Picture this: You’ve made the exciting decision to elevate your bathroom with a stunning freestanding tub. You can almost feel the warm water, see the bubbles rising, a glass of wine in hand, soft candlelight dancing around you. It’s the perfect moment—but wait. Have you considered the size?
Go too big, and it could crowd your bathroom. Too small, and that luxurious soak might feel a little... underwhelming. Choosing the right freestanding tub size isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a space that feels just right for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about freestanding tub sizes. Whether you're working with a cozy nook or designing your dream spa retreat, we’ll help you find the perfect fit. Ready to dive in?
Freestanding Tub Size Options Explained
Small Freestanding Bathtubs
If you’re working with limited bathroom space or shopping for a tub the kids will use, oversized soaking tubs likely aren’t a practical option.
But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice luxury. Smaller freestanding tubs can still deliver that spa-like feel while fitting comfortably into more compact layouts. They offer a perfect blend of style and functionality—ideal for turning a small bathroom into a relaxing retreat.
These tubs typically range from 48 to 60 inches long, 28 to 32 inches wide, and 22 to 26 inches high. One excellent option is 59" Freestanding Soaking Tub with Reversible Drain by Empava.
At 59 inches in length, it’s a compact yet elegant choice, perfect for tighter spaces. Made from durable, high-quality acrylic, it features a modern silhouette and a center drain design for added comfort and visual appeal.
Standard Size Freestanding Tubs
If your bathroom offers more space to play with, a smaller tub might feel a little underwhelming. That’s where standard-sized freestanding tubs come in. Ranging from 60 to 70 inches long, 30 to 34 inches wide, and 22 to 28 inches high, these tubs strike the perfect balance between comfort and scale.
They're a great fit for most layouts and provide enough room for taller adults to stretch out and truly relax—no cramped soaks here. When it comes to combining comfort with versatility, standard tubs are a solid choice for more generously sized bathrooms.
Large Freestanding Tubs
If you want every soak to feel like a scene from a movie, a large freestanding tub is the way to go. These spacious tubs offer plenty of room to stretch out and unwind, making them perfect for master bathrooms and high-end home spas.
Large tubs typically start at 70 inches in length, with widths ranging from 34 to 40 inches and heights from 24 to 30 inches. For those craving deeper immersion and an extra touch of indulgence, the 71" Freestanding Hydro Massage Whirlpool Bathtub is a standout choice.
This model features eight strategically placed water jets—two at the back, four along the body, and two at the feet—providing a full-body hydro-massage that melts away stress and tension. It's ideal for anyone who wants their bathtub to double as a personal wellness retreat.
How do I Choose the Right Tub Size for My Bathroom Layout?
When remodeling or designing a bathroom, choosing a freestanding tub is about more than just picking the most eye-catching model. While style matters, there are several practical factors you’ll want to consider before installation, including:
Start with Accurate Measurements
Before you start browsing freestanding tubs, take the time to measure your bathroom accurately. This step is essential to avoid installation headaches later.
Begin by measuring the length and width of the area where you plan to place the tub. Use a tape measure to get precise dimensions, and mark the outline on the floor with painter’s tape to visualize how the tub will sit in the space. This simple step can help you gauge whether your dream tub will actually fit—and how it will feel in the room.
Make sure to leave at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides of the tub for easy access, maintenance, and a comfortable fit within the space.
Also, don’t forget to think beyond the bathroom. Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure the tub can actually make it into the room. Some freestanding tubs are large and heavy, so it’s important to confirm that delivery and installation will go smoothly.
Water Capacity
Water Capacity and Efficiency
Freestanding tubs can vary widely in how much water they hold—anywhere from 40 to 90 gallons, depending on the size and style. The larger the tub, the more water you’ll need to fill it, which could mean higher water and energy bills over time.
Before selecting your tub, it’s smart to check your water heater capacity. A good rule of thumb is that your heater should be able to provide at least two-thirds of the tub’s total volume in hot water.
For instance, if your tub holds 60 gallons, your water heater should deliver at least 40 gallons of hot water to ensure a comfortable soak.
If you’re trying to be mindful of water usage, look for tubs with a lower capacity (under 60 gallons) or models specifically designed with water efficiency in mind.
Installation Tips to Perfectly Positioned Your Freestanding Tub
Ensure Proper Floor Support
Don’t overlook the weight of a filled tub—especially if it’s made from cast iron or stone. These tubs can be extremely heavy once full of water, and there have been instances where floors couldn’t handle the load, leading to serious damage.
If your bathroom is on an upper level, have a contractor assess whether your subfloor can support the tub’s weight. Reinforcements may be needed to ensure safe installation and long-term use.
Plan for Plumbing Accessibility
Freestanding tubs require a different plumbing setup than built-in models. Since they aren’t attached to a wall, everything from the drain to the faucet placement needs careful planning. Be sure to:
-
Align the drain and water supply lines with the tub’s design.
-
Ensure the floor drain location matches the tub’s bottom drain.
-
Position any freestanding or wall-mounted faucets at the correct height for easy use and visual balance.
Level the Tub for Stability
To prevent water from pooling on one side or spilling over, make sure your tub is installed perfectly level. Most freestanding tubs come with adjustable leveling feet, which allow you to compensate for any uneven flooring by raising or lowering corners as needed.
Seal and Secure the Tub Correctly
Once the tub is in position, connect the drain and water supply lines securely. If the tub is placed near a wall, use waterproof caulking around the base to prevent water from seeping underneath.
Before finalizing the installation, test the faucet and drain to check for any leaks. It’s much easier to fix issues now than after the tub is fully in use.
Finding the Perfect Freestanding Tub for Your Space
Coming out of the bathroom feeling refreshed is a must—whether you're getting ready to take on the day or winding down for a good night's sleep. A freestanding tub is one of the best ways to recharge anytime, and choosing the right one is key to making every soak feel amazing.
By now, you’ve learned about the different tub sizes, how to measure your space accurately, water capacity considerations, and more.
With all this in mind, you're well on your way to choosing the perfect freestanding tub that will bring comfort and relaxation for years to come. If you're ready to take the next step, SoCal Bathtubs offers a curated selection of high-quality freestanding tubs designed to fit a variety of spaces—so you can find the right size and style for your home.