There’s nothing quite like sinking into a freestanding bath at the end of a long day—pure luxury, right? These statement tubs aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re practical, versatile, and can instantly elevate your bathroom. But before you rush out and buy one, there are a few things to consider. Here’s everything you need to know to find the perfect freestanding bath for your space.

Why Choose a Freestanding Bath?

Freestanding tubs are the centrepiece of any bathroom. Unlike built-in tubs, they don’t need to be boxed in, giving you more design freedom. They’re ideal for larger bathrooms but can work in smaller spaces too with the right layout. Plus, they come in a variety of styles, from modern minimalist to classic clawfoot.

Types of Freestanding Baths

1. Clawfoot Tubs

The ultimate vintage vibe. These baths sit on decorative feet (usually metal) and are perfect for period-style bathrooms. They offer a timeless look but do need a bit more cleaning underneath due to the exposed space.

2. Pedestal Tubs

Similar to clawfoot baths but with a solid base instead of feet. These work well in traditional and modern bathrooms, giving a seamless, elegant look.

3. Slipper Tubs

One end (or both) is raised higher than the other, giving extra back support. Ideal if you love a long soak and want something comfortable as well as stylish.

4. Japanese Soaking Tubs

Also called Ofuro tubs, these are deep and compact, designed for sitting rather than reclining. Great for smaller bathrooms or if you prefer a more immersive bathing experience.

5. Modern Minimalist Tubs

Sleek, simple, and often made from acrylic or solid surface materials. These work well in contemporary bathrooms with a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

Materials Matter: What’s Your Bath Made Of?

The material of your tub affects its durability, weight, and how well it retains heat. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Acrylic – Lightweight, affordable, and available in loads of styles. It retains heat well but can scratch more easily than other materials.

• Cast Iron – Heavy, durable, and excellent at keeping water warm. However, it’s a pain to install due to its weight.

• Stone Resin – A high-end option with a sleek, matte finish. Feels solid and luxurious but comes with a hefty price tag.

• Copper – A bold, eye-catching choice that develops a unique patina over time. It’s naturally antibacterial but needs regular maintenance.

• Wood – Yes, wooden tubs exist! Usually made from treated teak or cedar, they’re stunning but require a lot of upkeep to prevent warping.

Placement: Where Should Your Tub Go?

Freestanding baths don’t need to be against a wall, but you still need to think about plumbing and space. Here are some popular placement options:

• Centre of the Room – Creates a spa-like focal point, but you’ll need floor-mounted plumbing.

• Against a Feature Wall – A great way to balance style with practicality, especially if you’re limited on space.

• By a Window – Soaking with a view? Yes, please! Just make sure privacy isn’t an issue.

Plumbing Considerations

Unlike built-in tubs, freestanding baths need external plumbing, which can add to installation costs. You’ll need to choose between:

• Freestanding Taps – Stylish but require floor-mounted pipes.

• Wall-Mounted Taps – A good option if your bath is near a wall.

• Deck-Mounted Taps – Installed directly onto the bath, but not all freestanding tubs allow this.

Make sure your bathroom floor can support the weight, especially if you’re going for a heavy stone or cast iron bath.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Freestanding tubs are generally easy to clean, but the material you choose will determine how much effort is needed:

• Acrylic & Stone Resin – Wipe down with a mild cleaner; avoid abrasive scrubs.

• Cast Iron & Copper – Dry after use to prevent rust or patina changes.

• Wood – Needs regular oiling and careful drying to prevent warping.

If your bath sits away from the wall, don’t forget about cleaning underneath—it’s a dust trap!

Cost and Installation

Freestanding baths vary widely in price, from budget-friendly acrylic models to high-end stone or copper tubs. Installation can also be more expensive than a built-in bath due to extra plumbing work, so factor that into your budget.

How Beams Helps You Plan Your Renovation

Choosing the perfect freestanding bath is just one part of a bigger bathroom renovation. That’s where Beams comes in. With its renovation tools, you can organise every detail of your project in one place.

With Beams, you can:
✅ Compare different bath options from the catalogue
✅ Plan your budget and monitor spending so you don’t go overboard.
✅ Keep all contractor details and quotes in one handy spot.
✅ View a to-do list so nothing gets forgotten

Get your free estimate and have a meeting with one of our expert planners. Why wait?