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For many homeowners, a soothing bath provides unmatched comfort.

On the other hand,small bathtubslike drop-in and alcove options may be more suitable when space is tight.

As far as space goes, free-standing bathtubs require more room than others.

Basic Types of Bathtubs HERO

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They also need the right kind of plumbing to function.

Overall, freestanding tubs tend to cost between about $700 and $4,000.

When the walls are tiled or fitted with panels, the enclosure can be used for a tub/shower combination.

bathtub

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Alcove bathtubs can come as part of a package that includes the three-sided wall surround.

In some cases, thewall surroundis permanently attached to the bathtub, while others are detached for easy installation.

Bathtubs withdetached surroundsusually come in three pieces including a large back wall with two smaller sidewalls.

Bathroom with gray subway tiles surrounding tub with wicker basket in corner

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This unique bathtub requires you to have a carpenter build a deck or peninsula that juts into the room.

The tub comes with a built-in rim and is installed inside the structure.

Drop-in bathtubs can be installed in an alcove, but most often are featured in a more open area.

Large bathroom with decorative light fixtures around mirrors and large windows over tub

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As such, these tubs usually require morebathroom spacethan alcoves and cost more.

The cost of the tub itself usually ranges from about $500 to $2,000.

Drop-in bathtubs give your bathroom a more finished, permanent look.

Drop in bath tub surrounded by gray cabinets and tile

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The tiled sides of the bathtub provide extra space for soap, shampoo bottles, candles, or books.

Typically expensive, corner bathtubs take up a lot of bathroom floor space.

Conversely, they’re ideal if you have an awkward corner and are unsure how to fill it otherwise.

Jetted tub filled with hot water

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That being said, they’re perfect for relaxation.

Corner tubs often cost about $1,000 to $3,000, but these luxury features may increase the cost.

These tubs are built for indoor spaces but have the spa-like, bubble-blasting jets that their outdoor counterparts have.

Sunken tub in a neutral, airy bathroom

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They’re perfect for homeowners interested in a tub that can go the extra mile.

Rather than a soaking experience, they provide light massaging through bubbles, providing muscle relief and relaxation.

Maintenance can beanother downside.

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Erin Williamson Design

Jets can get clogged with soap residue and limescale in areas with hard water.

These differ from drop-in tubs because they’re built directly into the floor.

Rather than climbing up, bathers step downin a sense, similar to an in-ground pool.

Front view of a bathroom with a soaking tub, robes, and a spa bench with towels

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These tubs require more than the standard fitting installation process.

One of their disadvantages is maintenance and cleaning, which can be trickier depending on the layout.

While they may refer to the same thing, soaking bathtubs are often a little bigger.

Handicapped disabled access bathroom bathtub with grab bars.

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That said, anyone with rustic or farmhouse tastes might like a claw-foot variation.

There are even bold, colorful options for the maximalists out there.

These are special tubs that can be accessed through a door rather than climbing over the wall.

These bathtubs are ideal for anyone who is disabled or who has limited mobility.

Many models come with built-in handles and seats, which makes them more comfortable to use.

Because of their unique features, they tend to bemore expensivethan a standard alcove or shower and bath combination.

On average, walk-in baths range between $3,000 and $7,000.