Are you looking to upgrade the level of your bathroom from a seemingly ordinary room to a spa-like level?
If your answer is yes, then a drop in the bathtub is the way to get all of the exquisiteness mentioned above and much more with very little effort.
Drop-in bathtubs offer the new way of getting your bathroom to the highest of heights, and there’s an endless variety of these awesome bathroom items that will revolutionize your bathroom décor by their mere presence.
The tubs come from different brands with different makes, shapes, and sizes, and here we are about to discuss everything concerning the best drop in bathtubs in the drop in line.
So relax, and let’s begin.
Contents
What Does Drop In Bathtub Mean?
A drop in bathtub is another unique freestanding tub in the category of freestanding tubs whose name implies a drop in, meaning it is a tub dropped into an already built structure or frame fitting for it.
A drop in tub requires a little bit of installation process as after setting up the tub within the frame, there is still a need to close up or level up the surrounding deck and area around it.
And, its installation varies from the alcove method to a freestanding or any form you prefer.
Unique and affordable despite their sophisticated appeal and looks, you can get them in different sizes, makes, and shapes to suit your taste.
Apart from that, the tubs are replaceable, and new models can be fitted into the current surrounding with little or no adjustments and spending.
Top 3 Recommendations
- Best Overall – KINGSTON BRASS Contemporary Alcove Acrylic Bathtub
- Runner Up – American Standard Studio Integral Apron Bathtub
- Best Functional – American Standard Evolution Deep Soaking Tub
The Best Drop In Bathtubs in 2022 Reviews
1. KINGSTON BRASS Contemporary Alcove Acrylic Bathtub – Best Budget-Friendly Bathtub
As a piece of quality bathroom decor, KINGSTON BRASS Contemporary Drop in Bathtub offers quality in a way that your pocket size would hardly feel the difference.
An alcove tub with a three-wall alcove configuration with tile flange measuring 60 inches long, KINGSTON BRASS features a solid acrylic construction with fiberglass and resin reinforcement.
The rectangular-shaped drop in tub features a water depth of 13-16 inches to overflow, and with its 30.69 inches wide and 22.06 inches height, it holds approximately 58.2 gallons of water.
The bathtub drain is left with overflow holes and can stay put between two walls while having a three-wall alcove installation method with a tile flange.
It’s a quality that allows you to save money and is completely user-friendly.
Pros
- Durable acrylic tub
- Three wall installation with integral tile flange and apron
- Designed to prevent overflow
- Pocket-friendly and saves money
- User-friendly
Cons
- No color options
2. American Standard Studio Integral Apron Bathtub – Best Ergonomic Design
The American Standard Integral Apron Bathtub offers your bathroom a way to stand out from most bathrooms with a unique yet minimalistic design.
Unlike many, the model is ADA compliant measuring 60 x 30 x 18 inches (length x width x height), for a relaxing experience for people of all ages and even for those with disabilities.
An acrylic tub featuring top-grade high gloss acrylic with fiberglass reinforcements that are UV stable and stain-resistant that holds up to 48 gallons.
For total body comfort, Studio Alcove offers integral lumbar support and textured floor as a safety feature.
With pre-leveled tub bottom, the drop in bathtub features a right drain with three wall alcove installation types.
Also, enjoy an integral 3-sided tile/water retention flange with an integral apron for recess application.
Pros
- ADA compliant
- Durable
- Features integral lumbar support
- Textures floor for safety
- Water retention flange
Cons
- Drain holes clog easily
3. American Standard Evolution Deep Soaking Tub – Most Comfortable Design
One of the main ideas behind a drop in tub is comfort, and American Standard Evolution Soaking Tub is so comfortable.
Featuring deep and roomy space as a deep tub, the tub make is a glossy acrylic made with durable fiberglass reinforcement.
Also features a slip-resistant floor and a pre-leveled tub bottom with a drop-in or an under-mount installation option that lets you relax comfortably.
What’s more, you get a full coverage 18.5-inch depth to overflow feature.
Wide contoured lumbar support alongside molded armrests accentuates the comfort that the 72 x 36 x 21.5 inches bathtub offers, which supports a dual accessory deck area.
Pros
- High-acrylic tub with fiberglass reinforcement
- Molded-in armrests
- Deeper tub for deeper soaking
- Prevents slipping
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Flexible installation methods
Cons
- Deep-soak max drain sold separately
- Not suitable for taller people
4. Archer 60″ X 32″ Drop-In Bath – Safest Bathtub Features
As another Kohler model, the Archer drop in bathtubs are uniquely designed for versatility and comfort, and this model offers that with some level of safety in mind.
Archer Drop in the bathtub employs a textured bottom surface which perfectly ensures safety from slips and falls when considering its deep shape and acrylic material composition.
The design’s complimentary 19-inch step-over height depth matches well with the 60 x 32 inches dimensions and comfortably houses a molded lumbar arch that supports natural body curves.
The product also includes a slotted overflow and requires K-7271/7272 Clearflo slotted. The tub is also reversible and the manufacturer offers a 1-year guarantee
Pros
- Comfortable depth
- Classic design
- Safe Textured bottom surface
- 19-inch step-over height
- Molded back support
- Reversible drain
Cons
- Material can dent easily
- Not suitable for tall people
5. KOHLER Underscore Bath Apron – Best Traditional Bathtub Design
If you want that luxurious soak but with a bathtub that has the air of something more classical, then KOHLER Underscore is the one for you.
A prime model with a simple classical design quite common to traditional bathtubs with a molded lumbar support and a form-fitted backrest for bathing.
Features slotted overflow and an integral flange and apron for easy installation also come in.
The product is a deep rectangular 32 inches wide and 21 inches high style with a 68-gallon intake capacity.
Pros
- Classic design
- Easy to use
- Molded back support
- Slotted overflow present
- Simple installation
Cons
- Not so durable
- Too simplistic
6. Fine Fixtures Drop In White Soaking Bathtub – Best Compact-sized Bathtub
Fine Fixtures Drop in bathtub is the one that offers you some personal relaxation time in compact style.
As an exclusive small-sized model, the soaking bathtub comes in 54 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 19 inches high perfect to fit one individual and for those who don’t have space for a larger tub.
Made from premium acrylic fiberglass material with glossy porcelain finish preventing cracks, chips, and fading as well as protection from salt and oils.
The surface is slip-resistant and comes with a brass trip lever included, and can be installed in both right and left-side drains.
Pros
- Compact-sized tub
- Slip-resistant to prevent slipping
- Sleek porcelain finish
- Crack, chip, and fade resistant
- Features a brass trip lever
- Right and left-drain type
Cons
- Can’t fit two people at the same time
- Smaller than regular bathtubs
7. Empava Acrylic Whirlpool Corner Bathtub – Most Functional Drop In Bathtub
The Empava Acrylic Whirlpool Corner Bathtub is one of those drop in tubs that you cannot but notice with its endless functionality and features, and that is why it gets the spot of our best overall choice this time around.
With a 100% glossy white acrylic look, the whirlpool tub offers a slip-resistant tub matched with a perfect 59 inches of length with a lumbar arch for body support alongside 59 inches of width and 28 inches of height, making it suitable for two-person bathing.
Also, the headrest allows users to rest head comfortably.
The walk-in tub offers 16 inches of soaking depth with a 100-gallon water capacity using 10 water jets to expel water and a pre-installed thermostat for optimum hydrotherapy massage experience with whirlpool jets.
Plus, the tub has a self-leveling base and convenient storage space for shampoos and the likes.
The walk-in model includes 10 water jets with adjustable directions and flow removable PU pillow, overflow, faucet, shower-head, a left-hand drain, and water jets, all with alcove installation.
Pros
- Multi-functional walk-in for hydrotherapy massage
- Acrylic make
- Slip-resistant surface
- A drop in soaking bathtub
- Self-leveling base
- Features convenient storage
- A complete set
Cons
- No heater function to keep warm water
- Tub filler not included
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Drop in Tubs
Material
All drop in bathtubs come in a variety of materials. The acrylic tubs are often reinforced with fiberglass making them durable and lightweight with a polished and finished look that adds light to the bathroom.
Then you have the cast iron drop in bathtubs often coated with glossy porcelain as the finish, known to last longer; although they get faded fast, they often feature fade-resistant coating.
No to forget the enamel on steel, which is often lighter than cast-iron, composite material, a mixture of resin, plastic, and carbon fiber. Then, there is the fiberglass Gelcoat, which is almost like acrylic with a bit of difference.
Shape and Size
There are numerous shapes and sizes of Drop In Tubs. In terms of size, you need to measure the available space you have in your bathroom, and whether you have a small space or more space to fit it will affect the size you’ll be getting.
In terms of shape, you can get a variety of oval ones, rectangular ones, triangular ones, and so on. While some shapes fit small spaces, others don’t.
Always be sure to measure the available space you have in your bathroom in terms of height, width, and length before getting the new tub.
Installation and Installation Type
Ensure that all installation features are included in the pack and that the process is easy. Although you might still need a professional touch, the easier, the better.
Some models offer more than one installation type, including a drop-in and an under-mount installation type, while some offer only one.
Know and understand the difference between both and which is more fitting for your bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Drop in Tub Have A Shower?
Yes! A drop in the bathtub can have a shower, although it is not recommended.
This depends on where installed, and as long as the drop in tub is against a wall and features an adequate enclosure, you can fit a shower to it.
Also, it’s best to have the enclosure or doors sit atop the rim to avoid having water collect on the bathtub deck.
What is A Drop in Tub Vs Alcove?
A drop in tub is the kind of tub that fits into any built structure or frame and fits any space with a rim located at the top to keep it in place.
On the other hand, an alcove tub on its part only fits into a specified space between three walls, and its shape is always rectangular.
While the drop in tubs offers higher flexibility in terms of shape, size, and design, alcoves are less expensive and more accessible.
How To Build Drop in Tub Frame?
Frame out the surrounding of the tub by measuring tub height with an additional 3 inches for height and 6 inches on the sides;
Cut out the pieces for the enclosure on all sides, keeping in mind the additional inches. Once cut, fix all parts together alongside the subfloor piece and place the drop in tub into the newly set-up frame.
Fix the plumbing installations and then build up the top of the deck with cement backer board and plywood and join the remaining frame.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how much of a difference these freestanding tubs make when they have a special place in your bathroom, getting one of them is definitely worth the while, and we are sure you would love the experiences you’ll get from using one.
Hopefully, with all you have learned here today about the drop in tub, the next time you’ll be speaking about the best drop in bathtubs, it would be from your own experience with your drop in bathtub.
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