Looking for a 60 x 42 garden tub that fits your bathroom and delivers a calm, soaking experience? This guide highlights five top options with solid construction, comfortable depths, and practical features. Best for renovating small to mid-sized baths, these tubs emphasize ease of installation, durable materials, and user comfort. Read on to compare design, drain configurations, and notable pros for each model. A quick buyer’s table follows to help you pick the right tub for your space and needs.
| Product | Brand | Drain | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PROFLO PFS6042A Lansford | PROFLO | Reversible Drain | Acrylic | Owners seeking sturdy, factory-tested tubs |
| PROFLO PFS6042LSK Hillsboro (Left Drain) | PROFLO | Left Drain | Acrylic | Budget-friendly, easy to maintain baths |
| Kohler 25833-0 Avec | Kohler | Slotted Overflow, Deep Soak | Acrylic | Extra depth and comfort |
| STERLING 71111122-0 Ensemble | Sterling | Right-Hand | Viral material (Durable) | Wider, ergonomic soaking |
| JACUZZI SIGNATURE 60” | Jacuzzi | Right Drain | Acrylic | Premium design, slip resistance |
PROFLO PFS6042A Lansford 60″ x 42″ Drop In Tub
The Lansford model is a drop-in acrylic soaking tub with a reversible drain and overflow for flexible installation. The acrylic surface is reinforced for durability and easy maintenance. This tub is best for homeowners who want a straightforward, reliable soaking experience with a balanced depth. A potential limitation is the requirement for precise cutouts typical of drop-in styles.
- Best for: Renovations needing a reversible drain option and easy care.
- Why selected: Factory-tested, durable acrylic construction and standard 60″ x 42″ fit.
- Caution: Installation requires accurate enclosure measurements for a clean fit.
PROFLO PFS6042LSK Hillsboro 60″ x 42″ Three Wall Alcove Tub
The Hillsboro model is designed for three-wall alcove installation, featuring a left drain and overflow. It emphasizes heat retention and ease of cleaning, making it suitable for daily use in both residential and light commercial settings. Best for bathrooms with alcove layouts seeking a reliable, low-maintenance tub.
- Best for: Alcove layouts with left drain configuration.
- Why selected: Comfortable soak with long-lasting acrylic finish.
- Caution: Limited to alcove spaces; not ideal for freestanding setups.
PROFLO PFS6042RSK Hillsboro 60″ x 42″ Right Drain
This Hillsboro variant mirrors the left-drain design but places the drain on the right. It shares the same durable acrylic construction and ease of cleaning. Choose this if your plumbing layout favors a right-drain configuration or if the space dictates a specific drainage alignment for better water flow and under-vanity clearance.
- Best for: Right-drain bathroom layouts.
- Why selected: Consistent quality with a different drainage option.
- Caution: Availability may vary by retailer; confirm drain side before purchase.
Kohler 25833-0 Avec® 60″ x 42″ Drop-In Bath
The Avec model features a deep soaking depth with a slotted overflow for extended immersion. It also provides integral lumbar support and neck rest for enhanced comfort. This tub suits buyers prioritizing deep soaking and ergonomic support in a visually sleek package. A potential limitation is its deeper profile, which may require more bathroom height clearance.
- Best for: Deep soaking with ergonomic support.
- Why selected: Deep 13-1/4″ soaking depth; supportive design.
- Caution: Taller ceilings or larger bathrooms recommended to accommodate depth.
STERLING 71111122-0 Ensemble Bathtub
This Sterling Ensemble tub is a wider, 60″ x 42″ model with an 18-1/4″ apron, constructed from solid Viral material for strength and durability. It suits buyers seeking a sturdy tub with a broad apron for a traditional look and easier concealment of plumbing. Caution: If space is tight, the wider body could impact surrounding fixtures or doorways.
- Best for: Wider, comfortable soaking with a classic apron.
- Why selected: Enhanced width for a more generous soak and visible apron.
- Caution: Check doorway and alcove clearance in small bathrooms.
STERLING 71111112-0 Ensemble Bathtub (Left-Hand)
The left-hand version of the Ensemble continues Sterling’s emphasis on durability and space-conscious design. It offers similar width and an ample apron, making it a practical choice for those preferring left-side drainage and a balanced aesthetic. Best for: left-hand drainage configurations in medium baths. Caution: Case-by-case fit in retrofits; verify your existing plumbing plan.
- Best for: Left-side drainage in mid-sized bathrooms.
- Why selected: Consistent Sterling build with reliable apron styling.
- Caution: Ensure plumbing alignment matches left-hand drain configuration.
PROFLO PFS7242LSK Hillsboro 72″ x 42″ Left Drain
Although slightly larger at 72″ long, the Hillsboro 72″ x 42″ tub shares the same left drain concept and acrylic durability. This option is best for buyers needing extra length for a more spacious soak while keeping the same alcove or in-line installation footprint. Consider this if your bathroom can accommodate a longer tub without altering surrounding fixtures.
- Best for: Extra-long soaking tubs in alcove spaces.
- Why selected: Maintains the Hillsboro features with extended length.
- Caution: Not suitable for tight spaces or standard 60″ openings.
Buying Guide
What should you consider before buying a 60 x 42 tub?
Bathing depth, drain configuration, and installation type are key. A deeper tub offers more immersion but may require higher ceilings. Drain placement affects plumbing compatibility with existing fixtures. Alcove vs. drop-in styles influence enclosure needs and trim options. Material matters; acrylic builds are common for durability and heat retention, but the overall structure should support daily use.
Drain placement and tub installation
Decide between left, right, or reversible drains based on plumbing alignment and bathroom layout. Three-wall alcove tubs simplify installation with built-in sides, while drop-in models require precise cutouts and a surrounding deck or enclosure.
Durability, maintenance, and comfort
Acrylic tubs are popular for their light weight and upkeep. Look for reinforced composites or high-quality acrylic to resist cracking and to retain heat. Features like non-slip surfaces, lumbar support, and neck rest add comfort for long soaks.
Which tub fits best for you?
- Best for alcove spaces: PROFLO Hillsboro 60″ x 42″ variants.
- Best for deep soaking: Kohler Avec 60″ x 42″.
- Best for wide, comfortable soaking: Sterling Ensemble 60″ x 42″ models.
- Best for right-drain setups: Jacuzzi Signature 60″ x 42″ tub.
- Best for budget-conscious buyers: PROFLO Lansford 60″ x 42″.
Installation tips
- Double-check enclosure measurements before ordering a drop-in tub.
- Plan for space around the apron and ensure clear access for cleaning and maintenance.
- Consult professional installation if your plumbing needs align with a non-standard drain position.
FAQ
- Q: What does “drop-in” mean for a 60 x 42 tub? A: A drop-in tub sits inside a constructed deck or surround with a visible perimeter and requires precise cutouts in the surround to fit the tub.
- Q: Are 60″ x 42″ tubs deep enough for soaking? A: Many models offer significant soaking depth, often around 13″ or more, depending on the design.
- Q: Is an alcove tub easier to install than a freestanding tub? A: Yes, alcove tubs generally install with built-in sides, using less complex surrounding framing.
- Q: Should I worry about tub weight when filled? A: Yes, water and people add substantial weight; ensure floor support and plumbing are rated for the load.
- Q: Do these tubs require professional installation? A: Not always, but a licensed plumber is recommended if you’re aligning with existing plumbing or upgrading fixtures.
- Q: Which tub is best for maintenance? A: Acrylic tubs with smooth finishes and reinforced cores are typically the easiest to clean and maintain.