What is the Standard Size for a Free Standing Tub?

If you‘re looking to add a stylish and relaxing free standing tub to your bathroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right size. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine what dimensions will work best for your space and needs. This comprehensive guide will provide all the key details on standard tub sizing to set you up for success!

Typical Dimensions for Common Tub Types

Free standing tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Here are the standard external dimensions for some of the most popular configurations:

Rectangular Tubs

• Small: 48-54” long x 28-32” wide x 20-22” high
• Medium: 54-60” long x 30-36” wide x 22-24” high
• Large/Extra-long: 60-72” long x 32-42” wide x 22-24” high

Oval Tubs

• Small: 54” long x 30” wide x 23” high
• Medium: 60” long x 32” wide x 23” high
• Large: 66” long x 40” wide x 23” high

Corner Tubs

• Small: 46-48” long x 28-30” wide x 21-23” high
• Large: 60-66” long x 32-36” wide x 21-25” high

Double Ended Tubs

• Standard: 60-66” long x 30-34” wide x 22-24” high
• Large: 72-80” long x 36-42” wide x 22-26" high

As you can see, the range varies widely based on the configuration. Rectangular and oval tubs tend to have the greatest variety in sizing.

Consider Your Room Dimensions

One of the most important factors when selecting a free standing tub is measuring the available space in your bathroom.

Be sure to account for:

• Tub length
• Tub width
• Recommended clearance around the tub – 24-30 inches minimum on all sides

This ensures you‘ll have ample room to move around the tub safely. For larger and deeper tub models, allow even more clearance – up to 36 inches or more all around.

Here are some bathroom dimension scenarios and suitable tub size options:

Small Bathroom (50-70 sq ft)

• 48-54” rectangular tub
• 54” oval tub
• Corner tub

Medium Bathroom (70-100 sq ft)

• 54-60” rectangular tub
• 60” oval tub
• Large corner tub

Large Bathroom (100+ sq ft)

• 60-72”+ rectangular tub
• 60-66” oval tub
• Extra-long rectangular tub
• Double-ended tub

As you can see, your specific bathroom footprint will be a key determining factor for tub sizing. Be sure to measure carefully and account for clearances.

Consider Your Height and Bathing Style

Beyond bathroom size, your height and preferred soaking position should influence the dimensions you choose.

Here are some tub size recommendations based on height and bathing style:

If you like to fully recline:

• Under 5‘2" – minimum 54" tub
• 5‘2" to 5‘6" – minimum 60" tub
• Over 5‘6" – minimum 66" tub

If you like to stretch out your legs:

• Under 5‘2" – minimum 60" tub
• 5‘2" to 5‘6" – minimum 66" tub
• Over 5‘6" – minimum 72" tub

If you want room to move around:

• Rectangular tub at least 32" wide
• Oval tub at least 40" wide

Selecting a tub length that allows you to fully extend and adjust your body will provide the most comfortable soak.

Measure Tub Dimensions Precisely

When shopping for a free standing tub, don‘t rely solely on the stated dimensions. It‘s crucial to verify the interior measurements once the tub arrives.

The interior space may be smaller than the external size due to the thickness of the tub wall. Always measure:

• Interior length
• Interior width
• Interior height/depth
• Exterior length and width

This ensures the tub will fit the intended space and meet your bathing needs.

It‘s also smart to create a detailed drawing of your bathroom plan indicating:

• Exact room dimensions
• Plumbing locations
• Doorway dimensions
• Window placement
• Desired tub placement

Having these measurements mapped out will help you choose the optimal tub size and avoid any installation issues.

Allow Proper Clearance Around the Tub

One factor many homeowners overlook is the proper clearance needed around a free standing tub:

• Rectangular tubs – 24-30" clearance on all sides
• Oval tubs – 30-36" clearance on all sides
• Corner tubs – 20-24" clearance on sides

At the ends of the tub where you‘ll enter/exit, allow the widest clearance possible. This provides ample leg room and space to safely maneuver.

For soaking tubs with a deeper interior depth, allow up to 36 inches all around for entry and exit.

Here are the recommended minimum clearances for standard tub types:

Medium Rectangular Tub (60" long x 32" wide)

• Side clearance: 24" minimum each side
• End clearance: 30" minimum each end
• Total area: 60" x 32" + 24" + 24" + 30" + 30" = 84" x 62"

Large Oval Tub (66" long x 42" wide)

• Side clearance: 36" minimum each side
• End clearance: 42" minimum each end
• Total area: 66" x 42" + 36" + 36" + 42" + 42" = 96" x 84"

As you can see, clearance adds a significant footprint. Be sure to account for this in your floor plan.

The Pros and Cons of Tub Size

Determining the right tub size is a balance of considerations:

Pros of larger tubs:

• More bathing space to stretch out and relax
• Can accommodate two people
• Depth provides a true soaking experience

Cons of larger tubs:

• Require more floor space
• Use more water to fill (80-150+ gallons)
• Weigh more when full, requiring robust support

Pros of smaller tubs:

• Fit better in compact bathrooms
• Use less water (50-80 gallons)
• Weigh less when full
• Offer more placement flexibility

Cons of smaller tubs:

• Less room to fully extend your body
• Harder for two people to share
• Provide less of an immersive soak

Carefully consider your needs and priorities to strike the right balance.

The Most Popular Tub Shapes

In addition to sizing, tub shape is another key decision. The most common options include:

Rectangular

• Most affordable and widely available
• Symmetrical sides maximize soak room
• Limited curved contours

Oval

• Symmetrical curved sides
• Comfortably fits single or double bathers
• No hard corners

Corner

• Fits nicely in 90 degree corner spots
• Curved inward side creates spaciousness
• Angled reclining surface

Double Ended

• Allows partner bathing
• Symmetrical sloped ends
• Fits in middle of room

Consider the visual appeal and functionality each shape offers. An oval tub provides the ultimate luxury experience for most homeowners.

Integrated vs. Separate Filler and Faucet

Modern free standing tubs often have the filler spout and faucets integrated directly into the tub deck. This provides a seamless look.

For a more minimalist style, select a wall-mounted or floor-mounted filler placed near the tub. This creates a cleaner appearance.

When planning your tub installation, be sure to account for the additional space these fillers require. Most need 6-12 inches of clearance from the tub edge.

An integrated filler and faucet system may be the easiest option if you have limited room to work with.

Ensure Proper Structural Support and Reinforcement

Due to the heavy weight of a free standing tub (often over 100 pounds even when empty), proper support is crucial.

For frame construction, consult an engineer or architect to ensure the existing floor structure can handle the load. Reinforcing the floor with extra beams or posts may be required.

For concrete slab construction, a minimum 4-inch slab thickness is recommended. Additionally, installing a support platform under the tub is wise.

Tub feet, anchoring kits, or support frames will keep the tub firmly grounded and prevent shifting. Adjustable feet make leveling the tub easier.

Do not skip this vital step, as an unsecured tub could lead to floor and structure damage over time.

Complement Your Bathroom Style

Your free standing tub should integrate aesthetically with the overall bathroom design.

• A sleek modern tub pairs well with stone, glass and metal finishes
• A classic clawfoot tub matches vintage details and furnishings
• An oval soaking tub brings a spa-like feel to the space

Also make sure to select tub materials and colors that align with your style:

• For traditional charm, opt for porcelain in white or bisque tones
• For contemporary flair, try a glossy acrylic tub in black, gray or jewel tones
• For organic appeal, consider wood composite tubs with live edge detailing

Maximize visual space with a lighter colored tub, clean lines, and plenty of natural light. This creates an open and airy bathing oasis.

Conclusion

With all of the above factors carefully weighed – room dimensions, body measurements, clearance, shape, features, and style – you‘re sure to select the perfect freestanding tub size to meet your needs.

Take your time, assess your options, and don‘t be afraid to ask questions to tub specialists. With the right tub dimensions and plan in place, you‘ll be relaxing in bathing bliss in no time!