12 Bathtubs For Small Spaces – Choosing a Bathtub for your Small Bathroom

Bathtubs are an important centerpiece for any bathroom. The style of your bathtub influences how the rest of your bathroom appears. But just because you have a small space, doesn’t mean you should ever be limited to how your bathroom appears. Today we will be discussing how different colors and styles can easily transform your bathroom into the perfect fit for your home. 

Freestanding tub

Freestanding bathtubs are bathtubs that are supported by their own weight, giving you the freedom to place them anywhere in your bathroom. While traditional freestanding tubs are quite large, there are numerous styles such as soaking tubs that allow you to install a freestanding tub in a small area. 

Corner bathtub

A corner bathtub is a bathtub that is anchored by two walls, forming into a corner. This affords a great deal of space and usually means that corner tubs are generally more rounded in nature to fit this space more easily. 

Shower + bathtub combo

A shower bathtub combo is a bathtub that has a shower installed alongside it. This provides a bathtub with the versatility of both a bathtub and a shower while saving a great deal of space.  

Clawfoot bathtub

A clawfoot tub is a variant of a freestanding tub. Clawfoot tubs come in a variety of sizes, from large to small, allowing them to fit just about any space.

Alcove bathtub

Alcove tubs are bathtubs that are surrounded by walls on at least three sides. The front or outer side that is not attached to a wall will have a tub apron that is characteristic of all alcove tubs.

Undermount tub

An undermount bathtub is a bathtub installed underneath a rim or recess connected to the surrounding floor structure. This style is popular in bathrooms that are quite small as it allows you to have a visually attractive bathtub while still affording you a great deal of space as a result. 

What Is a Small Bathtub?

Any bathtub with smaller dimensions than a regular bathtub is considered a small bathtub. As standard dimensions range from 60 to 72 inches long and 27 to 32 inches wide, anything below that will be considered a small bathtub.

Most bathtub types offer a range of sizes, and understanding the dimensions of common bathtubs can help you choose the one that fits best in your space. Choosing a smaller bathtub, such as a freestanding model measuring 48 inches, can save space and prevent your bathroom from appearing cluttered and less functional. This size is about 20% smaller than regular-sized bathtubs, making it particularly suitable for children and average-size adults.

Bathroom Size	Dimensions (Feet)	Dimensions (Inches)	Total Square Footage	Typical Layout Fit
Small Bathroom	5′ x 8′	60″ x 96″	~40 sq ft	Shower/tub combo or compact soaking tub
Medium Bathroom	6′ x 9′	72″ x 108″	~54 sq ft	Standard 60″ tub or small freestanding tub
Large Bathroom	8′ x 10′ (or larger)	96″ x 120″+	80+ sq ft	Large freestanding tub, separate shower, double vanity

12 Examples of Bathtubs for Small Spaces

A freestanding bathtub for the modern bathroom. A contemporary freestanding tub provides you with the no-frills quintessential freestanding bathtub for your home. While a freestanding bathtub may seem too large for a small bathroom, below is an example of how the right bathtub can make a small space seem modern.

Following a minimalist approach, just about any bathtub can fit into any space-making both the bathtub and the space around it appear larger than it actually is.

1. Periwinkle Clawfoot Bathtub

A classic clawfoot design that matches well with any modern or classic home. Below are a shower and bathtub combo that fits well into any home. Bathtub shower combos are great additions to any bathroom as they help provide the flexibility of both a shower and bathtub, which is crucial for bathrooms limited in space. The bathroom pictured below is not exactly a large bathroom, but it manages to fit all the necessities, helping to create a classic bathroom aesthetic.

2.  Corner Bathtub

A great bathtub to complement any small space. Corner bathtubs are great bathtubs for changing the style of a bathroom. Corner bathtubs are necessary for small spaces as they are one of the smallest bathtubs available. But as you can see below, a small space doesn’t mean you need to give up on style. A small corner bathtub can help create an inviting and stylish attraction as long as you pair it well with the rest of your bathroom’s colors and vanities. 

3. Modern White Undermount Tub

A modern bathroom for a smaller space. Modern bathrooms are about creating a futuristic and sleek aesthetic that blends well with any space. The advantage of modern design is that they will always look to save you space. While the look is a bit different from classic bathroom designs, just having all modern fixtures can provide a great answer to fitting a full bath in a small space.  

4. Mint Green Alcove Bathtub

A splash of color to bring life to your bathroom. While the color white is a common fixture in a classic bathroom, it can be dull and lifeless without any additional amenities or fixtures. Something as simple as adding color, like the mint green bathtub pictured below, can do wonders for bringing your bathroom to life. Especially in a small bathroom, colors tend to stand out much more and make a small space seem larger than it actually is.

5. Bathtub & Shower Combo

A perfect solution for a bathroom with limited space. With any bathroom, space is a premium. Pictured below is a bathroom that manages to fit all the basic bathroom amenities along with a washer. This is an excellent use of the space as the bathroom doesn’t feel cramped even if the space is fairly small. A bathtub and shower combination is always a great addition to a small bathroom as it helps to retain all the functionality of a full bath without sacrificing function or aesthetics. 

6. Oval Freestanding Bathtub

A freestanding bathtub for any bathroom that wants a touch of modernity. Oval or spherical freestanding tubs are a great addition to any home that wants a touch of modernity in addition to saving space. An oval or spherical shape is much easier to fit than the traditional rectangular drop-in tub and can help create a more modern bathroom feel. Below is a great example of blending a freestanding bathtub and a shower space together which helps to create both a classic and modern feel to the space.

7. Drop-in Bathtub & Shower Combo

The perfect addition to a small space. A drop-in bathtub and shower combo are some of the most common shower combinations. Ideal for bathrooms with limited space, this combination is proof that you can have all the shower and bathtub functionality in even a cramped space. As space is limited in the picture below, proper use of the space helps to ensure that a guest doesn’t feel cramped or claustrophobic. A drop-in shower and bathtub can help make a small space feel like a full bath even for those limited in space.

8. White Freestanding Clawfoot Bathtub

A classic look for a classic bathroom.  A freestanding clawfoot is a classic bathtub for a reason. Freestanding bathtubs help to provide a greater deal of flexibility in terms of style. As pictured below, the bathtub can appear modern, retro, or classic depending on the environment. Below, we have a more classic approach, with white walls and beige tiles. The lack of color means that the bathtub will blend perfectly with its surroundings, giving you a more classic feeling bathroom.

9. Elegant Acrylic Alcove Bathtub

An alcove bathtub provides a perfect escape from the workday. While an alcove bathtub is usually installed to save space, below is an example of an alcove that works with the space available. Excellent use of the vibrant whites and the gold plated vanities make this bathroom appear elegant and vibrant with a bathtub that is more limited in colors. This is an example of using your space to help compliment your bathtub’s shortcomings so only the positives remain. 

10. Corner White Freestanding Bathtub

Freestanding bathtubs are a flexible and welcome addition to any bathroom. In a modern bathroom such as this, a corner bathtub keeps the bathroom’s modern appeal while saving space. In a bathroom where space is a premium, a corner bathtub is always a great option. This bathtub shows the flexibility of a freestanding bathtub in providing a modern centerpiece and a great functioning bathtub.  

11. Small Freestanding Bathtub with Wooden Floors

Nothing beats a classic small freestanding bathtub. Wooden floors help to provide a more rustic feel to any home. In a contrast, a small freestanding bathtub, such as the one pictured here, helps to provide a touch of modernity. This is proof that you don’t need a large bathtub to provide a large statement in your bathroom.

Tips When Choosing a Bathtub for Small Spaces

When choosing a bathtub for a smaller space, here are few things to consider before you purchase a new tub.

Make sure you measure the space

It is crucial that you measure your bathroom before purchasing a new tub. Measuring out your space ensures that you understand the maximum size of the bathtub your bathroom can handle.

Stick to your budget

While it may be tempting to buy the most attractive bathtub on the market, remember that a bathtub is just one part of your bathroom. Pick a bathtub that is within your budget and leave some flexibility for any bathroom additions that may come along.

Hire a professional for the installation

With the reality of COVID-19, remodeling jobs have become a bit of a hassle. Remember to take certain safety precautions, such as face protection and safe distancing, when interacting with professionals. are a bit trickier.

Keep your bathroom simple

Don’t add too many colors and patterns, as this will make your bathroom look even smaller. Stick to colors like white, beige, and gray. If you want to make it a bit more interesting, you can add candles, hand towels, and toothbrush cup holders in a different color or tone.

Focus on Light

If your bathroom receives a lot of natural light during the day, it will appear bigger. Not only that, it will provide a beautiful, relaxing experience for you if you decide to take a bath during the day. Keep in mind that spaces with a lot of light require regular cleaning, so be sure your bathtub and bathroom are spotless. 

As you can see, a small space does not mean you need to compromise on a great bathtub. There are plenty of great options for small spaces and while it may take some work, you can transform your bathroom into a quiet oasis away from your long day. 

FAQs About Bathtubs in Small Spaces

Can You Put a Soaking Tub in a Small Bathroom?

Yes, you can install a soaking tub in a small bathroom with the right layout and tub dimensions. Many compact soaking tubs are designed to be shorter in length but deeper in depth, allowing for a full-body soak without requiring a large footprint. Careful space planning, proper plumbing placement, and selecting a tub under 60 inches long can make it work comfortably.

What Is the Best Bath for a Small Bathroom?

The best bath for a small bathroom is typically a compact soaking tub or a Japanese-style deep tub, which maximize depth without taking up too much floor space. Corner tubs can be a good option in small bathrooms because they make use of otherwise unused corner space and free up more room for other fixtures. However, they may offer less bathing space than traditional tubs and can be harder to tile or accessorize, so it’s important to balance space savings with comfort and style.

Badeloft Freestanding Bathtubs for Small Bathrooms

If you’re designing a small bathroom, Badeloft freestanding bathtubs offer the perfect balance of space efficiency and modern luxury. Crafted from premium stone resin, they provide superior heat retention, durability, and deep soaking comfort while maintaining a compact footprint ideal for tighter layouts. Explore Badeloft’s collection to find a sculptural, space-saving tub that transforms even the smallest bathroom into a refined, spa-like retreat.