Best Walk-In Tubs for Seniors (2024 Guide)
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Advertiser Disclosure
Walk-in bathtubs provide comfort and independence that traditional bathtubs can’t. For seniors who may have limited mobility, arthritic joints, or a desire to bathe in luxury, a walk-in tub can help meet your needs. Our team reviewed the best walk-in tub companies in the country and chose the top models for seniors.
Top 5 Walk-In Tubs for Seniors
- Best Selection: Ella’s Bubbles
- Best Customization: Kohler
- Best All-in-One Service: Leaf Home Safety Solutions
- Most Experience: American Standard
- Best for Massage Therapy: Hydro Dimensions
Important Walk-In Tub Features for Seniors
Everyone has unique needs, so there is no one-size-fits-all tub model for seniors. Some brands will better suit your requirements than others based on the components they offer. Our research determined that these are the most important features for seniors to consider when shopping for a walk-in tub:
Handheld Showerhead
We recommend choosing a walk-in tub model that includes a handheld showerhead. This showerhead gives seniors extra flexibility by allowing them to rinse hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, a handheld showerhead doubles as a cleaning instrument for the tub.
Handrails and Grab Bars
Consider a walk-in tub brand that offers ergonomically placed handrails and grab bars. Some brands follow the ADA compliance section 4.20 standards when designing the placement of grab bars around the tub. We suggest choosing a walk-in tub company that meets or exceeds ADA compliance standards and can customize the placement of grab bars based on your needs.
Hydrotherapy Massage Jets
Depending on your condition, a walk-in tub with hydrotherapy massage jets can provide muscle and joint relief while you bathe. We suggest consulting with your doctor before purchasing a model with hydrotherapy jets to ensure it is right for your condition.
In-Line Water Heating
Due to the large amounts of water needed to use a walk-in tub, we recommend purchasing a model with an in-line water heater. It provides a steady hot water supply without using your home’s water heater.
Nonslip Surface
Most walk-in tub models have nonslip floors and seating surfaces. We recommend choosing a model with textured nonslip surfaces since those are more effective in preventing accidental slips.
Quick-Draining System
To increase the comfort of your bathing experience, we suggest purchasing a walk-in tub with a quick-draining system. Due to the tub’s design, its door must remain closed when filling or draining water. A quick-draining system ensures you don’t spend excess time inside your tub after you bathe.
Step Threshold
Step thresholds range from 3–7 inches. We recommend a walk-in tub with a low entry step threshold, especially for seniors with limited mobility. A low step threshold reduces the chance of tripping while entering or exiting the tub.
How Can I Save on a Walk-In Tub?
Due to the immense cost of buying and installing walk-in tubs, they may not be as accessible for some to own. Here are some tips to reduce the total cost of a walk-in tub:
- Exclude unnecessary features: Consider features that best fit your needs. Additional features, such as aromatherapy, can increase the total cost of a walk-in tub.
- Minimize installation costs: Instruct your contractor to install your walk-in tub where your old tub used to be. Adding additional plumbing and draining to fit your tub could increase costs.
- Request several quotes: Some walk-in tub companies send agents to inspect your home before providing costs and installation fees. We recommend pulling at least three quotes from different companies to compare costs and features.
- Use Medicare benefits: If you own a Medicare plan, some plan variations may cover part of the walk-in tub cost if you meet specific requirements. Contact medicare.gov for more information.
Are Walk-In Tubs Worth It for Seniors?
Walk-in tubs can provide unparalleled comfort and independence for seniors when bathing. However, the high cost of a walk-in tub plus the intricate installation process requires consideration.
We recommend consulting with your doctor to understand if the benefits of a walk-in tub can improve your lifestyle. Also, consider your budget. Many walk-in tub companies offer financing for both the tub and installation costs. In addition, there are grants specific to seniors that may help cover costs, such as the USDA Rural and Rehabilitation grant program.
Our Conclusion
Walk-in tubs are a solid option for seniors who need a safe and relaxing bathing experience. For those with limited mobility, walk-in tubs grant a level of independence that traditional bathtubs cannot. Our team chose Ella’s Bubbles as our top pick due to its extensive list of therapeutic features and available clearance models. Our second choice is Kohler for its customizable features and wall surrounds. Finally, Leaf Home Safety Solutions is worth considering due to the comfort features it includes in all tub models.
FAQ About Walk-In Tub Brands
What are the disadvantages of walk-in tubs?
There are several disadvantages to purchasing a walk-in tub. The first is the high cost of buying and installing the tub. Another disadvantage is the complex nature of the installation. Finally, walk-in tubs consume more water than normal bathtubs.
How many gallons of water does it take to fill a walk-in tub?
The total water needed to fill a walk-in tub varies by brand, type, and model. For example, standard walk-in tubs hold at least 40 gallons of water. Bariatric tubs, however, can hold more than 90 gallons.
Does a walk-in tub need to be installed by a professional?
Yes, a professional should always install your walk-in tub. These tubs sometimes require custom fittings and plumbing. A professional contractor can limit installation mistakes and improve the longevity of your tub.
How much does it cost to install a walk-in tub?
Our research shows that a walk-in bathtub installation costs from $1,400 to $10,750. Depending on your bathroom’s plumbing, tub model, and decorative components you choose, installation costs can increase or decrease.
Our Rating Methodology
We objectively scores each walk-in tub brand using our in-depth rating methodology. Our team analyzes each brand by pulling quotes from company websites, calling company representatives, and comparing their standard safety and therapeutic features with our review standards. Using our review standards, we score each brand for average cost, ergonomics, extra features, safety features, warranty options, and walk-in tub type. We tally up a brand’s points out of 100, then divide its score by 20 to obtain its 5-star rating.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.