Best Types of Small Bathtubs

When you have very little space to spare in your bathroom, a small soaking tub might seem like a dream that’s a little too far out of reach. But you might be surprised by what you can find that fits into that tiny space. 

While most small bathtubs tend to be between 48 and 55 inches long, there are some options – especially walk-in tubs – that fit into a space of 36 inches in length. And while small bathtubs are usually made of fiberglass or acrylic, there are other materials to be had, such as cast iron.

Here’s what you need to know about the different types of small bathtubs available and which one might look best in your tiny space.

What Are the Smallest Bathtub Sizes?

From the smallest soaking tub to the smallest clawfoot tub, here are bathtub types and the measurements of their most compact versions.

Below, we take a look at several tub options in depth, the pros and cons of the smallest bathtub types, and what you can expect each to cost.

Small Bathtub and Shower Combo

While showers can be incredibly small – imagine a tiny corner shower that is just big enough to convert a half-bath into a full one – adding in a tub always means more space is required. Fortunately, there are smaller tubs that are designed as a full tub and shower combo.

These tubs are typically alcove tubs that have a showerhead coming from one wall. Fancier options can include multiple showerheads, freestanding tubs with shower surrounds (usually a vintage curtain) and even corner tubs with a shower enclosure.

You can expect a small tub/shower combo to cost an average of $295 – $700.

Small Soaking Tub

You don’t have to sacrifice luxury if you have a tiny space. Many soaking tubs are designed to let the user sit almost upright in the tub and enjoy a water level up to their shoulders.

The upright design of these tubs means that they can easily fit into a smaller space. It’s a great way to bring a shot of luxury into a bathroom that might be too small for a more sizable vanity. Pair a soaking tub with relaxing lighting and you’ve got a winner for any tiny space.

You can expect a small soaking tub to cost an average of $600 – $900. However, soaking tubs can easily get into the low thousands depending on brand, features, and the material it is made of.

Small Walk-In Tub

While most walk-in tubs can fit into a standard space for a bathtub, there are some that fit into even tighter spaces. Walk-in tubs can be as small as 36 inches long and 32 inches wide, which fits into some of the tiniest bathrooms.

Keep in mind that these walk-in tubs are small enough that the only option is to sit upright in them; if you want a walk-in tub that allows you to submerge your whole body by reclining on the seat, you’ll want to go with a larger version.

Given the specialty requirements of walk-in tubs, even small walk-in tubs cost an average of $2,500 – $4,000.

Small Alcove Tubs

These bathtubs are designed to tuck away into a space surrounded by three walls. Alcove tubs keep the bathtub out of the way of the rest of the room, allowing you to configure the toilet and vanity in a variety of ways.

Alcove tubs are incredibly versatile, fitting into classic bathrooms with a vintage feel or turning into a colorful showcase of bathing in a more modern space. Because they fit into the space created by three walls, they tend to be less time-consuming and expensive to install.

You can expect a small alcove tub to have an average cost of $295 – $650.

Bathtub Remodel Guide

Learn more about all of these types of tubs, including pros, cons, and cost breakdowns.

Take Me There

Small Freestanding Tubs

Though it might seem like freestanding tubs are designed for larger bathrooms, there are models that can look great in smaller bathrooms and still offer plenty of space for other necessities.

One of the most common freestanding tub styles is the clawfoot tub. Often seen as a throwback style, this tub has found new life in recent years as a strong fixture in even a sleek, modern bathroom. These tubs have the advantage of sitting where you want, unconfined by walls, so your imagination can run wild.

You can expect a small freestanding tub to cost an average of $650 – $1,000.

Small Drop-In Tubs

These tubs are designed with a surround of at least six inches, which can be used for storage space in a tiny bathroom. Because drop-in tubs need the extra space on each side of the tub, it pays to keep that in mind as you choose a smaller tub for your tiny bathroom.

A good option for a drop-in tub is a deeper and shorter soaker tub, one that imparts luxury while allowing for that extra storage space you desperately need.

The average cost of a small drop-in tub ranges from $600 – $1,200. The final price depends on any construction needed to accommodate the drop-in element of this remodel.

Small Massage Tubs

Just as with walk-in or soaking tubs, some massage tubs allow the user to sit in a more upright position rather than a recline, which saves on space and keeps the comfort and luxury you expect from a jetted tub. You can choose a massage tub with either air jets or water jets.

Choosing an angled back can keep you comfortable and allow for a longer soak. Massage tubs can come in all types, from walk-in models to corner tubs to small, round or oval styles that are generally freestanding.

Small massage tubs cost an average of $1,000 – $2,000.

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Choosing the Right Tub for Your Small Bathroom

As you plan to choose the best small bathtub for your tiny space, consider these factors:

Size

Obviously size is one of the most important aspects of choosing a bathtub for a small bathroom. Measure the space very carefully before you embark on your journey of choosing a bathtub or any other fixtures for the room.

Style

The style you choose for your bathroom is a very personal one. But remember that the best bathtub won’t look all that great when it’s surrounded by other items in the space that simply don’t have the same aesthetic. Choose a style that speaks to you and suits your space best.

Materials

The options for materials will depend on your aesthetic and budget. Small bathtubs come in every sort of material, from lightweight acrylic or fiberglass to cast iron or even custom materials, like stone or marble. The material you choose will have a big impact on the final price. The more custom you get, the more expensive the bathtub will be.

Price

The cost of your bathtub will always matter, but how much it matters depends upon your budget and what else you are doing with the bathroom. If the tub is meant to be the showpiece of the space, spending a bit more on it can make the right kind of difference. If you are remodeling a small bathtub on a budget, consider off-the-shelf solutions that are already the size you need. 

Have your heart set on something like cast iron? You may be able to find an old cast iron tub and refurbish/refinish it. 

Installation

When you have a tiny bathroom, it might be tough to install some bathtubs. Consider, for instance, a clawfoot tub – even the smallest ones are pretty heavy and might be difficult to fit through the doorway. Before you choose the small bathtub of your dreams, make sure it will actually fit in the space so installation can commence. 

Measure the doorway and any narrow hallways you will have to pass through in addition to the space the tub will go into.

When you are choosing the best small bathtub for your space, consider what you want most in a bathtub – a showpiece to make friends ooh and aah, or a stylish space meant to create a spa-like feeling in your home? No matter what your choice is, a small bathtub can pack a big punch.