Having a bathtub in a small bathroom may seem impractical or space-consuming. However, with some strategic design choices, you can have a stylish and functional small bathroom with bathtub. The key is to make the most of every inch of space through clever storage solutions, multipurpose fixtures, and visual tricks that make the room appear larger.
Choosing the Right Bathtub
The bathtub is often the bulkiest item in a small bathroom. Choosing one that fits the available space is crucial.
Bathtub Size
Consider a short tub in a standard alcove size like 60” x 30” or 66” x 30”. This provides a comfortable bathing experience without consuming too much floor space. Corner tubs are also great space-savers.
Bathtub Shape
A rectangular or oval shape fits tightly into corners or against walls. Avoid irregular shapes that waste space.
Bathtub Depth
Extra deep tubs may limit your movement area. Standard depths around 14”-17” are best for small baths.
Freestanding or Alcove
Freestanding tubs make a stylish statement but require ample open floor space. Alcove tubs maximize space efficiency.
Material
Acrylic and composite materials are lightweight. Cast iron and stone are heavy and often require reinforced floors.
Smart Storage Solutions
Creative storage is key for a small bathroom with tub. Look for these space-saving ideas:
Floating Shelves
Mounted on walls, floating shelves provide display space without cluttering the room. Great for storing folded towels and washcloths within arm’s reach.
Wall-Mounted Cabinets
Take advantage of vertical wall space above the toilet or on empty walls for closed storage. Good for medicine cabinets or linens.
Under Sink Storage
Use hanging organizers or stacked bins under the sink to neatly corral toiletries. Leave the pipe area open for cleaning access.
Niche Shelving
Build out a niche in the tub surround for shampoo, body wash, and other shower needs. Include a weighted organizer caddy.
Floor Cabinets
Freestanding cabinets with doors provide concealed storage for extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and more.
Multipurpose Fixtures
Combining functions in one fixture trims the furniture footprint. Look for these 2-in-1 ideas:
Pedestal Sink/Storage Combos
Many pedestal sinks offer a storage compartment within the base for tucking away bathroom essentials.
Storage Bench Seating
A bench at the end of the tub can provide seating and interior storage for bath time accessories. Add waterproof cushions on top.
Mirrored Cabinets
Choose a medicine cabinet with mirrors on the outside to visually enlarge the room. Bonus—the inside still offers storage space.
Adjustable Showerheads
Look for tub showerheads that angle to accommodate both standing showers and baths—no need for two fixtures.
Layout Tips and Visual Tricks
Smart layout and design elements can help maximize both function and visual appeal.
Place Tub Lengthwise
Positioning the tub along the length of the bathroom with the head at the end gives you more floor space than a side-situated tub.
Include Only Necessities
Stick to the essentials—toilet, sink, tub and storage. Leave out extraneous furniture that eats up space.
Bright, Neutral Colors
Paint small bathrooms in light, neutral hues like soft whites, grays, or beiges to open up the space.
Mirrored Walls
Strategically placed mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of a larger room. Avoid mirror overload.
Glass Shower Doors
Using frameless glass rather than shower curtains provides an airier, spa-like vibe.
Vertical Tile
Running tile vertically can make walls appear taller. Horizontal tile accentuates width.
Sufficient Lighting
Proper illumination in a small space is vital. Use both ceiling lights and sconces.
Limit Clutter
Only keep out essential decorative items. Decluttering surfaces makes the room feel more expansive.
Stylish Small Bathroom with Bathtub Ideas
With the right selections and layout, even the smallest bathroom can be both practical and beautiful.
Spa Bathtub Retreat
Create a relaxing spa vibe with touches like a freestanding soaker tub, glass enclosure, mosaic tile, and spa blue paint. The simplicity offsets the small square footage.
Relaxing spa-style small bathroom with freestanding tub. Source
Rustic Industrial Bath
Exposed wood beams, black accents, and vintage touches give this small bathroom a rustic industrial feel. The clawfoot tub fits nicely.
Rustic industrial small bath with clawfoot tub. Source
Classic White Tub Alcove
A white porcelain tub tucked into a clean-lined alcove maintains an open look in this elegant traditional bath. Crisp whites enhance spaciousness.
Elegant white small bathroom with alcove tub. Source
Corner Spa Tub Retreat
Placing a corner soaking tub on the diagonal opens up floor space in this serene bath. A glass shower enclosure adds airy appeal.
Corner tub placed diagonally in a small white bathroom. Source
Modern Minimalist Bathroom
Clean lines, a frameless glass shower enclosure, floating wood shelves, and crisp whites create a sleek, contemporary look. The tub fits neatly along the wall.
Sleek modern white small bathroom with bathtub. Source
Space-Saving Remodel Ideas
For existing small bathrooms, strategic remodeling can help maximize functionality.
Convert to Wet Room
Removing the tub in favor of an open wet room with drain provides ample shower space without sacrificing the bathtub.
Bump Out Wall
If possible, bumping out a wall even a few inches can allow room for a slightly larger tub.
Move Plumbing
Relocating plumbing like the toilet or sink can open up more usable floor space.
Remove Non-Essentials
Eliminate unnecessary fixtures like a bidet to free up needed space.
Add Pocket Door
A pocket door eliminates bathroom door swing so tub can be tucked into that corner.
Install Skylight
Adding more natural light makes the room feel more open and airy.
Add Mirrored Wall
Strategically placed mirrors can make the bathroom feel doubled in size.
FAQs About Small Bathrooms With Bathtubs
How can I make my small bathroom with tub feel bigger?
Use visual tricks like mirrors, glass enclosures, vertical tile, neutral colors, and proper lighting. Also, strictly limit clutter and unnecessary items that eat up space.
What size tub fits in a small bathroom?
Look for a standard 60″ x 30″ alcove tub or a corner tub around 32″ x 32″. Avoid extra long or extra deep tubs.
Where should I put the tub in a small bathroom layout?
Install the tub lengthwise along a wall, with the drain end near the door for ample standing and moving space. This works better than placing the tub at the end.
Should I get a curtain or glass door for my small tub?
Frameless glass shower doors enhance the feeling of openness. Shower curtains, even clear vinyl ones, tend to make small spaces feel more closed in.
How can I add storage to my small bathroom?
Use freestanding cabinets, floating shelves, under sink organizers, corner niche shelving, and other vertical or multipurpose storage solutions.
Conclusion
While having a bathtub in a small bathroom may seem challenging, it is very doable with the right layout and design choices. Focus on selecting space-saving tub sizes and styles, maximizing storage, opting for multipurpose fixtures, and incorporating visual tricks. With strategic planning, you can create a bathroom that is both compact and stylish. The key is making the most of every inch while keeping the look uncluttered. With a bit of creativity, even the smallest powder room can include a tub without sacrificing form or function.