48” Long Soaking Tubs That Will Make The Most Of Your Bathroom
A 48” long (or smaller) soaking tub could be the perfect solution to get the most out of your small bathroom.
Believe me, we know all about working to make small spaces more functional!
We recently were faced with a predicament that involved not only tight space but also a tight budget. The client currently had a bathtub and shower combo that was standard size, and that meant that the space for the toilet was so small it was nearly impossible for an adult to get to it!
Now, this tub happened to be the only one in the house, and this family was not willing to give it up. They also didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg reworking the entire plumbing layout of their bathroom and potentially losing vanity space in order to gain room for a 60” long tub.
Thank goodness for a more compact, 48 inch long soaking tub. This somewhat smaller version of a tub style they already loved completely saved the day.
Many people may not even realize there is a smaller version of a tub that could add all the same function to their limited bathroom space.
Thankfully, they do exist, and we want to share our favorite 48 inch long soaking tubs so that others can make their smaller bathroom work for them too!
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Why 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs?
On average, soaking tubs start at 60” and go up from there. This size can work well in newer homes, since there is generally more space available. When it comes to remodeling older bathrooms, or if someone needs to take some space out of their bathroom in order to add on to a bedroom, having an option for a smaller tub can be a life-saver. Saving 12” can mean extra space for a wide variety of things.
When it comes to 48” walk-in tubs, they are often perfect for replacing a shower for those who are looking for options to help them age in place. The walk-in design is helpful for people when their mobility needs change or they are worried they may slip or fall when getting in and out of the shower.
When To Use 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs:
If you’re wondering if choosing a 48” soaking tub is the right choice for you, there are some great reasons why it could be a functional option for your space.
Here are some examples of when it could make sense to use a 48” long soaking tub:
When You’re Replacing A 60” Alcove Bathtub With A Freestanding Soaking Tub -
If you have an existing 60” long alcove soaking tub and want to replace it for a more updated freestanding soaking tub without taking up more space, then you will have to go with a smaller, 48” long tub. This is because there needs to be space around the outside of the freestanding tub to allow for access to clean, etc. It is also necessary if you have a freestanding tub filler faucet for the 48” tub.
When You’re Reworking The Bathroom To Allow For More Storage -
If you want to add more storage to a small bathroom, there are quite a few ways that you could use an extra 12” to make your space more functional! Here are some examples:
A 12” linen closet could be added in that additional space
A longer or larger vanity could be installed to allow for more storage
Depending on your layout, 12” could mean even adding a double vanity instead of a single vanity!
When You’re Replacing A 48” Wide Shower-
If you currently have just a 48” wide shower, but would prefer to have an option to take a bath or need a tub for kids, etc. In this case, you wouldn’t have to take space away from your bathroom to add a 48” long tub, it could simply replace your shower with a drop in or alcove soaking tub instead.
When You’re Remodeling To Age In Place-
With such a wide variety of options available, adding a 48” soaking tub can be useful for those aging in place and wanting to update their bathroom with a walk-in tub.
4 Types of 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs:
Drop-In Soaking Tubs -
Drop-in soaking tubs are installed by being “dropped in” to a support structure that is built according to the necessary manufacturer size measurements. The exposed sides of the structure and lip around the top are usually tiled, or an apron is installed to cover the exposed sides.
Alcove Apron Soaking Tubs -
Alcove soaking tubs have three sides touching walls and are installed by being attached to the walls. They have an apron on the exposed side that goes down to the floor to give the tub a finished look.
Freestanding Soaking Tubs -
Freestanding soaking tubs come in a variety of styles and are set onto the floor for installation. They are more flexible as far as their location because they do not have to be installed by being attached to walls or onto another structure.
Walk-In Soaking Tubs -
Walk-in soaking tubs are unique in that they can be alcove or freestanding. They get their name because they have a door that can open and allow a person to walk-in. These are especially useful for older people who are worried about stepping over a typical tub edge because of their strength or stability.
Our List Of The Best 48 Inch Long (Or Smaller) Soaking Tubs:
Over time to help our clients we compiled a list of 48” tubs to help them find the right one for their bathroom. We are sharing it with you to help you find yours as well! We have divided our list by the 4 types of tubs to make it easier to find the perfect fit for your home.
The Best Drop-In 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs-
* Click the image or link to be taken to the seller’s site *
The Best Alcove 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs-
* Click the image or link to be taken to the seller’s site *
The Best Freestanding And Clawfoot 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs-
* Click the image or link to be taken to the seller’s site *
The Best Walk-In 48 Inch Long Soaking Tubs-
* Click the image or link to be taken to the seller’s site *
Conclusion
48” long soaking tubs can be a great option for any bathroom who wants the benefits of a tub with limited space. There are many ways that using a smaller tub can add more function to a bathroom while still looking great. We hope our list helped you find the best tub for your own remodel project!
Now we want to hear from you - Why are you considering a 48” long soaking tub for your bathroom? Which style of soaking tub is most attractive to you and why? Let us know in the comments below!
