A drop in bathtub is a tub that comes with an established frame and a rim around its top where you can drop into while taking a bath.
The best drop in bathtub soaks your body when bathing to reduce all the stress and to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Drop-in tubs are highly affordable and they come in different shapes and sizes to match various user needs. Moreover, these are tubs that also act as décor pieces as they make your shower more attractive.
Since they have a rim at the top, drop-in bathtubs allow you to add plants and candles on them for a better bath experience.
If you are looking for a reliable drop in bathtub to invest in and upgrade the look of your bathroom, here are 7 drop in bathtub reviews that you can choose from.
In this post:
- Drop-in Bathtub Buying Guide
- 7 Best Drop in Bathtubs Reviewed
- 1) Kohler 1490-X-47 (Top-Rated)
- 2) ProFlo Drop-In Bathtub (Best Overall)
- 3) Jacuzzi Drop-in Bathtub (Best Lightweight)
- 4) American Standard Drop In Bathtub (Best Comfortable)
- 5) Kohler K-1184-0 (Best for Traditionally Designed Bathrooms)
- 6) Kingston Brass Drop In Bathtub (Best Budget)
- 7. Kohler K-1946-0 (Safest)
- Conclusion
Drop-in Bathtub Buying Guide
These are the most important things to check before buying your perfect drop-in bathtub:
1) Size and Shape
Here is a critical point of consideration when buying the best drop in bathtub.
You should first decide where you should install the bathtub first in order to determine the perfect size and shape that you should invest in.
First, make sure that the area is measured in order to determine the depth and size of the tub. This ensures that the product will fit in the space where you intend to install it.
Shape is as important as size because you should be in a position to comfortably and effectively lounge in the bathtub.
Its shape should be ergonomic and nice to allow you to lean back comfortably.
2) Material
The material of a drop in bathtub is very important and so you should pick a material that will offer you benefits you are searching for.
Some materials are heavier, durable and more expensive than others. Here are some of the materials you can choose from:
– Cast iron
This is a material that features longevity and durability because it is almost indestructible. Cast iron bathtubs are coated with veneer porcelain enamel to make them smooth.
The enamel porcelain coat is very durable, but it is also very sensitive on the cast iron tub.
Hence, it gets worn down over time and this reveals the material underneath which is subject to rust.
– Acrylic
This is a form of plastic which is mainly a derivative of acrylic acid. Bathtubs made of this material have a glossy look which is similar to that of cast iron as well as steel tubs. However, they are lighter when it comes to weight.
The surface of drop-in bathtubs may not appear as sturdy as steel and iron made models but when scratched t does not rust.
Moreover, the repair of acrylic bathtub is easy and effortless.
– Enamel on Steel
Enamel on steel tubs resembles cast iron tubs. The only difference is that this one is lighter than cast-iron models and this comes in handy when remodeling the whole bathroom and you need to move the bathtub.
Additionally, this material is easy to clean but when scratched, it becomes subject to rusting.
– Composite
This material is as a result of the combination of several other materials including resin, plastic and carbon fiber.
The surface of bathtubs made of this material retains heat for longer and it also has a durable finish. Moreover, these bathtubs are lightweight by 50 to 70%.
– Fiberglass Gelcoat (FRP)
Some bathtubs feature this material and it resembles acrylic bathtubs.
However, these bathtubs are less durable because they can easily be cracked or scratched. FRP bathtubs are mainly used on whirlpool models because they are easier to shape than cast iron, steel or acrylic.
3) Installation
You need to ensure that the drop-in bathtub you are about to buy comes with easy installation.
Moreover, the package should also contain the necessary accessories required during the installation process.
Additionally, there should be installation instructions in the package to make sure that you can comprehensively follow them in case you do not want to hire a professional.
4) Cleaning and Maintenance
The best drop in bathtub should have a simple cleaning process to save you the effort of washing it after every bath.
Additionally, the bathtub should dry easily and quickly to ensure that it remains hygienic and to prevent the formation of mold.
There should also be little or no maintenance process other than cleaning to save you a lot of time after buying a drop-in bathtub.
7 Best Drop in Bathtubs Reviewed
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Kohler 1490-X-47 (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. ProFlo Drop In Bathtub (Best with Satisfaction Guarantee) |
|
 | 3. Jacuzzi Drop In Bathtub (Best Lightweight) |
|
 | 4. American Standard Drop In Bathtub (Best Comfortable) |
|
 | 5. Kohler K-1184-0 (Best for Traditionally Designed Bathrooms) |
|
 | 6. Kingston Brass Drop In Bathtub (Best Budget) |
|
 | 7. Kohler K-1946-0 (Best Safe) |
|
1) Kohler 1490-X-47 (Top-Rated)
Photo: Kohler
- Size: 60 or more gallons
- Material: Acrylic
Kohler 1490-X-47 is a top-rated drop in bathtub on the market because of its combination of features and value. Hence, it is an all-round product that will offer you top-notch performance while still complementing any bathroom décor.
The product has a space-saving size that fits in bathrooms with a small space. Therefore, if you are dealing with limited space, here is the bathtub that you should invest in.
Moreover, even with its compact size, this product has an extra-deep basin to allow you adequate soaking. Hence, it gives you a spa-like bathing experience, where your body is fully immersed in water for a rejuvenating and relaxing moment.
This drop-in bathtub is made using high-quality acrylic material which ensures that it is leak-proof and that it will last you ages before you feel the need to replace the bathtub. However, this bathtub is designed for a single person for every use hence, not couple-friendly.
Pros:
- Easy and effortless installation
- Perfect soaking experience with the extra deep basin
- Space-saving size makes it ideal for small bathrooms
- Available in various colors
Cons:
- Not couple-friendly as it can only accommodate one person
- Expensive but worth the investment
2) ProFlo Drop-In Bathtub (Best Overall)
Photo: ProFlo
- Size: 80 gallons
- Material: Acrylic
Here is the best drop in bathtub that comes with a satisfaction guarantee because of its high quality and flawless function. As a matter of fact, you get a 5-year warranty from the manufacturer to ensure that it is a risk-free purchase.
With the high-quality acrylic material that makes this product, you can be sure that it will offer you long life service without the need for replacements. The material is easy to clean and maintain with stain and spot resistance. Moreover, it has been reinforced with composites.
For you to enjoy a classy relaxing bath, this product is a soaker tub that features a very deep basin. This way, you can rejuvenate and relax with your whole body under the water.
You will love the easy installation that comes with this product and it gives you two ways to have it installed. This implies that you can have it in three-wall-alcove configuration or as a drop-in bathtub. However, there are no color options to pick from.
Pros:
- Satisfaction guarantee for a risk-free purchase
- Easy-care acrylic material
- Extra deep basin for an adequate soak
- Easy installation process
Cons:
- Not available in different colors
- A little on the high-end but worth the cost
3) Jacuzzi Drop-in Bathtub (Best Lightweight)
Photo: Jacuzzi
- Material: Acrylic
Jacuzzi Drop-in Bathtub is a lightweight bathtub which you can easily move on your own. Hence, when moving, this is a product you can handle single-handedly if no help is around.
The product comes with a white finish to ensure that it can fit in any bathroom. Hence, if your bathroom is traditionally or contemporarily designed, this is the drop-in bathtub that will match any décor or design and still look great.
You will love the acrylic material that this product is made of because it is durable and so it boosts the product’s longevity. This material is very smooth and you will never have to deal with scratches. Moreover, it is easy to clean as you will never have to deal with stubborn spots.
The basin is deep enough to give you an adequate full-body soak, giving you a spa-like experience. Additionally, the product is fairly priced to give you great value and to enhance affordability. However, only one person can use it at a time.
Pros:
- Matches any bathroom décor
- Lightweight design makes it easy to handle single-handedly
- Fairly priced to enhance affordability
- High-quality material that enhances longevity
Cons:
- Not couple friendly
4) American Standard Drop In Bathtub (Best Comfortable)
Photo: American Standard
- Size: 60 or more gallons
- Material: Acrylic
American Standard Drop In Bathtub is the most comfortable drop in bathtub that you will find on the market because it features internal contours to enhance your comfort as you take a bath. In this bathtub, there are molded armrests and backrest ensuring that you get a relaxing bath.
The product is made using acrylic material which has been reinforced with fiberglass, therefore, you can be sure that this product is impact resistant and so it will serve you for ages. Moreover, its material is very smooth and also retains heat for longer, giving you more time to soak.
Apart from the drop in installation, this drop-in bathtub comes with flexibility, allowing you to use the undermount installation method to have it up and running. This is mainly facilitated by the fact that the bathtub is pre-leveled at the bottom.
Nonetheless, this product might have a width that constricts heavier individuals and so it is unsuitable for wider people.
Pros:
- Solid and durable construction
- Easy to clean and maintain material
- Great comfort while in the tub
- Flexible installation methods
Cons:
- Could be unsuitable for wider people
- A little heavy and so requires help when moving it
5) Kohler K-1184-0 (Best for Traditionally Designed Bathrooms)
Photo: Kohler
- Size: 50-60 gallons
- Material: Acrylic
This is the best drop in acrylic bathtub for traditionally designed bathrooms because it comes with a unique styling reminiscent that brings all the old world elegance. Hence, it is ideal for you if your bathroom has a traditional look and feel.
You will love the high-quality acrylic material that makes this bathtub because it comes with a highly durable design to ensure that the product will last you ages before you replace it.
Moreover, its surface is super-smooth to ensure that your skin is free from scratches. The product has lumbar support as well as armrests which allow you to lean back and spread your arms as you take a bath. As a result, this enhances comfort and spa-like experience.
Kohler K-1184-0 comes with textured floor and this implies that you will have the privilege of a sure footing when using this product. Hence, your safety is well taken care of to ensure that you cannot slip as you get in or out of the tub, which is important.
Nonetheless, this acrylic made bathtub is designed for a single person at a time. Hence, it is not ideal for couples who would prefer to take baths together.
Pros:
- Great for traditional designs
- Great comfort with contoured interior
- Easy to install, clean and maintain
Cons:
- Can only be used by a single person at a time
6) Kingston Brass Drop In Bathtub (Best Budget)
Photo: Kingston Brass
- Size: 58.2 gallon
- Material: Acrylic
Looking for a budget-friendly drop in bathtub that will still give you top-notch performance without compromising the quality and durability? This is the product you are searching for because it is competitively priced to enhance affordability.
This is a highly durable product because it is made using solid acrylic material which has further been reinforced with resin and fiberglass material. For this reason, you can be sure that it will serve you for ages before feeling the need to replace it.
Kingston Brass Drop In Bathtub comes with a thickness of 2-4 mm and this makes it impact resistant. Therefore, it has the heavy-duty construction that every homeowner is looking for to ensure longevity and superior durability.
To ensure that there are no overflows, this product comes with overflow holes and a right-hand drain. Hence, even if you accidentally leave the taps on, you will never have to deal with overflowing water on the bathroom floor.
Pros:
- Enhanced durability and longevity – reinforced acrylic material
- Heavy-duty construction – 2-4 mm thickness
- Water cannot overflow
- Pocket-friendly deal without compromising quality
Cons:
- There are no color options to pick from
- Installation instructions could be better
7. Kohler K-1946-0 (Safest)
Photo: Kohler
- Material: Acrylic
Kohler K-1946-O is a safe bathtub that keeps you from sliding when getting or out of it. This is through the presence of the textured bottom surface that it comes with. The feature ensures that your feet get a smooth and solid landing.
To give you extra comfort when taking your bath, this product comes with molded lumbar support. This way, the contoured interior supports the natural curves of your body.
The installation of this product is a breeze because the package comes with comprehensive and detailed instructions to guide you through. Moreover, the installation of the product gets easier because the drop-in bathtub is lightweight.
Kohler K-1946-O is the ideal drop in bathtub for having a deep soak without worrying about water overflowing. This is facilitated by the slotted overflow holes that get rid of excess water, keeping your floor clean, dry and tidy.
There are only two colors available which you can choose from. Hence, you can only choose between white or almond colors.
Pros:
- Safety is prioritized to prevent you from sliding
- Allows deep soaking while maintaining a dry floor
- Interior contours give extra comfort
- Lightweight design simplifies the installation process
Cons:
- Narrow color options to pick from
- Costs a little more but worth the investment
Conclusion
A peaceful and relaxing bath is always therapeutic regardless of the amount of time spent. This is why it is important to have a drop in bathtub as it reduces stress and enhances your comfort.
The above guide and drop in bathtub reviews will help you spot the best product for your bathroom.
All of these drop in bathtubs feature high quality, are easy to clean, highly durable and easy to maintain. Moreover, they feature different prices and you will find one that matches your budget.
Go through the above reviews and pick the best that matches your lifestyle, needs, taste, and budget.