Our team aims to create informative and helpful content about walk-in tubs so you can you make informed decisions for your home. We conduct in-depth research by analyzing company websites, calling providers, reading consumer reviews, and requesting pricing. We then use this data to create review standards to compare and rate walk-in tub companies.
Walk-In Tub Research Process
Our team conducts research on how walk-in tubs work, product uses, and top providers using the following techniques.
Customer Insights
We read dozens of customer reviews for each provider from third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Trustpilot. We note positive and negative themes, specifically reviews mentioning build quality, customer service, functionality, and safety.
Secret Shopping
We browse through each company’s website to understand how accessible product information is. We also use online quote tools and note the overall user experience, how much information is required, and how quickly a price is generated. In addition, we call providers to analyze how well they can answer our questions.
Factors We Evaluate To Compare Walk-In Tubs
After collecting data on walk-in tub providers and their offerings, we score each company on a 100-point scale. We divide the total score of each provider by 20 to arrive at a 5-star rating. We consider the following key factors to rate and compare providers.
Safety Features
One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a walk-in tub is its safety features, which ensure you or your loved one can independently use the tub without concern. Providers that feature Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA) compliant seats receive seven points. We also award points for tubs with anti-scald technology, built-in seats, guard rails, non-slip floors, and quick draining.
Warranty Options
Because of the cost and disruptive installation process, we consider warranty options as another important factor when shopping for a walk-in tub. Providers that pair a limited lifetime warranty for all walk-in tub components receive full points in this category. We deducted points from providers that offer a warranty for select parts rather than the entire walk-in tub. Companies can also earn points for offering a 10–20 year warranty, with fewer points going to companies with a five year or less warranty.
Ergonomics
A walk-in tub’s ergonomics can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a frustrating one. We award points to providers that include arthritis-friendly controls, as well as to companies that design their tubs with a three-inch step threshold. We also look at features like outward-swinging door options, headrest pillows, and easy-lock handles.
Average Cost
Installing a walk-in tub is a significant investment. Even the most affordable walk-in tubs can cost well over $2,000. Since providers offer models that vary significantly in price, we assign points based on an average price range. For example, companies earn the most points for offering walk-in tubs in the $1,000–$3,000 range, with fewer points awarded for ranges of $3,001–$5,000, as well as $5,001–$8,000. Providers with tubs averaging $8,000 or more earn the fewest amount of points in this category.
Additional Features
To help homeowners distinguish between products and providers, we consider additional walk-in features. For example, we award points to providers that include heated surfaces and self-cleaning functionality. We also look for aromatherapy add-ons, handheld shower wands, massage systems with water jets, chromotherapy, high-flow taps, and quick drain technology.
Walk-In Tub Types
Not all walk-in tubs have the same design or functionality. The type of walk-in tub you need is important to consider since a generic model may not fit your lifestyle or needs. We award providers points for offering models that include deep-soak and hydrotherapy functionality. Companies that offer bariatric walk-in tubs, aero or air therapy tubs, two-person tubs, tub and shower combinations, and wheel-chair accessible tubs also receive points.
Factor Weights for Rating Walk-In Tubs
Review the factor weights for our walk-in tub ratings at a glance in the table below. We also break down how you can interpret companies based on their scores.
| Review Category | Percentage of Overall Score |
|---|---|
|
Safety features |
25% |
|
Warranty options |
20% |
|
Ergonomics |
15% |
|
Average cost |
15% |
|
Additional features |
15% |
|
Types |
10% |
How To Interpret Company Ratings
Providers that offer multiple walk-in tub types, a limited lifetime warranty, and a focus on safety features, ergonomics, and cost-effectiveness receive 90 out of 100 points or higher. We also consider companies that score between 89 and 80 points as solid options. While these companies may score lower due to having fewer additional features, higher costs, or limited warranties, they can still provide value depending on your needs. Providers that score fewer than 79 points are still worth considering if you want budget-friendly tubs with limited features. However, we don’t recommend them frequently.
How To Choose the Best Walk-In Tub for You
Consider the following factors to find the best walk-in tub for you or your loved one:
- Available space: Your bathroom’s available space is easy to overlook, but it‘s one of the most important factors to consider. Have a professional inspect your bathroom to determine if its size and plumbing can work with a walk-in tub.
- Cost: Walk-in tubs can cost from $2,000 for a basic model to more than $10,000 for a model with all the bells and whistles. Consider your budget and the features you need or could live without. Also, budget for installation costs if you purchase a walk-in tub at a retail store.
- Features: Think about the features most important to you or your loved one. We recommend purchasing a walk-in tub that suits your mobility and lifestyle. For example, a tub with an outward-swinging door is usually easier to enter if you have limited mobility.
- Safety: Alongside standard features, consider the safety features of a walk-in tub. While most providers include handrails and non-slip floors, not all include ADA-compliant seats. Anti-scald valves can prevent an uncomfortable burn if you have trouble controlling the tub’s water temperature.
To learn more, read one of our guides on walk-in tubs:
- Best Walk-In Tubs with Shower
- Best Walk-In Tubs for Seniors
- Will Medicare Pay for Walk-In Tubs?
- What Is the Smallest Walk-In Tub Available?
- Alternatives to Walk-In Tubs