If you are looking to purchase a bathtub, you may be aware of the many styles and materials available on the market. The acrylic bathtub is one of the more popular options available on the market, made out of vacuum-formed sheets of acrylic and often reinforced with fiberglass.

Acrylic bathtubs are not only durable but also lightweight, which allows the material to be modified into various shapes and sizes, as well as placed on any level of a home. The fact that acrylic tubs are so versatile, making it understandable why 58% of all bathtubs made in 2016 were made from acrylic. Unlike fiberglass-only bathtubs (which do not retain their heat), acrylic bathtubs have a nonporous surface that keeps the water in your tub longer than the average tub.

It is important to note that due to the soft nature of acrylic, it can also scratch easily. This means that you should be careful not to use any abrasive cleaners on an acrylic bathtub. If you do happen to scratch your bathtub you can have the scratches polished out or even filled. This makes acrylic a long-lasting type of bathtub. Remember to always avoid acrylic tubs that are not reinforced with fiberglass because although they are cheaper, these can be a bit flimsy.

Acrylic tubs are considered to be the most versatile and durable form of a bathtub on the market today. Whether you are looking to have a simple and functional bathroom with a small tub, or prefer a grand, spa-like tub with jets, there is a wide range of acrylic tubs to choose from. In this acrylic bathtub review, we will outline some of the best acrylic tubs on the market today.

Reviewing the Best Acrylic Bathtubs

1. Vanity Art Freestanding Acrylic Bathtub

Made from appealing acrylic material construction, this bathtub stays warm for long periods of time and is extremely durable with a fiberglass backing. The outer layer is polished and glossy making this 67-inch modern tub very sophisticated. Not only that, but due to it’s finishing and fiberglass coating, you have added protection against long term cracking.

Relax without any worries of absorbing toxins or harming the environment. This tub is made of eco-friendly, and UPC certified, toxin-free material so you can soak and feel good about what you are soaking in. 

With a beautiful chrome overflow and chrome pop-up drain, enjoy a bubble bath and soak. You can easily give your child a bath with its versatile design, leveling legs and a flexible drain hose. 

The downside to this tub is that it only offers a short while of protection with a 1-year parts warranty against manufacturer defects. Despite this, this stand-alone design has an extremely simple installation process. Add this beautiful modern tub to any home or any shaped bathroom. 

2. Maykke Pompano Modern Rectangular Acrylic Bathtub

Made with premium construction, this 67-inch bathtub is built very durably. Made from acrylic for a smooth all-around finish, you will feel clean and heavenly in your pure white bathtub.

For a modern twist, this tub is a rectangular shape that can give those with larger limbs a bit more room to spread out within 58 gallons of water. 

Looking for a spa-like feel? Soak in this tub with a polished chrome trip pop up drain overflow. You even have a flexible hose and self-cleaning effect. 

If you are dreading the installation of your bathtub you won’t with the Mayakke Pompano. This stand-alone tub makes it simple to install as there is no deadbolting or remodel required. Leveling feet are included to stabilize your tub and all you will need to do is plumb your tub into your bathroom. 

If you are looking for a stylish design that will work with any home, this Maykke product with a one year warranty might be for you. 

3. Neptune Zen Bathtub

This is a truly luxurious tub. If you are looking for a high-end tub, you found it. This contemporary tub will fit in well with any home design. 

Although the installation can be a bit difficult, this drop-in bathtub will provide a very large interior with 105 gallons at once. Made from acrylic material, you have your choice of six beautiful finishes that provide superior durability with minimal maintenance. 

Forget the spa, with the Neptune Zen you have a spa in your bathroom. Truly relax while enjoying the whirlpool containing 6 square turbojets, 10 square micro-rotating back jets, 13 A pump, diverter valve, and electronic control. You have the option to customize your jet system and can add chromotherapy lights or other tub accessories. 

The warranty for this tub will allow you to feel secure in your big purchase. With a general warranty on the acrylic shell, Neptune certifies that all products and materials, as well as workmanship under normal use, will have service for a lifetime. Additionally, they offer a limited 10-year warranty on parts and labor, with a limited 5-year warranty on manufacturer defects related to jet trims.

If you are willing to spend a lot more on a higher price tag, in return you will receive a very high-quality bath with spa jets, a solid warranty, and a large soaking area. 

4. Eastchester Luxury Freestanding Tub

With a white pedestal base around this white freestanding tub, as you soak you will understand that this tub is luxury at its finest. With a brushed nickel toe-tap drain overflow, the finishings are just beautiful. No matter if you are a taller person or on the shorter end, you will fit very comfortably in this tub. Enjoy the comfortable backrest and full-sized 6-foot by 3-foot tub, as well as 85-gallon water capacity.a

Designed for a luxurious and spa-like experience, you will enjoy long and warm baths in this tub due to its durable and reinforced fiberglass acrylic makeup. This tub is also known for being easy to clean and maintain, with a stain and scratch resistant surface. 

If you are looking for a grand design with an easy install and deep soak, inclusive of a 5-year limited warranty, the Eastchester tub will provide it all.

5. Woodbridge Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub

This freestanding tub is constructed from premium acrylic material with a smart drainage system to support a very simple installation. If you are looking for a beautiful drainage system, this tub comes with stainless-steel entire-draining jets and a brushed nickel faucet. 

Whether you are struggling with pain or simply want to relax at home, you can do so with the help of the aero-therapeutic jets. This bathtub holds a 110-volt motor that produces a strong whirlpool as well as an air bubble bath from the help of 10 jets, to enjoy ten adjustable body massages. Inclusive of an underwater mood lamp to enjoy a soothing spa session. This 71-inch tub with hydraulic massage helps you to stimulate your blood circulation.

After purchase, this bathtub should last a while. Despite this, you will have peace of mind for the first few years with a 5-year limited warranty on the structure of the bathtub as well as the surface. In addition, there is a 1-year limited warranty on the plumbing parts. 

Things to Consider Before Buying

When purchasing any product there are going to be variations in quality and features between different brands, and acrylic bathtubs are no exception. Similar to other bathroom equipment, you should choose a bathtub based on your budget, the features you are interested in having, as well as the size and design of your bathroom. 

Some acrylic bathtubs are made from higher quality material or have better features, and others are made from worse quality with fewer features. When purchasing an acrylic bathtub it is important to know what features and quality you are looking for, then after you can make the decision on what is right for you and your home. There are a few features that can truly determine what the best acrylic bathtub is, and you will need to decide which effect comfortability the most for you.

Size

The size of a bathtub is something that will be more important to taller individuals than shorter, but if it is too small you will feel cramped, and if it is too big the water will get colder faster. When picking a size of bathtub you should be able to stretch, but there should not be so much space that you can fall underwater.

Length

As a general rule, you should look for a tub with at least 60 inches of length. If you do not choose a tub at least this long, any sized individual may not be able to lay down fully or comfortably.

Durability

One aspect that dictates the durability of a tub is its thickness. Some acrylic bathtubs can be thin which will allow it to deteriorate more quickly due to the ability to crack. The thickness of a tub usually correlates with price, so if you would rather pay for a cheaper tub now, you might need to sacrifice durability and strength.

Material

There are many different types of bathtubs available other than acrylic tubs. Other materials commonly used to make bathtubs are porcelain, cast iron, or fiberglass. Many acrylic bathtubs are made from colored sheets of clear plastic that are reinforced with layers of fiberglass, but fiberglass-only tubs are made differently. Acrylic tubs are known for being great due to the fact that they can be formed into many different cozy shapes.

Fiberglass Vs Acrylic

Oftentimes it can be difficult to understand the difference between acrylic vs fiberglass bathtub, but doing so is very important. Fiberglass-only bathtubs are actually fiberglass reinforced plastic. Fiberglass-only tubs are made of small layers of interwoven glass strings that are heated together to fit the desired shape. They are modeled and shaped then covered with a resin gel coat and finally made into a tub. 

Although these tubs appear similar to acrylic tubs, they are actually made of much cheaper material and therefore should be sold at a lower price point. Fiberglass-only tubs also do not retain heat as well as acrylic tubs. The main way how to tell if a bathtub is made from fiberglass or acrylic is to simply look on the manufacturer’s page before purchasing.

Cast Iron Vs Acrylic

Cast iron tubs are made by pouring molten liquid iron into a mold which will harden into a tub shape. The main difference between an acrylic vs cast iron bathtub is that cast iron tends to be a bit more durable, but is also tremendously heavier. This makes it more difficult to place a cast iron tub on an upper story or move. 

Porcelain Vs Acrylic

Porcelain bathtubs are made on a base of iron, steel, glass or tile which is then coated in porcelain enamel and high-temperature fired.  Porcelain and acrylic bathtubs are generally around the same price range and last the same amount of time. The main difference between an acrylic vs porcelain bathtub is that porcelain is a bit more resistant to scratches, but also a lot heavier, similar to cast iron.

Built-in Vs Freestanding

Built-in bathtubs are physically installed into the wall of your bathroom, while a freestanding acrylic bathtub can be placed anywhere. Freestanding tubs can be easier to install, but built-in tubs might be surrounded by an area to place items, that might make your tub more comfortable for you.

Soaking, therapeutic or shower combo

There is a huge difference between a soaking tub, a therapeutic tub, and a shower combo tub. Some of these options include walk-in doors for safe access, showerheads or therapeutic jets.

Soaking 

These tubs will specifically be for soaking. There are not many added features but you can simply relax in a deep and hot bath. 

Therapeutic

If you are looking for a combination of jets, massaging, aromatherapy or light therapy then you will want to purchase a therapeutic tub. These tubs are known for increasing blood flow and aiding in different medical problems. 

Shower Combo

If you choose an acrylic bathtub shower combo, you will be able to alternatively shower if you are not in the mood for a bath. Sometimes people with mobility issues choose to have a shower combo that includes a walk-in shower with a tub. Often these tubs will have a door that makes it a safer option than stepping over the side of the bathtub.

Color

Most acrylic tubs available are a glossy white, but there are some options that are made in black and the occasional color. Generally, a white tub will last longer than other colors due to the fact that it won’t fade. If you do choose a color other than white you should check to see if there is a specific color warranty included in your purchase.

Warranty

Most tubs offer a warranty ranging anywhere from one to five years, but there are huge variations in what is actually included. When purchasing an acrylic bathtub try to look for one that comes with a full warranty rather than a limited warranty. Full warranties usually cover every aspect of the tub other than standard use, while a limited warranty might only cover specific pieces of equipment or aspects of the tub.

Accessories

Some vendors include certain accessories such as a faucet, but others do not. When purchasing separate accessories it is a good rule to purchase brand-related accessories. This can help you avoid issues with installation as well as mismatching parts.

Surrounds

One popular accessory for bathtubs is acrylic bathtub surrounds. This is essentially a vertical surface, generally made of tile, that protects the walls above and around a bathtub. These are only necessary if you have a built-in tub. They can also be made of acrylic or polyester sheets.

Installation

If you are willing to hire someone to install your tub then you might not need to consider installation. If you plan to do the tub installation yourself then this might influence the type of bathtub you will purchase. 

An acrylic freestanding bathtub is one great option for easy installation as they do not need to be physically secured to a wall of any kind. Other types of tubs might need extensive installation such as a tankless water heater. In this case, you should be prepared to hire a special contractor.

Cleaning

Generally, acrylic bathtubs are very easy to clean so this is not necessarily one feature you need to be worried about when comparing tubs. After you purchase an acrylic tub you should be sure to follow the manufacturer provided cleaning procedures. This should teach you how to clean an acrylic bathtub as well as how to avoid scratching your tub, and how to keep it in good condition.

Our Final Take

Choosing an acrylic bathtub is a great choice compared to other materials, as they are known to last 10-15 years, are very lightweight, and have many different options available.

Whether you are looking for a shower and tub combination, are looking to purchase a brand name such as a Kohler acrylic bathtub, or a lesser-known and well-priced option, there is a tub waiting for you.

The first step in choosing your new acrylic bathtub is to decide what features you want, determine your budget, examine the pros and cons, and you will be soaking in no time.