Whirlpools, often referred to as “Jacuzzis,” are tubs with strategically placed jets that circulate water bubbles for a great massage. The whirlpool massage is typically more powerful and invigorating than the air tub massage, which is of a more soothing nature. Individual whirlpool manufacturers offer a variety of options regarding the strength, placement and pattern of the whirlpool massage, as well as a host of luxury perks that make your whirlpool even closer to what you’ll find in a professional spa.
Shopping for whirlpool tubs today is a rewarding experience, with a range of options that guarantee that you can buy one that is perfect for you in every way. The beautiful shapes and materials available offer you breathtaking masterpieces that can become the decorative focal point of your bathroom. Here’s what you need to know in order to narrow down the selection to the whirlpool tub you want:
Installation type:
Drop In - A drop in whirlpool tub is made to be installed in a perfectly sized cut out surrounded by walls and/or a tiled bathtub skirt. When fully surrounded, drop in whirlpools have a built-in look that is very solid and upscale.
Undermount - Undermount whirlpool tubs are made to be installed similar to drop in bathtubs, but with the lip of the tub walls covered by tiles as well. Undermount whirlpools look even more solid and built in than drop in tubs, but they’re also typically more complex and expensive to install. Many drop in whirlpools – those with flat lips - can be installed as undermount tubs too. See product specs as you browse the tubs on our website for installation options.
Alcove - An alcove whirlpool bathtub is the most common bathtub installation type. They are installed in the traditional manner, surrounded by three walls, with a nicely finished skirt for the open side. Drop in tubs can be installed as alcove tubs too, but you would need to install your own finished panel on one side of the tub.
Corner - A corner whirlpool tub stands out in both shape and size. They are typically triangular, and large enough to comfortably accommodate two bathers. A corner whirlpool bath is installed in the corner of the bathroom, against two walls. They truly make a statement.
Freestanding - Freestanding tubs are primarily soaking tubs, but there is a small limited selection of freestanding whirlpools too. A freestanding whirlpool tub is the most comprehensive and impressive looking bathtub out there. Freestanding tubs are beautifully finished on all four sides, and are meant to be installed away from the walls, anywhere in the bathroom where all four tub walls can be seen and most appreciated.
Size:
You can get your whirlpool bathtub in a wide range of sizes, meeting your needs regarding bathroom layout, aesthetics and bathing comfort. Larger tubs feel more regal and are more spacious, but the more modestly framed amongst us may also find bathing in them to be a bit too floaty and insecure.
The most common whirlpool bath lengths are 60”, 66” and 72”, which are the standard options for cutouts to accommodate drop in and undermount tubs. Standard bathtub widths are 30”, 33”, 36” and 42”. The widest whirlpool baths on the market are typically corner tubs and other uniquely shaped tubs.