What Is Drain Location? A Guide for Bathtubs Buyers (2026)

Drain Location Explained for You

Drain location explained helps you understand where water exits your tub. This spec defines the position of the drain opening on the tub floor. It matters for plumbing alignment and aesthetic balance. You need to match this to your home’s existing pipes.

Most soaking tubs use a center drain. The hole sits in the middle of the basin floor. This design offers symmetrical water flow. It also looks clean and modern. Center drains are common in freestanding models. They often require a floor-mounted faucet or a deck-mounted setup. Check your plumbing rough-in before buying. Your pipes must align with this central point.

Some tubs feature a reversible drain. This means you can install the drain on the left or right side. Manufacturers provide holes on both sides. You choose which one to use during installation. This flexibility is useful for tight spaces. It helps when your wall pipes are not in the center. It also allows for specific design layouts. You can place the faucet on the opposite side for balance.

When shopping, look for these labels. Listings will state "center drain" or "reversible drain." Do not assume all tubs are the same. A center drain tub cannot be moved to the side. A reversible tub gives you options. Measure your current plumbing distance from the wall. Compare this to the tub’s drain position.

Why does this matter? Incorrect placement causes leaks or ugly gaps. It can also make installation harder. Plumbers may need to move pipes. That adds cost and time. You want a smooth fit. Check the spec sheet carefully. Ensure the drain type matches your bathroom layout. This simple check prevents major headaches later. Your tub should fit your space, not the other way around.

Center vs Reversible Drains

Center Drain

A center drain places the exit point directly in the middle of the tub floor. This layout requires plumbing to connect from underneath the center. It offers a symmetrical look, which works well for freestanding tubs. You get balanced water flow as the tub empties. The trade-off is that installation can be more complex. You need a floor flange or specific subfloor support. The DeerValley 59" Acrylic Freestanding Tub uses this design. It suits compact bathrooms where a centered aesthetic is key. You must ensure your plumbing lines up with the tub's center. This option limits where you can place the tub relative to wall pipes.

Reversible Drain

A reversible drain allows the plumbing hole to be installed on either the left or right side. This flexibility helps when your home’s existing pipes are fixed in one direction. You can choose the side that matches your rough-in. It simplifies installation for drop-in or alcove tubs. You do not need to move your main plumbing stack. The Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Reversible Drain offers this adaptability. It fits well in custom vanity builds where direction is not yet set. The trade-off is that you must decide the side before final installation. Once the hole is cut, you cannot easily switch sides. This option is ideal for standard alcove setups like the PROFLO Lansford.

Who Needs Reversible Drains?

Who needs it

You need this spec if you are installing a freestanding soaking tub in a room where the floor drain is not centered. A reversible drain allows you to choose the exit point during installation. This flexibility ensures the plumbing connects directly without complex, costly rerouting. If your bathroom’s existing pipes are offset to one side, a center-only drain would require extensive structural work. This feature saves you from moving walls or floors. It also gives you design freedom. You can position the tub for the best visual balance, regardless of where the pipes lie. This is critical for custom bathroom layouts or older homes with fixed plumbing infrastructure. You want a seamless fit without major construction.

Who can skip it

You can ignore this spec if you are replacing an existing tub in the same spot. New installations where the plumber has already positioned the drain in the exact center also do not need this feature. If you are buying a built-in alcove tub, the drain location is usually fixed by the wall and framing. In these cases, the plumbing is already set. You should prioritize other specs like material durability, water capacity, and seat comfort instead. Focus on the soaking experience and long-term maintenance. Check the tub’s depth and width for your body type. Look for easy-to-clean surfaces. These factors impact your daily use more than the minor flexibility of drain placement.

Drain Location Glossary

Center Drain

The exit point sits in the exact middle of the tub floor. This design requires plumbing to connect directly from underneath the center. It provides a symmetrical look for freestanding tubs.

Reversible Drain

A drain system that can be installed on either side of the tub. This feature allows you to match the plumbing location during installation. It offers flexibility for uneven bathroom layouts.

Side Drain

The exit point is positioned along the long side of the tub floor. This layout simplifies plumbing connections near walls. It is common in alcove installations where wall access is easier.

Plumbing Alignment

The process of matching the tub drain to your home’s existing pipes. Misalignment can require expensive modifications. You must check this spec before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Freestanding Tub

A tub that stands alone without walls on any side. These often use center drains for balanced aesthetics. The drain location must align with the floor drain below the unit.

Alcove Installation

A tub installed with walls on three sides. These typically feature side drains for easier plumbing access. The drain location is fixed to match the surrounding wall structure.

Quick picks

Our 6 picks

1

DeerValley 59" Acrylic Freestanding Tub

Best for: Compact bathrooms needing a center drain

Drain Location

Center Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

freestanding

Material

acrylic

Length

59 inches

Mount Type

freestanding

Color

White

View on Amazon: DeerValley 59" Acrylic Freestanding Tub Affiliate link

This freestanding acrylic tub features a center drain and measures 59 inches long by 27.5 inches wide. Its double-wall construction helps retain heat for about 40 minutes. The compact footprint suits smaller bathrooms, while the white finish offers a clean look. It fits most freestanding faucets and handles easily during installation. You get a deep soaking experience without the bulk of larger models.

Pros

• Center drain location for straightforward plumbing
• Double-wall acrylic construction retains heat
• Compact 59-inch length fits small spaces
• Lightweight design aids installation

Cons

• Only available in 59-inch and 55-inch sizes
• No whirlpool jets or air system included
• Standard acrylic surface requires gentle cleaning

Good fit if

• You need a center drain for your plumbing layout
• You have a compact bathroom and need a space-efficient footprint
• You prefer a freestanding tub with simple installation

Skip if

• You require a reversible drain option
• You want a larger 60-inch or wider soaking area
• You are looking for a built-in drop-in model

Verdict: DeerValley 59" White Acrylic Freestanding Tub suits buyers who need a center drain and a compact freestanding design. It delivers reliable heat retention in a space-saving form factor.

2

Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Reversible Drain

Best for: Flexible drain placement in drop-in setups

Drain Location

Reversible Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

Drop-In

Material

Fiberglass reinforced acrylic

Length

60 inches

Soaking Depth

15.5 Inches

Color

White

View on Amazon: Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Reversible Drain Affiliate link

This Swiss Madison drop-in tub offers a 60-inch length with a 30-inch width. It features a reversible drain, allowing you to choose the installation side. The fiberglass-reinforced acrylic shell provides durability, and the 15.5-inch soaking depth supports comfortable immersion. Weighing 51 pounds, it is designed for standard bathroom layouts. Faucet and drain are sold separately, requiring you to source those components independently for a complete setup.

Pros

• Reversible drain location for flexible installation
• 15.5-inch soaking depth for comfort
• Fiberglass-reinforced acrylic construction
• 60-inch length fits standard alcoves

Cons

• Faucet and drain are not included
• 51-pound weight requires sturdy support
• Drop-in design needs custom cabinetry

Good fit if

• You need a reversible drain for your plumbing layout
• You prefer a standard 60-inch drop-in size
• You are building a custom vanity surround

Skip if

• You want an all-in-one unit with faucet included
• You need a freestanding bathtub option
• You require a whirlpool or jetted system

Verdict: Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Reversible Drain suits buyers who need flexible drain placement in a standard drop-in format. It fits well in custom vanity builds where the plumbing direction is not yet fixed.

3

Mokleba 59" Columnar Acrylic Tub

Best for: Center drain freestanding soaking

Drain Location

Center Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

Freestanding Bathtub

Length

59"

Water Capacity

55 Gallons

Mount Type

Freestanding

Material

Acrylic

View on Amazon: Mokleba 59" Columnar Acrylic Tub Affiliate link

This freestanding soaking tub features a center drain and a columnar shape. It holds 55 gallons of water within a 59 by 30 by 24 inch footprint. The tub is made from Lucite acrylic reinforced with resin and fiberglass. It includes a chrome pop-up drain and slotted overflow. This design suits those who want a modern look without the need for a reversible drain configuration.

Pros

• Center drain simplifies plumbing installation
• 55-gallon water capacity for deep soaking
• Lucite acrylic surface is stain and scratch resistant
• Freestanding design fits various bathroom styles

Cons

• Center drain limits flexible drain placement options
• 59-inch length is shorter than some 60-inch competitors
• Single color option available in this specific variation

Good fit if

• You prefer a fixed center drain for straightforward plumbing
• You want a freestanding tub with a columnar shape
• You need a 59-inch wide soaking tub

Skip if

• You require a reversible drain for flexible installation
• You need a tub longer than 59 inches
• You want a drop-in soaking tub

Verdict: Mokleba 59" Freestanding Acrylic Tub offers a durable 55-gallon soak with a fixed center drain. It fits buyers who prioritize a modern columnar design and straightforward plumbing over flexible drain positioning.

4

American Standard Evolution 62.8 in Soaking Tub

Best for: deep soaking with flexible drain placement

Drain Location

Reversible Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

deep soaking tub

Material

acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement

Length

62.8 inches

Water Capacity

60 or More gal

Mount Type

undermount option

View on Amazon: American Standard Evolution 62.8 in Soaking Tub Affiliate link

This American Standard soaking tub measures 62.8 inches long and 34.8 inches wide. It holds 60 or more gallons of water. The reversible drain lets you place the drain on either side. You get dual molded-in armrests for comfort. The bottom is pre-leveled to simplify installation. It features an undermount option for flexible mounting.

Pros

• Reversible drain for flexible placement
• Holds 60 or more gallons
• Dual molded-in armrests
• Pre-leveled tub bottom

Cons

• Requires ordering the Deep Soak Max Drain separately
• Heavier at 73.1 pounds
• Narrower width than standard soaking tubs

Good fit if

• You want a deep soak with high capacity
• You need a reversible drain for your layout
• You prefer undermount installation

Skip if

• You need a wider tub for side-to-side movement
• You want a complete kit with drain included
• You prefer a lighter tub for easier handling

Verdict: American Standard Evolution 62.8" Reversible Drain Tub offers deep soaking capacity and flexible drain placement. It suits buyers who prioritize water volume and installation versatility over width.

5

Mokleba 63" Rectangular Acrylic Tub

Best for: center drain freestanding soaking

Drain Location

Center Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

Freestanding Bathtub

Length

62 inches

Water Capacity

63 Gallons

Material

Acrylic

Dimensions

62 × 29 × 23 inches

View on Amazon: Mokleba 63" Rectangular Acrylic Tub Affiliate link

The Mokleba is a 62-inch freestanding acrylic tub with a center drain. It holds 63 gallons of water and measures 29 inches wide and 23 inches high. The rectangular shape fits modern bathrooms. You get a flexible pop-up chrome drain and slotted overflow. The tub is certified cUPC for safety. It suits those who want a standalone soaking tub with a central drain.

Pros

• 63-gallon water capacity for deep soaking
• Center drain location for flexible placement
• 100% Lucite acrylic with resin reinforcement
• cUPC certified for health and safety

Cons

• Center drain limits placement near walls
• No whirlpool or jet features listed
• Matte black finish requires careful cleaning

Good fit if

• You want a freestanding tub with a center drain
• You have space for a 62-inch standalone unit
• You prefer a rectangular soaking tub design

Skip if

• You need a reversible drain for wall proximity
• You want a drop-in installation type
• You require built-in jets or whirlpool

Verdict: Mokleba 62" Freestanding Acrylic Tub offers a spacious 63-gallon soak with a center drain. It fits buyers who prioritize standalone design and central drainage over wall-hugging flexibility.

6

PROFLO Lansford 60x42 Acrylic Soaker

Best for: alcove installations needing a reversible drain

Drain Location

Reversible Drain (what this guide is about)

Type

soaking

Material

acrylic

Length

42 inches

Mount Type

drop-in or three-wall-alcove

Color

White

View on Amazon: PROFLO Lansford 60x42 Acrylic Soaker Affiliate link

The PROFLO Lansford is a 60-inch acrylic soaking tub with a reversible drain. It measures 42 inches wide and 19.5 inches high. The tub weighs 90 pounds. It supports drop-in or three-wall-alcove installation. You get a 5-year warranty. This model suits those who want a deep soak in a standard alcove space. The reversible drain adds flexibility for your plumbing layout.

Pros

• Reversible drain for flexible installation
• 5-year warranty coverage
• Acrylic material with reinforced composites
• Drop-in or alcove mounting options

Cons

• 90-pound weight requires sturdy support
• 19.5-inch height limits deep soaking
• No whirlpool jets included

Good fit if

• You need a reversible drain
• You prefer a standard alcove setup
• You want a 5-year warranty

Skip if

• You want a freestanding tub
• You need a whirlpool system
• You require a center drain only

Verdict: PROFLO Lansford 60" Acrylic Soaking Tub fits buyers who want a reversible drain in a standard alcove. It offers a basic soak with a solid warranty.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• center drain vs reversible drain bathtub
• installation location explained
• pure to drain ratio explained