A freestanding tub faucet aka floor mount tub filler is a type of faucet designed specifically for freestanding bathtubs. A floor mount tub filler stands independently next to a standalone soaking tub and is installed directly into the floor. A floor mount faucet for freestanding tubs offers more flexibility in placement compared to wall mount and deck mount faucets. However, you will want to select a location to place your freestanding tub faucet that ensures correct installation and optimal functionality. Freestanding tub faucet placement that takes both function and aesthetics into account is key to building a safe and beautiful bathing area in your bathroom.

 

Where is the best place to put a freestanding tub faucet?

The best place to put a freestanding tub faucet ultimately depends on your bathroom’s plumbing setup and bathroom layout. Before finalizing the placement of your freestanding tub and tub faucet, consult with a plumber to evaluate potential placement options and determine the most practical and cost-effective solution for installing a freestanding tub and floor mount tub filler. And always remember to consult your installation/owner’s manual before installing any type of freestanding tub and tub faucet.

Some key considerations to keep in mind when choosing the placement of a freestanding tub faucet:

 

Always position a freestanding tub filler where plumbing connections are both feasible and cost-effective to access.

Ensure the tub filler is placed and positioned in such a way that it doesn't present a tripping hazard in your bathroom! If a tub is positioned near a wall or tub surround, consider placing the faucet along the side of the tub that is closest to the wall. This presents a clean, aesthetically pleasing look that helps ensure unobstructed access in and out of the tub.

A freestanding tub filler should always be installed close enough to the soaking tub that water flows directly into it without splashing outside the tub.

To allow for proper drainage, consider installing your freestanding tub filler on the side of the tub where the tub drain is located.

When it comes to soaking tub faucet placement, many homeowners wonder about faucet height.

A floor mount tub filler is typically positioned 5 or 6 inches above the rim of a freestanding tub. This height is high enough to allow easy access for cleaning but not so high that it causes excessive splashing. In addition, the spout of your tub filler should extend a certain number of inches horizontally over the edge of the tub to ensure water can flow effectively into the tub without causing splashing. Tub filler spout reach extensions can be purchased if you need additional spout reach for a floor mount tub faucet.

Freestanding Tub Faucet Placement Ideas

You’ll want to place your freestanding tub faucet where it is both visually appealing and functional. When positioning your tub faucet, you’ll want to ensure that the tub faucet does not present a tripping hazard and that the faucet controls and hand shower are easily accessible while bathing.

If your freestanding soaking tub has a slipper tub design (where one end is considerably higher than the other), you may want to place the floor mount tub faucet along the lower end of the tub. This makes it easier for the bather to get in and out of the tub and recline along the high backrest of the tub.

 

For a freestanding double slipper tub, consider placing the faucet between the two raised ends of the tub. This provides a balanced, aesthetically pleasing look and also ensures easy access to faucet controls from either end of the tub.

 

For a left drain or right drain freestanding tub, consider placing the tub faucet on the end or side closest to the drain.

 

If your freestanding tub is installed inside a wet room or other tightly enclosed space, you’ll want to ensure the faucet is placed along a tub surround or shower wall (where it won’t impede access to the tub).

 

A freestanding tub faucet can be angled slightly off-center to accommodate the unique shape of your freestanding soaking tub and/or the spatial constraints of a tight corner or tub surround area. Minutely adjusting the angle and position of your tub faucet helps optimize space and can help you create an eye-catching, spa-like bathing area in your bathroom.

Freestanding Tub Faucet Placement: Where to Place a Floor Mount Tub Filler

For more information about selecting, placing, and installing a freestanding tub faucet that looks as well as it functions, check out these guides:

A Quick Guide to Faucets for Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding Tub with Faucet Packages (That’ll Save You Money)

Or browse our collection of freestanding tub faucets and freestanding soaking tubs.