Can You Use an Old Bathtub for a Pond? 🦆🪷

Hi everyone!

If you’ve got an old bathtub lying around—maybe one that’s been sitting in a field, garage, or backyard for years—you might be wondering: Can I turn this into a pond? The answer is yes! Repurposing an old bathtub as a DIY pond is a fantastic way to recycle materials while creating a charming water feature for your garden.

Why Use a Bathtub for a Pond?

✅ Durable & Watertight – Bathtubs are designed to hold water, so they make excellent pond liners.
✅ Eco-Friendly – Upcycling keeps waste out of landfills.
✅ Affordable – Free or low-cost compared to buying a pre-made pond liner.
✅ Easy to Install – Their shape makes them simple to bury or partially sink into the ground.

How to Turn a Bathtub into a Pond

1. Choose the Right Location

Pick a spot with:
🔸 Partial sunlight (too much sun encourages algae growth)
🔸 Level ground
🔸 Some distance from trees (falling leaves can clog the water)

2. Dig the Hole

• Measure your bathtub and dig a hole slightly larger than its dimensions.
• Ensure the rim is either level with the ground or slightly raised to prevent runoff from entering.

3. Prepare the Bathtub

• Clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, soap residue, or chemicals.
• If the tub has a drain, seal it with waterproof silicone or a plug.

4. Place & Level the Tub

• Lower the bathtub into the hole and check that it’s level.
• Backfill around the edges with soil or gravel to stabilize it.

5. Add Water & Decorations

• Fill with rainwater or dechlorinated tap water.
• Add aquatic plants like water lilies, irises, or floating plants for natural filtration.
• Place rocks, pebbles, and marginal plants around the edges to create a natural look.

6. Introduce Wildlife (Optional)

• If you want a wildlife pond, add a few native plants and let insects, frogs, or birds visit naturally.
• Avoid adding fish unless the tub is very large (most standard bathtubs are too small for fish to thrive year-round).

Maintenance Tips

• Keep water fresh – Top up as needed, especially in summer.
• Control algae – Add oxygenating plants or use barley straw.
• Remove debris – Skim leaves and twigs regularly.

Final Thoughts

An old bathtub makes a perfect upcycled pond—it’s sturdy, easy to install, and adds character to your garden. Whether you want a mini wildlife habitat or a tranquil water feature, this DIY project is a great way to repurpose something that would otherwise go to waste.

Have you ever made a bathtub pond? Share your tips (or photos!) in the comments below! 🐸💧

Happy gardening! 🌿