So, you’re remodeling your bathroom—exciting! But with great renovations come a million decisions. Don’t worry, though—we live and breathe bathroom remodels, and we’re here to help you navigate the chaos. First up: choosing the best bathtub material.
Your bathtub isn’t just a statement piece—it’s an investment. You want something that looks stunning, but also holds up to everyday use with minimal maintenance. Cost, durability, and overall vibe all come into play, and it can feel like a lot to juggle.
That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of the best bathtub materials, so you can confidently choose the perfect fit for your home. Let’s dive in!
The Importance of Choosing the Best Bathtub Material for You
At first glance, a bathtub might seem like just another fixture—it holds water, you soak, end of story. But the material you choose impacts way more than just looks. It affects durability, maintenance, comfort, and even how long your tub will last before showing wear and tear.
So before you pick just any tub, let’s break down why material matters and what to look for when choosing the perfect one for your space.
Durability
If you’re in the thick of a reno, you already know—it’s a lot of work. The last thing you want? A bathtub that won’t hold up. Durability is key to ensuring your tub lasts for years without constant repairs or replacements.
- Acrylic and fiberglass: Lightweight but sturdy, great for everyday use.
- Porcelain and cast iron: Heavy-duty and highly scratch-resistant, built to last.
Choosing the best bathtub material now means less hassle later.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning your tub can either be a quick wipe-down or a full-on battle—it all depends on the material.
- Non-porous materials like acrylic and fiberglass are easy to clean and resist stains.
- Porous materials like natural stone may require more upkeep to prevent discoloration and scratches.
If you’d rather spend less time scrubbing, opt for a low-maintenance material.
Aesthetics
We love function, but let’s not forget form. Your bathtub is a centerpiece, and the material plays a huge role in its overall vibe.
- Cast iron & copper: Bring a rustic, vintage, or traditional feel.
- Acrylic & fiberglass: Offer a modern, sleek, and minimalist look.
Choose a material that matches your style and bathroom aesthetic while still being practical.
Cost
While we’d all love an unlimited budget, the reality is—bathtubs aren’t cheap. Material impacts both upfront and long-term costs, so consider your investment wisely.
- Cast iron & stone: More expensive but incredibly durable.
- Acrylic & fiberglass: Budget-friendly and widely available.
Think about not just what you’ll pay now, but also how much maintenance and repairs might cost over time.
Heat Retention
If you love long, relaxing soaks, heat retention is something to prioritize. Some tubs hold warmth better than others:
- Cast iron & stone: Retain heat exceptionally well for extended soaks.
- Fiberglass & ceramic: Tend to cool down faster.
If you’re all about luxurious, spa-like baths, go for a material that keeps the water warm longer.
10 Most Popular and Best Bathtub Material Options
In the quest to find the best bathroom material, I consulted several bathroom experts and plumbers. Based on my conversations, these are the best materials you should consider—from the most durable materials like cast iron to premium-looking materials like ceramic, here’s the best of the best.
1) Fiberglass- Most Affordable Material
Looking for a budget-friendly tub that doesn’t compromise on looks? Fiberglass (aka reinforced plastic) is a lightweight and inexpensive option. These tubs are molded into shape, coated with resin, and polished for a glossy finish.
✅ Pros:
✔ Affordable (typically $200–$800)
✔ Easy to install and repair
✔ Lightweight
❌ Cons:
✖ Prone to cracks, fading, and scratches
✖ Less durable than other materials
2) Porcelain Enameled Steel: Affordable yet Durable
If you want affordability with extra durability, porcelain-enameled steel is a solid choice. The enamel coating resists stains and scratches, keeping your tub looking fresh.
✅ Pros:
✔ More durable than fiberglass
✔ Easy to clean
✔ Budget-friendly
❌ Cons:
✖ Can chip if abrasive cleaners are used
✖ If the enamel chips, rust can develop
3) Acrylic- Best Lightweight Material
If you have kids and pets that’ll be splashing around in your tub, consider acrylic bathtubs as a durable and easy to maintain option. Acrylic is a step up from fiberglass, offering better insulation and more color options.
✅ Pros:
✔ Lightweight and easy to install
✔ Available in a variety of colors
✔ Great heat retention
❌ Cons:
✖ More expensive than fiberglass ($800–$1,500)
✖ Can scratch easily
4) Cast Iron- A Material That’ll Outlast You
Want a tub that will outlast you? Cast iron bathtubs are incredibly durable, with a thick enamel coating that resists scratches and chips. They also retain heat beautifully, making them ideal for long soaks. Plus, they have a great vintage look, making it the best bathtub material for a more classic aesthetic.
✅ Pros:
✔ Virtually indestructible
✔ Excellent heat retention
✔ Classic, high-end look
❌ Cons:
✖ Very heavy (requires extra floor support)
✖ Expensive
5) Ceramic- Highly Aesthetic
Ceramic bathtubs offer aesthetic appeal with their thick bottoms and slim rims. Made from clay, earthen elements, and powders, they’re also eco-friendly.
✅ Pros:
✔ Elegant and stylish
✔ Environmentally friendly
❌ Cons:
✖ Fragile and prone to cracks
✖ Requires professional installation
6) Wood- Most Eco-friendly Material
Yes, wooden bathtubs exist! They bring a natural, spa-like feel to a bathroom, but require meticulous upkeep.
✅ Pros:
✔ Unique and luxurious aesthetic
✔ Naturally warm to the touch
✔ No risk of rust
❌ Cons:
✖ Prone to water damage if not sealed properly
✖ Expensive ($3,000+)
7) Stone- For Excellent Heat Retention
If you love long, hot baths, stone bathtubs (made from onyx, marble, or travertine) hold heat for hours. They also offer unique natural colors and textures.
✅ Pros:
✔ Amazing heat retention
✔ Highly durable
✔ One-of-a-kind aesthetic
❌ Cons:
✖ Expensive (custom stone tubs cost thousands)
✖ Heavy (may require reinforced flooring)
8) Cast Polymer- For Stone-like Look on a Budget
Want the look of stone without the high price tag? Cast polymer (aka engineered stone or cultured marble) mimics natural stone while being easier to maintain.
✅ Pros:
✔ Looks like real stone
✔ Affordable compared to natural stone
✔ Available in various colors and patterns
❌ Cons:
✖ Less durable—prone to irreparable cracks
✖ Requires regular maintenance to prevent discoloration
9) Glass- Modern, Sleek, and Sophisticated
If you’re after a show-stopping, ultra-modern bathtub, glass tubs are the epitome of luxury. Made from tempered glass, they offer a futuristic and sophisticated look.
✅ Pros:
✔ Unique and eye-catching
✔ Easy to clean
✔ Scratch-resistant
❌ Cons:
✖ Prone to breaking if not handled properly
✖ Expensive and requires professional installation
10) Copper- Rustic and Charming
For an old-world, rustic charm, copper bathtubs are a stunning choice. They resist corrosion, retain heat, and develop a beautiful patina over time.
✅ Pros:
✔ Unique, high-end aesthetic
✔ Naturally antibacterial
✔ Exceptional heat retention
❌ Cons:
✖ High cost ($3,000+)
✖ Requires professional installation
Choosing Between Bathtub Materials
The most common bathtub materials are stone resin, acrylic, and fiberglass. So, how do you choose which is right for you? Thankfully, we have some helpful guides to help you choose the best bathtub material for you.
Resin vs. Acrylic Tubs: Which One Fits Your Style?
Deciding between a resin or acrylic bathtub? Both offer a sleek, modern look, but they cater to different priorities.
- Resin tubs, like the Cpingao 59″ Stone Resin Freestanding Bathtub, are ultra-durable, scratch-resistant, and retain heat for long, luxurious soaks. They come with a high-end look but are heavier and pricier.
- Acrylic tubs, such as the WOODBRIDGE 59″ Freestanding Soaking Tub, are lightweight, affordable, and available in various colors. They’re easier to install but don’t hold heat as well as resin tubs.
If you want luxury and longevity, go for resin. If you need practicality and budget-friendliness, acrylic is your best bet. Either way, you’re upgrading your bath game! Find out more about your two options in our article, “Choosing a Resin vs Acrylic Tub”
Acrylic vs. Fiberglass Tubs: Which One’s Right for You?
Looking to upgrade your bathtub but stuck between acrylic and fiberglass? Both offer affordability, easy installation, and a sleek look, but they have key differences.
- Acrylic tubs, like the WOODBRIDGE 55″ Freestanding Soaking Tub, are durable, resist cracks and stains, and retain heat for longer soaks. They’re slightly heavier and pricier but offer long-term reliability.
- Fiberglass tubs, such as the FerdY Bali 55″ Freestanding Bathtub, are lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy to install. However, they’re more prone to scratches and fading over time.
If you want a long-lasting, low-maintenance tub, acrylic is your best bet. If affordability and ease of installation matter most, fiberglass is the way to go. Either way, a relaxing soak is just a decision away! Read more on the two options in our helpful guide.
FAQs
Q: How long does a bathtub material typically last?
A: It depends on the type of material and how you maintain your bathtub. Each material has a different lifespan, as cast iron tubs can last up to 50 years, while other materials like fiberglass can last around five years.
Q: Do different bathtub materials require different types of maintenance?
A: Yes, the type of maintenance a tub needs significantly depends on its material. For example, you can use a scrubber to clean cast iron tubs, while it may scratch enamel-coated bathtubs.
Q: What is the best material for a bathtub surround?
A: Fiberglass is the best material for bathtub surrounds, as it’s affordable, lightweight, and durable. Plus, it requires less maintenance and can complement any type of bathtub.
Final Thoughts
The right bathtub material isn’t just about looks—it’s about durability, maintenance, and getting the best value for your investment. Whether you prioritize budget, aesthetics, or long-term performance, knowing the pros and cons of each material helps you make a confident choice.
A well-chosen tub not only enhances your bathroom’s style but also stands the test of time. Which material fits your dream bathroom? Let us know in the comments!
