It is surprising that even in developed countries like the United States, garden tubs are still associated with luxury. But as home design trends evolve, they may feel outdated or too large for many bathrooms. If you’re considering a change, exploring garden tub replacement ideas could be the perfect solution to modernize your bathroom space.

So, without wasting time, let’s look at some of the little-known garden tub replacement ideas you can explore to revamp your existing tub or install a new one. It is important to mention that most of these garden tub replacement ideas are affordable, budget-friendly, and most importantly, do-it-yourself (DIYs).

Even so, you may need to equip yourself with a little hands-on knowledge.

The Top 10 Garden Tub Replacement Ideas

If you are ready to remove or replace your garden tub, here are 10 great ideas that transform your garden tub area into a more functional and stylish retreat.

1. Install a Walk-In Shower

Replacing a garden tub with a walk-in shower instantly modernizes a bathroom and maximizes space, giving it a sleek, open feel.

Walk-in showers are popular for their accessibility and ease of maintenance, especially when you choose frameless glass doors or a curbless design.

By eliminating the bulky garden tub, a walk-in shower can be tailored to various bathroom sizes, from compact to spacious layouts.

Incorporate features like a rainfall showerhead, built-in seating, and multiple shower jets to create a luxurious, spa-like experience.

If privacy is a concern, frosted or textured glass doors can maintain an open look while adding a layer of discretion.

For a truly relaxing touch, consider adding steam functionality and a heated floor to your shower space.

2. Convert to a Deep Soaker Tub

If soaking in a warm bath is your go-to relaxation method, swapping your garden tub for a more modern, deep soaker tub is a great option.

Soaker tubs offer the same indulgence without occupying as much space, making them ideal for bathrooms that require more versatility.

They come in various designs, from freestanding to built-in alcove models, letting you choose the best fit for your aesthetic.

Choose a soaker tub that emphasizes depth rather than width, allowing for a truly immersive soak without the bulk of a garden tub.

Freestanding soaker tubs, in particular, add a touch of elegance and are a centerpiece in many contemporary bathrooms.

A deep soaker tub not only provides a calming retreat but also adds value to your home, as many buyers prefer an updated yet functional bathtub option.

3. Add a Vanity Area

Replacing your garden tub with a spacious vanity area can add both functionality and style to your bathroom.

A double vanity offers ample storage, helping you keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free.

This setup is especially beneficial in shared bathrooms, as it allows for more personal space and convenience.

It’s also a great way to improve lighting for makeup application or skincare routines.

Consider installing custom cabinetry that includes drawers, shelves, and even a built-in makeup station.

With a range of countertop materials, from marble to quartz, you can create a luxurious look that complements the rest of the bathroom.

Adding accent lighting around the vanity mirrors not only provides better visibility but also enhances the overall ambiance of the room.

4. Incorporate a Linen Closet

Converting the garden tub area into a linen closet is a practical idea that adds valuable storage space.

Bathrooms often lack adequate storage, and a dedicated linen closet provides a convenient spot to keep towels, toiletries, and other essentials organized.

This can be a stylish and functional addition, especially in smaller homes where closet space is limited.

Choose custom cabinetry or shelving solutions that match the bathroom’s design, allowing you to create a seamless look.

You could also add a combination of open shelves and closed cabinets to display decorative items while concealing everyday essentials.

This approach not only helps keep your bathroom tidy but also makes it more user-friendly, with everything you need at arm’s reach.

5. Create a Relaxing Reading Nook

For those who love unique, unconventional spaces, transforming the garden tub area into a cozy reading nook is an imaginative choice.

Adding a comfortable armchair or a small loveseat, along with a side table and a reading lamp, creates a quiet retreat within your bathroom.

This nook can serve as a peaceful escape where you can unwind with a good book or enjoy some quiet time.

Enhance the nook with a few decorative elements, like plush throw pillows and a soft area rug, to add warmth and character.

If you have windows near the tub area, capitalize on natural light to make the nook feel inviting and serene.

For added functionality, consider incorporating built-in shelving for books or magazines, transforming the space into a mini-library that’s both functional and luxurious.

6. Extend the Shower Space

If you prefer a larger shower experience, consider removing the garden tub to expand your existing shower area.

This allows for a more open layout, and it’s an ideal choice for those who prioritize a spacious, accessible shower over a bathtub.

An extended shower can feature dual showerheads, body jets, or even a full wet-room design that’s both contemporary and practical.

A larger shower area also opens up the possibility for customizations, like incorporating natural stone tiles, a pebble floor for a spa-inspired feel, or even a small seating ledge.

Additionally, a well-designed expanded shower can add significant resale value, as many homeowners are now opting for luxurious showers instead of traditional bathtubs.

7. Build a Relaxing Garden Feature

Transform the space where your garden tub was into a small indoor garden or green oasis for an eco-friendly touch.

By installing low-maintenance plants, like ferns, succulents, or air-purifying options, you can create a refreshing corner that brings nature into your bathroom.

Adding a few decorative stones, small fountains, or even a sand and rock arrangement can further enhance the calming ambiance.

Choose plant varieties that thrive in high-humidity environments, as bathrooms typically provide the right conditions.

A mini indoor garden can also improve air quality and add visual interest to the bathroom, making it feel more like a spa retreat.

For a more elaborate setup, consider adding floating shelves for plants or installing a vertical wall garden that maximizes space while adding greenery.

8. Create a Makeup or Dressing Station

Turning the garden tub area into a dedicated makeup or dressing station is a fantastic option, particularly for those who enjoy a personalized beauty routine.

A dressing station can include a small vanity table, comfortable seating, and a well-lit mirror to make it functional and stylish.

This setup makes getting ready easier and can even double as a workspace for beauty treatments.

Incorporate storage solutions, like drawers or organizers, to keep cosmetics and tools neatly arranged.

Adding a full-length mirror nearby can complete the area, creating a functional yet luxurious setup for all your beauty and grooming needs.

This idea is also ideal for master bathrooms with extra space, making it a sophisticated addition that enhances the overall layout.

9. Install Built-In Shelving and Storage

Replacing the garden tub with built-in shelving is an excellent way to make use of the empty space while increasing storage.

Wall-mounted shelves or custom cabinetry allow you to keep essentials like towels, toiletries, and decorations organized.

This setup is ideal for smaller bathrooms that need extra storage without cluttering the floor space.

Consider a mix of open shelves for decorative items and closed cabinets for personal items, striking a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Built-in shelving can be customized to match the bathroom’s color scheme, adding visual continuity while keeping the space uncluttered.

It’s an ideal solution for maintaining a tidy, organized bathroom while making a stylish statement.

10. Add a Compact Laundry Area

For bathrooms located near bedrooms or closet spaces, converting the garden tub area into a compact laundry zone can be a practical solution.

Installing a stackable washer and dryer, along with storage cabinets for detergents and linens, maximizes convenience in smaller homes or apartments.

This setup saves time and space, especially in homes without a designated laundry room.

Adding a countertop above the washer and dryer can serve as a folding area, making the space even more functional.

Choose cabinetry that complements the bathroom’s design to keep the look cohesive.

A compact laundry zone in the bathroom not only optimizes space but also creates a highly efficient area for managing daily tasks.

How to Fix Your Outdated Garden Tub Step by Step

If you’re ready to modernize or refresh your garden tub, you can either refinish it, make small repairs, or fully remove it. Here’s a detailed guide for each approach.

Step 1: Decide on Refinishing vs. Removal

• Assess the Tub’s Condition: Check for any cracks, stains, or major structural issues. If the tub is in decent shape but looks outdated, refinishing may be an ideal solution. For heavily worn or damaged tubs, a full removal might be the best option.
• Set a Budget: Refinishing is generally less expensive than removing and replacing the tub. However, if you plan to remodel the entire bathroom, removal could offer more flexibility.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

• For Refinishing: You’ll need a tub refinishing kit, sandpaper, a respirator mask, painter’s tape, and a brush or roller.
• For Removal: Gather a wrench, utility knife, pry bar, reciprocating saw (for cutting pipes), safety glasses, gloves, and plastic sheeting for dust control.

Step 3: Prepare the Tub Area

• Turn Off the Water: Shut off the water supply to the tub to prevent leaks or flooding during work.
• Protect Surrounding Areas: Use painter’s tape to cover any trim, tiles, or areas you don’t want affected. If removing the tub, lay down plastic sheeting to catch dust and debris.

Step 4: Refinishing the Tub (if not removing)

• Sand the Tub Surface: Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently roughen the tub’s surface, which helps the refinishing solution adhere better.
• Apply Refinishing Kit: Follow the instructions on your refinishing kit to apply primer and paint. Typically, you’ll apply multiple coats, allowing each to dry fully. Use a brush for edges and a roller for large, smooth areas.
• Let It Cure: Refinishing can take up to 48 hours to fully cure. Avoid using the tub until it’s dry to the touch and fully set.

Step 5: Removing the Tub (for full replacement)

• Disconnect the Drain and Faucets: Use a wrench to disconnect any pipes connected to the tub drain and faucet fixtures. Be careful to prevent damage to nearby walls or tiles.
• Cut Around the Tub Edges: Use a utility knife to cut through any caulking around the tub edges where it meets walls or floors.
• Remove the Tub Carefully: With a pry bar, gently lift the tub. If it’s too heavy to remove in one piece, use a reciprocating saw to cut it into smaller sections.
• Dispose of the Tub and Clean the Area: Carefully remove the old tub from your home. Clean any remaining debris and inspect the plumbing to ensure it’s ready for a new fixture.

Step 6: Prepare for Your New Installation

• Inspect Plumbing: Once the old tub is out, check that your plumbing is in good condition. This is the best time to make any necessary upgrades to pipes or fixtures.
• Install New Feature: Depending on your replacement choice (shower, vanity, etc.), follow the installation instructions or consult a professional if needed.

What Others Search on Garden Tub Replacement Ideas

Q: What to do with space after removing a garden tub?

A: Tips for transforming the space into a useful, aesthetically pleasing area.

Q: Are garden tubs still in style?

A: An overview of trends and why many are moving toward more functional bathroom designs.

Q: What’s the difference between a garden tub and a soaker tub?

A: Highlight the key differences and reasons some people prefer soaker tubs.

Q: What makes a tub a garden tub?

A: Describe the typical features of a garden tub, including its size, shape, and traditional design elements.

To Wrap Up

Updating or replacing a garden tub opens up endless possibilities for revitalizing your bathroom space. By choosing one of these garden tub replacement ideas, you can create a bathroom that’s functional, stylish, and perfectly suited to your needs.