When it comes to choosing the perfect bathtub for your bathroom, alcove bathtubs and drop in bathtubs are two of the most popular choices on the market, however, these two types of bathtubs are worlds apart.
It's tricky to answer the question of which bathtub is the better value because it depends on space, budget, and design preferences. They both have unique features that can fulfill different needs and preferences. Alcove bathtubs are usually more cost-effective and ideal for smaller bathrooms, while drop in bathtubs can enhance bathroom aesthetics by providing design flexibility.
Choosing between an alcove bathtub and a drop in bathtub can be overwhelming, especially if you don't understand the differences between them. While they may look similar at first glance, they have different designs and installation features that can affect the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. In this article, we'll take you through a factual comparison of alcove bathtubs and drop in bathtubs to help you make an informed choice based on value and need.
At the end of the day, the primary purpose of all bathtubs is the same, but the styles, shapes, colors, and sizes of these tubs vary widely. So, what are alcove bathtubs and drop in bathtubs?
What is an Alcove Bathtub?
An alcove bathtub is the most common type of bathtub in the US. This type of bathtub is installed in a three-wall alcove, which means that only the front side of the bathtub is finished and ready for use. The other three sides are unfinished, and when installed, these sides will fit snugly against the bathroom wall. They are called alcove bathtubs because they are installed by recessing the bathtub into the “alcove” of the bathroom. Since these bathtubs have integral tile flanges, they cannot be turned over, so it is important to choose the proper drain location when selecting a bathtub to match your existing plumbing system. There are two types of alcove bathtubs: one with a built-in stopper and the other without. An alcove bathtub without a built-in stopper requires the construction of a stopper on the exposed side of the bathtub.
What is a Drop in Bathtub?
Drop in bathtubs are designed to be installed within a four-wall frame without any machined sides. Since the bathtub has no exposed sides, this type of bathtub does not have a front baffle and does not have an integral tile flange. Instead of being pushed into an open space surrounded by walls, a drop in bathtub is sunk into an open hole. This allows the drop in bathtub to be turned over so you don't have to specify a left or right side drain. Drop in bathtubs are installed farther away from the wall than alcove bathtubs, which provides more room for decorations and bath products. They can come in a variety of different sizes and shapes, allowing your design choices to be highlighted in your bathroom.
Let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of alcove and drop in bathtubs.
Every product has its advantages and disadvantages, and bathtubs are no exception. Alcove bathtubs are a standard first choice for many homeowners, but they may not always be the best choice for you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Alcove Bathtubs
Advantages
- Affordable: Alcove bathtubs are usually more affordable than other types of bathtubs, making them a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- Easy to Clean: This bathtub has a simple design and is surrounded by walls on three sides, so it is not easy to accumulate dirt, making it easy to clean and maintain. When it comes time to deep clean or fix a leaky faucet, you can easily reach every corner of the bathtub.
- Space Saving: The recessed space of the bathtub means that the bathtub can be embedded in the alcove, while the embedded bathtub must occupy floor space. This gives you more bathroom space and more floor space for other items in the bathroom, which is perfect for small bathrooms or bathrooms with limited space.
- Easy Installation: Alcove bathtubs are easy to install and are a popular choice for DIY bathroom remodeling.
- Functionality: With an alcove bathtub, you can add a shower head to the wall to make it a two-purpose bathtub. This means you can use it for a quick rinse when you are short on time.
- Safety: With a bathtub that has three walls, you can add grab bars for people with mobility issues. These bathtubs usually have low sides and shallow depths for easy entry and exit.
Disadvantages
- Few Material Choices: Most alcove bathtubs come in acrylic, fiberglass, or enameled steel. Some high-quality alcove bathtubs come in stone resin, cast iron, or ceramic, but they are harder to find. Because these bathtubs are basic and must-haves, they don't come in luxury materials like stone or copper.
- Placement: You only have one choice, and that's where to place your alcove bathtub. Since only one side is finished, it must be placed in the alcove against three walls, and it must meet the required dimensions. There's not much room for error or modification.
- Limited Design Options: Alcove bathtubs have limited design options, because they are usually rectangular or oval, not customizable, and you must choose from standard sizes and shapes.
- Limited Accessibility: Alcove tubs can be difficult to get in and out of for people with limited mobility.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Drop in Bathtub
Advantages
- Side Depth: Drop in bathtubs are extremely deep, allowing you to relax after a busy day. You can add bath salts as needed to keep the water hot longer for a muscle-soothing bath.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: The entire bathtub is easily accessible, and you can reach in while sitting on the deck if needed. When you have access to the bathtub, it is simple to wipe down and clean up.
- Placement: You can place your bathtub anywhere there is water. You don't need to hide them unless you want to. You can make the bathtub the centerpiece of your bathroom or place it in a corner to suit your functional needs.
- Customizable: Drop in bathtubs are highly customizable and can be designed to fit any bathroom style.
- Size Options: This style of bathtub comes in many different shapes and sizes. Instead of sticking to the "standard," you can choose the size of the bathtub to suit your preferences.
- Material Options: Unlike alcove bathtubs, drop in bathtubs come in a variety of different materials, including acrylic, cast iron, fiberglass, enameled steel, stone resin, and more. You can also special order bathtubs in a variety of other materials. You can choose the material you want based on aesthetics or the needs of your bathtub. For example, if you like to take long baths, stone resin and cast iron bathtubs can retain heat longer, keeping the water warmer.
- Accessibility: Drop in bathtubs can be customized to make them more accessible to people with limited mobility.
Disadvantages
- More Difficult to Clean: Drop in bathtubs can be more difficult to clean because they are not surrounded by walls on three sides, making it easier for dirt and dust to accumulate.
- Installation Complexity: Drop in bathtubs require more work from an installation standpoint than an alcove bathtub and a drop in bathtub. Before installing a drop in bathtub, you must build a frame or platform for it. The frame must be strong enough to support the heavy bathtub. You must also finish installing the structure once the bathtub is placed into the holes in the deck.
- Higher Cost: Drop in bathtubs tend to be a bit more expensive when you look at drop in bathtubs versus alcove bathtubs, especially if you choose high-end materials or customized options.
- Limited Mobility: If you have limited mobility, this type of bathtub may be more difficult to get out of. The sides of the bathtub are generally deeper, and since the bathtub is built on a platform, you'll not only have to get out of the bathtub, but you'll also have to take a large step off the platform to reach the floor. If there are no walls near the bathtub, you may not be able to stay stable while taking large steps.
How to Choose the Right Bathtub for You?
Whether to choose an alcove bathtub or a drop in bathtub depends largely on your preference for bathroom design. If you are after a wide, open space and a simple look, you can consider an alcove bathtub, which hides the bathtub and gives it a spacious feel. However, you can also place a drop in bathtub in a corner.
If you are looking for a modern, unique, and sophisticated bathtub, a drop in bathtub may be the best fit for you. It has more options than an alcove bathtub, and there are more designs to choose from.