What is a Porcelain Tub? 2025 Guide to Porcelain Tubs

There aren’t many bathroom furnishings that can compare to the classic beauty and elegance that a porcelain bathtub brings. Porcelain bathtubs have long been a sophisticated addition to homes, providing long-lasting beauty and durability. 

That is why many homeowners have been choosing porcelain tubs over other bathtub types for years. If you’re considering buying one, make sure you read this article first.

Porcelain Tub Trends in 2025: Are They Still Popular?

In 2025, porcelain tubs remain a classic choice, though their role in bathroom design has shifted. The push toward spa-like sanctuaries has kept demand for soaking tubs strong, with freestanding models leading the way—85% of design professionals report freestanding tubs as the most requested style. While many homeowners choose acrylic for its lighter weight and superior heat retention, porcelain tubs—especially cast-iron varieties with enamel finishes—still appeal in luxury bathrooms for their timeless look, durability, and ability to blend seamlessly into both traditional and minimalist spaces.

That said, porcelain tubs are no longer the default option. Homeowners remodeling with practicality in mind often favor acrylic or fiberglass for easier installation and broader design flexibility. Porcelain is now more of a niche, premium material, valued for its longevity and resale appeal in heritage-style or high-end projects. Rather than disappearing, porcelain tubs are holding steady as a reliable, durable choice, but with stronger competition from modern alternatives better suited to today’s design and lifestyle demands.

What is a Porcelain Tub?

A porcelain bathtub is a bathtub that is constructed from a base of iron, steel, glass or tile. This bathtub is then coated with a layer of porcelain enamel before the temperature is fired to protect the integrity of the enamel coating. The result is a bathtub that is very durable and easy to clean, with the finish having some resistance to common chemicals. The downside to porcelain bathtubs is that they tend to be heavier than fiberglass and acrylic bathtubs with their surfaces prone to rust or stress under heavy impacts. 

Common Sizes of Porcelain Tubs 

Porcelain tubs are available in a range of sizes to suit different bathroom layouts and needs. Below is a quick reference table of the most common dimensions:

Small Porcelain Tubs

Small tubs (typically 55 × 27 inches or smaller) are designed for compact bathrooms where space is limited. These tubs are ideal for apartments, guest baths, or homes that need practical fixtures without sacrificing style. A 55 × 27 tub, for example, provides just enough room for a quick soak while leaving valuable floor space available for storage or other fixtures.

Medium Porcelain Tubs

Medium-sized tubs (32 × 60 to 45 × 30 inches) are the most common choice for standard bathrooms. The 32 × 60 size is considered the “classic” alcove bathtub, while the 40 × 60 and 45 × 30 options offer a little extra room for more comfort. These tubs provide a balanced mix of space efficiency and usability, making them ideal for family bathrooms and modest master suites.

Large Porcelain Tubs

Large tubs (72 × 32 and 75 × 34 inches) are designed for luxury and relaxation. They are often used in master bathrooms where space isn’t an issue, and many are available in freestanding or drop-in designs. A 75 × 34 porcelain tub creates a spa-like feel, offering plenty of room to stretch out and unwind, while a 72 × 32 tub adds elegance and soaking depth to modern bathroom layouts.

Porcelain Tub Pros and Cons

Like any material, porcelain tubs have their strengths and weaknesses. Understanding both sides will help you decide if this type of bathtub is the right choice for your bathroom.

Porcelain Tub at a Glance

Pros

Porcelain tubs are popular for a reason — they combine affordability, ease of use, and a timeless look that has stood the test of time. Here are the biggest advantages:

• Affordable and Durable
  Porcelain tubs are among the most budget-friendly options compared to cast iron, acrylic, or stone tubs. Despite their lower price, they hold up well against daily wear, resisting scratches, stains, and moisture.
  
• Easy to Clean
  Thanks to their smooth, chemical-resistant glaze, porcelain tubs are simple to maintain. Most standard bathroom cleaners can be used without worry, and the finish naturally resists grime and buildup.
  
• Timeless Appearance
  Porcelain bathtubs never go out of style. Their glossy white finish works with nearly any bathroom design — from classic to modern — and adds a clean, elegant look that has kept them popular for centuries.
  

Cons

While porcelain tubs have plenty of benefits, they aren’t without their challenges. Homeowners should be aware of these drawbacks before making a decision:

• Limited Design Options
  While classic, porcelain tubs don’t offer much variety in shape, style, or color. For homeowners seeking bold, custom designs, the selection can feel restrictive.
  
• Prone to Chipping
  Porcelain’s glaze, though durable, can chip or crack if hit with a heavy object. Once damaged, the steel or cast iron underneath may be exposed, which can lead to rust if not repaired.
  
• Heavy and Hard to Install
  Because porcelain tubs are typically built over steel or cast iron, they can be extremely heavy. This can increase installation costs, require reinforced flooring, or make them impractical for upper-story bathrooms.
  

Best For

Porcelain tubs are best for homeowners who want a classic, affordable bathtub that’s easy to maintain and blends well with almost any bathroom style. They’re a smart choice for families, budget-conscious remodels, and anyone looking for a tub that will last without demanding much upkeep. However, if you’re looking for bold designs or need a lightweight option, you may want to explore alternatives like acrylic or fiberglass.

Porcelain Tub Types

Porcelain tubs are made by coating a steel or cast-iron base with a layer of porcelain enamel. This process creates a smooth, glossy finish that is durable, chemical-resistant, and easy to clean. However, because porcelain needs a solid base, it doesn’t offer the same design flexibility as acrylic or fiberglass tubs. While options are more limited, you can still find porcelain tubs in several popular configurations.

Drop-In Porcelain Tubs

Drop-in tubs are installed into a framed enclosure or deck, with only the rim visible. This style allows you to customize the surrounding surface with tile, stone, or wood for a built-in, upscale look. Drop-in porcelain tubs are popular because:

• They are relatively easy to install if you already have a prepared enclosure.
  
• The design can be customized to match your bathroom décor.
  
• They’re more space-efficient than freestanding tubs.
  

However, keep in mind that drop-in porcelain tubs require a support structure and more floor space than alcove tubs, which can raise installation costs.

Alcove Porcelain Tubs

Alcove tubs are the most common porcelain tub style you’ll see on the market. They are designed to fit snugly between three walls, making them perfect for shower–bathtub combinations. Their advantages include:

• Space efficiency: They maximize room in smaller bathrooms.
  
• Affordability: Alcove porcelain tubs are among the least expensive bathtub options.
  
• Functionality: Ideal for families, rentals, or high-use bathrooms.
  

The downside is that alcove tubs are generally shallow compared to freestanding or drop-in designs, making them better suited for quick baths or showers than long, luxurious soaks.

Freestanding Porcelain Tubs

Freestanding porcelain tubs are much less common than acrylic or stone versions, largely due to weight and manufacturing limitations. They are usually made of cast iron with a porcelain enamel finish, which makes them extremely heavy but very durable.

• They create a striking focal point in the bathroom.
  
• Offer deep soaking comfort, making them more luxurious than alcove tubs.
  
• Require substantial floor reinforcement and professional installation due to their weight.
  

Freestanding porcelain tubs are generally more expensive and harder to source than acrylic versions but provide a timeless, high-end look when installed.

Corner Porcelain Tubs

Corner tubs are designed to fit into a triangular space where two walls meet, saving space while still offering generous bathing room. In porcelain, these tubs are less common than acrylic or fiberglass versions but can be found in drop-in configurations.

• Excellent for maximizing floor space in smaller master bathrooms.
  
• Can provide extra depth and width, making them comfortable for soaking.
  
• Often more expensive than alcove tubs and can be tricky to install because they require custom framing.
  

Corner porcelain tubs are a niche option, but they work well for homeowners who want to save space while still enjoying a roomy bathing experience.

What other common material types are confused with porcelain?

Although porcelain is usually quite distinct on it’s own, it is often confused with a few materials on the market, namely Enamel and Acrylic. Enamel is quite understandable as Porcelain itself is an enamel coating, so the two have similar appearances. The primary difference is that Enamel covers steel or iron bathtub, meaning that the bathtub is magnetic while porcelain is not.

Acrylic is similar as both porcelain bathtubs and acrylic bathtubs have a similar white gloss, but as stated previously, porcelain is constructed of a porcelain coating whereas acrylic is formed by vacuum acrylic sheets reinforced with fiberglass. So, while these three bathtubs may appear the same, their material requires a different degree of care. 

How can you tell if your tub is made of porcelain or enamel?

Both Porcelain bathtubs and enamel bathtubs are coated with a layer of enamel. Both of these bathtubs tend to have a glossy white appearance and they tend to have similar weights, so it is actually quite difficult to tell the two apart initially. The easiest way to tell is to test a magnet on your bathtub. If it attracts, you most likely have an enamel bathtub as enamel bathtubs cover steel and iron bathtubs whereas porcelain covers a larger range of materials. 

Porcelain vs Acrylic Materials

While porcelain and acrylic tubs may appear similar, the materials themselves perform very differently. Porcelain tubs are constructed from a steel or cast-iron base coated with porcelain enamel, giving them a glossy, durable surface that resists scratches but can chip under heavy impact. Acrylic tubs, on the other hand, are made from a lightweight plastic reinforced with fiberglass, which allows for more design flexibility and better heat retention. These differences influence everything from durability and maintenance to comfort and cost, making it important for homeowners to weigh the pros and cons of each before deciding which material best suits their bathroom needs.

Porcelain vs. Acrylic at a Glance

What is the average cost of a porcelain tub?

Not including installation, the average cost of a porcelain bathtub in 2025 ranges from about $300 to $3,000, depending on size, finish, and brand. Smaller, compact tubs are the most affordable, typically priced between $300 and $700, making them a practical choice for apartments or guest bathrooms. Medium-sized porcelain tubs generally fall in the $700 to $1,200 range, offering a balance of comfort and style without a significant jump in cost. Larger or premium models can range from $1,200 to over $3,000, though most traditional porcelain tubs remain well under $2,000 unless they feature custom designs or luxury upgrades.

What is the average weight of a porcelain Tub?

Small porcelain bathtubs or those measuring around 45-55 inches long will tend to have a water capacity of 32 gallons and weigh about 250 pounds. Medium sized bathtubs, or those around 60 inches long will weigh around 320 pounds. Finally, large sized bathtubs or freestanding porcelain bathtubs will weigh anywhere between 370 pounds and 500 pounds. 

Porcelain Tub Maintenance 

Porcelain tubs are known for their durability and timeless appearance, but like any surface, they require regular care to keep their finish intact. By following a few simple maintenance habits, you can extend the lifespan of your tub, prevent damage, and keep it looking bright and glossy for years to come.

1. Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners

Harsh or gritty cleaners can scratch the porcelain enamel, dulling its shine over time. Always choose gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products designed for porcelain or enamel surfaces to preserve the finish.

2. Clean Regularly

A quick rinse after each use helps prevent soap scum, hard water spots, and grime buildup. For deeper cleaning, wash your tub weekly with warm water, baking soda, and a mild cleaner to maintain its luster.

3. Avoid Heavy Impacts

Porcelain enamel is tough but brittle against sharp or heavy impacts. Dropping heavy items like shampoo bottles or shower accessories can chip the surface and expose the metal underneath, leading to rust. Handle accessories with care to protect the enamel.

4. Dry After Deep Cleans

Moisture that lingers after scrubbing can settle into small cracks or chips. After deep cleaning your tub, wipe it down with a soft cloth to ensure the surface dries completely and stays in top condition.

5. Treat Stains Quickly

Don’t let stains sit for too long. Tough marks can usually be removed with natural cleaners like salt and lemon juice, while milder buildup responds well to a paste of baking soda and water. Acting quickly prevents long-term discoloration.

Deep Cleaning Supplies

For a more thorough clean, gather the following:

• Warm water
  
• A bucket
  
• ¼ cup ammonia
  
• ¼ cup baking soda
  
• A cloth or non-abrasive nylon sponge for scrubbing
  
• For tough stains: salt and the juice of half a lemon
  

Mix the ingredients in your bucket, scrub gently with your cloth or sponge, and finish with a rinse of warm water. For stubborn stains, apply salt and lemon juice directly to the mark and let it sit briefly before scrubbing.

How to take care of stains in your porcelain bathtub?

For most stains, warm water and either a soap solution or baking soda will do the trick. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can damage the finish on your bathtub. Also, avoid using a steel wool to clean for the exact reason. For tougher stains, hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice should solve your problems. 

How to Deep-Clean the Tub 

Fill a bucket with warm water and add ammonia and baking soda to the liquid. Soak a cloth or sponge in the mixture and scrub the tub, focusing on stained areas. Scrub and repeat until the tub is clean, then rinse it well with warm water and use a rag to wipe the tub dry. Always ensure that your bathtub is dry after a deep clean. For more detailed instructions, refer to our comprehensive bathtub clean guide.

What to Do About Tough Stains

For tough stains, cover with salt and lemon juice. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are also good choices. If the stain still persists, leave for an hour and try again. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can damage the finish on your bathtub. Also, avoid using a steel wool to clean for the exact reason. For tougher stains, hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice should solve your problems.

Materials to Avoid

When it comes to porcelain enamel, abrasive cleaners, and materials can ding or chip the surface, making it even worse through the cleaning process. To avoid increased damage, here are a few materials to avoid:

• Scouring powder
• White vinegar
• Steel wool

How do you take care of scratched porcelain bathtubs?

For scratches, you will need a repair kit, usually sold at your local home improvement store. The repair kit will provide a solution, which will not provide an exact match to your porcelain, but is still close enough. You will need to clean and sand the area before applying the filler and solution to your bathtub. Follow the directions on the repair kit, allowing the glaze to dry completely before reapplying a new layer. The result will be a polished bathtub without any visible scratches. 

How to take care of rust?

Rust is a general byproduct of cleaning materials that have been used on your bathtub over the years. To properly remove them from your bathtub, you need to be mindful of which products you use on your bathtub and whether they may or may not produce harmful effects.

Generally, harsh cleaners are not recommended, instead use either lemon with warm water to remove rust stains or purchase a rust cleaner from your home improvement store. Make sure no cracks are visible and seal any openings before thoroughly cleaning the rust stains from your bathtub.

How to know if a porcelain tub is right for you?

Porcelain bathtubs provide a classic mainstay in any bathroom. They tend to be quite sturdy and able to deal with a heavy amount of use without losing their shine. Porcelain bathtubs also are quite affordable as well, but that being said, they are not for everyone. They have poor heat retention compared to most other materials on the market, and their available colors and styles are fairly limited. So, if you are looking to purchase a porcelain bathtub, consider the flexibility of your bathroom space and if the style suits you before buying. 

Porcelain will always remain a classic bathtub material, with its time tested durability and vintage white aesthetic, it will always remain a classic. And although it’s style and colors are somewhat limited, no one can deny the value this material brings to any bathroom. 

Eric Jensen

Eric is the founder and president of Badeloft USA. He has been the president of Badeloft’s US division for over ten years and oversees all marketing and branding aspects of Badeloftusa.com.
His expertise lies in small business development, sales, and home and bathroom industry trends and information.

Contact us with any business related inquiries.