Walk-In Bathtub Buying Guide

What is a Walk-In Bathtub?

A walk-in bathtub is a specialized bathtub designed for individuals with mobility issues, disabilities, or ailments. It offers a more accessible and therapeutic bathing experience compared to traditional bathtubs.

What makes a walk-in bathtub different from a traditional bathtub?

Walk-in bathtubs are unlike traditional bathtubs, as they feature a watertight door that opens and closes, eliminating the need to step over the high sides of a standard tub. They offer contoured seats and therapeutic jets for a relaxing bathing experience, as well as non-slip flooring and grab bars to ensure easy and safe access to individuals of all mobility levels.

Who can benefit from a walk-in bathtub?

Walk-in bathtubs provide a safe, therapeutic bathing experience for all individuals, but especially those who experience difficulty accessing traditional bathtubs, including:

• Senior citizens who may or may not require assistance bathing
• Individuals who experience mobility and balance issues, including wheelchair and walker users
• People who are recovering from surgery, illness, or injury
• Bariatric individuals who cannot fit in a traditional bathtub
• People with physical, emotional, and mental ailments, including but not limited to:
• Alzheimer's
• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Fibromyalgia
• Hypertension
• Insomnia
• Lupus
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinsons
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis

Why Should You Consider a Walk-In Bathtub?

Walk-in bathtubs offer numerous benefits for individuals, including:

• Increased safety: The low step-in threshold, built-in handrails, and non-slip flooring reduce the risk of falls, while the water-tight door keeps water inside the bathtub, eliminating potential slip hazards outside the bathtub.
• Therapeutic features: Many walk-in bathtubs are outfitted with medical-grade therapeutic features such as water jets, air jets and heated seating.
• Independence: Individuals can maintain their independence and privacy without sacrificing comfort.
• Accessibility: Walk-in bathtubs are designed to accommodate individuals who use wheelchairs or have difficulty navigating traditional tubs.
• Caregiver-friendly: Walk-in bathtubs allow caregivers to better assist in the bathing process.

How to Choose a Walk-In Bathtub

There are hundreds of walk-in bathtubs available on the market, each with its own set of customized features. So, what should you consider when choosing a walk-in bathtub?

• Bathroom Infrastructure
• Bathtub Seat Requirements
• Bathtub Door Preference
• Therapeutic Options
• Add-On Features
• Safety Features

Walk-In Bathtub Size

When choosing a walk-in bathtub, it’s important to consider the size and dimensions of your space to ensure the walk-in bathtub will fit properly.

Before you buy a walk-in tub, measure your bathroom to make sure the installation area of the walk-in tub is large enough for it to fit comfortably. Most standard homes come with alcove tubs, which usually measure 32 inches wide, 60 inches long, and 18 inches deep. Walk-in bathtubs are traditionally taller than 18” and shorter than 60”, but often come with extension kits to fit within a 60” space.

It’s also important to measure all doorways, hallways and entry points leading into your installation space, so you can ensure your walk-in bathtub can be installed successfully.

Bathroom Infrastructure

If installing in an existing bathroom, take note of your plumbing hookup to determine your walk-in bathtub’s drain orientation and plumbing connection. Additionally, you will want to confirm your hot water heater holds at least 50 gallons to ensure you have a warm bath. If choosing a walk-in bathtub with air or water jets, you will also need to have an electrical hookup or have plans to install electrical in the installation area.

Walk-in bathtubs typically weigh more than traditional bathtubs, so you will want to make sure your foundation can support the weight of a filled bathtub, especially if it will be located on the second floor of your home.

Bathtub Seat Requirements

Most walk-in tubs have a built-in seat that allows individuals to sit and enjoy a comfortable bath. Standard walk-in bathtubs have a seat size of 21”W and 17”H. To guarantee a comfortable bathing experience, you will want to measure the waist and shoulder width of the potential bathtub user. The width of the bathtub seat should be wider than your hip and shoulder measurements. If you require a wider seat, bariatric bathtubs feature a more spacious 30” seat, as well as a larger frame and wider door.

Bathtub Door Preference

Right or Left Door

When choosing a walk-in bathtub, you will want to consider the orientation of the door. Most walk-in tubs have an option for a right door or a left door. It’s important to consider the layout of your bathroom, as well as the preferred location of the drain, as the drain will be located on the same side as the door.

In-swing or Out-Swing Door

Determine if you want a walk-in bathtub with an in-swing or out-swing. An in-swing door is better for smaller bathrooms, as the door won’t collide with bathroom vanities or existing fixtures. Typically, in-swing doors are better suited for individuals who do not require assistance getting in and out of the bathtub, as the door can make it more difficult for caregivers to assist with the transition.

Out-swing doors are preferred for wheelchair users, bariatric people and individuals with limited mobility, as it eliminates obstacles within the bathtub to better prevent tripping and falls. By swinging outwards, the entrance is completely barrier-free for a safer, smoother entry and exit.

Need a larger door?

If selecting an out-swing door, it’s important to consider the shape and size of the door. Select walk-in bathtubs feature doors designed to accommodate wheelchair users and bariatric individuals, as they are wider and allow the user to slide into the bathtub. These doors are often designed to swing over a standard-height toilet, so they can be placed seamlessly in an existing bathroom.

Threshold Height

Most walk-in bathtubs provide a threshold entry under 7”. Consider the threshold of the bathtub user when choosing a bathtub, as low threshold bathtubs are typically better for individuals with mobility issues.

Therapeutic Options

Soaking Therapy: Calm and Relaxing

The therapeutic benefits of soaking walk-in bathtubs have been widely recognized by experts in the field. Immersing yourself in warm water can help alleviate muscle tension and joint pain, and improve blood circulation.

Air Jet Therapy: Gentle and Soothing

If you prefer a gentle and soothing experience, air jet therapy might be the best option for you. This type of therapy involves the use of air jets strategically placed in the bathtub to create a gentle massaging effect. The air jets release thousands of tiny bubbles, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Whirlpool/Water Jet Therapy: Powerful and Invigorating

Whirlpool therapy is the way to go for those who prefer a more powerful and invigorating massage. This type of therapy utilizes water jets that target specific areas of the body, providing a deep and penetrating massage. Water-jetted bathtubs are known for their ability to relieve muscle tension and promote circulation.

Dual Jet Therapy: The Best of Both Worlds

If you can't decide between air jet therapy and water jet therapy, why not have both? Dual jetted bathtubs offer the best of both worlds by combining the gentle massaging effect of air jets with the powerful massage of water jets. This type of therapy allows you to customize your bathing experience according to your preferences and needs.

Add-On Features

In addition to choosing the right therapy, you will also have the option to customize your bathtub with additional therapeutic features. Some common add-on features are:

• Chromatherapy uses light to balance each person's physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional energy. Users can use LED lighting designs to create an ideal relaxed environment.
• Aromatherapy stimulates and reinforces your natural defenses by using essential oils to induce a state of relaxation and well-being.
• Heated backrests uses heat to release the endorphins necessary to soothe the aches and pains.
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Each brand offers a different selection of upgrades, so it’s important to select a walk-in bathtub brand that fits all your needs.

Safety Features

Before purchasing a walk-in bathtub, it's important to ensure your bathtub is equipped with advanced safety features for a safe, stress-free experience. Most walk-in bathtubs offer contoured seats, non-slip flooring, built-in grab bars, and a low threshold – however, it’s important to double-check to ensure your bathtub includes these safety features.

Cost of Walk-In Bathtubs

Walk-in bathtubs vary in price depending on size, brand, features, etc. On average, a basic walk-in tub can cost between $2,500-$7,000, while models with more advanced features can cost up to $10,000. Some companies offer installation services, bringing the total cost upwards of $20,000. By ordering your own walk-in bathtub, you get to choose the brand and features you want and work with the contractor of your choosing to make sure you stay within budget.

Walk-in bathtubs provide safety, independence, and comfort for individuals of all mobility levels. We can help you find a bathtub that meets these needs. Give us a call at (877) 377-7228 or send us an email at [email protected] to get a personalized recommendation from one of our product experts.