Of course, every bathroom needs a suitable bathtub for you to bathe in. There are plenty of different bathtubs out there to choose from. By far, the most popular kind of bathtub around is the acrylic bathtub. Acrylic is so popular because it is lightweight, cheap, durable, easy to clean, and is a material that is easy to mold into whatever shape the manufacturer chooses.
These acrylic bathtub reviews will highlight some of the top-notch acrylic bathtubs that are available on the market today. Whether you’re looking for something simple and economical or if you have a higher budget for a luxury bathtub, you’ll find something that suits you in this list. We, as the Beyond Shower team, have also included a helpful acrylic bathtub buying guide towards the end of this article so that you can find out what features you should look out for in order to find the best acrylic bathtub for your home.
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What to Consider When Buying an Acrylic Bathtub
Before you purchase your acrylic bathtub, you’ll need to consider a few points first. There are many types of acrylic baths out there with different styles, configurations, and sizes, so you must make sure that you consider every point before making your purchase.
This helpful buying guide will give you an idea of some of the things that you should consider when you are looking at acrylic bathtubs.
Positioning
When you come to purchase a new acrylic bathtub, you should have an idea of whereabouts in your bathroom you want to install it. Whilst some bathrooms have plenty of room, others are quite small and compact.
If you have a larger bathroom, you will be able to choose a larger acrylic bathtub if you wish. Freestanding tubs are a good idea for those who want to make a bold statement in their bathroom. They are sleek, stylish, and unusual. If you only have a small bathroom, however, it is not recommended that you purchase a freestanding tub, as you will not be able to move around it properly. It could also be a waste of valuable floor space.
If you have a smaller bathroom, you should certainly consider a wall-mounted bathtub. These kinds of tubs required that you fixed them to a wall. Some only require that you fix two sides. This would allow you to use some of the wall space for your bath and some of the wall space for another piece of bathroom furniture if you want.
An alcove bathtub is a great choice for very small bathrooms. This kind of tub can be installed into the smallest of alcoves in your bathroom. You simply need to choose the size that will fit the best.
Size
The size of a bathtub that you choose will be greatly dependent on the size of the people who will be using it. You will also need to choose the right size of a bathtub that will fit in your bathroom without being too large and take up a room.
If you have space for it, you should try to purchase the longest bathtub that you possibly can. This will ensure that no matter who lives in your home at any one time, you will be able to offer them a bath to use that they can comfortably fit. Even if there is no one in your home he was particularly tall, you may need to offer a guest a relaxing bath at some point.
If you are looking for a particularly large bath that you could fit two people in if necessary, you should certainly look at corner baths. Corner acrylic bathtubs are usually wider than a normal bathtub. They are rough and the far roomier and for this reason, they could sometimes fit people in depending on the dimensions of the tub.
Features
If you want a bathtub that will be more than just functional, you should look at the various features that are offered with the model.
Some bathtubs have seats in them. This seat will allow you to comfortably sit in the tub without needing to get all the way down to the ground level. This can be preferable for the elderly or disabled people who are not as able to stand from such a low seating position.
For complete comfort, some bathtubs have an inbuilt lumbar support region. This will ensure that your back is supported whilst you are relaxing in your bathtub. Other tubs also have a headrest to support your head whilst you relax.
To ensure that you are safe when you are stepping out of the bath, you should look for bathtubs that come with the textured floor. This kind of bathtub is usually preferable for those who need help getting in and out of the bath. You will not need to use a bathmat when you are getting in and out of the bath. Especially if your bathtub has a textured floor. If you struggle to clean your bathtub by yourself, choosing a model that does not require a mat is far more hygienic than putting a mat in a smooth-floored tub. Bathmats are usually left in the same spot all of the time and can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Getting into a bathtub that has bacteria is not likely to help you to get clean.
When you are in the tub, you will need somewhere to put all of your toiletries. If you have chosen our freestanding bathtub, then you will realize that you will probably not have any shelf space to rest your toiletries on. Some freestanding bathtub is come up with an integrated storage deck. This will give you somewhere to put your toiletries and will solve your problem.
Installation
When you come to install your bathtub, it is important that the installation is as simple as possible. Most bathtubs come with user-friendly instructions to show you how you should install your purchase. If you purchase a bathtub that is easy to install, then you will probably be able to install your acrylic tub by yourself. Because bathtubs are larger pieces of furniture, you will probably need somebody else to help you to at least lift your bathtub in place.
You should ensure that you buy a bathtub that has all of the fixtures that you need in the box. Whilst most bathtubs do come with this as standard, you should always check just to make sure. If you want to purchase a bathtub that does not come with the fixtures, you will need to purchase these at the same time as you buy your bathtub so that you will be able to install it when it arrives.
Luckily, acrylic bathtubs are lightweight and are not too heavy to be carried upstairs. Even if your bathroom is upstairs, you will be able to get the top upstairs with the help of another person. Acrylic tub maintenance is also something you should consider frequently.
Configuration
When you are thinking about which bathtub to purchase, you must remember to pay attention to the configuration of your waste pipe. This will determine which side your drain needs to be on. Although some bathtubs cannot be universal, most of them are made for a specific configuration. They will mention whether they are right-hand or left-hand bathtubs when you come to make your purchase.
Accessories
If you are wondering whether your bathtub is a good value for money or not, it is a good idea to evaluate the accessories that you’ll be getting with it. Whilst some bathtubs may look expensive at first glance in comparison to other options, you may find that there is a reason for this. The more affordable bathtubs usually come on their own with nothing more than a fixing kit. More expensive and luxurious bathtubs, however, come with more accessories so that you can get your bathtub installed without having to purchase any more items.
You can find bathtubs that come complete with a waste drain and overflow kit. This will usually match the style of the tub and you can be sure that it will be the right size for your tub. Even if your tub only has the drain included, you can still be sure that you will be saving money.
Complete luxurious bath kits come with the drain included, as well as the faucet, connectors. In some cases, they also come with a handheld spray attachment. Therefore set that is included with your bathtub in one of these kits will certainly match the design of your bathtub. Although you would have to ensure that the other fixtures in your bathroom match this faucet, you will manage to save a lot of money. Bathroom filler faucets are generally quite expensive, especially the high-quality ones that you will usually get with a bathtub.
Warranty
Of course, when you purchase your bathtub, you will want to make sure that it will last for as long as possible. This is why it is a good idea to check the warranty that is being offered on your model. You should make sure that you read the small print that comes with the warranty to ensure that you know exactly what is covered.
You will notice that there are different lengths of warranty period available. Some companies only offer one or two year’s warranty. Although this may look like it is not very sufficient, you will usually find that faults with bathtubs will only occur within the first year or two. These warranties are usually very comprehensive and will cover everything from the manufacturing process to the finish of the top.
Limited lifetime warranties are another option that you will see sometimes. Whilst they can give you good peace of mind, these kinds of warranties can sometimes mean that the things that you think are covered are not really covered. Again, you should check to see what you are being offered when you are purchasing a bathtub with a limited lifetime warranty.
Best Acrylic Bathtubs Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | American Standard 2461.002.020 Cambridge 5-Feet Bath Tub |
| View On Amazon | |
 | Kingston Brass VTDE603122L Contemporary Alcove Acrylic Bathtub |
| View On Amazon | |
 | KOHLER K-715-0 Villager Bath with Left-Hand Drain |
| View On Amazon | |
 | KINGSTON BRASS Contemporary Acrylic Bathtub |
| View On Amazon | |
 | American Standard 2764014M202.011 Cadet Arctic |
| View On Amazon |
Best Acrylic Bathtub Reviews (Updated List)
1. American Standard 2461.002.020 Cambridge 5-Feet Bath Tub
If you choose this American Standard 5 foot bathtub, you’ll be able to enjoy long soaks, as it is spacious and comfortable. It is made from a material known as Americast. It is 50% lighter than a traditional cast iron alternative, making the tub easier to install and more affordable. The material is also highly durable so you can be sure that this bathtub is built to last. Another advantage of Americast is that it allows tubs to be made to be deeper, more spacious, and flatter.
This tub comes with an integrated apron. This means that you won’t need a side panel in order to finish this tub. Your plumber will have one less thing to install thanks to this apron. Also, you will have one less thing to purchase. This tub also has a tile flange integrated around it so that it is even easier to install.
You can choose between bone, linen, and white finishes when you choose this bathtub. That way you can match the bath perfectly to any existing furniture and décor that you may already have in your bathroom.
The gentle curves of this bathtub are designed for style and comfort. Built-in lumbar support ensures that your back is supported properly as you soak. In addition, there is even a contoured headrest built into the design.
This fully slip-resistant bath will also ensure your safety as you step in and out of it. So, there’s no need for any unsightly bath mats in the bath.
2. Kingston Brass VTDE603122L Contemporary Alcove Acrylic Bathtub
This left-hand drain white tub has a glossy clean look made of solid acrylic and reinforced with fiberglass. The dimensions are 60 inches in length, 30 inches in width, and 22 inches in height.
It is possible to tile the tub’s side but make sure to research this topic and find out if it is better to build a frame first. As a whole, turning to a professional for installation would be much safer and easier than trying to do it yourself. The drain kit is not included, which gives you the possibility to choose a match of your own taste. But yet again, you will have to pay for it separately.
What we didn’t like about the unit is that it is not a nonslip style tub. There are no pre-drilled holes on the tub if you want to attach it to the wall, but most products do not have such holes anyway. To attach it to a wall, you have to drill such holes slowly and we recommend using a tapered head.
Kingston Brass gives a one-year guarantee on the product for defects in the material. This actually a little bit underwhelming.
Pros:
- The tub is made of reliable and good-looking material
- There is a possibility for free standing it, without having to brace to walls
- It has adjustable feet, which makes installation easier
Cons:
- The documentation accompanying the product should be better written
3. KOHLER K-715-0 Villager Bath with Left-Hand Drain
Kohler is a great brand name when it comes to choosing high-quality bathtubs for your home. This Villager Bathtub is one of the most popular baths in the collection and you can be sure to have a relaxing soak every time.
One of the main setbacks about this tub is that it weighs around 300lbs. You will need to ensure that your bathroom floor is strong enough to support it and you may have some difficulty in getting it into your bathroom if you do not have a clear path to carry it. The solid cast iron construction, however, means that this bath is of great quality and is made to last.
The apron that is integrated into the design ensures that you will not need to worry about purchasing a matching side panel. Sometimes, it can be difficult to get hold of a side panel that matches the color and style of the bath and these panels can also be expensive. You can save the hassle of trying to find a suitable one as well as saving money.
One should remember that this tub comes with a left-hand drain. So, you won’t be able to install it in just any way around. You should check your waste pipe to ensure that it will be able to be drained properly. If not, you will need to choose a right-hand drain model.
Along with the solid cast iron construction, this bathtub is also finished with a high-quality white coating. The finish is hard wearing and will not easily flake or become marred. You can be sure that this beautiful and elegant bathtub will last you for many years to come, even with very frequent use.
4. KINGSTON BRASS Contemporary Acrylic Bathtub
Why spend a fortune on visiting the spa when you could bring the spa to you! This contemporary acrylic tub from Kingston is the perfect bathtub for transforming your bathroom into a tranquil and relaxing place to unwind after a stressful day.
The tub itself is shaped in a classic slipper shape design. This will bring a traditional look whilst the modern and durable acrylic construction offer a contemporary feel. You can be sure that this acrylic bathtub will last you for a long time as acrylic is hard-wearing. You can also benefit from this bathtub being very easy to clean. The antimicrobial properties of the acrylic finish will ensure that you can simply wipe any residues from the surface of the tub. In addition, no bacteria will build up. The acrylic is between 3 and 5mm throughout this bathtub. Thus, you can be sure that it will be thick enough to support the water within it in addition to the weight of the user.
This bathtub can hold up to 52 gallons of water. This will give you a deep and relaxing experience and you will feel like you are in a spa.
You don’t need to worry about purchasing any additional drains or overflows for this bathtub, as it’s comes packaged with them. All you need to worry about is contacting your plumber who will be able to fit the tub for you.
You should be aware that freestanding tubs require a little more room than tubs that are fixed to the wall, so this tub would suit a larger bathroom.
5. American Standard 2764014M202.011 Cadet Arctic
This American standard acrylic tub is one of the best freestanding tubs that you can purchase today. The extra-wide storage deck ensures that you can keep all of your toiletries close to hand. This is especially important with a tub. Otherwise, there would be fewer opportunities to install a shelf or rack for your convenience.
You won’t need to worry about purchasing any extra fittings for this job, as it comes with everything that you need. It includes a high-quality drain and overflow so that you can easily attach it to your existing waste pipe. It also comes with an acrylic tub filler and hand spray. You really want me to look for anything else when you purchase this bathtub, as it is a complete kit.
This high-quality bathtub is made from tough acrylic capped ABS plastic which is highly heat resistant. To ensure that it is as light as possible whilst still being durable, this took also has fiberglass reinforcement. High-gloss Arctic White color ensures that this bathtub will stand out as a feature in your bathroom. The White finish Will remain to look great for as long as possible even in its become scratched because the color is consistent throughout the acrylic.
This is a sweet and contemporary acrylic bathtub that has an additional deep bathing room. You can soak your entire body for a more relaxing experience. You will feel as though you are in the spa when you are actually sitting in the comfort of your own bathroom.
6. AKDY Bathroom White Color FreeStand Acrylic Bathtub
AKDY has always been a great brand that customers can trust. This manufacturer consistently produces high-quality items that look great. ADKY bathtubs are a great choice if you want a tub that is comfortable and that has many other great benefits too.
This acrylic bathtub is made from acrylic so that it is lightweight and is easier for your plumber to install. All of the fittings that you will need to install it come in the box. You can get the soaking in it as soon as possible without the hassle of having to find the right fixing kit for it.
This high-quality bathtub will take pride of place in your bathroom and will add a touch of elegance to your existing décor. It has a white finish that will match any existing furniture that you may have. Also, you can be sure that the finish will not become damaged through wear and tear thanks to the high-quality workmanship of the AKDY brand. At just 67 inches long, this bathtub is a slightly larger tub than others on the market. You will be able to enjoy a soothing and relaxing soak.
A high quality polished chrome faucet is included in this tub to that you don’t need to purchase one separately. It even comes with all the fittings that you need to install the faucet in the tub.
AKDY offers you complete peace of mind with your purchase as this tub comes with a 1-year warranty. This covers your purchase for 1 year against manufacturer’s faults and defects.
Acrylic Bathtub Types
As acrylic is such a cheap option when it comes to buying bathtubs, it’s easy to see why homeowners prefer these kinds of bathtubs to any others. It doesn’t matter if you have a large or small budget. You can find the perfect acrylic tub to suit your needs and price range.
With so many different sizes and layouts of bathrooms, it is only sensible for manufacturers to offer customers a number of types of acrylic bathtubs to choose from. You will be able to choose from a number of different types of an acrylic tub. Also, learn everything you need to know about acrylic material.
Freestanding
A freestanding tub is one that will not need to be fixed to the wall. If you have a larger bathroom with space in the center, you will be able to install a freestanding tub. These tubs don’t need to lean against a wall, so you could use your wall space for cupboards and dressers if you have the room. An inflatable hot tub can be an alternative as well.
Left and Right-Hand Configurations
Depending on the location of your drain, you will need to choose the right bathtub configuration for your needs. You can find left-hand and right-hand drains. It is important that you choose the right option for your bathroom, as a mistake could mean that you order the wrong bathtub. You may also want to add a high-quality handheld showerhead to it as a final touch.
Corner Bathtubs
If you have more room in the corner of your bathroom, you may want to consider purchasing a corner acrylic tub. These tend to be in a square shape and they fit nicely in the corner of the room. Usually, there is a seat in the tub as there is so much room and sometimes these tubs can be large enough for two people.
1 and 2 Person Tubs
Sometimes, you may want to have a romantic soak with your partner in the bathtub. For this, you can purchase a 2-person bathtub. They are far larger than the standard 1 person tub and you should remember that this means that there will be much more weight in the tub bearing down on the floor. Also, if you never want to run out of warm water during your romance session, consider getting a top-notch whole house electric tankless water heater.
How to Install an Acrylic Bathtub
If you are feeling particularly confident, you will be able to install your own acrylic bathtub. It is not necessary to be qualified to install a tub as long as you feel that this is within your realms of ability. There are not very many steps to be completed when it comes to carrying out this task. However, you must be sure that you are precise and careful as you are installing your bathtub. These instructions should help you to safely and effectively install your bathtub without causing any damage.
The first and you will need to do is decide where the tub is going to go. Make sure that your dream home matches up with the waste pipe. That way it can be connected when everything is in place. You will also need to ensure that your plumbing pipes for the faucet are accessible. Eventually, you can connect the faucet to your pipework.
Position The Tub In Place
You should ensure that your tub is positioned properly before you begin. You will then need to take a spirit level and ensure that the tub is completely level. If you do not do this, the water will not drain out of it effectively. You can use the adjusting feet to get the bathtub at the perfect level.
Once you have positioned your bathtub in place and, you can now fix it. Most bathtubs went with a fixing kit. Consequently, you can attach the bathtub to the wall and the floor so that it will remain stable and will not tip.
Connect Up
Now that your bathtub is in place, all you need to do is connect up your pipework. You’ll need to connect up both the faucet and the waste pipe. Ensure that you use plenty of plumbers tape to ensure that the pipework does not leak.
In case you would like to add an aesthetic touch to your bathroom, check out our list of fancy fogless shower mirrors, too. If you combine it with a high-performance bathroom exhaust fan, trust us that taking a shower will become a bliss.
Wrap Up
These acrylic bathtub reviews give an insightful walk into the kind of bathtubs that are available out there. Although you have a lot to consider before buying the best acrylic bathtub, there is plenty of choices out there. You can suit your budget, scale requirements, and you can find a bathtub with all the features that you need too.
We hope that our useful buying guide has given you some ideas of the things to look out for when you are purchasing your acrylic tub. Of course, there are some things about you will really need to think about hard when you are going to make your purchase. Mistakes such as purchasing a bathtub that has the wrong waste configuration, or buying a bathtub that already has a faucet and then buying an additional faucet could end up costing you more money than you need to spend. At this point, you may want to check our bathroom faucet reviews, too. You should also remember to pick a brand that is trusted and one that can offer you a reasonable warranty.