Kohler 20201-LA-0 Underscore® 60" x vs Kohler 1259-LA-0 Mariposa® 72" x: Spec Comparison
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This kohler 20201 la 0 underscore 60 x vs 1259 la 0 mariposa 72 x comparison looks at two acrylic alcove tubs. Both feature left-side drains and white finishes. The main difference lies in their dimensions and interior design. The Underscore offers a compact footprint with lumbar support. The Mariposa provides a longer bathing area. You need to weigh space constraints against soaking length.
Key differences
| Aspect | Kohler Mariposa 72" Acrylic Alcove Tub | Kohler Underscore 60" Alcove Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 60 inches | 72 inches |
| Width | 30 inches | 36 inches |
| Height | 20.3 inches | 23 inches |
| Weight | 128 pounds | 179 pounds |
| Water Capacity | 68 gallons | 60 or more gallons |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Kohler Mariposa 72" Acrylic Alcove Tub if
- You have a smaller bathroom and need a 60-inch tub.
- You prefer a lighter unit that is easier to handle during installation.
- You want a molded lumbar support for extra back comfort.
Choose Kohler Underscore 60" Alcove Tub if
- You want a longer bathing surface for stretching out.
- You need a wider tub for more lateral space.
- You prefer a taller tub profile with a textured bottom.
Verdict: The Kohler Underscore suits tight spaces where a 60-inch length is required. The Kohler Mariposa is better for those prioritizing a longer soak and wider basin. Choose based on your available floor space and preferred bathing length.
Size, Depth, and Comfort Specs
Overall Length
The Kohler Mariposa 1259-LA-0 is significantly longer than the Underscore 20201-LA-0. The Mariposa measures 72 inches in length, providing a spacious interior for stretching out. In contrast, the Underscore is a compact 60-inch model. If you need extra room to lie flat, the longer Mariposa is the better choice. The Underscore is designed for tighter spaces where a full 72-inch tub will not fit. You should measure your alcove carefully before deciding. The 12-inch difference in length is substantial and changes how the tub fits in your bathroom layout.
Interior Width
Width is another major difference between these two acrylic tubs. The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 offers a width of 36 inches, which allows for more lateral space while bathing. The Underscore 20201-LA-0 is narrower at 30 inches wide. A wider tub can feel more luxurious and stable for larger users. The narrower Underscore is suitable for standard alcoves where space is at a premium. If you prefer a roomier soak, the Mariposa width is superior. The Underscore width is adequate for most users but feels tighter.
Soaking Depth
The Underscore 20201-LA-0 provides a deeper soak than the Mariposa 1259-LA-0. The Underscore has a soaking depth of 19 inches, allowing you to submerge more of your body. The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 has a height of 20 inches, but its internal depth is not explicitly stated as 19 inches. The Underscore is designed to retain standard depth while lowering the step-over height to 19 inches for easier entry. For deep soaking comfort, the Underscore is the stronger option. The Mariposa may feel shallower for deep immersion.
Water Capacity
Water capacity affects how much water you need to fill the tub and how long it takes. The Underscore 20201-LA-0 holds 68 gallons of water. The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 has a capacity of 60 gallons or more. The specific gallon count for the Mariposa is not listed beyond this range. The Underscore holds more water, which can enhance the soaking experience by maintaining temperature longer. However, it also requires more water to fill. The Mariposa uses slightly less water, which might be a consideration for efficiency.
Weight
Weight impacts installation difficulty and floor support requirements. The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 weighs 179 pounds, making it heavier than the Underscore 20201-LA-0. The Underscore weighs 128 pounds. The lighter Underscore is easier to handle during installation. Heavier tubs may require additional floor reinforcement depending on your home's structure. If you are installing this yourself, the lighter Underscore is more manageable. The Mariposa is a substantial piece of equipment that requires careful handling.
Choose the right Kohler tub for you
You have a large bathroom and want space
The Mariposa measures 72 inches long and 36 inches wide. This generous footprint allows you to stretch out fully. The 20-inch height and 60-gallon capacity provide ample room for deep soaking. If your bathroom layout can accommodate these larger dimensions, this alcove tub offers the most spacious bathing experience available in this comparison.
You prefer a compact tub with lumbar support
The Underscore is a compact 60-inch model with a 30-inch width. It features molded lumbar support for added comfort during your soak. The 19-inch soaking depth retains the feeling of a standard bath while saving floor space. Its lighter weight and smaller footprint make it ideal for tighter bathroom layouts.
You want deep soaking in a smaller space
This model holds 68 gallons of water in a 60-inch length. The slotted overflow design allows for deeper water levels without increasing the external height. You get a substantial soak capacity without needing the extra length of the Mariposa. The integral apron and flange simplify installation in standard alcove spaces.
The products compared
Kohler Mariposa 72" Acrylic Alcove Tub
Best for: Spacious alcove bathrooms needing length
- Type
- alcove
- Material
- Acrylic
- Length
- 74 inches
- Drain Location
- left drain
- Water Capacity
- 60 Or More Gallons
- Mount Type
- Three-wall alcove installation
View on Amazon: Kohler Mariposa 72" Acrylic Alcove Tub Affiliate link
The Kohler Mariposa is a 72-inch alcove bathtub designed for one-person bathing. It features a 36-inch width and 20-inch depth, providing a water capacity of 60 gallons or more. Constructed from acrylic, it includes a textured bottom surface for slip resistance. The left-drain design and integral apron simplify installation against three walls. This large tub suits those needing extra length in an alcove setting.
Pros
- 72-inch length offers ample space
- 36-inch width provides generous room
- Acrylic construction is durable and lightweight
- Textured bottom enhances safety
- Integral apron simplifies installation
Cons
- 72-inch length may not fit standard alcoves
- Left-drain configuration limits placement options
- Heavier build requires sturdy support
Good fit if
- You need a longer soaking tub
- You have a wide alcove space
- You prefer acrylic material
Skip if
- You have a narrow alcove
- You require right-drain placement
- You need a compact footprint
Verdict: Kohler Mariposa 72-Inch Acrylic Tub is ideal for bathrooms with wide alcoves where extra length enhances comfort. It fits users prioritizing spacious soaking over compact design.
Kohler Underscore 60" Alcove Tub
Best for: standard 60-inch alcove bathrooms
- Type
- alcove
- Material
- Acrylic
- Length
- 60 inches
- Drain Location
- left-hand
- Water Capacity
- 68 gallons
- Soaking Depth
- 19 inches
View on Amazon: Kohler Underscore 60" Alcove Tub Affiliate link
The Kohler Underscore is a 60-inch acrylic alcove tub with a 30-inch width. It holds 68 gallons of water and features a 19-inch soaking depth. The left-hand drain and integral flange simplify installation. Molded lumbar support adds comfort. This model suits standard bathrooms where space is limited but deep soaking is desired.
Pros
- 19-inch soaking depth retains standard bath depth
- Integral flange prevents water seepage behind walls
- Molded lumbar support for added comfort
- 68-gallon water capacity
Cons
- 60-inch length is shorter than the 72-inch Mariposa
- 30-inch width is narrower than the 36-inch Mariposa
- Left-hand drain limits placement options
Good fit if
- You need a tub that fits a 60-inch alcove
- You prefer a narrower 30-inch width
- You want a left-hand drain configuration
Skip if
- You require a 72-inch length for extra space
- You prefer a 36-inch width for wider soaking
- You need a right-hand drain
Verdict: Kohler Underscore 60 in Alcove Tub fits standard 60-inch alcoves with a narrower footprint. It offers deep soaking and easy installation for bathrooms with space constraints.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kohler Mariposa 72" Acrylic Alcove Tub | Kohler Underscore 60" Alcove Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Type | alcove | alcove |
| Material | Acrylic | Acrylic |
| Length | 74 inches | 60 inches |
| Drain Location | left drain | left-hand |
| Water Capacity | 60 Or More Gallons | 68 gallons |
| Soaking Depth | not stated | 19 inches |
| Mount Type | Three-wall alcove installation | alcove |
| Color | White | White |
| Dimensions | 74 × 38 × 23 inches | 60 × 30 × 20.3 inches |
| Weight | 179 pounds | 128 pounds |
| Size | 60 Or More Gallons | not stated |
| Model | 1259-LA-0 | 20201-LA-0 |
Frequently asked questions
Which tub is better for a standard 60-inch alcove?
The Kohler Underscore 20201-LA-0 is designed for standard 60-inch alcoves. It measures exactly 60 inches in length and 30 inches in width. This compact footprint fits typical bathroom layouts without requiring extra space. The Mariposa model is 72 inches long, which is too large for standard alcoves.
How much does the Mariposa tub weigh?
The Kohler Mariposa 1259-LA-0 weighs 179 pounds. This is heavier than the Underscore, which weighs 128 pounds. The extra weight comes from its larger size and 72-inch length. You need a floor structure that can support this heavier load during installation.
What is the interior water capacity of these tubs?
The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 holds 60 gallons or more of water. The Underscore 20201-LA-0 is not specified with a gallon capacity in the data. The larger volume of the Mariposa supports its designation as a spacious soaking tub for users who prefer deeper baths.
Are both tubs made of acrylic?
Yes, both the Mariposa and Underscore are acrylic alcove tubs. They share the same primary material construction. This means both offer similar durability and heat retention properties typical of acrylic bathtubs. The finish on both models is white.
Which tub has a deeper basin?
The Kohler Underscore 20201-LA-0 has a height of 20.3 inches. The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 stands at 23 inches tall. While the Mariposa is taller, the Underscore offers a deeper feel relative to its narrower 30-inch width. The Mariposa provides more vertical space for soaking.
Can I install the Mariposa in a small bathroom?
The Mariposa 1259-LA-0 is likely too large for small bathrooms. It requires a 72-inch length and a 38-inch width. Most small bathrooms cannot accommodate these dimensions. The Underscore 60-inch model is a better fit for tighter spaces due to its smaller footprint.
Does the Underscore tub have a left-side drain?
Both tubs feature left-side drains according to the comparison data. This configuration is standard for many alcove installations. You need to ensure your plumbing aligns with the left side of the tub opening. The drain location is consistent across both the Underscore and Mariposa models.