Everybody needs a good soak in a bath of steaming hot water now and then. The warm water eases our muscles and is the best remedy for washing away the stress of the day, but what do you do if you only have a small space and no room for a full-size tub? We have found 5 of the best soaking tubs for small spaces available.
Soaking tubs that fit into the smallest spaces will give you the whole bath experience without cramping your style. While you may not get all the bells and whistles of bubbles and water jets, soaking tubs offer the perfect compromise for creating a luxurious bathroom despite a lack of square footage.
What is a Soaking Tub?
Soaking tubs are deeper than the average bathtub. A standard tub will average between 14 inches deep, while a soaking tub will average 24 inches. This, of course, depends on the manufacturer. The greater depth allows you to submerge your body for the ultimate in relaxation. Soaking tubs are often the same length as a full-sized tub, but,soaking tubs for small bathrooms sacrifice length so they can fit into a smaller area.
You may be thinking that a standard tub will be good enough for soaking, and you would be correct, but the relaxing effect of soaking your entire body at once cannot be overstated. In a regular tub, a total submersion is almost impossible to do.
Soaking tubs mean you don’t have to choose between submerging your upper body only to have your knees exposed or vice-versa. Plus, most small bathroom designs usually forego the bathtub for space reasons.
Benefits of Soaker Tubs
Soaker tubs are a fantastic option for aesthetics. They also have a lot of therapeutic appeal for homeowners who enjoy the wave of relaxation only full submersion can provide after having one of those days.
A good soak can lower blood pressure, improve your circulation, and help you sleep better. The Arthritis Foundation recommends soaking in a tub to help reduce the discomfort of arthritis symptoms.
Soaker Tub Materials
A significant factor when choosing soaker tubs for small bathrooms will be the material from which it is made.
Fiberglass is affordable and lightweight, with tubs created from several layers of molded fiberglass and a Gelcoat resin layered on top. They are cheap, and their lightweight makes installation straightforward. However, durability is not on par with materials like American Standard’s Americast.
Acrylic tubs are formed in a vacuum and use fiberglass sheets underneath as reinforcement. Like fiberglass, acrylic tubs are lightweight, affordable, easy to install, and can be created in various colors. However, they are prone to scratching and discoloration.
Porcelain on steel or enameled steel is another popular option because it’s affordable. The baths are molded from a thin layer of steel with a porcelain coating giving it a gloss finish that will last years.
Best Soaking Tubs for Small Spaces
You will encounter a bewildering array of options when shopping for soaker tubs suitable for a small bathroom. Our list of favorites should help narrow down your options and make your choice easier. They are not listed in any particular ranking.
We have selected 4 types of soaking tubs:
alcove soaker tub - is surrounded by walls on 3 sides.
clawfoot soaking tub - sits on legs and is freestanding.
freestanding soaker tub - can be placed anywhere in the bathroom. It is not attached to walls.
walk in soaking tub - is great for those with mobility issues. You simply open the door and walk into the tub.
#1. FerdY Bali 47 Inch Freestanding Soaking Bathtub
FerdY Bali 47 Inch Freestanding Soaking Bathtub
The acrylic and fiberglass combination prevents slippage and is safe for standing while showering. The durable material is long-lasting, super easy to clean, and resists fading and stains. Feel free to add any bath oils and salts to enhance your experience, as this tub will shrug them off.
#2. WOODBRIDGE 54 Inch Acrylic Freestanding Contemporary Soaking Tub
WOODBRIDGE 54 Inch Acrylic Freestanding Contemporary Soaking Tub
Its fiberglass construction delivers strength and durability, while a Lucite acrylic topcoat creates a lasting luxurious shine.
Enjoy your warm soak for longer because the double-walled insulation maintains the water at the desired temperature for much longer than standard tubs.
The brushed nickel drain and overflow complements this chic style.
#3. WOODBRIDGE B0021 Clawfoot Tub 54 Inch Bathtub
WOODBRIDGE B0021 Clawfoot Tub 54 Inch Bathtub
The slipper claw feet are made from chrome and contrast with the white glossy acrylic tub which gives a chic look.
The double walled design gives maximum insulation and keeps your bathtub water at its desired temperature longer.
This tub is 30 3/4" deep.
#4. Kingston Brass VTAP543022L Aqua Eden 54 Inch Acrylic Alcove Tub
Kingston Brass VTAP543022L Aqua Eden 54 Inch Acrylic Alcove Tub
The surface is durable, non-porous, and beautifully glossy. Plus, it’s easy to clean, which is always a bonus with bathroom fixtures.
#5. Walk In 52 Inch Soaking Tub from Empava
Walk In 52 Inch Soaking Tub from Empava
This soaking tub from Empava is ADA-certified with excellent durability. The glossy finish will add an air of elegance to any small bathroom design. The extra safety considerations do mean the tub is around 20% wider than similar designs.
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