We used a 150 gallon Rubbermaid Stock Tank:
homebirth.tribe.net/photos/d...a7102ba93

It was wonderful!
I labored in it for my first, but got out to push.
My second was born in the water.

I loved this particular one because the water can be as deep as you like it, and the sturdy sides are great for gripping.
During contractions, I like to hold on to opposite sides and swoosh my hips side to side.
When I was ready to push, I got on my knees and leaned forward, then my midwife helped me catch him and bring him around to my arms.

It's hard to say how much objective difference the water made, since my first labor was very difficult, and second labors tend to go so much better anyway, but
I LOVED the feel of the warm water, and I was not sore at all (!!!) after the waterbirth.

I think the tub cost around $110 from our local hardware store.
I wish there were more homebirths around here- I'd keep one on hand and lend it out to anyone who wanted it!
Those shallow inflatable ones seem reaallllly annoying- no support, too shallow, and a chance of spilling water out.
I'm pretty tall, so that probably colors my view as well.

Best wishes!
Studies say that immersion in warm water is as effective as narcotics for pain relief, but water has no negative side effects!
And it keeps your blood pressure stabilized and your tissues soft and relaxed. And babies always seem to come out super mellow...

I used the Eco Tub in a Box. I ordered mine from Water birth International. It was such a fantastic tub! It's from the UK and is new to the US for a year now. I paid $175 for everything including pump and hose and sup[plies. There's no better tub in mu opinion and I have done much research on a tub for my birth!

people.tribe.net/lollicupg...a1af5bb3f3