Bathtubs Shopping Guide
Use our MAAX bathtub shopping guide to design your perfect bath experience. Installation types, materials, features, and much more are all covered here!
Plan Your Bathroom Renovation Wisely With Our Shopping Guide
Our step-by-step guide will provide you with helpful tips and give you an overview of the various constraints to consider when remodeling your bathroom.
When starting your measurements, ensure at least 5’ of accessible sides and 3’ of clearance space around your bathtub.
Let's Measure Your Space
Step 1: If installing the bathtub into an alcove, measure the length from wall to wall(1). Keep in mind that the average alcove bathtub is usually 60” long. Deduct at least one inch from each wall from your measurement for undermount or drop-in baths so the rim can comfortably fit within the frame.
(1)Note: Bathtubs are typically installed to the bare studs. If you are measuring to replace an existing bathtub and have finished walls in place, you must account for wallboard thickness and enclosure thickness. Adding ½” - ¾” to both sides of your measurement (wall tiles tend to be thicker than shower panels) should get you closer to the size needed. The most common sizes are 60”, 66”, and 72.
Step 2: Measure from the front to the back wall and add ½” - ¾” if measuring against a finished wall. The standard bathtub width is usually 30" or 32". To enter and exit the tub comfortably, it is best practice to have a clearance space alongside the bathtub of at least 60" L by 30" W.
Step 3: A standard bathtub height is 15" - 16". Determining bathtub height relative to the floor will allow you to consider a comfortable step-over height to enter the tub. Who will use the bathtub? Is it practical for long-term safe use?
Bathtub Interior
Soaking Depth of Your Bathtub: The soaking depth is taken from the top of the drain to the bottom of the overflow; this is how deep you will submerge. An average bathtub will have a depth of 12”. For a comfortable soak, opt for a depth of at least 14” or more.
Water Capacity: Please look at the technical specifications section on the product page to find the bathtub's capacity in gallons. The standard capacity of a bathtub is typically 40-50 gallons. Please ensure your water heater can accommodate this volume.
The Bathing Well: You can consider interior basin measurements while shopping once you are armed with information about the outside dimensions. Check the technical specifications for the bathing well dimensions; this is the bottom of the bathtub’s length and width. Will it fit your body comfortably? Do you prefer a reclined backrest for long soaks?
Bathtub Weight:
Weight: Consider the bath's weight while filled and occupied to determine if your current floor will support any added load. Additional bracing may be required.
Additional Considerations
Are You Considering a Hydrotherapy System?
If you plan on installing a bathtub with a system, keep in mind there are special electrical requirements and access to the pump and/or heater with an access panel is required. It is best to consult a professional before purchasing.
Considerations for small bathrooms
Designing a small bathroom can be quite challenging, especially when fitting in a standard-size bathtub. Typically, a bathtub takes up more than 13 square feet of floor space, which can be a lot for small bathrooms that measure only 36-40 square feet. Therefore, planning the space carefully is crucial to ensure enough room for other large fixtures, such as toilets and vanities, and to consider clear floor space. However, careful planning makes optimizing every square foot of your bathroom space possible.
Choose bathtub height wisely for safety and comfort
When choosing a bathtub, opting for a height between 14 to 20 inches is recommended. It’s essential to remember that as the tubs get higher, they offer more water depth, which is excellent for those who enjoy long and luxurious soaks; however, it's crucial to consider the height of the people using the bathtub. Some users may find it challenging to use a higher bathtub, so it's important to prioritize comfort and practicality for long-term safe use. For households with toddlers, kids, or senior residents, it's best to choose a bathtub that is no higher than 14 inches.
Do You Have Room For a Freestanding Tub?
A bathroom remodel begins with a critical decision: should I choose to install a freestanding bathtub?
The choice comes down to this: some consider freestanding tubs more of a showpiece and a design statement. They tend to be equated with a higher-end look and allow you to create a spa-like bathing retreat. Freestanding tubs are not necessarily as large as they once were; various sizes are now available on the market. If, for example, you have limited space to work with, you can get a smaller model that measures up to 60” in width, which will fit nicely in the space left by an older podium or alcove bathtub. Make sure the interior space of your freestanding bathtub is large enough to suit your needs – consider your height, weight, and intended use for the bathtub.
Considering Installing or Replacing a Corner Bathtub
If your goal is to replace or install a corner bathtub, this paragraph is just what you need. There are plenty of benefits to corner bathtubs. Corner bathtubs are attractive and a great way to make the most of your bathroom's space. It doesn't matter how large or small your bathroom is. Adding a good-looking bathtub in an underused corner will maximize the square footage of your bathroom while blending style. When corner bathtubs are placed throughout a bathroom, traffic can flow freely, giving standing people and people sitting at dressing tables more room.
Household Needs and Lifestyles
Multi-Generational House
When shopping for a multigenerational household, universal access and aging in place should be considered. For a bathroom that is age-friendly and safe for your entire family to use, it is a good idea to shop for accessible units and accessories to make the bathing space both livable and safe from cradle to cane.
We recommend looking for accessible units that come with safety features such as a low threshold, a non-slip floor, and fold-up seats to make it easier for people to move in and out of the unit. Accessorizing your bathroom unit with grab bars and fold-up seats will improve safety and security as you enter/exit.
Bathtub Installation Types
Freestanding
This stand-alone tub is available in modern designs or the classic clawfoot style. This luxury bathtub is a no-brainer when looking to make a statement and can offer flexible placement in the bathroom space. Learn more about freestanding tubs.
Alcove
Alcove bathtubs are designed to nestle into a recess of three surrounding walls and commonly include a tiling flange for wall materials and a solid front apron panel.
Corner
A corner bathtub is a bathing vessel designed to fit into the junction of two walls. Loosely resembling a rectangular or triangle with a neo-round or neo-angle front, they provide spaciousness and are usually big enough to accommodate two people.
Drop-in
A drop-in bathtub is a self-rimming tub designed to fit inside a framed enclosure, also called a surround or platform. The underside of the tub is concealed, leaving only the rim and bathing well visible. With this installation type, you can customize the enclosure to your taste using tile or other materials; this will require additional budgeting considerations.
Undermount
Undermount installation gives a clean aesthetic that goes well with a contemporary style. Like a drop-in bathtub, the undermount bathtub uses a framed enclosure. This bathtub has a flat rim, allowing it to be concealed below the deck of your enclosure. The tub weight is not supported above the rim; therefore, the bottom is often flat to rest on the floor or has support legs.
Wall Mounted
A wall-mounted bathtub is secured to the wall on one side only, with a finished apron on the remaining three sides.
Walk-in
The walk-in bathtub features a low threshold, a door, and a built-in seat, making it an accessible design that facilitates safe and easy entry and exit from the bathtub.
What is Your Budget?
Establishing a budget upfront can help narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Determine how much you're willing to invest in your new bathtub, including installation costs, and stick to it throughout the shopping process.
Accessibility Features
Accessorize your bath for easy and safe day-to-day solutions. With our wide selection of safety features, you can make your bathroom suitable for the entire family through the years, from preening parents to aging adults with mobility issues.
Grab Bars
Enhance your bathtub or tub shower's security with quality grab bars, one of your best safety allies. They assist users with keeping their balance and aid mobility in sitting and standing up. They can be mounted horizontally or vertically, on either the back wall, side walls, or near the entrance into the unit. They can also be mounted on the rims on each side of the bathtub.
Seating Solutions
Select the seating aids that are most suitable for your day-to-day use - molded, fold-up, fold-down, or removable, for your safety and convenience. The removable bath seat is especially perfect for all familial situations, from little ones who are growing and becoming increasingly mobile to adults with mobility concerns who will be able to bathe comfortably while sitting down.
Apron Height - Lower for Easier Access
When choosing your bathtub, consider the bathtub apron height, which is not the same as the water height. The bathtub apron height is the distance between the bathroom floor and the top of the rim. Selecting a lower apron height means easier access into and out of the tub. It also reduces the chances of slips and falls, as the step-over needed is lower.
Textured Flooring
Consider choosing a bathtub with slip-resistant flooring, meaning a matte or textured finish at the bottom of the unit. This will increase safety by replacing a slippery surface with one that has a better grip, helping to reduce the risk of accidents. You can also purchase bath mats to create a similar safety effect for your tub.
Combine Your Bathtub and Shower to Enhance Your Bathing Experience
Create your own stylish oasis and maximize your bathroom space with one of our tub showers. Enjoy the best of both worlds with products that combine the pros of a bathtub and a shower, all while saving on bathing space!
Bathtub Systems
When shopping for a bathtub system, it is essential to consider what your therapy goals are. Each therapy described below provides different intensities, from gentle and relaxing to targeted tissue massage. When selecting your system, consider the noise level when operating; you can expect an air bath to make less noise than a whirlpool bathtub.
Important: Whenever you install a system bathtub, please always make sure you plan for an access service panel to the pump or other equipment. Always defer to the specific instructions from the manufacturer. As for electrical requirements, most will require a separate 15 AMP circuit for each electronic component (pump, heater, blower, etc.). The components must be protected with a GFCI. Always follow the manufacturers' recommendations. Wiring installations must comply with all local, state, and national electrical codes, be performed by a qualified electrician, and conform to local requirements!
Air Massage
Air is pushed into the bath water through pin-sized portals, forming a blanket of bubbles that dance and swirl from head to toe, to be for a gentle, exhilarating experience.
Water Massage
Water massage, also known as whirlpool therapy, provides an invigorating and relaxing therapeutic experience. With this massage system, you can massage your entire body or target a specific pain point.
Combined Massage
Enjoy the best of both worlds with a combo massage system that includes whirlpool jets combined with the therapy of an air bath. Typically, these systems can operate individually or together for a luxurious home spa experience.
Soaking Therapy
Several studies have found that bathing in warm water relieves pain and inflammation as well as calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Chromatherapy
Colors have a proven ability to influence our emotions, moods, and bodies. Set your bath water to green to feel nature’s soothing effect or choose a vibrant red to reignite your internal flame.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy promotes healthy self-care and holistic wellness. When choosing aromas contribute to well-being, aromas that contribute to relaxation, as well as emotional and physical healing.
Find Your Perfect Tub Door
Discover the Latest Trends and Inspiration for Your Home
Get to Know Your Bathtub Parts
Take a look at the basic features of your bathtub.
1. Deck Space For Faucet
Some tubs have holes on the rim for a faucet, while others need a wall or floor installation. The faucet location mostly depends on the type of bathtub installed.
2. Waste And Overflow
The hole near the upper part of the bathtub connected to the drain prevents water from overflowing and often includes a trip lever to control the bathtub drain along with decorative trim.
3. Drain
At the bottom of the bath, the drain is a hole facilitating water evacuation toward the drain pipe. If a trip lever is not installed with waste and overflow, a stopper or pop-up-style drain can be used.
Other Considerations for Installation
F2 Drain
The F2 Drain is an innovative and accessible drain solution for freestanding bathtubs that simplifies the entire installation process. Enjoy a quick connection and a perfect alignment, without needing to demolish the flooring. The minimum space required for the F2 Drain and P-Trap assembly is 10 3/8 inches.
AFR
The Above-the-Floor Rough (AFR) feature for bathtubs leaves a few inches of clearance between the product’s underside and the flooring so pipes can be routed without breaking ground or relocating the drain. Perfect for installation on a concrete slab in renovation or new construction.
IFS
There are two types of integrated tiling flanges: 3-sided flanges for alcove tubs and 2-sided flanges for corner tubs. Tiling flanges are designed to screw into wall studs. In order to provide better water management and a longer-lasting seal, the backer board will rest on top of the flange. IFS models feature an integrated skirt (or apron) molded with the bathtub to add ease of installation.
DTF
Some bathtubs can be equipped with an integrated double-tiling flange, which allows the tile to sit on a raised acrylic platform on the ledge of the bathtub for improved water management.
Leveling Legs
Use MAAX's innovative adjustable leveling legs to level your freestanding bathtub easily. The legs have a 3-inch height range that requires no tools to adjust and firmly lock in place. You can quickly set each leg to the same height with the three vertical reference numbers that eliminate the guesswork.
