A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews

There’s nothing like having a bathtub in your bathroom if you want to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the area. Gone are the days when having your very own tub was only dream about because they were so expensive. Unlike a cast-iron or marble tub, an acrylic bathtub costs half the price but offers the same luxury and benefits that traditional tubs provide.

In this article, we discussed everything you need to know about acrylic bathtubs. From how they differ from traditional tubs, the best brands, choosing the right one, and even how to clean an acrylic bathtub, you’ll find the answers to every question you may have! Plus, we also reviewed the top 5 acrylic baths in today’s market to help you with your buying decision!

Top 5 Acrylic Bathtubs Review

WOODBRIDGE 67" x 32" Whirlpool Water Jetted and Air...
WOODBRIDGE 67" x 32" Whirlpool Water Jetted and Air...
Dimensions
67" L x 31 7/8" W x 23" H
Water Capacity
60 gallons
Warranty
5 years limited warranty
WOODBRIDGE 67" x 32" Whirlpool Water Jetted and Air...
WOODBRIDGE 67" x 32" Whirlpool Water Jetted and Air...
Dimensions
67" L x 31 7/8" W x 23" H
Water Capacity
60 gallons
Warranty
5 years limited warranty

1. Kiva Rhyme Allure Mini – Elegance and Durability in One

They Kiva Rhyme Allure Mini freestanding bathtub is one of the most elegant tubs in today’s market. Imported from Japan, this tub is made from a specialized manufacturing technology which utilizes 5 layers of fiberglass and resin. Aside from this, it has a seamless high tech joint thus ensuring its durability because water won’t be seeping through which could disintegrate the inner layer of the tub. To top it all off, the drain is has a brass polish finish and a stainless steel overflow.

Measuring at 59″(L) x 30″(W) x 24″(H) with a 55-gallon capacity, the Allure Mini is perfect for most bathrooms. It is UPC and cUPC certified and comes with a 10-year body warranty. You won’t need to purchase any additional fittings before installing this tub because it comes with brass drain, overflow, user manual, and installation instruction manual.

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 1

Pros

Pros
  • Seamless joint technology
  • Imported from Japan
  • UPC and cUPC certified

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 2

Cons

Cons
  • Drain easily opens at the slightest movement


2. Woodbridge B0030/BTS1606: With Air Bubble and Whirlpool Jet

WOODBRIDGE 67" x 32" Whirlpool Water Jetted and Air...
  • ✅ [WHIRLPOOL AND AIR BUBBLE]: WOODBRIDGE Deluxe acrylic Freestanding...
  • ✅ [JETS QUANTITY]: 6 adjustable body massage jets and 10 whirlpool bubble...
  • ✅ [HIGH PERFORMANCE PUMP]:Pump with approved motor . Innovative...

The Woodbridge B0030/BTS1606 is a freestanding bathtub that comes with air bubble and whirlpool jet. It has 10 massage jets, 10 whirlpool bubble bath jets, and a built-in mood lamp at the bottom. It is the perfect choice for those who are looking for a freestanding bathtub that can give them a relaxing spa-like experience right in the comfort of their own bathroom.

The tub comes with a pump, an air blower, a Chrome drain and overflow, a flexible drain pipe, and instruction manuals out of the box. However, you may want to consider installing an alternative to the flexible drain hose as we noticed it easily pinches thus causing the tub to drain very slowly. Also, you may have to hire a professional electrician because this tub requires a dedicated 15A dedicated circuit.

Measuring at 67″ L x 31 7/8″ W x 23″ H, it has a 60-gallon water capacity and can easily accommodate users of average height.

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 1

Pros

Pros
  • Massage and whirlpool jets
  • Underwater mood lamp
  • A complete package

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 2

Cons

Cons
  • Requires a professional contractor for installation of electrical requirements


3. Woodbridge B-0002: Full Fiber Glass Construction

Next on our list is another offering from Woodbridge. The B-0002 is designed for elegance and sophistication. Its full fiberglass, double-walled construction makes it highly durable. Meanwhile, the acrylic top coat gives it its super glossy shine. Its inner layer is comprised of two acrylic layers which provide the right amount of insulation to ensure that water temperature is maintained therefore allowing you to enjoy your soak for longer periods.

Measuring at 67″ L x 31 3/4″ W x 23″ H, this freestanding bathtub is suitable for both men and women because the inside is deep and wide enough to accommodate both body types. The brushed nickel overflow and push-pop up come pre-installed in the tub, so you won’t have to worry about fitting them. This tub is UPC and CSA certified and comes with a 5-year warranty on the body and a 1-year warranty for the plumbing parts.

A matching Woodbridge faucet can be bought separately.

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 1

Pros

Pros
  • Resistant to scratches, dulling, and fading
  • Comes with hidden adjustable legs
  • Size allows for full-body immersion

A Buying Guide to the Best Acrylic Bathtubs and Top 5 Reviews 2

Cons

Cons
  • The flexible hose can cause issues with slow draining


4. Kiva Rhyme Egg Plus Mini: Perfect for Plus Size Users

Don’t let the “mini” in the name of this product fool you! The Kia Rhyme Egg Plus Mini may be compact but it can accommodate users of any size comfortably! This tub is made from 100% pure acrylic – which is rarely used because it is expensive and is imported from Japan. However, it is definitely worth the price because not only does it ensure durability, it also exceeds expectations in the aesthetics department. This Kiva Rhyme tub is highly glossy and is resistant to scratches and fading.

Measuring at 59″(L) x 32″(W) x 23″(H), this has a 55-gallon water capacity with a 13” overflow. The 100% acrylic structure insulates the temperature of the water so you can be assured that you’ll be able to enjoy your bath for at least a few hours. The Kiva Rhyme Egg Plus Mini is UPC and cUPC certified.

Advantages:

  • Elegant and sophisticated body
  • Insulates water temperature
  • Big brass drain allows for quick drainage

Disadvantage:

  • After-sales customer service can take a while to respond

5. Kingston Brass Aqua Eden VTDE603122L: Drop-in Alcove Acrylic Bathtub

KINGSTON BRASS VTDE603122L 60-Inch Contemporary Alcove...
  • Acrylic construction with fiberglass and resin reinforcement, three wall...
  • Product dimensions – 30-11/16" W x 60" L x 22-1/6" H | Water depth –...
  • Left hand drain bathtub

This Kingston Brass product is made from solid acrylic and reinforced with fiberglass and resin which makes it a highly durable bathtub. Unlike the other tubs on our list, although this one is also a freestanding tub, it has a classic contemporary look, is designed with an apron, and is meant to be placed in an alcove. Perfect for homeowners who are looking to build an elegant bathroom but prefer a classic tub. Enjoy a warm bath with big bubbles in it.

Measuring at (L)60″x (W)31″ x (H)22.5″, this tub has a water capacity of 58.2 gallons. Installation is very easy because it is lightweight thus easy to move. The solid acrylic structure plus the fact that the tub will be fitted into a three-wall recess ensures that your water will remain warm for long hours.

This tub comes with a left-hand drain so make sure to check the specifications of your bathroom before making a purchase.

Advantages:

  • Retains water temperature longer
  • Suitable for tall users
  • Resistant to stains

Disadvantages:

  • The super glossy finish is prone to scratches

Everything You Need to Know About Acrylic Bathtubs

What is Acrylic?

acrylic bathtub buying guideAcrylic is a synthetic plastic that has a wide variety of uses but usually used to manufacture items which require the look of glass. The most common type of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and is often sold under different brand names such as Plexiglass, Perspex, and Lucite. Acrylic is lightweight and shatter-proof.

It can be layered, molded, and cast to take the shape if the product being manufactured.

Is an Acrylic Bathtub a Good Choice?

Acrylic bathtubs are extremely popular among home builders these days. Not only are they versatile, lightweight, and easy to install, they are also the most affordable option. They come in a wide variety of designs and with the availability of today’s manufacturing technologies, acrylic bathtubs can even match the aesthetics of tubs made from natural stone.

How Does It Compare to Marble, Cast-iron, Steel, and Fiberglass Bathtubs?

To better compare acrylic bathtubs to those made from other types of materials, it would be better if we outlined the benefits of the former.

  1. Affordability

The cost of the materials used to manufacture acrylic baths is significantly lower than marble and cast-iron. As such, they are much more budget friendly. While fiberglass tubs are the most affordable in the market, durability can be somewhat of an issue which is why an acrylic tub would be a better option. Steel tubs are still easy on the budget issues such as durability and lack of choices have made them less than desirable to most homeowners.

  1. Durability

In terms of durability, a cast-iron tub can beat everything else on the list without batting a lash. In fact, it can even last you a lifetime! But of course, you would need to pay a premium for it. Besides, do you really want a tub that will last you five generations? Well, that’s what you’re going to get with a cast-iron tub. Your house is going to fall apart but your tub will still be there holding down the fort. That also means any future bathroom remodeling plans will have to accommodate your 20-year old tub — something that not a lot of homeowners are keen on.

Marble, on the other hand, is porous and requires regular maintenance to ensure that the stone is completely sealed. If you don’t have the resources for a cast-iron tub or don’t care for the maintenance needed for a marble bath, acrylic would be the next best thing.

A common misconception is acrylic baths aren’t durable because they are made from plastic. However, most of the acrylic tubs sold in the market today are double walled and reinforced with fiberglass. This makes them highly durable and can last a couple of decades before they need to be replaced.

  1. Insulation

Acrylic tubs have a layer of insulation on its inner structure which is why it can hold the temperature of water pretty well. This means you’ll be able to enjoy a nice long soak in the tub without having to worry about the water getting cold right away. Cast-iron tubs can retain the water temperature the longest but because of its high price tag, many still prefer acrylic.

  1. Installation

When it comes to ease of installation, acrylic, fiberglass, and steel bathtubs are in a three-way tie. All three are lightweight, easy to move around, have pre-installed fixtures, and don’t require any special tools. In fact, you can even DIY it!

Cast-iron and marble tubs, on the other hand, are extremely heavy. There’s a lot of planning that goes into installing this type of tub starting with – can the floor handle the weight of this tub when it’s filled. Another thing to worry about is the cost of labor because a job like this can’t be done by just one man alone.

What are the Best Brands?

There are many brands to choose from when it comes to acrylic bathtubs. However, there are only a few names that can be trusted. Kiva Rhyme, Woodbridge, and Kingston Brass are some of the best acrylic bathtub brands. Of course, there are also other brands that are worth looking into. The key to making sure you end up with the best product your money can buy is to do your research, so you know exactly what to look for.

How to Choose the Best Acrylic Bathtub for Your Bathroom

  1. Size

top acrylic bathtub reviews for 2018It is important to remember that bathtubs have different measurements. Just because two models come from the same brand doesn’t mean they’re the same size. Some brands have mini versions of the same design. That said, always remember to check the measurements and see if it will fit the space you have allotted for it in your bathroom.

Aside from this, if there’s someone in your household that is extremely tall or is plus size, make sure that the size of the bathtub you get can accommodate their frame. Some brands have jumbo versions of their designs as well.

  1. Finish

Most acrylic bathtubs have a highly glossy finish but there are a few that only have a slight shine. If you will be sharing your tub with kids, it might be a good idea to go for a model that isn’t super glossy. This is because they’re less susceptible to scratches.

  1. Installation

The installation type is actually one of the first things you should look at when choosing a bathtub because this will depend on the type of bathroom remodel you are doing. Will you be doing a complete bathroom remodel or are you just looking to upgrade your bathtub? Your answer to this question will narrow down the models you can choose from. The most common types of installation for acrylic bathtubs are freestanding and alcove, with the former being a more popular choice because it’s easiest to install.

  1. Additional Features

There are acrylic bathtub models like the Woodbridge B0030/BTS1606 that come equipped with massage jets, whirlpool jets, and a built-in mood light. While these types of tubs are certainly appealing, you have to ask yourself if this is what you really want, or would you be happy with just a regular bathtub you can soak in and relax? Additional features would mean additional expenses not just on the price of the tub, but also in installation costs because you would need to hire a professional electrician to hook it up to an electrical supply.

How to Clean an Acrylic Bathtub

Acrylic tubs are very easy to clean. There are two ways you can do it – with natural cleaning agents or with commercially bought products. We prefer to go the natural route as the absence of chemicals ensures the glossy finish of your tub won’t get ruined.

Things you’ll need:

  • A non-abrasive sponge/microfiber cloth
  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • An old toothbrush
  1. Fill the tub with hot water and 2 cups of vinegar and let it stand for at least 30 minutes then drain. This will help loosen any dirt, grime, mold, and mildew that may on the surface of your tub.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda all over the tub.
  3. Gently scrub your tub with the non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth in a circular motion. Make sure that the sponge you are using does not have a rough side or a scouring pad. This will scratch and damage the surface of your bath!
  4. Use the toothbrush for hard to reach corners and to take off any dirt that may be lodged on the nooks and crannies of the overflow and drain.
  5. Rinse off the tub thoroughly with warm water.

Bonus tip: You can use lemons to get rid of stains on your tub. Just take a slice of lemon and rub it on the stain and it should be gone in just as few minutes!

In Conclusion: Acrylic Bathtubs are a Worthwhile Investment for Your Overall Well-Being

If this is the first time you will be owning a bathtub, you’re in for a treat! There’s really nothing like coming home to a nice long bath after a long day at work. By having to invest in an acrylic bathtub, you won’t just be adding value to your home, but you will also be investing in your mental, physical, and emotional health.


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