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A relaxing soak is a great way to unwind after a long day, but not everyone has the space or bathroom layout for a permanent bathtub. Luckily, portable bathtubs are a convenient solution to this problem, and allow you to enjoy all the benefits of a soaking bath. These products come in two different shapes—either a traditional oval tub, or a circular, soaking-style tub—so it should be easy to find one that works for you. They also take up minimal room, and are simple to store away when you’re not using them.
What to Consider
Longer, oval-shaped tubs will allow users to stretch their legs out to some extent, but they take up a significant amount of room, and cannot be used inside of a stall shower. Circular soaking-style tubs can fit into smaller shower stalls, but their compact shape restricts the amount of space you’re able to move around in. Really think about the specific kind of experience you’re looking for, and consider whether or not you need your legs to be extended to achieve full relaxation.
You should also think about how you’ll be storing the tub when you’re not using it, as well as whether or not you’ll be transporting it. If you’re short on space and want to make sure your tub will be easy to store away when you’re finished with it, make sure to get one that collapses or folds down as small as possible. If you’ve got the space, and would appreciate the convenience of a hard-bottomed collapsible tub, a foldable tub could be a great choice.
Inflatable tubs are probably be a bit more comfortable than models that use plastic pipe frames, but they also require you to blow them up and deflate them, which can be a hassle.
How We Selected
We reviewed dozens of potential portable bathtub options while assembling this list, and did our best to only include those with predominantly positive reviews, and disregard those with quality or durability concerns. We also made sure to include a good balance of bathtub styles and sizes, with at least two options each for inflatable, foldable, and plastic-framed models. Also, since many people will be looking for an option for their children, we added two smaller models—inflatable and hard-sided—that are specifically designed for safely and effectively bathing infants and babies.
Pros
- Health - Injuries
- Health - Injuries
Cons
- Large size may be too bulky for some
Key Specs
- Material: PP and TPE material
- Length: 54.33 inches
- Depth: 19.68 inches
- Type: Foldable rectangle
Unlike inflatable or flexible rubber tubs, this foldable model will probably give you the closest thing to tub-like experience. Although its more expensive than most of our other models, it could be worth the cost if sturdiness and durability is a priority.
Its foldable design allows it to retain its rigid shape during transport, and its 8.6-inch depth when collapsed makes it easy to slide into narrow spaces.
Constructed of TPE and and PP material, this tub is also nice and durable, and the manufacturer claims that it can be folded up 15,000 times.
SINGES SINGES 47" Eco-Friendly Portable Folding Freestanding Bathtub
Pros
- Center drain plug
- Low price
- Doesn't take up too much room
Key Specs
- Material: Waterproof PVC and composite cloth
- Length: 47.2 inches
- Depth: 23.6 inches
- Type: Hard-frame rectangle
The low-cost bathtub could be a fine alternative to the more expensive options on our list. Its walls are made up of six layers of material, including a heavy-duty PVC, making it durable enough for regular use. This model is also simple to break down when you’ve finished your bath, and it can be stored away in a space as narrow as 5 inches.
It’s available in a series of colorful patterns, making it a great choice for those who want something a bit more vibrant than the basic colors offered by other models.
Pros
- Cup holder
- Soft floor
- Run/Walk a Race
Key Specs
- Material: High-density PVC
- Length: 63 inches
- Depth: 25.2 inches
- Type: Inflatable rectangle
Unlike hard-sided tubs or those that use PVC framing, this inflatable option can deflate and fold completely flat, making it extremely convenient for both storage and transport.
Two drains—one on the side and the other on the bottom—make it easy to ensure you’ve got all the water drained out when you’re finished, which is essential to avoiding mold issues when it’s folded up.
It also includes an electric air pump with three different sized nozzles to choose from, and can be fully inflated in three minutes. A handy cup holder makes this option ideal for those who want to spend some time relaxing.
Pros
- Wireless pump
- Can hold up to 440 pounds
Key Specs
- Material: PVC
- Length: 61 inches
- Depth: 20.47 inches
- Type: Inflatable rectangle
Our favorite feature of this tub is its wireless electric pump, which includes three different nozzles, and can also deflate the tub in just 1 minute. This pump can be used for any other pumping tasks you might have, like inflating pool floats or air mattresses.
This feature alone could make this model a great value for the right user. Plus, a handy zip-top cover will keep the water warm for up to an hour, allowing you to extend your bath time longer than similar tubs.
When you’re finished with your bath, you simply fold up the tub and store it in the included storage bag.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Suited for either cold or warm bath
- Best Large Circular Option
Cons
- Reasons You Sweat Like Crazy in Your Sleep
- Features two drain holes
Key Specs
- Material: PVC and alloy steel
- Length: 30 inches
- Depth: 26 inches
- Type: Hard-frame circular
The floor of this low-cost tub features a water-filled cushion, so even though you won’t be able to stretch out as much as other tubs, it should still make for a comfortable experience.
There is minimal assembly required—you just need to connect a series of tubes—and no inflating needed, so you should be able to get set up fairly quickly. It’s worth noting that although the high sides of this tub make it ideal for those who want a deep bath, it may be difficult for those with mobility issues to get in or out.
Pros
- Large diameter
- Includes storage bag
- Center drain plug
Key Specs
- Material: Vinyl and PVC
- Length: 35 inches
- Depth: 22 inches
- Type: Hard-frame circular
If you’d like the convenience of a circular tub but don’t want to feel too cramped, this extra-large option might be a great fit. Its 35-inch diameter is larger than any other circular option we listed, and is recommended for adults up to 6 feet, 2 inches tall.
The included 5-foot hose makes it easy to drain after your bath, or if you have a drain in the center of your shower, you can simply open up the second hole in the bottom of the tub.
We especially appreciated the clear, straightforward assembly and operating instructions that come with this model.
Pros
- Soft sides
- Includes air pump
- Easy to hang up
Key Specs
- Material: PVC
- Length: 35.4 inches
- Depth: 11.8 inches
- Type: Inflatable rectangle
This soft-sided inflatable tub is perfect for children between 6-months and 5-years old, and its compact size makes it much easier to fill up and drain than larger models. This small size makes it convenient to travel with and is also designed to fold down for easy storage as well.
An integrated saddle horn on the floor of the tub keeps your toddler from sliding down while bathing, and can also be used as a back support for those who can’t sit up on their own. This model includes a manual air pump as well.
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
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