Freestanding bathtub: advantages and disadvantages

April 16, 2025

Before buying a freestanding bathtub, you should be aware of both its advantages and disadvantages. Clearly, a freestanding bathtub will bring unique charm to your bathroom.

However, this type of installation will require more space than a corner bathtub or a back-to-wall bathtub. Plumbing work may also prove more complex. So, is this type of bathtub right for you? Here is some insight to help you make the right choice!

The disadvantages of a freestanding bathtub

Let’s start with the disadvantages of a freestanding bathtub!

A significant need for space

First of all, this type of bathtub will require more space than a wall-mounted bathtub. If you place it in the centre of the room, you should allow at least 50 centimetres around each side to ensure easy movement. In other words, you need a large bathroom to install this type of bathtub.

Here is a tip if you are short on space: install your freestanding bathtub near a wall. This position will showcase it less, but you will save space.

Less practical storage for everyday products

Next, freestanding installation creates a few difficulties when it comes to storing everyday products such as shampoos, shower gels, and so on. Indeed, you will not be able to keep these items on the edge of your bathtub as you would with a back-to-wall bathtub. However, you can easily overcome this drawback by installing a storage unit near your freestanding bathtub.

More complex installation work

The increased complexity of plumbing work is probably the biggest disadvantage of a freestanding bathtub. In this case, your bathtub will require a drainage and water supply system as well as faucets. Very often, creating a raised platform is recommended to ensure a sufficient slope for proper water drainage.

At this point, we recommend consulting a competent plumber to get an idea of the work required to install your equipment.

Showering is difficult

Finally, the last disadvantage of a freestanding bathtub: it will be difficult to take a shower without wetting the bathroom floor. You could install a curtain around the shower, but this would not be ideal from an aesthetic point of view. As a result, you will probably need to dedicate your bathtub exclusively to baths and have a separate shower. If you have a large enough bathroom, combining a shower and a bathtub is therefore the best solution!

The advantages of a freestanding bathtub

A bathtub with incomparable charm

Aesthetics are the main advantage of a freestanding bathtub. Installed in the middle of your bathroom, your bathtub will enhance the space by bringing real elegance. At Spalina, you will also find various styles of freestanding bathtubs.

A feeling of space

With every bath, slipping into your freestanding bathtub will give you a particularly enjoyable feeling of space. With no wall nearby, your well-being will be at its highest!