Small Bathtub Ideas for Small Bathrooms

A standard alcove bathtub — one with a surround along three sides —works as a small bathtub with the right dimensions. With a range of options in lengths of 59 inches and smaller and widths 30 inches or less, the right alcove tub can tuck away against a bathroom wall, leaving space for easy foot traffic.

While a corner bathtub typically requires more square feet of space than an alcove tub, the design might work for your small bathroom. Since it fits into a corner, this type of bathtub can make more efficient use of wall space than a rectangular tub. Depending on your bathroom layout, this design might free up valuable wall and floor space.

A small freestanding tub gives you another option for a small bathroom tub design. These tubs don’t require a surround structure like a drop-in or alcove tub and you can plan a small bathroom tub design that orients them in the most space-saving fashion. In addition to stylish design options, available whirlpool and air bath features, as well as soaking depths up to 17 inches and more, mean you don’t have to sacrifice comfort in a small bathroom bathtub.

Like a freestanding tub, a small clawfoot bathtub can be perfect for a small bathroom tub design. This design offers the same benefits a freestanding tub does — no surround structure, options to orient it for the best fit — but gives your bathroom a more  vintage or traditional feel. Clawfoot tubs with different options for the color and finish of the feet make it easy to match the look of your small bathroom.

The key benefit of a walk-in bathtub is a design that makes it much easier to step into the tub, but many of these tubs have an additional benefit — a smaller footprint than a standard bathtub. A walk-in tub will be a more expensive option and you won’t have the luxury of stretching out, but available jets and headrests add comfort while hand-held shower heads and other features make this an accessible, full-feature small bathroom tub option.

You might think that a bathtub in a small bathroom means cramped and uncomfortable bathing, but even small bathtubs offer comfort and convenient features that can turn even a small bathroom into a space for relaxation:

• A deep soak can make up for not having room to stretch out.
• Whirlpool jets and air-bath jets can offer an energizing or soothing effect. Even better, adjustable jets let you dial in the perfect massage.
• Integrated lights offer the elevated appeal of a home spa.