Buying guide
Freestanding Tub Size Guide: How to Measure Your Bathroom
The right freestanding tub is mostly a measuring job. Get the size right and everything else (material, shape, colour) is the fun part.
1. Measure the space, not just the old tub
Measure wall to wall where the tub will go, and note anything that intrudes: a window sill, a radiator, a door swing, the toilet. Freestanding tubs look best with air around them, so the space you need is larger than the tub itself.
2. Leave room around it
- Behind and at the ends: at least 4–6 inches from any wall, so you can clean and so the tub doesn't look wedged in. More is better if you have it.
- At the side you step in from: about 30 inches of clear floor is comfortable.
- For the filler: a floor-mounted tub filler needs space at the tub's side or end; a wall-mounted filler needs the tub close enough for the spout to reach.
3. Pick a length
| Tub length | Best for |
|---|---|
| Under 55" | Small bathrooms, replacing a 60" alcove tub, deep upright soaking (Japanese-style tubs) |
| 55"–62" | Most hall and family bathrooms; a comfortable soak for most adults |
| 63"–67" | Primary bathrooms; room to recline fully |
| 68" and up | Large primary baths, taller bathers, and double-ended tubs for two |
As a rule, taller bathers should look for a tub whose interior length is close to their height from shoulder to heel when reclined. The listing photos and dimension drawings on each product page show the interior.
4. Check depth and height
Deeper tubs mean a better soak but a higher side to step over. If anyone in the house has trouble with steps, look at the tub's overall height as well as its water depth.
5. Think about weight and the floor
Water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon, so a filled tub with a bather can weigh many hundreds of pounds, before you count the tub itself. Stone resin tubs are heavy even when empty. On an upper floor or in an older home, have a contractor confirm the framing.
6. Plan the drain
Freestanding tubs drain through the floor under the tub, so the drain location matters. Center-drain tubs are the most flexible; end-drain tubs need the drain at that end. Check each listing for drain position and whether a pop-up drain is included.
Still unsure?
Send us your room dimensions and we'll suggest tubs that fit.
