Freestanding bathtubs – what to consider when choosing
Freestanding bathtubs are the highlight of modern bathrooms. They stand freely in the room, create a luxurious ambience and invite you to take a relaxing bath. Unlike classic built-in bathtubs, they do not need to be mounted on the wall, making them an eye-catching and important design element in the bathroom.
What to look for when choosing a freestanding bath
A freestanding bathtub is not only a visual statement, but also an investment in comfort and durability. To ensure that it fits perfectly into your bathroom, it is worth considering the following points:
Room size & placement
Allow sufficient space around the bath. A minimum distance of 50–60 cm from walls or furniture ensures comfortable entry and exit and emphasises the effect of the bath. Also consider the view you would like to enjoy while bathing – e.g. towards the window or into an alcove.
Form & Ergonomics
Freestanding bathtubs are available in oval, round, rectangular or asymmetrical shapes. Oval models offer gentle reclining positions, while rectangular ones have a linear and modern look. Check the length and depth: 180 cm is comfortable for tall people, while models from 150 to 160 cm are sufficient for smaller bathrooms.
Material & feel
Acrylic, steel enamel, mineral cast, solid surface and artificial stone differ in appearance, weight, thermal conductivity and care. Acrylic is light and warm, steel enamel is extremely robust, while mineral cast and solid surface have a solid and velvety appearance.
Fittings & Technology
Freestanding bathtubs usually require a freestanding tap. Ensure that the connections in the floor are prepared and that the tap and tub are stylistically harmonious. An integrated hand shower can make washing your hair or cleaning easier.
Drain & installation
The floor drain must be correctly positioned before installation. For heavy tubs, it is advisable to have the subfloor checked for stability. A professional installer will ensure safe installation.
Care & Cleaning
Smooth acrylic and enamel surfaces are quick to clean, while matt mineral materials require special care. Consider the care requirements when making your selection.
Style & bathroom concept
The freestanding bathtub should match the overall style of the bathroom – whether minimalist, classic or luxurious. Brands offer several design lines that can be combined with fittings, washbasins and furniture.
Materials used in freestanding bathtubs
The material determines the appearance, weight, feel and maintenance requirements of a freestanding bathtub. It also influences how long the bath water stays warm and how stable the tub is. An overview:
Acrylic
Acrylic bathtubs are lightweight, making them easy to transport and install. The surface feels pleasantly warm and is easy to clean. Acrylic can be moulded into many shapes and colours – ideal for anyone looking for modern design and good value for money.
Steel enamel
Steel enamel (steel with an enamelled surface) is extremely robust, scratch and impact resistant, and fully recyclable. It retains its colour, is easy to clean, and has a high-quality appearance. Its heavier weight ensures solid stability.
Mineral cast
Mineral cast bathtubs are made from a mixture of natural minerals and resins, which are poured into moulds and coated (usually with gelcoat). They are dimensionally stable, have a pleasantly smooth, often shiny surface and retain heat for a long time. Many models are handmade.
Solid Surface
Solid Surface bathtubs are made of dyed, homogeneous mineral material. They are characterised by a velvety matt feel, very high dimensional stability and easy-to-repair surfaces. Thanks to their solid construction, they maintain the temperature of the bath water particularly well and have a particularly high-quality appearance.
Tip:
The choice of material influences not only the design, but also installation, maintenance and heat retention. Acrylic is light and flexible, steel enamel is extremely robust, mineral cast impresses with its smooth feel and high heat retention, while solid surface has a velvety finish and is easy to repair.
Our brands for freestanding bathtubs
Duravit
Ergonomic shapes and contemporary design are the hallmarks of Duravit. The freestanding bathtubs combine innovative technology with a high level of comfort and fit perfectly into modern bathrooms.
RIHO
Freestanding acrylic bathtubs from RIHO combine modern looks with well-thought-out functionality. The models offer impressive value for money and are ideal for stylish bathrooms of all sizes.
ideavit
Velvety surfaces and clear shapes characterise ideavit's mineral cast bathtubs. They are perfect for purist bathrooms with high design standards and create a modern atmosphere.
Villeroy & Boch
With over 270 years of experience, Villeroy & Boch stands for elegance and quality. Freestanding bathtubs from this brand offer comfort, durability and a wide range of styles for individual bathroom designs.
LAUFEN
LAUFEN combines Swiss precision with innovative design. Freestanding bathtubs combine sustainable materials, perfect workmanship and timeless elegance.
KLUDI
KLUDI is known for its high-quality fittings and also offers coordinated solutions for freestanding bathtubs. This results in harmonious overall concepts in which design and function are perfectly matched.
KALDEWEI
KALDEWEI stands for robust and recyclable steel enamel bathtubs of the highest quality. The freestanding models impress with their elegant appearance, durability and sustainable production.
Steinberg
Solid surface bathtubs from Steinberg impress with their purist forms and durable quality. They are the perfect choice for sophisticated bathrooms with a clear design language.
Bette
Bette offers durable and easy-care steel enamel bathtubs with clean lines. A wide range of shapes and colours allows for individual design freedom in the bathroom.
JEE-O
Sculptural designs and a striking industrial look make JEE-O unmistakable. The freestanding basins make a powerful statement and lend character to modern bathrooms.
Freestanding bath taps – the perfect complement to your bath
A freestanding bathtub almost always comes with a freestanding bath mixer. This ensures that the water supply and ease of use are elegantly integrated into the room. Unlike wall-mounted or rim-mounted mixers, it is mounted directly on the floor, making it a real visual statement.
Tips for choosing the right bath tap
- Design & finish: To match the bath, you can choose fittings in chrome, stainless steel, black, white, brass or special colours.
- Ease of use: Single-lever mixer or two-handle fittings? Some models have an additional hand shower, which makes it easier to wash your hair or clean the bath.
- Material & quality: High-quality surfaces and robust materials prevent limescale deposits and make cleaning easier.
- Installation: The floor drain and connections must be prepared in advance so that the tap is clean and stable.
In the area of freestanding bath taps, we offer a wide range of models that can be perfectly combined with a freestanding bathtub in terms of style and technology.
Your path to the perfect freestanding bath
A freestanding bathtub is more than just a sanitary product – it is a statement of comfort and style. Whether acrylic, steel enamel, mineral cast or solid surface, whether purist or nostalgic: high-quality brand models ensure durability and an excellent bathing experience. Discover high-quality models for your bathroom in our wide range of freestanding bathtubs and find exactly the right tub to suit your needs.