by Jane |
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In recent times, we’ve been making lists of the best tubs for your bathroom. Last time, we talked about beautiful and vintage style clawfoot bathtubs. Today, let’s talk about the best alcove tubs.
What is an alcove tub?
If clawfoot bathtubs are all about decadent luxury, I’d say an alcove tub is all about practicality and familiarity. They’re cheaper, easy to buy, and they’re what we’re used to.
Designed to stylishly maximize space, an alcove bathtub is ideal if your smallest room really is small. Perfectly formed to provide an elegant accent, alcove bathtubs keep up the quality whilst freeing up space.
The Top 5 Best Alcove Tubs
#5: Evolution Deep Soak
Featuring molded back and arm supports for relaxing soaks, the Evolution is a deep tub which offers plenty of opportunity to soothe away the stresses of the day at a reasonable price.
You will need to purchase the deep soak max drain overflow separately, and, as the sides of the tub are a little narrow for shampoo and shower gel bottles to stand on, you may want to purchase a wall mounted holder for your bathtime additions.
- Acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement
- Integral apron with removable access panel
- Integral 3-sided tile/water retention flange
Last update on 2025-07-13 at 13:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#4: Kohler Archer
Featuring molded lumbar support for soothing soaks to perfectly wash away those aches and pains, the Kohler Archer is a comfortable, modern and stylish bathtub.
While it is a little narrower than a standard tub, it doesn’t compromise on depth. You will still be able to enjoy a long, luxurious, relaxing bath even if your bathroom space is limited.
With clean and simple lines and a textured, non-slip floor, this is the bathtub for all small spaces.
You will need to purchase the overflow drain separately.
- 60"L x 32"W x 19"H
- Slotted overflow and Comfort Depth design offers a convenient 19-inch step-over height while retaining the same depth as a standard 21-inch...
- Molded lumbar arch gently supports the natural curves of your body
Last update on 2025-07-13 at 13:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#3: Kinro Composites
A small but perfectly formed tub, the Kinro Composites is ideal for small spaces although it doesn’t offer the depth for long soaks that larger alcove tubs do.
However, if space is at a premium and you definitely want a bathtub rather than a shower, this is an affordable and stylish tub at a good price.
- 1/8 in. thick thermoformed ABS plastic
- Right-hand installation
- Color: White
Last update on 2025-07-13 at 13:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#2: American Standard Cambridge Right Drain
The American Standard Cambridge offers stylish comfort in a classic design.
It is a deep porcelain tub, ideal for relaxing soaks, and features a non-slip, textured floor so you don’t need to keep cleaning your tub mats!
This is a sturdy, durable bathtub, perfect for those with limited space who don’t want to compromise on lathered-up luxury. If you have a right-hand drain, get this model. If you have a left-hand drain, then go straight to our #1 pick.
- Easier to clean and stays cleaner longer
- A brighter, white textured surface that is more visually appealing
- Covering 56% more of the tub floor to help increase bathroom safety
Last update on 2025-07-13 at 13:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#1: American Standard Cambridge Left Drain
So you’re probably wondering, why the American Standard Cambridge again when we just came off listing it as our #2 pick. This is because there are two major differences to these two tubs.
- The previous was a right drain and this is a left drain. When you install your bathtub, you will need to know whether your drain is right or left-handed. You need to match the right drain because they are pre-punched into the tub.
- This one is made of Americast which makes it lighter and more durable than a traditional cast iron tub.
Apart from that though, both American Standard Cambridge tubs are superb alcove tubs. They’re well-made, designed well, and hold heat very well.
This particular model is America’s #1 bestseller in recessed bathtubs and it’s no surprise why.
- Durable Americast is lighter than cast iron, easier to handle
- Soothing 14 inch depth for soaking comfort
- Excellent heat retention qualities keeps bath water warmer longer
Last update on 2025-07-13 at 13:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Author: Jane Neu
Jane is the creator of Complete Home Spa – “It’s a good idea,” she said. But even she has been taken aback by its success. She lives with a cranky Englishman in a quiet countryside retreat. And in the past year, has become mom cat to a spunky rescue named Mina. Connect with her on Twitter @completehomespa.