When we purchased our first home, a jacuzzi tub seemed like a must-have relaxation feature I would use all the time. In reality, it mostly took up valuable space in our small master bathroom. There was barely any room to sit while painting my nails or chat with the kids as I got ready. That’s when I decided to create an easy DIY bathtub cover, a perfect space-saving solution for small master bathrooms. This removable tub cover not only provides extra seating and storage but also easily lifts off when it’s time to enjoy a relaxing soak. It’s a simple small bathroom DIY project that maximizes function without sacrificing style.
This was a simple solution to increase my bathroom seating but also to increase my bathroom storage! I now have a place to put extra towels, washcloths, soaps, and bathroom decor!
Here are simple instructions on how to make your beautiful bathtub cover! Let’s get to it!
Supplies For Your DIY Bathtub Cover:
- Plywood or OSB wood
- Saw
- Tape Measure
- Staple Gun
- Scissors
- Polyester Batting – Here is an example from Hobby Lobby for $7.69 depending on size. We did a medium thickness, but builder discretion for the amount of padding thickness you want
- Thin Shower Curtain Liner – Something like this Walmart Mainstays one for $1.44
- Fabric
Step 1: Measure and Prepare Your Bathtub Cover Base
Start by taking precise measurements of the bathtub area you want to cover. Cut a piece of plywood to fit the space perfectly—this will serve as the base for your DIY bathtub cover. Measuring accurately also helps you determine how much fabric and foam padding you’ll need to cover the board.
Tip: Factor in the thickness of your foam padding when measuring. You’ll want enough batting and fabric to wrap around at least 4–5 inches on all edges to secure it neatly to the plywood. This ensures a polished, space-saving bathroom DIY project that’s functional and stylish for small master bathrooms.
Step 2: Cover the Base for Durability and Waterproofing
To save on fabric costs, consider using an inexpensive shower liner to cover the bottom of your board. This makes the underside water-resistant and hidden, so there’s no need to cover it with fabric.
First, lay down the batting and place the board on top. Measure and cut the batting to size, then staple it securely around the edges—spacing staples about every 10 inches.
Next, wrap the board with the shower liner, securing it along the edges. Make sure the liner covers the entire board to make it waterproof and durable. Position the liner so the edges are tucked under the board for a smooth finish on the underside. This simple step protects the batting and ensures your DIY bathtub cover for small bathrooms is functional and long-lasting.
Step 3: Attach the Fabric for a Polished Finish
Once the foam and shower liner are in place, it’s time to cover your DIY bathtub cover with fabric. Lay the fabric under the board and fold it over the foam padding, making sure it’s smooth and taut.
For a cleaner, more professional look, fold the edges slightly under before stapling. This creates a neat, finished edge and ensures your bathtub cover has a professional finished look.
The Final Look
Here is the completed look of our new bathroom seating before we brought it upstairs! This was an easy, inexpensive project that really helped us use the small master bathroom space to it’s full potential!
This tub cover stayed with us for our move to the new house because I used it so much in my other bathroom. This is a great small bathroom idea that will help with a place to sit and a place to store extra items. I hope you these instructions are helpful to give you your newest bathroom addition!
To see how we started our master bathroom makeover in the new house and 6 great bathroom update ideas, click here!
