One of the best luxuries of this world is soaking in a warm bath at the end of a very long day. However, if you have ever tried it, you probably have realized also how difficult it also is to possibly get in and out of a tub or find one that you can lie in, in a comfortable position. The best soaking tub is one that allows you to get in and out comfortably and provides you one of the best environments to have a soak. These soaking tubs are normally much deeper than the standard tub and can even be contoured for a soothing, comfortable bathing experience.
In this article, we’re going to highlight the main features of the best soaking tubs out there and why they are important when it comes to choosing the right one. Whether size is important to you, the material it is made of, its water capacity or its overall depth warranty, each individual feature will be defined and explained to help you on your tub search of the perfect soak.
Through our research, (hours and hours of tub time—which was very relaxing research), we’ve looked through catalogues and catalogues of tubs to pick out the very best for you. Through our comparison table, in-detail reviews of each product, and our final buying guide, at the end of this article, we’re going to reveal the name of our best soaking tub on the market—but don’t skip to the end!
More features: freestanding bathtub, built-in waste and overflow drain with brass tube
The Kingston Brass Aqua Eden Claira can hold 80 gallons of water and features an overall dimension of 64.94” L x 31.88” W x 22.44” H. And more interestingly, it isn’t that heavy, and it comes with a waste kit, overflow drain, and drain assembly when you purchase it. The Kingston Brass Aqua Eden Claira has a pedestal tub design and soaking bath therapy. You can be sure it’s worth the price because of its solid surface material and matte white finish that amp up its aesthetics, and it’s also constructed to last long.
The Kingston Brass Aqua Eden Claira is part of the Kingston Brass Aqua Eden Models. While the Aqua Eden Contemporary Pedestal Double Ended, Aqua Eden Acrylic Clawfoot Square Tub, and Aqua Eden 68″ Contemporary Freestanding Double are other options in the Aqua Eden family, the Aqua Eden Claira features better quality, enhanced capacity, wider dimensions, and is more renowned for its appealing solid surface.
More features: three-wall-alcove configuration, left drain
PROFLO PFS6030LSKWH features acrylic construction and composites reinforcement. This makes it easy to clean because acrylic is a porous material that creates a barrier between water and the soaking tub’s surface so dirt and scum do not adhere. All you need is a light wipe or a spray down to keep the tub sparkling.
To ensure optimal quality, the manufacturer tests all their products before they leave the factory for distribution. Additionally, this soaking bathtub is protected by a warranty of 5 years which is 5 times longer than the standard warranty for such tubs.
It comes with an integral skirt to install it in a three-wall-alcove configuration, and the base is pre-leveled to ease set up. The drain is acquired separately for installation on the left side.
The bottom of the tub features a textured slip-resistant surface so you can safely move about.
ProFlo PFS6030LSK has a water capacity of up to 33 gallons. When buying a soaking tub, you should confirm the length and width of its base to know if you would fit in it. For this product, the basin length and width are 45 ½ inches and 19 inches respectively.
More features: non-slip bottom, UPC & CSA certified, sealed drain design
Woodbridge has been manufacturing bathroom and kitchen products since 2005 and they have a large selection of products. The Woodbridge B1536.MB-Drain&O is a well-built bathtub that is made from 100% Lucite acrylic with an attractive glossy white finish. This tub is reinforced with fiberglass and Ashland resin to ensure that it’s strong and durable for daily use. The exterior dimensions are: 59” long by 22½” high by 17¾” deep. The seating dimensions inside the basin are: 41” long by 18” wide.
This bathtub is built to last with an upper bearing capacity of 1,000 lbs. The bathtub has double walls to maximize thermal retention in the water to maximize the length of your desired water temperature. This tub is suitable for 1-2 people bathing at once and it’s a cost-effective option without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal for your bathroom. The non-slip bottom meets the ASTM standards and it helps to keep you safer when you bathe.
You can install the Woodbridge B1536.MB-Drain&O on any floor that has a drain outlet. The sealed overflow is fully integrated to prevent any leaks during the bath installation. The drain and overflow finish can be chosen to ensure that they match the decor in your bathroom. The surface is easy to clean, stain and scratch-resistant and high-gloss for enduring good looks. This is a more accessible bathtub that’s easy to install, practical to use and it looks great for a relatively low price. Full certification and a warranty are supplied with this tub and a support team is available for any queries you may have.
More features: brushed nickel drain and overflow included, cUPC Certified
The Empava EMPV-FT1518 sets its own rules as one of the best free-standing tubs on the market. Designed with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, you can rest assured that your investment won’t go to waste with this soaking tub.
For a “Pure-Scape”, feeling, this standing tub looks luxurious and feels it, too. With its 100% glossy white acrylic finish and its modern and contemporary stand-alone design, this tub fits into any interior decor in your bathroom with its versatile design.
When we mean versatile—we really mean it. The Empava EMPV-FT1518 can not only be freestanding and ergonomic, but also be paired with any tub filler, so you can easily match it perfectly with your decor.
It is also highly durable, designed with 100 percent white acrylic and reinforced fiberglass so you can feel assured that it will last!
The Empava EMPV-FT1518 has a water capacity of up to 58 gallons! Which is a lot of water and can fit a grown man—easily. The bottom of the tub is fixed with adjustable metal feet so you can always feel stable. no matter what surface your tub is on.
With a capacity of 58 gallons, you can definitely enjoy this freestanding tub with a depth of 15”. The set up is also ridiculously easy, with adjustable metal feet underneath the tub for stability, and a pop-up drain pre-installed.
More features: cUPC approved, back is reinforced with polyethylene resin and fiberglass, stainless steel bracket bottom, holds up to 1763.7 lbs
If you‘re looking for the deepest soak of your life, the FerdY-522 is one of the deepest tubs on the market—capable of holding up to 86 gallons and reaching down 17”.
Not only is it deep and voluminous, it also looks great on the outside. With a 100% glossy white, acrylic outside with a reinforced structure designed with fiberglass, this tub lives up to and lasts much longer than its 2-year warranty. That’s also because the material is highly protected against environmental threats so that it is non-toxic, non–cracking, high gloss, durable acrylic finish, easy to clean and stain-resistant—even to those household cleaning products.
You can easily install the FerdY-522 on your own, if you wanted to since it comes with an illustrated guide with step-by-step instructions. The leveling feet at the bottom of the tub are also easily adjustable and can make the bath tub stable, regardless of the surface.
The soaking tub also has an anti-sliding washer, so that it can take away the possibility of water leakage and the strip-type overflow helps avoid water being spilled over the surface—even when being occupied by two people.
You can enjoy the modern-curved design, which can fit in with any interior decor. It also doesn’t just look good—it also is designed with quality—with polyethylene resin and fiberglass, stainless steel brackets, and a double-walled reinforce design, so that you not only have assurance and protection but also insulation.
More features: built-in armrests, textured floor, reversible configuration
This acrylic bathtub was made for the bathroom that needs a touch of class and luxurious look. You will feel like a spoiled lord whenever you take a bath in it because it looks and feels good.
The bathtub is made with non-porous which needs very little maintenance to look new forever. Its clean design would fit in any modern space. You can use it in your new home or for a sleek bathroom revamp.
Most home developers like it because it is a 3-wall alcove that’s such a breeze to install. It is meant to be dropped in a custom tub surround and thanks to its reversible configuration, you can install its drain on the left or right.
The bathtub has a textured bottom to prevent you from slipping when showering or stepping in and out. If you add an air or whirlpool system, you will have the most invigorating bathing experience as often as you want.
Plus, since it’s made with acrylic, it maintains heat longer making your bath more cozy and relaxing. It is also slanted back with built-in armrests to give you the most relaxing and serene soaking.
More features: right hand drain hole, three wall alcove installation with tile flange
This Kingston Brass tub is one of Aqua Eden’s beautiful bath tubs loved by many for their aesthetic appeal and solid build. Just like all the others in the collection, it is perfect for the most relaxing soak and an intimate evening with your partner.
This tub boasts a rugged acrylic build with fiberglass and resin reinforcement. The acrylic gives it a smooth non-porous exterior while the fiberglass gives it structural integrity. You will love its glossy whit finish that will never grow old and as with all acrylic tubs, you won’t have to break a sweat cleaning and maintaining it.
The tub is super-easy to install and is preferred by many contractors and home developers. Easy installation is typical of apron alcove tubs. It is enclosed within 3 walls but has an exposed front apron.
Its lightweight build also contributes to its easy-installation. It weighs a mere 73 pounds which is nothing compared to what other types of bathtubs weigh.
The tub has a large water capacity of 55.6 gallons so you can fully soak yourself. And its water depth is an impressive 14-3/8 inches.
Now that you are familiar with some of the best soaking tubs on the market, you should now find out how to pick the perfect one for you and your home. To help you make your search simple for a soaking tub, here is our buying guide:
You might think of it as a luxury item. However, especially as the days get colder and your body seems to ache more and more with each passing day, you’ll definitely be tempted to draw yourself a cozy bath.
Ever think that it would be impossible for a bath to get any better? Well, a soaking tub is literally designed to be the perfect form for taking a bath and made exactly for the perfect soak.
Types of soaking tubs
There are so many different types of soaking tubs. We’re going to be talking about the seven different kinds here. Knowing the differences between each of them will help you pick out which one will meet your needs.
The Single-Ended: This type of tub is the most commonly found and purchased for traditional homes. In this tub, you can find one rounded end and the other end is specifically set apart for the drain and the faucet. Normally, the single-ended tubs are set at a range of 48”-70”.
The Single Slipper: This tub is designed with similarities of the single-ended, since one end has the drain and faucet and the other end is formed to sit and lounge. What makes it different is its form, which is like the shape of a slipper. You should choose this tub if you’re looking for support for your back. You will normally find the single slipper to be anywhere from 43”-73”.
The Double-Ended: If you like to choose the side you want to be on, this type of soaking tub will give you the option of choosing which side you want to be on. You can even fit two bathers at once if it’s large enough. The faucet and the drain are often positioned in the center. You will normally find this type of tub from 55”-72”.
The Double Slipper: This is pretty much the same type as the double-ended except that it is shaped more like a slipper, so the back reclines. You can also accommodate two bathers in here and it is a bit bigger than a double-ended, with a size range of 59”-78”.
The Clawfoot: This type of tub you probably have seen in movies and they are the most traditional, having been around since the 1800s. You can even branch out in the clawfoot family from a single-ended to a single slipper, double-ended, and double-slipper. Normally they will be 48”-72”.
The Pedestal/Skirted: Instead of having “claw feet” for stands, the bathtub rests on a plinth. You can also get them in all kinds of designs, ranging from single to double. Normally, you can find them at a size range of 52”-78”.
Japanese Soaking: Finally, the last type of soaking tub is the perfect choice for someone who is not working with a lot of space. It is generally rather small in length, however, it is big in height. Normally, you can sit in these tubs since it has an integrated seat (especially at the height). They will be 40”-60” in width. The drain and faucet are normally found on the opposing side of the “seat”.
Normally, the installation process will most likely be better done with a professional crew. However, if you plan on doing it yourself, you will need to know a few tips.
First and foremost, make sure the floor is even and you’re carrying the bathtub in an upside down position. You’ll need to consider the fact that you will be working with pipes, plumbing, lumber, and silicone.
Before you buy, you should definitely check out these important features and make sure you know what is most important for you.
SizeNot only is the size important to know because it must be coherent with the space you have available, but it should also meet the requirements when it comes to fitting two people in the bathtub or what sort of setup you would like.
Normally, if there are two black slants and the drain is located at the center, the tub is actually designed to hold two people. However, if there is only one slope and the drain is stationed at one end of the bathtub, it is only meant for one person.
When talking about measurements, the floor of the tub—the length and the width—are the two most important measurements to see if you will fit comfortably in the tub.
However, the measurement is also important because you’ll need to know if the bathtub will fit in the room and within your home—like your doors and hallways. This is a minor detail, however, if it’s too big, it simply won’t fit in your house!
Normally, the material of the tub will dictate a few different aspects of your soaking tub owning experience. For one, the material can help with cleaning and can help with the longevity of its “life”.
You should look for soaking tubs that are designed from one of these three types of material:
Part of the tub that’s an extremely important feature to not ignore is the faucet. Not only is location important when it comes to faucets but so is the type of faucet.
A huge impact playing a part in what kind of faucet you will need installed will depend on the style and material of the soaking tub.
If you’re going to be getting a solid surface tub, for instance, you won’t be able to have a deck-mounted faucet. However, if your tub is going to be made of acrylic or cast iron, you’ll have various options at your disposal to be able to choose from.
To help you get a better sense of your selection, here are a few types of faucets:
The location of the drain will also make the difference (as well as the difficulty of where the plumbing goes).
When talking about the bathtub, the drain’s location will often reference whether or not the bathtub is set or designed for one or two people. The drain location will make the option quite clear.
When it is set in the middle, with an adequate, corresponding size, it will more likely than not be made for two people, like the Empava EMPV-FT1518. However, when the drain is set on one side (normally opposite the lounging side), then the drain will be for one person.
If you have the space for it, you should be looking for a tub that will be compatible enough for your long, body-length soak.
For a soaking tub, you should be looking at a minimum depth of 14” or more. That way, you’ll be assured that the water will then cover most of the body when bathing.
However, a huge point of consideration when talking about the depth of the tub would be to make sure to keep the bather in mind. For example, if the person using the tub has certain physical limitations, you’ll definitely want to consider that fact when that person has to get in and out.
Tub capacity
Here we’re going to talk not only about the water capacity but also about the person capacity. Some of these baths, called “double…” are designed to fit two bathers at once. If you’re on your own and only looking for a single tub, you’ll want to make sure that you get the proper type.
When it comes to water capacity, you’ll need to make sure that there is enough water in the tub that will cover your body—if not, this can be a very unpleasant (half warm, half cold) experience.
The shape of the soaking tub is also highly important. Not only will the shape of the tub dictate the style and if it matches with your interior decor, but it will also determine whether or not your tub will be able to fit into your desired space (most likely the bathroom).
Most traditional soaking bathtubs will come with clawed feet. However, you can definitely get a soaking tub that has a pedestal or is skirted. So, no, the feet are definitely not necessary.
Even though you already may think that a luxurious soaking tub is already special enough, there are some other special features that can add to the experience.
For example, you can enjoy some extra pillows, shelves, armrests, mood lighting, an aromatherapy system, a heater, and even a sound system. In case you’re searching for these, be sure to check the best whirlpool tubs out.
The warranty of not only the bath but also the material is immensely important. If you’re going to be investing in something, as well as the installation, you’ll want it to also have a long-lasting life so you can enjoy it for as long as possible.
Before you buy, here are some last minute questions you may have—already answered—about soaking tubs:
If you’ve decided to skip all the information above and head right to our verdict, here it is:
If you’re looking for the best of the best, our editor’s choice for one of the best acrylic tubs is the Kingston Brass VTAP543022R. With a pretty solid-standing water capacity of 56 gallons and a depth of 14-3/8”, you can definitely rest assured that you will fit in it easily. The tub is not only good on the inside, but it also has an excellent finish, sleek, and modern look on the outside. It is also compact and lightweight, making for a simple installment process.
The PROFLO PFS6030LSKWH is one of the best alcove bathtubs on the market. It is such high-quality that it is actually backed by a 5-year warranty and designed with high-quality acrylic material that is made to last.
The Signature Hardware 948062-R Sitka makes luxury affordable. Even if you’re on a budget, the amazing finish for any modern interior decor of this soaking tub makes you feel like you’re in a mansion. It is contemporary-styled, easy to clean and maintains heat longer, making it comfortable for you to have longer relaxing baths
We hope that this article has helped you sort out and define the best soaking tub for your luxury home experience.
Any thoughts on wooden baths? Your article is extremely comprehensive and I learned a lot. There is a lot to consider when buying a new bathtub that’s for sure. Thanks for a good read!
Thanks for the feedback, Jacqui. We appreciate your words. Could you please provide us with an example of a wooden bath you are talking about to understand what baths you would like to be reviewed.