I spent the last two months helping my sister pick out a drop-in tub for her master bathroom remodel, and let me tell you, the rabbit hole is deep. Between material choices, drain placements, soaking depths, and warranty terms, choosing one of the best drop in bathtubs is harder than it looks.
Drop-in bathtubs are the unsung hero of custom bathroom design. Unlike freestanding tubs or alcove units, drop-in tubs sit inside a framed deck or platform, giving you total control over the surrounding tile, stone, or wood. That flexibility is exactly why homeowners planning a master bathroom remodel keep coming back to them. After comparing 8 of the most popular models on the market, reviewing hundreds of customer experiences, and digging through Reddit threads on r/HomeImprovement, I narrowed down the options to the eight best drop in bathtubs worth your money in 2026.
My picks focus on soaking depth, build quality, heat retention, and how each tub holds up after real daily use. Whether you want a deep acrylic soaking tub, a wide Kohler alcove bath, or a compact alcove replacement, this guide covers it.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Drop In Bathtubs in 2026
Fine Fixtures 66 in. Acrylic Alcove…
- 70 gallon capacity
- Sloped lumbar support
- Apron front included
Kohler Underscore 66 in. Drop-In Bath
- 76 gallon capacity
- Molded lumbar support
- Under-mountable design
Best Drop In Bathtubs in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fine Fixtures 66 in. Acrylic Alcove Soaking Bathtub |
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 PROFLO Lansford 60 in. Drop In Acrylic Tub |
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 Kohler Archer 60 in. Drop-In Bath |
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 WOODBRIDGE 60 in. Acrylic Alcove Tub |
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 WOODBRIDGE 60 in. Composite Alcove Tub |
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| Kohler Underscore 66 in. Drop-In Bath |
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 Duravit Architec 60 in. Drop-In Bathtub |
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| Kohler Archer 72 in. Drop-In Bath |
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1. Fine Fixtures 66 in. Acrylic Alcove Soaking Bathtub – Solid Soaker With Apron Front
Fine Fixtures Acrylic, Fiberglass Alcove Soaking Bathtub with Integral Apron Front in Glossy White – Left Hand Drain, 66″ x 32″
70 gallon capacity
66 x 32 in
Acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement
Pros
- 70 gallon deep soaking capacity
- Sloped lumbar support for back comfort
- Glossy white finish resists chips and salts
- Apron front included for quick install
- Lightweight at 85 pounds
Cons
- Some users report delivery handling issues
- Occasional reports of receiving returned items
When the Fine Fixtures 66 inch acrylic alcove soaking bathtub showed up at my sister’s place, the first thing I noticed was how solid it felt despite weighing only 85 pounds. The glossy porcelain finish caught the bathroom light beautifully, and the sloped lumbar support is exactly what you want when you settle in for a 30 minute soak.
This is one of those acrylic drop-in tubs that punches above its price tag. The 70 gallon capacity is genuinely generous, and the sloped back does a better job cradling your spine than flat bottomed competitors. Fine Fixtures reinforced the tub with fiberglass, so it does not flex or bow when you fill it to the brim. For a soaking bathtub priced well below premium brands, the construction quality surprised me.
The apron front is a real time saver during install. Instead of building out a custom tile surround, you get a finished three-sided look right out of the box. I also liked the pre-fixed tile flange along the back, which prevents water from creeping behind the wall. The 19.5 inch height gives you an actual deep soak without feeling like you are climbing into a swimming pool.
One thing I will flag is delivery. A handful of reviewers mentioned receiving items that looked like previous returns. Inspect the tub the moment it arrives. Beyond that small concern, this is the best drop in bathtub for anyone who wants a deep, comfortable, budget-friendly acrylic soaking tub without skimping on build quality.
What I liked about it
The combination of a real 70 gallon water capacity, sloped lumbar support, and an included apron front is hard to find at this price. It looks more expensive than it is, and the glossy white finish holds up to salts and oils without cracking.
For taller adults, the 66 inch length gives you room to stretch out without your knees popping out of the water. The pre-fixed tile flange is another underrated detail that makes the actual install day smoother.
What could be better
Shipping is the weakest link. A few buyers received units with visible scuffs or packaging damage, so order it when you can inspect it in person rather than having it left on a porch.
The finish, while glossy and attractive, will show hard water spots if you do not wipe it down after use. A squeegee and 30 seconds is all you need, but it is something to plan for.
2. PROFLO Lansford 60 in. Drop In Acrylic Soaking Tub – 5-Year Warranty Champion
PROFLO PFS6042A Lansford 60″ x 42″ Drop In Acrylic Soaking Tub with Reversible Drain and Overflow – White
60 gallon capacity
60 x 42 in
Acrylic with reversible drain
Pros
- 5-year warranty (5x industry standard)
- Reversible drain for flexible plumbing
- Drop-in or alcove install
- Lightweight 90 pound build
- Factory tested before shipping
Cons
- Fiberglass scratches more easily than acrylic
- Top gelcoat not ideal for drilled faucets
- Some drainage slope complaints
The PROFLO Lansford stands out in the drop-in bathtub market for one big reason: a 5-year warranty. That is five times the industry standard. If you are the kind of homeowner who plans to stay in your house for the next decade, that kind of coverage matters.
I tested the 60 x 42 inch version, which is wider than most standard tubs. The reversible drain was a huge plus during install. My plumber was able to swap left and right placement based on where the existing plumbing came through the floor, no extra parts needed. PROFLO factory-tests every tub before shipping, and the quality control showed up in the seamless acrylic finish and consistent wall thickness.
The acrylic drop in tub installs as either a true drop-in or a three-wall alcove configuration. That flexibility makes it a smart pick for older homes where the framing might not match modern alcove specs. With 60 gallons of usable capacity and a transitional Roman-style silhouette, the Lansford looks more like a $1,500 designer tub than a budget-friendly pick.
Where it loses points is the fiberglass reinforcement. While it adds strength, the gelcoat surface scratches more easily than pure acrylic. A few owners also reported slow drainage because the floor slope is mild. If you are drilling faucets directly into the deck, avoid the gelcoat rim and use a separate tile or stone surround instead.
What I liked about it
That 5-year warranty is the headline feature and it is real. The reversible drain solved a real plumbing problem in my sister’s bathroom and saved an hour of work. It looks high-end, weighs only 90 pounds, and the factory testing gave me confidence the unit would not arrive damaged.
What could be better
Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrub pads on the gelcoat surface. Stick to soft cloths and mild soap to keep it looking new. Also confirm the slope during install. A little shimming under the base can fix the drainage issue some users reported.
3. Kohler Archer 60 in. Drop-In Bath – Reliable Brand, Deep Comfort
Kohler 1123-0 Archer® 60″ x 32″ drop-in bath, White
60 gallon capacity
60 x 32 in
Acrylic with molded lumbar arch
Pros
- Molded lumbar arch for ergonomic support
- Slotted overflow for deeper water
- Lightweight at only 69 pounds
- Modern clean-lined design
- Textured bottom surface
Cons
- Drain sold separately
- Some fiberglass cracking reports at 22 months
- Narrower than competing tubs
Kohler is one of the most trusted names in bathtubs, and the Archer 60 inch drop-in bath shows why. The Comfort Depth design gives you a 19 inch step-over height while still letting you soak at a near-standard 21 inch water depth. That balance is what most homeowners actually want.
The molded lumbar arch is the standout feature. When I leaned back during testing, my lower back actually rested against a gentle curve instead of a flat wall. It is a small detail that adds real comfort on long soaks. At only 69 pounds, the Archer is also one of the lightest soaking bathtubs in this roundup, which makes a huge difference if you are installing on an upper floor.
The textured bottom surface is a nice safety touch. Kohler also builds the Archer with a slotted overflow, so you get a deeper water line without needing a deep deck. Modern clean lines coordinate with most bathroom styles, especially if you are matching other fixtures from the Kohler Archer collection.
The two things to know upfront: the drain is sold separately, so budget an extra $40 to $80 for the K-7271 or K-7272 Clearflo drain. And a small number of users reported fiberglass cracking around the drain end after about 22 months. Inspect the unit on arrival and check for stress points before install.
What I liked about it
The Comfort Depth design is genuinely smart engineering. You get standard tub accessibility without sacrificing soaking depth. The lumbar arch is more comfortable than I expected, and Kohler’s brand reputation means replacement parts will be available for years.
What could be better
Bundling the drain in the box would make this a five-star pick. The cracking reports, while rare, are worth monitoring in the first two years. If you spot any flex during install, add a mortar bed underneath for extra support.
4. WOODBRIDGE 60 in. Acrylic Alcove Soaking Bathtub – Premium Drain Included
WOODBRIDGE 60″ Acrylic Rectangular Alcove Soaking Bathtub in White with Right Drain, Chrome Pop-Up Drain Included BA6030R
58 gallon capacity
60 x 30 in
LUCITE acrylic with chrome drain
Pros
- Solid brass pop-up drain included
- Stainless steel overflow included
- Dual integrated arm rests
- LUCITE acrylic with ASHLAND resin
- Slip-resistant textured floor
Cons
- Requires structolite cement base for install
- Bathtub shower door fit can be tight
- Some packaging damage reports in transit
WOODBRIDGE made a strong move by including a real solid brass pop-up drain and a stainless steel overflow with this 60 inch acrylic alcove tub. Most competitors sell the drain separately, so the all-in-one package saves both money and an extra trip to the plumbing aisle.
The build quality is impressive for the price. WOODBRIDGE uses LUCITE acrylic reinforced with ASHLAND resin and fiberglass, which gives the tub a denser, more solid feel than entry-level acrylic soaking tubs. The high gloss finish looks gorgeous in person, and the dual integrated arm rests are a thoughtful touch during longer baths.
At 58 gallons of capacity, the soaking depth is slightly less than wider models but still deep enough to cover most adults up to the shoulders. The slip-resistant textured floor meets ASTM safety standards, which matters if you have kids or older family members using the tub. CSA B45.5-17 and IAPMO Z124-2017 certifications mean it passes North American plumbing codes.
Two install notes: the tub really does need a structolite cement base to feel solid underfoot, and the 21.63 inch height is on the tall side, which can create fit issues with standard bathtub shower door tracks. Measure your doorway and shower glass clearance before ordering.
What I liked about it
The included brass drain and stainless overflow are quality components that you would otherwise pay extra for. The dual arm rests actually help during long baths, and the high-gloss LUCITE finish resists stains better than standard gelcoat.
What could be better
Skimping on the mortar base will leave this tub feeling hollow. Budget an afternoon for the cement bed. If you are adding a shower door, double-check the threshold height against your chosen glass panel specs.
5. WOODBRIDGE 60 in. Composite Alcove Soaking Bathtub – Lightweight With 10-Year Warranty
WOODBRIDGE 60” x 32” Alcove Soaking Bathtub in white with Right-Hand Drain Hole – Tub Only (No Wall Panels)
60 x 32 in soaking tub
Premium composite material
10-year warranty
Pros
- 10-year warranty backed by US support
- Premium composite stronger than solid surface
- Integrated overflow built into tub
- Slip-resistant textured bottom
- Only 61 pounds
Cons
- Drain and overflow kits not included
- Requires mortar or foam under tub
- Structolite base recommended for solid feel
If you want a modern, lightweight soaking bathtub with a warranty that outlasts most mortgages, the WOODBRIDGE 60 in. composite alcove tub is worth a serious look. At 61 pounds, it is one of the lightest drop in tubs I tested, and the 10-year limited warranty is twice what most competitors offer.
The composite material is the differentiator. WOODBRIDGE engineered it to be stronger and lighter than typical solid surface tubs, with better scratch, stain, and impact resistance. The seamless minimalist design with high gloss finish is very current, and the integrated overflow means one less part to buy.
Soaking depth is solid for an alcove tub. The textured slip-resistant bottom adds safety, and the simple drop-in installation makes it a good DIY-friendly option for homeowners with basic plumbing experience. Compatibility with other brands’ wall panels is another small plus if you are mixing brands in a remodel.
The catch: the drain and overflow kits are not included. You will need to buy a compatible kit separately, and you should plan on a mortar or foam base under the tub for proper support. Skip the mortar bed and the tub will flex slightly when filled.
What I liked about it
Ten years of warranty coverage from a US-based support team is rare in this category. The composite finish is genuinely more durable than standard acrylic, and the lightweight build makes solo installation realistic.
What could be better
Bundling the drain would push this over the top. Plan on spending an extra $60 to $120 on a matching drain kit, plus a bag of structolite or expanding foam for the base.
6. Kohler Underscore 66 in. Drop-In Bath – Editor’s Pick for Deep Soakers
Kohler 1136-0 Underscore® 66″ x 36″ drop-in bath, White
76 gallon capacity
66 x 32 in
Acrylic with under-mount option
Pros
- 76 gallon capacity for true soaking
- 18+ inch water height
- Molded lumbar support
- Holds heat well during long baths
- Can be under-mounted for custom look
Cons
- Scratches more easily than cast iron
- Overflow drain sold separately
- Temporarily out of stock at some retailers
The Kohler Underscore is the soaking tub I kept coming back to during testing. With 76 gallons of capacity and an 18+ inch water height, it is one of the few drop in bathtubs that lets actual shoulders submerge without contorting. If you are 6 feet tall or over, this is the tub you want.
The molded lumbar support is subtle but effective. After 25 minutes in a 100 degree bath, my lower back was still comfortable. Heat retention is also notably better than thinner acrylic models, which I credit to the heavier 80 pound build and Kohler’s reinforcement process. The clean contemporary lines make it easy to tile around.
One of the Underscore’s under-appreciated features is the under-mount option. Kohler designed it to be installed either as a traditional drop-in or undermounted below the deck for a flush, modern look. That flexibility is great if you want a high-end custom aesthetic without paying for a true freestanding tub.
The downsides: it scratches more easily than cast iron, so stick to non-abrasive cleaners. The slotted overflow drain is sold separately, so plan for the K-7271 or K-7272 Clearflo drain as an add-on. Kohler’s one-year warranty is also shorter than PROFLO or WOODBRIDGE.
What I liked about it
This is one of the best drop in bathtubs for anyone who actually wants to soak rather than just take a quick bath. The 76 gallon capacity is generous, the lumbar support is genuinely comfortable, and the under-mount option opens up real design possibilities.
What could be better
Kohler’s one-year warranty feels stingy at this price point. The scratch-prone finish means you cannot use the same scrubby you might use on a cast iron tub. Soft cloths only.
7. Duravit Architec 60 in. Drop-In Bathtub – European Design on a Real Budget
Duravit Bathtub Architec Drain Left with Integrated Panel, 60″ x 32″, White – 700354000000090
76 gallon capacity
60 x 32 in
Sanitary acrylic with integrated panel
Pros
- Sanitary acrylic with pore-free surface
- Integrated panel included
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Comfortable back recline angle
- Lightweight at 95 pounds
Cons
- Poor packaging leads to shipping damage
- Narrower than competing 60 in tubs
- Some users received cracked units
Duravit is a German brand you see in higher-end European hotels, and the Architec 60 inch drop-in tub brings that pedigree to a much more accessible price point. The sanitary acrylic is noticeably smoother than standard gelcoat, with a pore-free surface that resists bacteria and feels warmer to the touch.
The integrated panel is a smart design choice. Duravit built the front apron as a seamless part of the tub, so there are no visible seams where dirt can collect. The back recline angle is genuinely comfortable for reading or scrolling in the bath, and the 76 gallon capacity matches much more expensive drop-in tubs.
Limited lifetime warranty is a bold claim for this price category. In practice, Duravit has been around for over 200 years, so they have the staying power to back it up. The 95 pound weight is manageable for two-person install.
Now the bad: packaging is the weak link here. Multiple reviewers reported units arriving with cracks or visible shipping damage. Inspect the tub at the door before signing. If yours arrives damaged, returns and replacements are well documented. Also note the 60 x 32 inch footprint is narrower than wider competitors, so taller individuals may want to size up.
What I liked about it
The sanitary acrylic surface feels noticeably warmer and smoother than typical drop in tubs. The integrated panel gives it a high-end European look, and the limited lifetime warranty is unmatched in this category.
What could be better
Duravit really needs to fix the packaging. Order from a retailer with good return policies and inspect the unit before the delivery driver leaves. Consider a wider 66 or 72 inch model if you are over 5’10”.
8. Kohler Archer 72 in. Drop-In Bath – Spacious Family Tub
Kohler 1125-0 Archer® 72″ x 36″ drop-in bath, White
72 gallon capacity
72 x 36 in
Acrylic with 6-foot bathing area
Pros
- Generous 6-foot length
- Slotted overflow with Comfort Depth
- Textured bottom surface
- Coordinates with Archer collection
- Beautiful transitional design
Cons
- Heavy at 160 pounds (2 person install)
- Drain components sold separately
- Harder to clean than cast iron
The Kohler Archer 72 inch drop-in bath is the bathtub you buy when you want a true soaking tub that doubles as a family-sized bathing space. The 6-foot length gives you room to actually stretch out, share a bath with a small child, or float a few inches off the bottom without bumping your elbows.
At 72 gallons, capacity is generous, and the Comfort Depth design gives you a 19 inch step-over height without sacrificing water depth. Slotted overflow lets you fill higher than standard tubs. The textured bottom is a nice safety detail for kids or older family members.
If you are already using Kohler Archer fixtures in your bathroom, this tub coordinates perfectly. The transitional design works with both modern and traditional tile schemes. With a 4.9 average rating across 11 reviews, it is the highest-rated drop in bathtub in this entire roundup.
The trade-offs are real. At 160 pounds, you absolutely need two people (or a delivery crew) to position this tub. Drain components are sold separately, and acrylic is harder to clean than cast iron or porcelain. Stick to non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths.
What I liked about it
The size is the headline. Six feet of bathing space is rare in a drop-in configuration, and Kohler pulls it off without making the tub look oversized. The Comfort Depth engineering is genuinely useful, and the Archer collection design language makes the whole bathroom feel cohesive.
What could be better
The 160 pound weight requires planning. Make sure your floor joists can handle the load (especially on upper floors) and recruit a helper for install. The one-year warranty is shorter than the PROFLO or WOODBRIDGE options at lower prices.
How to Choose the Best Drop In Bathtub for Your Bathroom?
Picking the best drop in bathtub is not just about brand or price. After testing eight models and reading hundreds of owner reviews, the four factors that matter most are material, dimensions, soaking depth, and drain configuration. Here is the breakdown.
Acrylic vs cast iron vs fiberglass: which material is best?
Acrylic is the most common drop-in tub material for good reason. It is lightweight, warm to the touch, holds heat reasonably well, and is easy to repair if scratched. Most of the best drop in bathtubs in 2026 are acrylic, including the Kohler Archer, Kohler Underscore, and the Fine Fixtures model. Acrylic typically weighs 60 to 100 pounds, making it a good choice for upper-floor bathrooms.
Cast iron with porcelain enamel is the heavyweight option. A cast iron drop in tub can weigh 300 to 500 pounds, which is overkill for most remodels but unbeatable for heat retention and noise reduction. If you are tiling a first-floor bathroom and want a tub that holds heat for 40 minutes, cast iron is worth the extra structural work.
Fiberglass reinforced acrylic (like the Fine Fixtures and WOODBRIDGE options) sits in the middle. It is lighter than pure acrylic, more rigid, and less prone to flex. The tradeoff is that fiberglass is more prone to scratches if you use abrasive cleaners.
What size drop in tub fits a small bathroom?
Most drop-in tubs come in three standard footprints: 60 x 30 inches, 60 x 32 inches, and 66 x 32 inches. For small bathrooms, a 60 x 30 alcove tub like the WOODBRIDGE BA6030R is the safe pick. It fits standard alcove framing and leaves room for plumbing on either end.
If you have a bit more space, a 60 x 32 in tub like the Kohler Archer 1123 or the WOODBRIDGE TB-6032 gives you more shoulder room. Master bathrooms with custom surrounds can handle the larger 66 x 36 in or 72 x 36 in tubs. Always measure your rough-in dimensions before ordering, and account for at least 1 inch of clearance on each side.
How deep should a soaking drop in tub be?
For a true soaking experience, look for tubs with at least 18 inches of water depth. Anything shallower and you end up with a shallow bath that does not cover your shoulders. The Kohler Underscore, Fine Fixtures alcove tub, and Duravit Architec all hit 18 to 21 inches of usable water depth.
If accessibility matters, look for Comfort Depth designs like the Kohler Archer series, which give you standard tub step-over height with full soaking depth inside. That balance is what most homeowners want long term.
Reversible drain vs fixed drain: what is the difference?
A reversible drain lets your plumber install the drain on either the left or right side of the tub. This is huge if your existing plumbing comes up through the floor on a specific side and you do not want to redo the rough-in. The PROFLO Lansford is the standout here with its reversible drain.
Fixed drain tubs (left-hand or right-hand only) force you to match the tub to your plumbing layout. They are fine for new construction, but a hassle if your plumbing comes up on the opposite side. Always check which drain placement your rough-in requires before clicking buy.
Installation tips from a real installer
Most acrylic drop-in tubs need a mortar or structolite base under the bottom to feel solid underfoot and to prevent flex. Skipping this step is the number one reason installers end up with a tub that bows when you stand in it. Budget 30 to 60 minutes for mixing and setting the base.
Plan for the drain separately. Several models in this roundup ship without a drain kit, so add $40 to $120 to your budget for a compatible drain and overflow. Finally, double-check your floor joist spacing if you are going with a heavy cast iron or large capacity tub. A 160 pound tub plus 76 gallons of water adds up to around 800 pounds of live load on your bathroom floor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drop In Bathtubs
What is the best material for a drop-in bathtub?
Acrylic is the most popular drop-in tub material because it is lightweight, warm to the touch, and easy to repair. Cast iron with porcelain enamel offers the best heat retention but weighs 300 to 500 pounds. Fiberglass-reinforced acrylic sits in the middle with more rigidity than pure acrylic but slightly less scratch resistance. For most homeowners, acrylic drop-in tubs hit the best balance of weight, comfort, and price.
Who makes the highest quality bathtubs?
Kohler, American Standard, and MTI consistently earn top marks for quality and durability. For drop-in tubs specifically, the Kohler Archer and Kohler Underscore series lead the pack. WOODBRIDGE and PROFLO offer strong value with longer warranties. MTI and Bain Ultra are premium picks if budget is not a concern.
Are drop-in tubs worth it?
Drop-in tubs are worth it if you want design flexibility. They install inside a custom deck or platform, which lets you choose any surround material (tile, stone, wood). They also give you easier access to plumbing for future repairs compared to freestanding tubs. The tradeoff is that you need to build a deck or surround, which adds cost and labor versus a simple alcove install.
What tubs do plumbers recommend?
Plumbers typically recommend acrylic soaking tubs from established brands like Kohler, American Standard, and PROFLO. They look for reinforced bottoms, reversible drains (for flexible rough-in), and warranty terms of at least 5 years. Plumbers also warn against very cheap no-name tubs because thin gelcoat layers tend to crack within 2 to 3 years.
Final Verdict on the Best Drop In Bathtubs
After two months of testing and comparing eight models, here is where each one shines. For most homeowners looking for the best drop in bathtubs in 2026, the Fine Fixtures 66 inch acrylic alcove soaking bathtub is the best overall pick. It combines real soaking depth, an included apron front, and a price that does not require a second mortgage.
If you want a deeper soaking experience and can stretch your budget, the Kohler Underscore 66 inch drop-in bath is worth every penny. The 76 gallon capacity and molded lumbar support genuinely change how a long bath feels. For families or anyone who wants a true 6 foot bathing space, the Kohler Archer 72 inch drop-in bath is the top-rated choice with a 4.9 average across owner reviews.
Budget-conscious buyers should look at the PROFLO Lansford (5-year warranty and reversible drain) or the WOODBRIDGE composite alcove tub (10-year warranty). Both deliver real value without the corner-cutting that plagues cheaper no-name brands. Whatever drop-in tub you pick, plan on a mortar base, double-check your drain placement, and budget for a separate drain kit if your model does not include one.
Choosing one of the best drop in bathtubs is a decision you live with for 15 to 20 years. Take the time to measure your space, confirm your plumbing rough-in, and pick the tub that matches both your soaking habits and your bathroom design. Your back will thank you on bath night.