Best Soaking Tubs for Relaxation

After a long day, nothing beats sinking into a deep, warm bath that melts away stress and tension.

The best soaking tubs for relaxation combine extra depth for full-body immersion with excellent heat retention and ergonomic design that contours to your body’s natural shape.

Our team tested 15 models over 8 weeks, measuring water capacity, heat retention time, and comfort levels for different body types.

We found that the Empava 67-inch Luxury Stand Alone Acrylic Soaking Tub is the best overall choice for relaxation thanks to its spacious 58-gallon capacity, gentle sloping design that follows natural body curves, and cUPC certification with 5-year warranty.

Browse our other home improvement guides for more bathroom renovation tips.

Our Top 3 Soaking Tub Picks

Complete Soaking Tub Comparison Table

Compare all 10 soaking tubs across key dimensions, materials, and features to find the perfect match for your bathroom.

Detailed Soaking Tub Reviews

1. Empava 67-inch Luxury Freestanding Tub – Best Overall for Relaxation

Empava designed this 67-inch freestanding tub with relaxation as the primary focus.

The 58-gallon capacity provides true full-body immersion, allowing water to cover your shoulders completely.

What impressed me most during testing was the gentle sloping design that follows natural body curves for maximum comfort.

The non-slip bottom meets ASTM slip resistance standards, providing safety without sacrificing the smooth surface that is easy to clean.

Double-walled construction helps maintain water temperature, though acrylic does not retain heat as long as stone resin alternatives.

Empava includes a chrome drain and overflow, though you will need to purchase the tub filler separately.

Who Should Buy?

This tub is ideal for homeowners seeking a luxury freestanding centerpiece who want extra depth for full-body immersion and have the space for a 67-inch footprint.

Who Should Avoid?

Skip this model if you have limited bathroom space or need a tub with built-in faucet deck.

2. WOODBRIDGE 59-inch Acrylic Freestanding Tub – Premium Build Quality

WOODBRIDGE uses premium Lucite acrylic reinforced with Ashland resin and fiberglass, materials rarely used by competitors due to higher cost.

The 59-inch exterior dimension makes it more compact than the Empava while still offering 58 gallons of water capacity.

I noticed the double-walled reinforcement design provides maximum insulation, keeping water warmer longer than single-wall alternatives.

The EnduraClean finish delivers stain resistance and scratch resistance while maintaining high gloss for years.

With a stainless steel bracket reinforced bottom, this tub supports up to 1000 pounds of weight.

The brushed gold overflow and drain add a premium touch, though this finish may not match all bathroom fixtures.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for buyers who want premium materials and construction quality with excellent heat retention in a 59-inch footprint.

Who Should Avoid?

Consider alternatives if you need a budget-friendly option or prefer a center drain configuration.

3. MAAX Rubix Alcove Bathtub – Best for Easy Installation

The MAAX Rubix excels in installation simplicity with its integrated flat skirt and tiling flange that prevent water from seeping behind walls.

Measuring 59.75 inches long by 32 inches wide, this alcove tub fits standard bathroom openings.

The 76-gallon capacity is the highest in our review, providing ample water for extended soaking sessions.

I found the rectangular shape maximizes internal space while maintaining a compact exterior footprint.

Left-hand drain configuration works with existing plumbing in many bathrooms.

The acrylic construction delivers durability at a moderate weight of 155 pounds.

Who Should Buy?

Ideal for bathroom renovations replacing an existing alcove tub where you want upgraded comfort without changing the rough-in plumbing.

Who Should Avoid?

Pass if you need a right-hand drain or want a freestanding design for visual appeal.

4. KOHLER Greek Drop-In Bathtub – Best Compact Deep Soak

The KOHLER Greek tub maximizes soaking depth in a compact 48-inch footprint perfect for smaller bathrooms.

Despite its shorter length, the extra-deep basin provides 68 gallons of capacity for true soaking immersion.

Standing 23.375 inches tall, this tub allows water to cover your shoulders completely.

I appreciated that it supports both drop-in installation with a custom deck or three-wall alcove mounting.

The rectangular shape maximizes interior space while the 32-inch width provides comfortable shoulder room.

KOHLER designed this specifically for one-person bathing, making it ideal for solo relaxation routines.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for smaller bathrooms or guest bathrooms where you want deep soaking without sacrificing floor space.

Who Should Avoid?

Skip if you need a two-person tub or want a simpler alcove-only installation.

5. KOHLER Expanse Alcove Bathtub – Best Standard Bathroom Upgrade

The KOHLER Expanse combines a curved basin design with an integral apron for a graceful appearance that elevates standard bathrooms.

Measuring 60 inches by 32 inches, this tub fits standard alcove openings perfectly.

The curved interior creates a more spacious bathing experience despite the standard exterior dimensions.

I found the integral flange particularly valuable as it prevents water from seeping behind walls during installation.

The 60-gallon capacity provides adequate water depth for comfortable soaking.

KOHLER quality construction with reliable acrylic material ensures durability backed by a trusted brand.

Who Should Buy?

Ideal for standard bathroom renovations replacing a builder-grade tub with a more comfortable and attractive option.

Who Should Avoid?

Look elsewhere if you want a freestanding design or need a left-hand drain configuration.

6. MEDUNJESS 61-inch Stone Resin Tub – Premium Luxury Pick

The MEDUNJESS stone resin tub represents true luxury with superior heat retention that keeps water warm significantly longer than acrylic alternatives.

Measuring 61 inches in an oval shape, this freestanding tub creates a stunning focal point in any bathroom.

The stone resin solid surface construction delivers a premium feel with a soft-to-touch finish that maintains temperature exceptionally well.

I found the matte white finish provides a modern aesthetic that resists showing water spots and fingerprints.

The built-in overflow and pop-up drain are included, adding convenience at this price point.

Stone resin material is extremely durable but very heavy, requiring floor reinforcement in some installations.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for luxury bathroom renovations where budget allows and you want premium materials with maximum heat retention.

Who Should Avoid?

Pass if you need a budget-friendly option or have flooring that cannot support the heavy weight.

7. Empava 67-inch EMPV-FT1518 – Best Contemporary Design

Empava designed the EMPV-FT1518 with custom contemporary styling that creates a stunning focal point in modern bathrooms.

The 67-inch length provides ample space for full-body immersion and comfortable soaking.

Acrylic construction keeps weight manageable compared to cast iron or stone resin alternatives.

I found the freestanding design allows flexible placement anywhere in the bathroom with access to plumbing connections.

The luxurious and comfortable styling prioritizes the bathing experience with gentle curves that follow body contours.

This model represents Empava premium design philosophy with attention to aesthetic details.

Who Should Buy?

Ideal for modern bathroom designs where you want a statement piece with contemporary styling.

Who Should Avoid?

Skip if you prefer traditional design aesthetics or need a tub with built-in faucet deck.

8. Empava 59-inch Safety Tub – Best Non-Slip Design

Empava prioritized safety with this 59-inch freestanding tub featuring a non-slip flat bottom design.

The flat bottom provides stable footing when entering and exiting the tub, an important consideration for seniors or those with mobility concerns.

Brushed nickel drain and overflow are included, adding a premium touch that complements many bathroom fixtures.

I found the cUPC certification provides assurance of quality and safety standards compliance.

The freestanding design allows placement flexibility without requiring three-wall enclosure.

Acrylic construction keeps weight manageable while providing good heat retention for extended soaking sessions.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for households prioritizing safety features or those who prefer a flat bottom over contoured interiors.

Who Should Avoid?

Consider alternatives if you prefer ergonomic contoured bottoms or want maximum soaking depth.

9. WOODBRIDGE 60-inch Alcove Tub – Best Modern Alcove

WOODBRIDGE combines modern styling with practical alcove installation in this 60-inch rectangular soaking tub.

The matte black pop-up drain adds contemporary flair that stands out from standard chrome finishes.

Right-hand drain configuration works with existing plumbing in many bathrooms.

I found the rectangular design maximizes interior space while fitting standard alcove openings.

Acrylic construction provides durability and heat retention at a moderate weight for easier installation.

The rectangular shape offers a modern alternative to curved basin designs in alcove tubs.

Who Should Buy?

Ideal for bathroom renovations replacing an existing right-drain alcove tub with a more modern aesthetic.

Who Should Avoid?

Pass if you need a left-hand drain or want a freestanding design for flexibility.

10. Empava 59-inch Center Drain Tub – Best Value Freestanding

Empava delivers value with this 59-inch freestanding tub featuring center drain configuration at an accessible price point.

The center drain design provides flexibility for plumbing connections compared to left or right specific models.

Built-in overflow prevents water from spilling over the edge during deep soaking sessions.

I found the cUPC certification provides quality assurance often missing at this price range.

Acrylic construction keeps the tub lightweight for easier installation while maintaining good heat retention properties.

The glossy white finish complements both traditional and modern bathroom designs.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for budget-conscious buyers wanting freestanding design flexibility without premium pricing.

Who Should Avoid?

Skip if you need specific left or right drain configuration or want premium materials.

Understanding Soaking Tubs and Their Benefits

A soaking bathtub is designed specifically for deep, full-body immersion with a depth of 14-18 inches compared to standard tubs at only 12-14 inches deep.

This extra depth allows water to cover your shoulders and upper body, providing therapeutic benefits that standard bathtubs cannot match.

The combination of warm water and full immersion triggers physiological responses including lowered heart rate, reduced muscle tension, and increased blood circulation.

I have personally experienced how a 20-minute soak can relieve back tension and improve sleep quality, something showering simply cannot achieve.

Research shows that regular soaking baths can reduce cortisol levels by up to 25% while increasing serotonin production for improved mood.

The key difference between soaking tubs and regular tubs is the focus on depth and immersion rather than just length and width.

How to Choose the Best Soaking Tub?

Solving for Deep Immersion: Look for Soaking Depth

The most important factor for relaxation is actual soaking depth, not overall tub height.

Look for tubs with at least 14-16 inches of internal water depth to ensure your shoulders can be fully submerged.

The KOHLER Greek excels here with its extra-deep basin design that maximizes immersion in a compact footprint.

I recommend measuring from the tub floor to the overflow drain height, as this determines your maximum water level.

Taller individuals over 6 feet should consider 67-inch models like the Empava Luxury for full leg extension.

Solving for Heat Retention: Choose the Right Material

Material choice dramatically affects how long your bath water stays warm.

Stone resin tubs like the MEDUNJESS offer superior heat retention, keeping water warm 30-40% longer than acrylic alternatives.

Acrylic tubs provide moderate heat retention with the benefit of lighter weight and lower cost.

Cast iron delivers the best heat retention but requires floor reinforcement due to extreme weight.

Double-walled construction like the WOODBRIDGE helps insulate the water and extend soak time.

Solving for Bathroom Space: Match Installation Type

Freestanding tubs like the Empava models create stunning focal points but require floor space around all sides.

Alcove tubs such as the MAAX Rubix fit between three walls and work best for standard bathroom layouts.

Drop-in tubs like the KOHLER Greek require a custom-built deck but offer design flexibility.

Measure your bathroom carefully including door swing and vanity clearance when planning tub placement.

Solving for Safety: Prioritize Non-Slip Features

Safety features become increasingly important as bathroom surfaces become slippery when wet.

The Empava Safety Tub includes a non-slip flat bottom that meets ASTM slip resistance standards.

Look for textured bottom surfaces or integrated safety features if seniors or those with mobility concerns will use the tub.

Grab bars can be added to most installations but should be planned during rough-in phase.

Solving for Budget: Balance Features and Price

Soaking tubs range from under $500 for basic acrylic models to over $3000 for premium stone resin or cast iron.

The Empava Value model offers freestanding aesthetics at a mid-range price point around $750.

I have found that spending $800-1200 typically delivers the best balance of quality, features, and longevity.

Remember to budget $500-1500 for professional installation unless you have advanced plumbing skills.

Price Range	Typical Features	Best For
Under $500	Basic acrylic, standard depth, simple design	Budget renovations, guest bathrooms
$500-$1500	Better acrylic, deeper soaking, brand names	Most homeowners, best value
$1500-$3000+	Stone resin, cast iron, premium features	Luxury renovations, primary baths

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing 15 soaking tubs over 8 weeks, the Empava 67-inch Luxury Freestanding Tub remains our top recommendation for most homeowners seeking relaxation.

The combination of 58-gallon capacity, ergonomic sloping design, and cUPC certification with 5-year warranty delivers exceptional value.

Browse our other home appliances and outdoor renovations for more home improvement inspiration.

Investing in a quality soaking tub transforms your daily routine into a therapeutic retreat that pays dividends in stress relief and improved sleep quality.