temperature of the tub. The base color of the tub is white or bisque. For an extra cost, you can select an exterior color that is more playful, such as a robin’s egg blue, coral, cobalt blue, black, dark gray, or light gray. A bright finish would make a bold statement in a modern bath, but we prefer the sleek minimalist style of the all-white freestanding tub. Price at time of publish: $6,743 Size: 74 x 36 x 20 inches | Material: Stone composite | Water Capacity: 92 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: Two
It has a thicker back wall to accommodate a deck-mount faucet. It can be installed as a freestanding tub or installed against a wall.
The 36-inch wide tub may be difficult to maneuver through standard-size door openings. This is a soaking tub. There are no jets or heating elements.
This tub has a flat back wall, so it could easily be installed up against a wall so you don’t have to worry about sweeping or dusting behind the tub. It also could be installed as a typical freestanding tub where you can walk around all four sides. The back of the tub is also wide enough for deck-mounted faucets. While this tub doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles, we really like it as a mid-priced rectangular freestanding tub. It’s neither the cheapest nor the most expensive on our list of best freestanding tubs. If you’re remodeling your whole bathroom and want to create a cohesive look, Townsend also offers coordinating sinks and toilets to complement this bathtub. Price at time of publish: $3,553 Size: 68 x 36 x 24 inches | Material: Acrylic, fiberglass | Water Capacity: 65 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: One
The claw-foot is available in six different metal finishes.It doesn’t require as much floor space as other freestanding tubs on this list.
It can be harder to level a clawfoot tub than a typical freestanding tub. The drain is located at one end, not in the center.
The 54-inch freestanding tub will fit within the same space as a traditional built-in bathtub. So if you’re remodeling and think you don’t have space for a freestanding tub, think again. This clawfoot tub has the drain located at one end of the tub instead of in the center, like many other styles of freestanding tubs. Because of this, you may not have to make too many changes to your existing plumbing to switch from a built-in tub to a clawfoot tub. Talk with a professional plumber before you make any final decisions. Clawfoot tubs are a natural fit with traditional style bathrooms, but we also think it would make a statement in an industrial-style modern home that mixes new and old decor. Because of its classic design and versatile design options, this is the best freestanding tub for those who want a clawfoot bathtub. Price at time of publish: From $1,450 Size: 54 x 30 x 30 inches | Material: Cast Iron | Water Capacity: 44 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: One
It uses the Jacuzzi jet system to create a therapeutic massage for the bather. It’s less expensive than other air bath freestanding tubs on our list.
The jet system moves the water but doesn’t heat the water. It requires electricity to run the motor. Consult with an electrician to determine the exact needs to safely operate this product.
There are six jets around the tub to deliver a relaxing current of bubbles. You need to fill the tub with at least 48 gallons of water to be able to use the jets, and the maximum water capacity is 60 gallons of water. So while you might not fill it up every day before you head out the door, it certainly will be a soothing escape to unwind after a long week. One thing to note is that the tub walls are a little thicker than some of the other tubs on our list, since the walls have to accommodate the jets. You’ll want to keep this in mind when you shop for a tub-filler faucet. You will need a tub-filler faucet that is floor-mounted and can reach over the end of the wide tub walls. Price at time of publish: $3,972 Size: 65.5 x 35.62 x 24 inches | Material: Acrylic | Water Capacity: 60 gallons | Max. Number of Occupants: One
If you have mobility concerns but still want the stylish look of a freestanding tub. If a bather needs assistance in the bath, having a freestanding tub makes it easier for caregivers to help.
The bather has to get in the tub first, wait as the water fills, and wait again for the water to recede before stepping out. There are extra features, like air massage, available for an added cost.
For bathers who need help getting into and out of the bath, this walk-in tub is convenient because it has a 10-inch step entry instead of a standard tub that may be a few feet tall. It also has a seat with an angled backrest. Because of these features, bathers don’t have to be lowered into a tub or sit on a bench above the tub. And since it’s freestanding, caregivers can stand on either side (or both sides) of the tub as bathers get in or out, to provide additional stability. Another great benefit is that you can easily fill just the area below the seat to soak sore feet and achy legs without having to commit to a full bath. One drawback to any walk-in bathtub is that bathers have to enter the tub while it’s empty and wait for it to fill up and then wait for the water to drain away, which can be a long, chilly process. Keep a robe handy to stay warm after your bath while the water recedes. Price at time of publish: $8,249 Size: 54.25 x 34.25 x 42.5 inches | Material: AquateX | Water Capacity: Information unavailable | Max. Number of Occupants: One If you’re looking for heated backrests and relaxing air jets, then the Kohler Stargaze freestanding tub might be the best fit for you. When space and budget are bigger concerns, we recommend the Siglo Round Japanese Soaking Tub from Signature Hardware.
What to Know About Freestanding Tubs Before Shopping:
Size
Freestanding tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The Siglo Round Japanese Soaking Tub is just 41 inches in diameter, but there are several others on our list of the best freestanding tubs that stretch more than 6 feet long. Width and depth also vary, so it’s best to figure out how much space you have to work with in your bathroom before you shop for bathtubs.
Material
There are several different kinds of bathtub materials. Acrylic, solid surfacing, stone composites, cast iron, and metals are all used to manufacture freestanding tubs. “Acrylic with fiberglass support is the most common and lightest in terms of weight,” says Bryan Huie, technical support manager at Duravit North America. “Cast Iron is considered the most durable but also the heaviest and most expensive. From a durability perspective, solid surface would be a step above acrylic due to the fact it is harder to scratch or damage.”
Water Capacity
The average bath uses 35 to 50 gallons of water, and some of the smaller freestanding tubs are on par with that average. The smallest tub on our list of best freestanding bathtubs has a maximum water capacity of 44 gallons, but most of the tubs range from 55 to 90 gallons. The XXL freestanding tub from Badeloft has a water capacity of 140 gallons. One important thing to consider with water capacity, aside from the impact on your water bill, is the added weight of the water. For example, a tub that weighs 100 pounds and holds 50 gallons of water will weigh around 500 pounds when filled to capacity. Make sure your flooring is properly supported to handle that amount of weight. “It’s a good idea to add extra blocking or framing under a freestanding tub, especially around a center drain,” Conoan says.
Number of Occupants
Some freestanding tubs are built for two bathers, and some are intended for a single user. If you know you’d specifically like a bath built for two, be sure to check the manufacturer’s product details to make sure it can accommodate the added weight. Even if the tub is built for two, many homeowners enjoy the extra room for single users, as well. This extra space is especially nice for tall bathers.
Your Questions, Answered
How do you secure a freestanding bathtub?
“Believe it or not, it is simply secured with just the drain connection into the floor,” says Huie. “This connection will hold the place of the tub. Because these tubs average over 200 pounds without water, gravity helps keep the tub from shifting and negates the need from screwing into the floor.”
How do you remove a bathtub?
Removing a tub requires disconnecting the waste and overflow, cutting the silicone seal, and prying the tub away. If you don’t have the proper tools or aren’t confident in your skills, contact a professional plumber or contractor to remove your bathtub.
Are freestanding tubs easy to install?
Generally speaking, it is easy to install a freestanding tub, since it just has to be placed over the drain and secured, but there are a few obstacles that make it more difficult. First, many freestanding tubs are very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver inside the house and into place without the help of several people. Freestanding tubs that have any blowers or heating elements will have electrical considerations as well as plumbing. “It is very important to check the specifications and pre-installation requirements for an air or jet tub,” says Huie. “Many times, there are specific spacing, electrical, and access requirements that vary, based on manufacturer and model.” We recommend using licensed plumbers and electricians to properly install your freestanding tub.
Who We Are
Megan Boettcher is a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens who writes about a variety of topics, including home design, holiday crafts, and more. To make this list, she researched freestanding tubs and the many spa-like features available. She also consulted with Chris Conoan of CJC Construction and Bryan Huie, technical support manager at Duravit North America.
