Soaking Tub Guide

A soaking bathtub is just as delightful as it sounds. It is deeper and often longer than the average tub. Hoping to have one in your home? In this guide, we’ll cover soaking tub dimensions, the average soaking tub cost, plus the different types and materials you can choose from.

What is a Soaking Tub?

A soaking tub is a deep bath designed for long, comfortable soaks. Unlike standard bathtubs, soaking tubs are deeper, allowing you to immerse your entire body in water.

They come in various shapes and sizes, from traditional oval to more modern square or rectangular designs. Some may include features like built-in seats or contoured interiors for added comfort.

They don’t typically have jets or bubbles like a whirlpool tub; instead, they focus on providing a tranquil and relaxing experience.

Types of Soaking Tubs

Since a soaking tub is primarily focused on depth, you can find them in a variety of bathtub styles. Here are a few ways to find the right type of tub for you.

1. Placement. If you want to keep your tub in a specific area of the bathroom, then choose from corner soaking tubs, alcove soaking tubs, or freestanding soaking tubs.
2. Design. Perhaps you most want your tub to fit a certain aesthetic. In that case, you may want a garden soaking tub or Japanese soaking tub.
3. Materials. If you’re after a cast iron soaking tub or love the look of copper, then you may want to shop by bathtub material.
4. Functionality. Whether you want something large enough that it functions as a soaking tub for two or are looking for a soaking tub shower combo, the type of tub you want may ultimately depend on what it can do as opposed to what it looks like.

Not sure where to start? You can explore our picks for the best soaking tub or check out the best bathtub brands.

What Soaking Tub Dimensions Can I Choose From?

The dimensions of your tub will vary based on the type and functionality you need, but here are a few ways to consider the size.

Average Soaking Tub Dimensions

• Length: Typically between 60 inches (5 feet) and 72 inches (6 feet).
• Width: Usually around 30 to 40 inches.
• Depth: Often between 20 and 24 inches. This depth allows most people to soak with the water covering most of their body.

Small Soaking Tubs

• Length: Smaller soaking tubs might start at around 48 inches (4 feet). A round Japanese soaking tub can be even smaller.
• Width: Can be as narrow as 28 inches.
• Depth: Even small soaking tubs will have a depth of 20 inches or more.

Large Soaking Tubs

• Length: Can exceed 72 inches (6 feet).
• Width: May be wider than 40 inches.
• Depth: Some can be deeper than 24 inches, offering a more profound soaking experience.

Deep Soaking Tubs

The deepest soaking tubs available often come in depths of 27 to 32 inches. These are considered extra-deep soaking tubs and are designed to allow almost complete immersion of the body for a truly deep soak.

It’s important to note that while deeper tubs provide a more immersive experience, they also  have a few drawbacks to consider:

1. They require more water to fill.
2. They can be more challenging to enter and exit, especially for those with mobility issues.
3. The weight of the water when the tub is filled can be significant, so ensuring that your floor can support this weight is crucial.

If you’re considering one of the deepest soaking tubs available, it’s often a good idea to consult with a professional to ensure it’s suitable for your space and needs.

Deepest Soaking Tub/Shower Combo

The depth of a soaking tub in a tub/shower combo will generally be less than that of a standalone soaking tub due to practical and safety considerations. Typically, the depth might be around 20 inches or slightly more, but it’s less common to find extremely deep options in a combo unit as it needs to accommodate standing and showering safely.

The deepest options would likely be specialty or custom designs, which might push a bit deeper while still ensuring safety as a shower.

How Much Does a Soaking Tub Cost?

Soaking tubs can cost between $3,608 and $4,100. 

The cost of a soaking tub will vary depending upon the brand, size, and tub material. 

Keep in mind that installation and labor adds to the overall cost.

• For a basic soaking tub that uses your existing plumbing and doesn’t need additional bracing underneath it, you can expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $400 for installation.
• For a soaking tub that requires a newly built surround or foundation or unique plumbing solutions, expect to pay $1,000 and up for installation and materials.

Water Heater Costs

The water heater that was adequate for your old, standard bathtub might not work well for a soaking tub. Check with your bathroom contractor on whether you need to upgrade your water heater to support your new tub.

Additional Features

Your cost will also go up depending on which features you may want to include, like hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and more.

You can explore more cost information in our guide to bathtub replacement costs.

Bathroom Remodel Cost Calculator

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Other Bathtub Options to Consider

If you decide a soaking tub isn’t for you, there are still numerous options for new bathtubs for your bathroom, all of which offer unique benefits and drawbacks.

While you explore your bathtub remodeling options, you can also browse our contractor directory to see which pros are available in your area.

Modernize can also do the work for you. Click below to answer a few questions about your project, and we’ll match you to a bathroom remodeler perfect for your project.

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