Every 15 years or so, garden tubs become especially trendy with homeowners. According to Google Trends, searches in the United States for the phrase “garden tub” peaked in 2005 and 2021.
So what exactly is a garden tub, and why should you consider including one in your next bathroom remodel?
What Is a Garden Tub? Origins and Meaning
A garden tub is an extra-large and deep soaking tub that is separate (standalone) from a shower. The term “garden tub” is most often used to refer to an oversized built-in bathtub (usually oval in shape) that is typically placed in the corner of a large bathroom or under a window – e.g. overlooking the garden.
Some interior designers believe the term “garden tub” has been used since the 18 th century to describe freestanding soaking tubs that were often placed in a scenic outdoor area (overlooking landscaped gardens and manicured grounds) to create a serene and luxurious bathing experience for upper class Europeans.
The exact point when the phrase “garden tub” became popular in North America is unknown. According to Google Books, related terms like “corner garden tub” have been widely used in interior design trade journals and magazines since the late 1980s. A corner garden tub is a type of luxury built-in bathtub, often with whirlpool jets, installed in the corner of a large bathroom near a window.
Today, the term “garden tub” usually refers to any type deep, oversized soaking tub – even freestanding models – that is separate from a shower, usually in its own corner or area. A drop-in or freestanding garden tub can be placed anywhere in your bathroom where plumbing hookups are available – under a window or even the center of the room. A garden tub can even be placed in a wet room or large spa bathroom.
Garden Tub vs Soaking Tub
“Garden tub” and “soaking tub” are often used interchangeably today to refer to a bathtub that is longer (and/or wider) and deeper than a standard alcove tub. Both garden tubs and soaking tubs are designed for full-body immersion. While many standard-size garden soaking tubs hold anywhere from 40 to 75 gallons of water, larger models that can hold 75 gallons or more are also available.
Today, the term “garden tub” is more often used to refer to a large oval or rectangular drop-in bathtubs installed in a platform or deck, often in the corner of a bathroom or under a window. Garden tubs are considered a luxury bathroom fixture that is especially ideal for spa-like bathrooms. A jetted garden tub is especially useful for therapeutic bathing and relaxation.
A soaking tub, on the other hand, usually refers to a freestanding oval flatbottom tub that can be placed anywhere in a bathroom – from an enclosed shower stall or wet room to the center of the bathroom. However, both terms can be used to describe a large, deep bathtub designed for relaxation and full-immersion bathing.
Whether you call it a garden tub or soaking tub, or choose a drop-in or free standing model, choosing a large, deep bathtub for your bathroom remodel is a sound investment that has a range of benefits for your mental and physical health.
How to Choose a Garden Tub for Your Bathroom
Before choosing a garden tub for your bathroom, it’s important to understand the key differences in materials, styles, and sizes. Taking the time to compare your options will help you choose the right fit for your space and needs.
Garden tubs are deeper, and usually longer and/or wider, than standard size soaking tubs. Rectangular and oval garden tubs are commonly available. So are garden tubs designed specifically for corner installation. Common sizes for corner garden tubs include 60x60 and 54x72.
Traditionally, freestanding garden tubs were made of cast iron. Today, acrylic garden tubs are increasingly popular with homeowners seeking a more lightweight and less expensive type of garden soaking tub.
Jetted garden tubs became popular in luxury bathrooms in the 1980s and 1990s. While a whirlpool garden tub installed in a platform or deck may feel dated compared to a modern freestanding tub, there is still no better option for hydrotherapy at home. Many Atlantis Whirlpools garden tubs are available with or without water jets.
Browse Freestanding, Drop-In & Corner Garden Tubs
Ready to purchase a garden tub of your own? Browse our collection of freestanding garden tubs, corner garden tubs, and drop in garden tubs. Or check out these guides or contact our Customer Service team for assistance with selecting the right garden tub for your bathroom.
