Small bathrooms with tubs can be tricky to design. You want to make the most of your limited space while still having a relaxing tub to soak in. But don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to create a functional and stylish small bathroom with a tub.
With some smart design choices, you can have a compact bathroom that feels spacious and luxurious. From clever storage solutions to eye-catching decor, these ideas will help you maximize your small bathroom. Whether you’re renovating or just refreshing your space, you’ll find inspiration to create a bathroom you love.
1: Compact Clawfoot Tub
A small clawfoot tub can add charm to your tiny bathroom. These tubs come in sizes as short as 53 inches long, perfect for tight spaces.
Look for slipper-style designs with a high back on one end. This gives you a comfy spot to relax without taking up extra room.
Choose a tub with ball-and-claw feet in a finish that matches your decor. Options like chrome, brass, or oil-rubbed bronze let you customize the look.
2: Corner Soaking Tub
A corner soaking tub can be a great choice for small bathrooms. It fits snugly into a corner, saving space while still offering a luxurious bathing experience.
These tubs come in various sizes, typically 4 feet by 4 feet or 5 feet by 5 feet. They’re usually made of acrylic or cast iron and have depths similar to regular tubs.
You can enhance your corner tub with features like jets or a shower attachment. Adding plants or a small table nearby can create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.
3: Freestanding Oval Tub
A freestanding oval tub can transform your small bathroom. These elegant tubs come in various sizes to fit compact spaces.
You can place the tub against a wall or in a corner to save room. Choose a glossy white finish for a sleek look that brightens the space.
Consider pairing your oval tub with simple fixtures and neutral colors. This creates a calm, spa-like atmosphere in even the tiniest bathroom.
4: Deep Japanese Soaking Tub
Japanese soaking tubs are a great option for small bathrooms. These tubs are deeper than typical bathtubs, letting you sit upright with water up to your chin.
They’re usually about 27 inches deep, perfect for a full-body soak. You can find them in different materials like wood or modern options.
These tubs take up less floor space than regular tubs. This makes them ideal for tiny bathrooms where every inch counts.
5: Wall-Mounted Shelf Above Tub
A wall-mounted shelf above your tub can add both style and function to your small bathroom. Choose a slim shelf that doesn’t stick out too far to avoid bumping your head.
Use the shelf to store bath essentials like shampoo, soap, and washcloths. This keeps items within easy reach while you’re in the tub.
Pick a shelf material that matches your bathroom decor. Wood adds warmth, while metal or glass can give a more modern look. Make sure the shelf is securely attached to support the weight of your items.
6: Compact Vanity with Storage
A compact vanity with built-in storage can save space in your small bathroom. Look for units that combine a sink with drawers or cabinets underneath.
Choose a vanity that fits snugly against the wall to maximize floor space. Some models offer slim profiles while still providing room for toiletries and towels.
Consider a floating vanity to create the illusion of more space. These wall-mounted options keep the floor clear, making the bathroom feel larger.
Pick materials that match your style, like wood for warmth or sleek metal for a modern look. Remember to measure your space carefully before buying.
7: Floating Shelves
Floating shelves can transform your small bathroom with a tub. They add storage without taking up floor space.
You can install them above the toilet or tub for easy access to essentials. Choose light wood or glass shelves to keep the space feeling open and airy.
Display decorative items like plants or candles on the shelves. This adds visual interest to your bathroom. You can also use them to store extra towels or toiletries.
Floating shelves work well in modern or traditional bathrooms. They’re a versatile option that fits many styles.
8: Space-Saving Bath Caddy
A bath caddy is a smart addition to your small bathroom with a tub. It gives you a place to keep essentials without taking up precious space.
Choose a caddy that fits across your tub. Look for one with adjustable sides to fit different tub widths. Some caddies have slots for books, cups, and even phones.
You can find caddies made of wood, bamboo, or rust-resistant metal. Pick one that matches your bathroom style. When not in use, store it vertically beside the tub to save floor space.
9: Slimline Bathroom Cabinet
A slimline bathroom cabinet is perfect for small bathrooms with tubs. These narrow cabinets fit into tight spaces while providing valuable storage.
Look for tall, thin cabinets that maximize vertical space. Place one next to your tub or sink to keep toiletries and towels within reach.
Choose a cabinet with mirrored doors to make your bathroom feel bigger. The reflective surface bounces light around the room, creating the illusion of more space.
10: Over-the-Tub Tray
An over-the-tub tray is a smart addition to your small bathroom with a tub. This handy accessory spans the width of your bathtub, providing a convenient surface for your essentials.
You can place books, drinks, or bath products on the tray while you soak. Choose a tray made of water-resistant materials like teak or bamboo for durability.
Some trays come with built-in features like book holders or wine glass slots. These extras enhance your bathing experience in a compact space.
11: Glass Shower Enclosure
Glass shower enclosures are a great choice for small bathrooms with tubs. They create an open, airy feel that makes the space seem larger.
You can opt for clear glass to show off beautiful tile work or a stylish shower system. For more privacy, frosted or textured glass works well.
A frameless design gives a sleek, modern look. It also makes cleaning easier since there are fewer nooks for grime to build up.
Consider a sliding door to save space. This works better than a swinging door in tight areas.
12: Mirrored Medicine Cabinet
A mirrored medicine cabinet is a smart choice for small bathrooms with tubs. It serves two purposes in one compact unit.
You get extra storage space for toiletries and medicines. The mirror helps reflect light and make your bathroom feel bigger.
Look for slim cabinets that mount flush to the wall. This saves precious space. Some models have adjustable shelves to fit your needs.
Choose a cabinet with a beveled mirror edge for an elegant touch. Or pick one with a simple frame to match your bathroom style.
13: Narrow Bathtub Caddy
A narrow bathtub caddy is perfect for small bathrooms with tubs. It gives you a handy spot to keep essentials without taking up much space.
Choose a slim caddy that fits your tub’s width. Look for one with adjustable arms to ensure a secure fit.
Pick a caddy with compartments for soap, candles, and a book or tablet. Some even have special holders for wine glasses or phones.
Opt for a waterproof material like bamboo or stainless steel. This will help your caddy last longer in the damp bathroom environment.
14: Tall, Slim Linen Cabinet
A tall, slim linen cabinet is perfect for small bathrooms with tubs. You can maximize vertical space without taking up much floor area.
Look for a cabinet that’s narrow but tall. This lets you store lots of towels, toiletries, and bath products.
Choose a cabinet with adjustable shelves. This gives you flexibility to store items of different sizes.
Pick a light color or mirrored finish to help the cabinet blend in. This makes your bathroom feel more open and spacious.
Place the cabinet near your tub for easy access to fresh towels and bath items. It adds both style and function to your small bathroom.
15: Sliding Barn Door
Sliding barn doors can be a great addition to small bathrooms with tubs. They take up less space than traditional swinging doors. This lets you maximize your bathroom’s layout.
You can choose from many styles and colors for your sliding barn door. Rustic wood finishes give a cozy feel. Painted doors in soft hues create a soothing look.
For extra privacy, add a strip along the door’s edge to close any gaps. This also helps muffle sounds. Pick hardware that matches your bathroom’s style for a polished look.
16: Built-In Alcove Tub
A built-in alcove tub is a smart choice for small bathrooms. This style fits snugly between three walls, maximizing space.
You can find alcove tubs in various sizes to suit your bathroom. They often come with a shower combo, giving you two options in one.
Surround your tub with waterproof tiles for a sleek look. Choose light colors to make the space feel bigger.
Add a curved shower rod to create more elbow room when showering. Install shelves or a niche in the walls for extra storage.
17: High-Gloss Paint
High-gloss paint can make a small bathroom with a tub feel bigger and brighter. The shiny finish reflects light, creating an illusion of more space.
You can use it on walls, cabinets, or trim for a sleek look. Choose light colors like white or pale blue to maximize the effect.
Be careful when applying high-gloss paint. It shows imperfections easily, so prepare surfaces well. Consider hiring a pro for best results.
Remember, a little gloss goes a long way. Use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space.
18: Expandable Tub Tray
An expandable tub tray is a smart choice for your small bathroom. It adjusts to fit different tub sizes, making it versatile and practical.
You can find trays that stretch from 22 to 41 inches wide. This lets you use them on various tubs without worry.
Look for trays with built-in holders for your book, phone, or wine glass. Some even have slots for candles or soap, adding to your relaxation time.
Choose a tray made of water-resistant materials like bamboo or teak. These will last longer in your wet bathroom setting.
19: Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is a great choice for small bathrooms with tubs. It adds brightness without taking up space. You can use it to light up the whole room or focus on certain areas.
Put recessed lights above your tub for a relaxing soak. Space them out evenly for the best effect. You can also add them near your mirror to help with tasks like shaving or putting on makeup.
For a modern look, try LED recessed lights. They save energy and last a long time. You can even get ones that change colors to set different moods in your bathroom.
20: Wall-Mounted Faucets
Wall-mounted faucets can be a great choice for small bathrooms with tubs. They save space by not taking up room on the tub deck or rim.
These faucets come in many styles, from sleek modern designs to classic vintage looks. You can find them in finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, and matte black to match your bathroom’s style.
Installing a wall-mounted faucet requires some planning. The plumbing needs to be set up in the wall behind the tub. This may take extra work, but the clean look is worth it for many people.
When picking a wall-mounted faucet, think about how it will fit with your tub and overall bathroom design. The right choice can add a stylish touch to your small space.
21: Tub with Built-In Shelf
A tub with a built-in shelf is a smart choice for small bathrooms. You can store bath essentials within easy reach while soaking.
Look for tubs that have shelving carved into the sides or end. Some models feature slanted dividers to keep items secure.
Choose a white tub to make your space feel bigger. The built-in storage helps reduce clutter and keeps the room tidy.
You can display plants, candles, or pretty bottles on the shelves when not in use. This adds style while maximizing function in your compact bathroom.
22: Shower Shelf with Hooks
A shower shelf with hooks is a smart storage solution for small bathrooms with tubs. You can install it in your shower area to keep essentials within reach.
Choose a shelf with built-in hooks to hang loofahs, washcloths, or razors. This setup helps you maximize vertical space and keeps items off the tub’s edges.
Look for rust-resistant materials like stainless steel or plastic to ensure durability. Some shelves use strong adhesive for easy installation without drilling.
23: Compact Laundry Hamper
A compact laundry hamper is a smart addition to your small bathroom with a tub. You can find slim hampers that fit in tight spaces between fixtures.
Look for tall, narrow designs that maximize vertical storage. Some options have lids to keep dirty laundry out of sight.
Collapsible fabric hampers work well too. You can fold them up when not in use to free up floor space.
Choose a hamper that matches your bathroom decor. Many come in neutral colors or stylish patterns to blend in seamlessly.
24: Vertical Towel Rack
A vertical towel rack is a smart choice for small bathrooms with tubs. You can mount it on the wall near your tub for easy access.
Look for a rack with multiple bars or hooks to hang several towels. Some models have adjustable arms that swivel out when in use.
Choose a sleek design that doesn’t take up much space. Stainless steel or matte black finishes work well in most bathrooms.
Place the rack high enough to keep towels off the floor. This helps save floor space and keeps your towels dry and clean.
25: Bifold Shower Door
Bifold shower doors are great for small bathrooms with tubs. These doors fold inward, saving space when open. You can install them on a shower stall or tub.
Most bifold doors have a framed or semi-frameless design. They use tracks to slide and fold smoothly. This creates a wide opening without taking up much room.
When closed, bifold doors keep water inside the shower area. They’re easy to clean and maintain too.
Maximizing Space in Small Bathrooms
Smart storage and compact fixtures can make a big difference in tiny bathrooms. Clever design choices help you get the most out of every inch while keeping the space functional and stylish.
Using Vertical Storage
Look up to find extra space in your small bathroom. Install floating shelves above the toilet or sink to hold toiletries and decor. Use tall, narrow cabinets that reach the ceiling to maximize storage without taking up floor space.
Over-the-toilet organizers offer shelving where it’s often wasted. Hang baskets on the walls to store rolled towels and washcloths. Add hooks behind the door for robes and towels.
Consider a shower caddy that hangs from the showerhead to keep soaps and shampoos tidy. Use magnetic strips inside cabinet doors to hold small metal items like tweezers and nail clippers.
Opting for Wall-Mounted Fixtures
Free up floor space by choosing wall-mounted sinks and toilets. These fixtures make the room feel more open and are easier to clean around. A floating vanity creates the illusion of more space and provides storage underneath.
Pick a wall-mounted faucet to keep the sink area clear. Install recessed medicine cabinets instead of those that stick out from the wall. They offer storage without taking up visual space.
Choose a glass shower door instead of a curtain to make the room feel bigger. If you have a tub, pick one with a small footprint like a Japanese soaking tub.
Choosing the Right Tub for Your Space
Picking the perfect tub for a small bathroom takes some careful thought. You’ll want to consider size, style, and materials to find the best fit.
Compact Tub Options
Corner tubs are great space-savers. They typically measure 4 to 5 feet on each side. This shape uses awkward corners well.
Japanese soaking tubs offer deep bathing in a small footprint. They’re shorter but deeper than standard tubs.
Shower-tub combos blend two functions in one unit. This saves space while giving you bathing options.
Mini clawfoot tubs bring classic style to tight spots. Look for ones under 5 feet long.
Freestanding vs. Built-In Tubs
Freestanding tubs create a focal point. They work well in open layouts. You can place them anywhere plumbing allows.
Built-in tubs maximize space usage. They fit snugly against walls or into alcoves. This leaves more floor space open.
Drop-in tubs sit inside a deck or platform. This style offers custom sizing options. You can add storage underneath.
Alcove tubs use three walls for support. This classic design is space-efficient and budget-friendly.
Tub Materials and Their Benefits
Acrylic tubs are lightweight and keep water warm. They resist chips and scratches well.
Cast iron tubs last for decades. They hold heat nicely but are very heavy.
Fiberglass tubs are affordable and easy to install. They’re not as durable as other options.
Stone resin tubs look luxurious. They’re strong and retain heat well.
Copper tubs are stunning showpieces. They naturally fight bacteria and are easy to clean.
Design Tips for Small Bathroom With Tub
Smart design choices can make a small bathroom with a tub feel spacious and luxurious. The right colors and lighting can transform the space.
Color Schemes to Enhance Space
Light colors make small bathrooms feel bigger. White is a classic choice for walls and fixtures. It reflects light and creates an airy feel.
Soft pastels like pale blue or light gray also work well. They add a touch of color without overwhelming the space.
For a bolder look, try dark colors on one accent wall. This can create depth and interest. Just be sure to balance it with lighter tones elsewhere.
Don’t forget the ceiling. Painting it a lighter shade than the walls can make the room feel taller.
Incorporating Light Fixtures
Good lighting is key in small bathrooms. It brightens the space and makes it feel more open.
Start with a central ceiling light for overall illumination. Recessed lights are a great space-saving option.
Add task lighting around the mirror. Wall sconces on either side provide even lighting for grooming tasks.
Consider a waterproof light in the shower or tub area. This adds ambiance and makes the space feel larger.
Use dimmers to adjust the mood. Bright light for cleaning, soft light for relaxing baths.
LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting. They come in many styles to suit your decor.
