Let every tub stand on its own bottom.

Each person, household, or undertaking should carry its own obligations and expenses rather than expecting others to provide continual support.

It can urge independent judgment and responsibility: what belongs to one party should be handled by that party on its own merits and resources, without implying that cooperation or needed help should be refused.

Use it when arguing that separate people or groups should manage their own burdens rather than shifting them onto others. The figurative image suits discussions of self-reliance, accountability, or financial independence, but can sound dismissive when someone genuinely needs help.