Bathtubs are a standard feature of many homes. Some people simply prefer the luxurious bathing experience compared to a relaxing shower. But, don’t take this item for granted. When you find out about these best freestanding tubs, you’ll see how much more enjoyable bathing could be!
Freestanding tubs are a perfect statement bathtub for people who would want to spice up the appearance of their bathroom. They are easy to install and they will change the look of every space they’re in. But, in the sea of the amazing products on the market, how can you be certain you’ve found the right one?
If you’re shopping for a new bathtub, look no further!
We have created a list of the top 3 best freestanding tubs currently on the market, so you can know which items you shouldn’t miss.
Here we go!
Best Freestanding Tubs Comparison
1. Best Value For Money: FerdY Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Pretty design
- Provides extra comfort
- Easy to install
Cons
- Some users reported a faulty drain
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This is a great tub if you’re looking for a product that gives you what you paid for. It offers you a great and comfortable design for a price that you won’t feel too much. The tub is large enough for a somewhat bigger person, so most people will have some extra room to stretch without cold shoulders.
Everything is made from pure white glossy acrylic which is reinforced with fiberglass. At the same time, it’s very strong, as it can hold a weight of up to 1,750 lbs.
The overflow is stylish and slotted, and you can operate the drain with one toe tap. However, you won’t have too much versatility over design, as the drains only come with a chrome finish. Also, you’ll have to purchase the faucet separately, whether you want a freestanding or a wall-mounted version.
The installation process is very simple, so while you’ll probably have to install it with a friend, you might get by without calling for professional help. There is also an instruction manual with illustrations, and everything is explained step by step.
While some users reported a leaky drain or a drain that clogs easily, it’s easily replaceable and it’s affordable, so don’t let that stop you from making a purchase.
2. Premium Pick: Kohler Freestanding
Pros
- Traditional design
- Molded lumbar support
- Slip-resistance bath floor
- Spacious
Cons
- Very expensive
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We cannot talk about the best freestanding tubs without mentioning Kohler’s amazing cast iron baths. The brand has been making bathtubs from this material for over 135 years! This material is durable yet elegant, and it enables the manufacturer to make products in various colors and styles. Also, all enameled cast iron products from Kohler are made with 80% recycled material. This makes them as environmentally friendly as possible.
This freestanding tub is extremely durable. It is also resistant to scratches, stains, and impact. At the same time, it’s effortless to clean, so you won’t have too much hassle cleaning and maintaining it. The oval shape also makes cleaning effortless, as there are no harsh angles for dirt to pile upon. It’s very spacious and offers the best possible lumbar support and comfort during bathing.
Simultaneously, this is one of the safest tubs out there. It has a modern slip-resistant technology that isn’t just applied at the top of the surface but engraved in enamel. This ensures the safety is long-lasting.
However, what makes this freestanding tub stand out is the design. It looks like something that came from an old movie. The timeless look will make your bathroom become the talk of the town! Also, it comes in a wide variety of color options so you can personalize everything to fit your existing bathroom.
3. Budget Pick: Empava Freestanding Acrylic Tub
Pros
- Affordable
- Made in the USA
- Versatile
- Durable
Cons
- No texture finish for safety
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If you’re not a fan of fancy bubbles, colored lights, and other fancy features, then this might be the best freestanding tub. It offers simple options for a budget-friendly price.
While the tub is designed to be freestanding, you can differentiate the front and the back. For example, while both ends are shaped like a trapezium, the front has curved edges, while the back has sharp. The back rim is wider, as well, so you can use it with a Roman faucet if this is your thing. Also, since the tub comes without pre-drilled holes, you can use it mounted to the wall, as well as standalone – whichever you prefer.
The faucet isn’t included in the packaging, which is pretty standard for most tubs. However, the overflow and the pop-up drain are. Both are made with a chrome finish, offering you a sleek modern look. And if this sounds like too much shine for you – don’t worry.
The manufacturer allows you to replace them with a brushed nickel finish free of charge. You can even place a special order if you’d like to have everything personalized!
Keep in mind that this is a big bathtub. It’s large enough to fit two people, but only one will be comfortable. It has an effective capacity of around 56 gallons, which is pretty much.
The tub is made of white, glossy acrylic, but it’s reinforced with fiberglass, making it durable and strong while keeping it easy to clean. However, since it doesn’t have any kind of texture finish, it can become quite slippery, so make sure you’re using a bathmat.
Things To Consider Before Making A Purchase – Buyer’s Guide
Many products can be considered as some of the best freestanding tubs out there. However, this still doesn’t answer the question – which one is the best for you?
To know which is the best tub for your bathroom, there are a few things you need to consider before purchasing any product. We’ve listed some of the most important features the best freestanding tubs need to have. Of course, not all of these features are equally important. You might find something to be essential, while other features are worth the compromise. However, knowing what to look for can be beneficial.
Here are some things you should consider!
Size
This one is quite straightforward. You need to consider the size of your freestanding bathtub. Not only should it be large enough to fit you – and, perhaps, your partner as well – but it should also fit the existing space in the bathroom. If it’s too large, your entire bathroom might need remodeling!
And if it’s too small, you might find that it not only cannot fit you, but it will also look quite bad in the environment. Also, it should be large enough for you to immerse comfortably inside of it. If any of these three factors isn’t met, the bathroom won’t fit you and you won’t be satisfied, one way or another.
Style
You should also consider the style of the freestanding tub you want. You want a tub that will fit your bathroom. A freestanding tub will always be the central piece of the bathroom, so this is something that is more important than it might seem at first. Look at the shape and the style of it. If it looks traditional, it won’t fit your modern mirror, and so on.
Quality
Materials determine the quality of the tub. The tub needs to be durable and you should be able to maintain it easily. The material most people choose is a glossy white reinforced acrylic. However, there are many more options out there, and some are unjustifiably left out. This includes:
- Cast iron
- Copper
- Stone
For example, if you’re someone who likes having long, warm baths, you might want to consider cast iron. This material is excellent at retaining heat, and it can ensure the water is hot for a longer time. However, it is extremely heavy, so you might have some issues installing it. Copper and stone look amazing, but they can be quite expensive.
Extra Features
Some people like to keep it simple. They just want to have their bath and get it over with. Others, however, like having long, fancy baths, with jets and LED lights. Look for a bath that offers features that you feel like you’ll love using. Don’t overpay for a luxurious product you’ll hardly ever use.
Faucet
Unfortunately, many of the best freestanding tubs don’t come with a faucet included. This means you’ll be the one responsible for finding the appropriate faucet and financing it. You have to be able to attach it and that it fits the tub style. This is why it’s important to imagine a style of faucet that would go well with the bathtub you plan on purchasing.
Price
Whether you’d like to admit this or not, price is one of the essential factors that come into play when deciding on the best product for you. Freestanding bathtubs tend to be quite expensive, so it’s no wonder you’d want to get the best value for the price possible. Make sure you’ve checked out plenty of options, so you can be certain you’ve found the product at the best possible price.
How to Install a Freestanding Tub?
Installing a freestanding tub doesn’t have to be a challenging experience. It all comes down to the model of the bathtub you’ve found, and whether or not it has the instruction and all the necessary pieces for the installation.
In short, it can all come down to these few little steps:
- Choose the place; This should be a compromise between your existing bathroom and your desires. Technically, you can place a freestanding tub wherever, as long as there is a plumbing installation.
- Choose the tub; We’ve discussed this a lot in this article. Find the tub that works perfectly for your needs.
- Prepare the floor; Many people wonder: ‘Do you need to tile around a freestanding tub?’. While technically you don’t have to, it’s a desirable course of action if you plan to place the tub near the wall. This will prevent water damage.
- Place the bathtub; The waste location in the bathtub has to align with the drain hole on the floor. It might be a good idea to measure the drain under the tub to ensure at what level it’s aligned with the floor. Then, place the tub by the side on a cloth or a blanket.
- Clean the drain hole; Before you install some of the best freestanding tubs, you’ll need a clean drain hole. Make sure you’ve cleaned any dirt and debris from the drain hole. Use a damp cloth if needed.
- Prepare the drain tailpiece; Place a plastic brushing on the tailpiece. Then, attach it to the tub from the bottom. Slide in the nuts, then screw everything up the tub’s drain. Lubrication might be needed.
- Install the bathtub; Finally, guide the freestanding tub into position. Caulk it at the point of contact with the floor. If you don’t know how to secure an acrylic freestanding tub correctly, contact a professional for help or find a tutorial online. This isn’t difficult once you understand the basics.
With this, the installation process is complete! It’s much easier than installing a whirlpool tub, or even a new shower system!
Should You Get A Freestanding Tub?
Some people still don’t understand why are people looking at the best freestanding tubs. The answer is – why wouldn’t they?
This type of bathtub is very versatile, and you can fit it in your bathroom even if you don’t have a conventional type of plumbing. They don’t need to be placed right next to the wall, so they can be true central pieces of your bathroom. Not to mention they look amazing!
Before you purchase your freestanding tub, make sure you’ve figured out what features are essential for you, and what kind of bathtub would fit you and your existing bathroom the best. We hope this guide helped you make the right choice.
