The global bathtub market continues to expand as residential developers, hospitality groups, and international wholesalers seek durable, attractive, and cost-efficient solutions for modern bathroom projects. With rising demand across both new construction and renovation segments, selecting the right bathtub material has become increasingly important for maintaining long-term performance while meeting budget and design expectations.
Material choice directly affects a bathtub’s durability, installation requirements, heat retention, aesthetic appeal, and overall life-cycle cost. For high-volume procurement—such as hotels, serviced apartments, villas, and retail distribution—understanding the strengths and limitations of each material ensures that buyers make decisions that support both project quality and operational efficiency.
This guide compares acrylic and porcelain bathtubs in depth, covering how each material is produced, their practical advantages and disadvantages, and how they perform in different installation environments. It also offers recommendations tailored to various project types, helping global buyers determine which material aligns best with their specific requirements.
Whether you are evaluating options for wholesale distribution, outfitting a large residential development, or specifying materials for a luxury hotel project, choosing the right bathtub material is essential. This comparison aims to provide the clarity needed to source confidently and effectively—supported by Sunvin’s experience as a trusted supplier to international markets.
Acrylic bathtubs have become one of the most widely used bathtub types in global residential and commercial projects. Their combination of lightweight construction, cost-effectiveness, and flexible design options makes them an ideal choice for developers, wholesalers, and renovation contractors looking for a balance of performance and affordability.
Acrylic tubs are especially popular in large-scale developments and export markets due to their easy installation, stable supply, and consistent quality.
Acrylic bathtubs are made primarily from PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate), a thermoplastic known for its clarity, strength, and ability to form smooth, seamless surfaces. The bathtub’s strength and durability rely not only on the acrylic sheet itself but also on the reinforcement layers added during production.
Below is the detailed manufacturing process:
1. Acrylic Sheet Selection
Manufacturers start with high-quality acrylic sheets, usually between 3–5 mm thick. Thicker sheets provide a more solid feel, better heat retention, and increased resistance to cracking or deformation—important factors for long-term performance in hotels and residential projects.
2. Heating and Vacuum Molding
The acrylic sheet is heated until flexible and then placed over a mold.
Through vacuum molding, the sheet is pulled down into the cavity of the mold, creating the bathtub’s shape.
This process allows for a wide variety of modern and ergonomic designs, including freestanding, drop-in, alcove, and corner styles.
3. Reinforcement with Fiberglass or Resin
Once molded, the acrylic shell is reinforced on the underside using fiberglass, polyester resin, or a combination of both.
This reinforcement stage is critical because it determines the bathtub’s overall structural integrity.
Higher-end tubs receive multiple layers of reinforcement, increasing rigidity and load-bearing capacity.
4. Trimming, Edge Shaping, and Drilling
The shaped tub is trimmed to precise dimensions, and openings for drains or overflows are cut. Manufacturers may also refine the edges to ensure smooth installation.
5. Surface Polishing and Quality Finishing
The surface is polished to achieve a smooth, glossy appearance. In matte models, the surface is lightly sanded to create an elegant, textured finish.
6. Inspection and Quality Control
Final checks include verifying the acrylic thickness, reinforcement uniformity, surface smoothness, and dimensional accuracy before packaging.
This combination of molding, reinforcement, and finishing allows acrylic bathtubs to deliver a strong balance of durability, comfort, and aesthetic flexibility.
Acrylic bathtubs are highly customisable, making them ideal for OEM/ODM manufacturing and private-label export programs.
Common finish options include:
• High-gloss finish for a smooth, bright, modern appearance
• Matte finish for a soft, contemporary, stone-like look
• Anti-slip bottom textures for hotels and family residences
Customisation options for project specifications:
• Colour variations such as white, off-white, ivory, grey, beige, or RAL-matched colours
• Optional reinforced bottoms for heavy-duty or commercial installations
• Custom shapes, dimensions, and rim thicknesses
• Integrated overflow options or different drain placements
• Branding services including laser marking or custom labels
• Freestanding base structures or steel frame supports, depending on installation needs
These customisation capabilities give developers and wholesalers flexibility to match market trends, local preferences, and brand requirements, making acrylic one of the most versatile bathtub materials available for global sourcing.
Acrylic bathtubs offer several advantages that make them a preferred choice for export markets, large-scale construction projects, and wholesale distribution programs.
Lightweight and easy to transport
Acrylic tubs are significantly lighter than porcelain, cast iron, or stone models. Their low weight reduces shipping costs, allows more units per container, and simplifies transportation within construction sites. This makes them ideal for high-rise buildings and projects with strict installation schedules.
Quick installation
Because acrylic bathtubs are light and structurally flexible, they can be installed with less labour and without specialised lifting equipment. This reduces labour costs for developers and accelerates project timelines, especially in mass housing or hotel renovations.
Lower cost compared to porcelain or stone bathtubs
The combination of lower raw material costs, easier manufacturing, and reduced freight charges makes acrylic bathtubs a cost-efficient option for large-volume purchasing. Developers and wholesalers can maintain strong profit margins while offering modern, appealing designs to their customers.
Flexible design options for different markets
Acrylic is easy to shape using vacuum molding, allowing manufacturers to produce a wide variety of designs. This includes freestanding shapes, drop-in tubs, alcove designs, corner bathtubs, and contemporary slim-edge models. The flexibility supports market segmentation across retail, hotel, and residential applications.
Good heat retention and comfortable surface
Acrylic naturally feels warmer to the touch compared to porcelain or steel tubs. Combined with multi-layer reinforcement, it retains heat effectively, offering a comfortable soaking experience. This feature is especially valued in residential and hospitality applications where guest comfort is a priority.
Acrylic bathtubs are highly adaptable and widely used in a variety of project types and market segments.
Ideal for budget-conscious hotels, apartments, and residential projects
Acrylic tubs strike a balance between aesthetics and cost, making them suitable for mid-range hotels, serviced apartments, and residential developments that require durable yet affordable sanitary ware.
Popular in high-volume, cost-sensitive markets
Wholesalers, retailers, and distributors often prefer acrylic bathtubs due to their competitive pricing, consistent supply availability, and fast production cycles. These factors make acrylic models ideal for markets with strong demand and frequent replenishment needs.
Versatile for various bathroom designs and layouts
Because acrylic can be molded into many shapes and sizes, it adapts well to different architectural layouts, from compact urban apartments to family homes and modern condo developments. Its versatility helps project planners standardize bathroom aesthetics without compromising functionality.
Porcelain bathtubs are one of the most durable and visually refined bathtub types on the market. They are widely used in premium residential and hospitality projects due to their glossy finish, long-lasting surface quality, and excellent resistance to wear.
Unlike acrylic tubs, which rely on thermoplastic molding, porcelain bathtubs are produced through ceramic glazing and kiln firing—resulting in a dense, rigid structure with a luxurious appearance.
Porcelain tubs are often chosen for high-end installations where aesthetics, hardness, and surface longevity are priorities.
Porcelain bathtubs are made using a ceramic body coated with a vitreous glaze. Their manufacturing process is more time-intensive and requires precision to achieve a smooth, flawless finish.
1. Forming the Ceramic Body
The core of a porcelain bathtub is made from a blend of clay, kaolin, feldspar, and other minerals.
This mixture is shaped into the bathtub form using slip-casting or mold pressing. The raw ceramic shape is left to dry until it reaches the correct hardness for glazing.
2. Applying the Porcelain Glaze
Once dried, a layer of porcelain enamel glaze is applied to the bathtub’s surface.
This glaze is responsible for the tub’s glossy finish, stain resistance, and waterproof properties. High-quality tubs receive multiple layers of glaze to ensure saturation, smoothness, and long-term durability.
3. Firing in High-Temperature Kilns
The glazed ceramic body is fired in a kiln at extremely high temperatures—typically between 1,200°C and 1,300°C.
During firing, the glaze melts and fuses with the ceramic body, forming a hard, glass-like coating that is exceptionally resistant to scratches, chemicals, and stains.
4. Cooling and Quality Inspection
After firing, the bathtub is slowly cooled to stabilise the ceramic structure.
The finished surface is inspected for gloss consistency, glaze thickness, dimensional accuracy, and any imperfections such as pinholes or surface unevenness.
5. Finishing and Hardware Preparation
Drain openings are refined, edges are polished, and the tub is prepared for installation hardware or overflow fittings.
This high-temperature production process gives porcelain tubs their exceptional rigidity and durability.
Surface finishes commonly available include:
• High-gloss finish with a reflective, premium appearance
• Satin or semi-gloss finishes for a softer aesthetic
• Custom colour glazes for OEM brands (white, off-white, beige, grey, pastel tones)
Weight considerations:
Porcelain bathtubs are significantly heavier than acrylic models.
A typical porcelain tub can weigh between 60 kg and 120 kg, depending on size and ceramic density.
This weight contributes to the bathtub’s rigidity and premium feel but also increases transportation and installation requirements.
Because of this, porcelain tubs are often selected for long-term installations where structural support and visual appeal are priorities.
Porcelain bathtubs are widely regarded as a premium choice due to their refined appearance, long-lasting durability, and exceptional surface quality. These characteristics make them highly suitable for upscale residential and hospitality environments where aesthetics and performance must meet strict standards.
Elegant, luxurious look with a polished, glossy surface
The high-temperature glaze firing process creates a rich, mirror-like finish that gives porcelain tubs a distinctive premium appearance. This level of visual refinement is difficult to replicate with acrylic or fiberglass materials, making porcelain the preferred option for projects seeking luxury presentation.
Durable and resistant to stains and scratches
Porcelain enamel forms a dense, glass-like coating that is highly resistant to scratching, chemical exposure, and surface abrasion. This makes porcelain bathtubs more tolerant of strong cleaning agents, heavy usage, and long-term wear—ideal for commercial or hospitality environments with frequent guest turnover.
High heat retention for comfortable soaking
Porcelain’s dense ceramic body absorbs and retains warmth, allowing bathwater to stay hot for longer periods. This heat-retaining property enhances user comfort and contributes to a more relaxing bathing experience, which is especially valued in luxury hotels and private villas.
Excellent for high-end residential projects and luxury hospitality
The visual appeal and durability of porcelain tubs align well with the expectations of premium markets. They offer a sophisticated focal point in bathroom design while delivering long-term performance with minimal maintenance.
Timeless aesthetic appeal
Porcelain tubs have a classic, enduring look that complements both modern and traditional interior styles. Their clean lines, bright glaze, and smooth finish ensure they remain visually relevant even as design trends evolve, making them a safe long-term investment for upscale properties.
Because of their high-end appearance and robust performance characteristics, porcelain bathtubs are commonly selected for projects where quality and visual impact are essential.
Best suited for high-end villas, luxury hotels, and boutique resorts
Porcelain tubs are often specified in luxury living environments and hospitality projects where designers aim to create a premium bathing experience. Their elegant finish and strong durability make them ideal for properties that position themselves at the top of the market.
Perfect for design-focused projects where aesthetics are a priority
Architects and interior designers frequently choose porcelain bathtubs for showpiece bathrooms, master suites, and boutique hotel concepts. The smooth, polished surface becomes a visual anchor that elevates the overall bathroom design.
Ideal for developers and wholesalers in premium markets
Wholesalers catering to luxury bathroom retailers, as well as developers creating high-value residential units, often select porcelain bathtubs to meet the expectations of premium customers. Their material characteristics align well with the standards of markets in Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and North America.
While both acrylic and porcelain bathtubs are widely used globally, they differ significantly in weight, performance, aesthetics, and cost. Understanding these differences helps wholesalers, developers, and contractors select the right material based on the needs of their project, installation environment, and budget.
Acrylic bathtubs are lightweight, reducing shipping costs and simplifying installation
Acrylic tubs typically weigh between 20–35 kg, making them easy to move, transport, and install. Their lighter weight reduces freight costs, allows for more units per container, and simplifies handling on-site—especially in high-rise buildings or projects with limited access.
Porcelain bathtubs are heavier and may require more labour for installation
Porcelain tubs generally weigh between 60–120 kg. This added weight increases logistics complexity and often requires two to three installers for safe handling. For large-scale hotel or apartment projects, the extra labour must be considered in cost and scheduling.
Considerations for supporting structures and floor reinforcement
Acrylic tubs rarely require additional support structures.
Porcelain tubs, due to their ceramic density, may require reinforced flooring or additional support frames, especially in older buildings or wooden structures.
Project planners should assess load-bearing capacities early in the design phase to prevent installation or compliance issues.
Acrylic tubs are more prone to scratches and fading but are easier to repair
Acrylic surfaces can scratch or dull over time, especially in high-traffic environments. However, most surface imperfections can be buffed or polished out with basic restoration techniques. Proper reinforcement ensures long-term structural stability.
Porcelain tubs are highly durable and resistant to staining, but may chip or crack under impact
Porcelain’s glazed surface provides excellent hardness and resistance to chemical cleaners, staining, and daily wear. However, if struck with a heavy object, the enamel coating can chip, exposing the ceramic body beneath. These chips are repairable but require professional refinishing.
How maintenance differs for both materials in commercial and residential environments
• Acrylic requires mild, non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching.
• Porcelain tolerates stronger cleaning agents, making it suitable for hospitality operations with frequent turnover.
• Acrylic is easier to restore if scratched; porcelain maintains gloss longer with routine cleaning.
• In high-use environments such as hotels, porcelain may offer longer-term surface stability.
Acrylic tubs offer more design flexibility, including modern and sculptural forms
The vacuum-molding process allows acrylic tubs to be shaped into sleek, contemporary, or ergonomic forms with thinner rims and minimalistic edges. This flexibility supports modern interior design trends commonly seen in new residential developments and boutique hotels.
Porcelain tubs provide a traditional, glossy finish that suits classic or luxury designs
Porcelain bathtubs feature a deep, glass-like glaze that creates a timeless, high-end visual effect. This glossy finish complements traditional, transitional, and high-luxury bathroom designs that prioritise elegance and refinement.
Choosing based on the project’s style and client expectations
• For modern or minimalist interiors, acrylic tubs offer greater design versatility.
• For premium or classic-style bathrooms, porcelain provides a stronger luxury aesthetic.
• Interior designers often specify porcelain for master suites and acrylic for secondary bathrooms to balance cost and visual impact.
Acrylic tubs are generally more cost-effective, making them ideal for large projects with budget constraints
Overall costs for acrylic models are lower due to simpler manufacturing, lighter weight, reduced freight charges, and faster installation. For wholesalers and developers managing high-volume procurement, acrylic helps maintain competitive pricing without sacrificing appearance.
Porcelain tubs are typically more expensive, making them a choice for high-end developments
Porcelain’s multi-stage kiln-fired production and heavier construction contribute to higher material costs and higher shipping expenses. These tubs are commonly used in luxury properties where aesthetics and long-term durability justify the higher price.
How material choice impacts overall project costs, including shipping and installation
• Acrylic offers cost savings across manufacturing, transport, and labour.
• Porcelain increases freight and installation costs due to weight and handling requirements.
• For multi-building projects or large hotel developments, the price difference can significantly impact total procurement budgets.
Selecting the right bathtub material depends heavily on the project’s target market, budget, installation environment, and design expectations. Acrylic and porcelain each offer unique advantages, and understanding how they align with different project types will help buyers make the most cost-effective and practical choice.
Porcelain bathtubs are the preferred option for luxury hospitality and premium residential developments due to their refined appearance and long-term surface durability.
Why porcelain is a better choice for exclusive, design-driven projects
Porcelain offers a rich, glossy finish that immediately elevates a bathroom’s visual appeal. The enamel coating provides a depth of colour and shine that cannot be replicated by acrylic. Luxury hotel brands and private villa builders often specify porcelain to achieve a sophisticated, timeless look that aligns with the expectations of high-value guests and residents.
The aesthetic advantages of porcelain in creating luxurious bathroom environments
The smooth, polished surface of porcelain enhances lighting effects, creates a sense of cleanliness, and contributes to a peaceful, spa-like ambiance. This makes porcelain ideal for master suites, resort bathrooms, and high-design spaces where aesthetics are a priority and durability must match long-term usage.
Acrylic bathtubs are well-suited for multi-unit residential developments where cost efficiency, installation speed, and long-term practicality are essential.
How acrylic bathtubs meet budget requirements without sacrificing quality
Acrylic tubs provide a modern look and comfortable bathing experience at a fraction of the cost of porcelain. Their lightweight construction allows for faster installation with fewer labour requirements, reducing overall project timelines and expenses. This is particularly important for developers managing tight construction schedules or value-engineered projects.
Ideal for mid-range developments with high demand for cost-effective solutions
Residential apartments, condominiums, and build-to-rent properties benefit from the affordability and versatility of acrylic tubs. They deliver consistent quality across hundreds or thousands of units, making procurement predictable and efficient. Their repairability and warm-touch surface also make them a practical choice for everyday household use.
Wholesalers and retailers typically prefer acrylic bathtubs because of their competitive pricing, lighter weight, and strong market demand.
When acrylic is the go-to material for bulk purchases and high-demand markets
Acrylic bathtubs provide high turnover potential due to their affordability and broad consumer appeal. Their lightweight design lowers freight costs, enabling retailers and distributors to optimise container loading and minimise per-unit shipping charges. For large-scale procurement, acrylic offers both consistent supply and strong profitability.
How to leverage acrylic’s cost efficiency for large-scale orders while maintaining brand standards
Acrylic tubs can be customised with various finishes, shapes, and reinforced structures, allowing wholesalers to differentiate their product lines while staying within budget. OEM/ODM options enable private-label brands to create exclusive designs at competitive costs, helping them stand out in retail markets without compromising quality.
Sunvin is a trusted partner for global buyers sourcing bathtubs from China. With extensive manufacturing capabilities, strong export experience, and a commitment to quality, Sunvin supports international wholesalers, developers, and hospitality groups with reliable supply and tailored solutions.
Sunvin’s product portfolio covers both acrylic and porcelain bathtubs, providing buyers with complete flexibility to meet different project requirements.
Acrylic models are ideal for large-scale residential projects and retail distribution, while porcelain bathtubs offer the premium finish needed for luxury hotels, villas, and high-end developments.
Whether a project demands freestanding designs, drop-in solutions, alcove layouts, or custom configurations, Sunvin offers a broad range of styles that meet global design trends and installation standards. This one-stop selection allows buyers to coordinate diverse product needs through a single supplier.
Sunvin supports OEM and ODM projects for brands, distributors, and developers seeking exclusive bathtub designs.
Customisation options include:
• Tailored sizes and dimensions
• Colour-matched finishes for both acrylic and porcelain
• Gloss or matte surface options
• Custom overflow placement, drain systems, and reinforcement upgrades
• Branding services including custom packaging, labels, and private-label requirements
Sunvin’s engineering team provides CAD drawings, 3D models, and structural recommendations, ensuring every customised product aligns with the buyer’s specifications and market positioning.
Quality and consistency are essential for international buyers. Sunvin follows a multi-stage quality control process that includes:
• Raw material inspection for acrylic sheets, ceramic bodies, and reinforcements
• Monitoring of molding, casting, firing, and polishing processes
• Checking gloss uniformity, colour accuracy, and surface smoothness
• Stress testing for structure, durability, and load capacity
• Final inspection before packaging and container loading
In addition, Sunvin uses export-grade packaging—foam protection, corner guards, reinforced cartons, and wooden crates for heavy tubs—to minimise damage during long-distance transportation. This ensures products arrive safely and ready for installation.
Sunvin exports to more than sixty countries across Europe, the Middle East, Australia, Southeast Asia, and North America.
Our customers include large hotel groups, villa developers, retail chains, and wholesale distributors.
This global experience ensures we understand regional market requirements, certification standards, and shipping logistics, allowing buyers to work with confidence and efficiency.
Sunvin’s track record includes supplying tubs for luxury villas, serviced apartments, boutique hotels, large residential complexes, and premium wholesale markets—positioning the company as a reliable long-term partner for both small and large procurement programs.
Acrylic and porcelain bathtubs each offer distinct benefits, and the best choice depends on your project’s scale, design requirements, and budget.
Acrylic tubs provide cost efficiency, flexibility, and ease of installation, making them ideal for mid-range residential developments and high-volume wholesale distribution. Porcelain tubs deliver a timeless, premium appearance with long-lasting durability, perfectly suited for luxury hospitality and high-end residential projects.
By understanding the differences in installation, durability, aesthetics, and pricing, buyers can select the right material to match their specific needs. Sunvin’s wide product range, competitive pricing, OEM/ODM support, and strong export capabilities make it an ideal supplier for both acrylic and porcelain bathtub solutions.
Partner with Sunvin for all your bathtub sourcing needs, whether you require acrylic, porcelain, or fully customised models.
Our team provides expert guidance, tailored manufacturing, and reliable global logistics to support projects of every scale.
Contact Sunvin today to request catalogues, samples, or a personalised quotation for your upcoming hotel, residential, or wholesale orders.
