As a homeowner, you are always on the lookout for accessories that are not only appealing but also practical, comfortable, and safe. Specifically, when it comes to the bathroom area.

In fact, entering and leaving the shower and tub is the main cause of slips in the bathroom, thus they require extra safety precautions – especially if you have elders, children, or individuals with mobility issues.

The solution – walk in tubs!

A walk in bathtub is equipped with a watertight door that allows the bathers to safely enter and exit the bathing area, after fully draining the water inside. Additionally, many bathtubs are installed with handrails, seats, and textured pads to ensure maximum protection from slips and falls.

Here, let’s take a look at some of the features to look out for in a walk in tub.

Size

Generally, a walk in tub is the same size as a standard bathtub. However, it is suggested that you consider the size of your bathroom prior to selecting a bathtub model and ensure that the new accessory will fit appropriately.

Door style

Furthermore, these tubs have two-options for door openings: inward and outwards. The inward style opens the door inside the bathtub and makes a great space saver – especially for bathrooms that have limited space.

On the other hand, the outswing walk in tubs have doors that open away from the bathing area. These types of doors require more space but are recommendable for the users who have limited mobility. The style of tub is also ideal for the wheelchair users who can easily be transferred from their wheelchair seat to the seat of bathtub.

Steps

Bathtubs also have varying step in heights. Consider a low step in if the user of bathtub has mobility issues and require extra precaution when using steps.

Hot water capacity

Most walk in tubs have a water capacity of 50-gallons. However, average domestic heaters have less capacity – usually 40-gallons. This means that you will have to invest in a larger water heater or purchase an additional tank to accommodate the requirements of the walk in tub.

Certification

Just like home appliances, bathtubs also have a certain safety criteria to meet before they are manufactured to the retailers. Since walk in tubs are built to enhance the user’s safety, make sure you don’t skimp on the budget by investing in a non-certified bathing accessory. Instead, shop for a tub that carries certification from the CSA/UL, American Standards Association, and other certifications by governing security authorities.

Different types of walk in tubs

Walk in tubs are available in different styles that you can select according to your unique requirements. These include:

Soaker tub

The most basic style of tub – that mimics our standard bathing tubs is the soaker. As the name implies, this style of tub does just what it suggests – allows you to soak your body without any added luxuries.

Wheelchair accessible

As we mentioned above, the tubs with doors that swing open on the outside are suitable for the users on wheelchair. These types of tubs give extra room to maneuver and provide ease when transferring the bather from seat.

Bariatric tubs

This style of tub is made from heavy-duty materials and has the capacity to hold an individual who is 300 lbs. or even higher.

Air jets

Walk in tubs can also be equipped with air jets that offer relaxation similar to massages.

Water jets

Ideal for people suffering from arthritis and other joint pain, this style of walk in tub provide an enhanced massage experience. However, water jets are stronger than air jets and may be uncomfortable for people with sensitive skin.

Aromatherapy

These tubs mix essential oils along with the water to give the bather a calming experience.

Chroma therapy

Chroma therapy tubs use a combination of lightings to create an ambience that is peaceful and relaxing.

Combo walk in tubs

You can also find combination of features in one tub. For example, an aromatherapy tubs suitable for wheelchair users or a bariatric tub with built-in air jets. Determine each feature and select the tub that is best suited for the user’s optimal health.

Additionally walk in tubs with shower are also available that provide dual-usability for both – the elders and the young.

Add-ons

You can also choose to have some features added to the walk in tubs in order to enhance the safety of the bather. This includes:

• Hand-rails
• Non-slip textured flooring
• Quick drainage
• Self-cleaning options
• In-line heating system
• Sitting area, where bathers can wait while waiting for the bath tub to fill/empty

Who should use a walk in tub?

Apart from the elderly, a walk in tub is beneficial for people with:

• Arthritis
• Physical disabilities
• Balance disorders
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Sciatica
• Back pain
• Joint problems
• Nerve problems
• Shingles
• Hemorrhoids
• Muscle problems
• Circulatory issues
• Rheumatism

Are there any drawbacks of investing in a walk in tub?

The only disadvantage of a walk in tub is the wait. Walk in tubs have greater depth than our standard tubs and take longer to fill. Additionally, the tubs require the bathers to sit inside the bathing area, while the tub fills and empties.

How much do walk in tubs cost?

The cost of a walk in tub is dependent on the model and style you choose. A standard soaker walk in tub is available for $1,000 – $2,500, while you can expect the price tag to reach more than $9,000 for added features such as water jets, aromatherapy, etc.

Furthermore, walk in tubs usually require professional installation so keep the additional cost in mind as well.

Get your bathtub quote today!

A walk in tub is one of the best ways to enhance the safety of seniors and the physically impaired. The additional massage facilities in these tubs are also great for pain relief and provide the bathers with a relaxing experience.

If you are also on the lookout for a walk in tub to replace the standard bath and shower in your home, you have come to the right place! We have a wide variety of walk in tubs of various brands and model – making it easy for you to choose according to your needs and budget.

To find out the American standard walk-in tubs prices, simply fill in the form below and get your quote today!