There are plenty of different walk-in tubs on the market today. However, we made your search easier and we picked the best walk in bathtub for your needs.
Slippery bathrooms and un-drained water make an “ideal” combination for falling hazards even with the younger population, not to talk about older adults. Some of them could provide you better user experience and easier showering.
If you are looking for a way to avoid those slick edges when getting into or out of a regular bathtub, a walk in tub may be the solution for any senior, a person with disabilities, or a person with limited mobility.
Walk in Bathtub can come at handy when choosing between different products, as you can get the idea of the experience the best walk in tubs provide.
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Check this comparison table for a quick guide. Read the review for further details.
Best Walk in Bathtub : Top 3 Choices
Safer, more comfortable, and way convenient than regular bathtubs, walk in tubs is the right pick for physically or mobility challenged individuals.
After reviewing more than 20 models, we made the list of the top 3 walk in bathtubs on the market.
1. Outward Opening Whirlpool Walk In Tub by American Standard
Benefits
- No plumbing required
- Low threshold
- The watertight outward door
- Fills in less than 60 seconds
- Equipped with 6 water jets and in-line heater
- Numerous safety features
Cons:
- It is costly
American Standard is a reliable walk in tub manufacturer, providing advanced therapeutic features combined with utmost safety and comfort while in use.
If you are a bit tight on the space in your bathroom, this walk in tub will come at handy, as it is very compact in size.
Yet, disregarding the space-efficiency of this tub, American Standard designed a product with numerous benefits and useful features for any senior or a person with a disability.
The low threshold makes it easy-peasy to walk in, while the tub is simple to use as well – just activate it, and watch the magic happens.
Customers love the fact using this American Standard walk in tub doesn’t require them to perform any other plumbing procedures, which simplifies its use even more.
The watertight outward door on this model makes it safe and easy to walk in, while the manufacturer gives you a lifetime warranty for the door.
If your main reason for purchasing a walk in bathtub would be to enjoy endless massage sessions, relax your body and muscles after a long day, or alleviate pain, the tub with a built-in Whirlpool Massage System would spoil you after the first use.
Equipped with 6 water jets and in-line heater, the American Standard bathtub will give you a sophisticated and invigorating massage experience each time you use it.
This tub is made of high-quality, durable Gelcoat, includes a safety grab bar and textured bath floor to prevent slipping or falling, premium fast fill-faucet (under the pressure of 40 PSI, this tub fills at 16 gallons per minute), patented chrome quick drain, and a handheld showering wand.
The American Standard walk in tub comes with a tub extender, intended for tubs less than 60-inches, that takes up no more space than a standard tub.
Even if you have a narrow bathroom, this tub will fit it easily.
American Standard gives you a 5-year warranty on all components except for the tub shell, which fall under the 10-year warranty.
All of the features of the American Standard walk in tub are designed with the user’s safety and comfort in mind, making this bathtub a great solution for slippery bathrooms and disrupted balance issues.
“As someone who is disabled, the walk-in tub has made life easier. The whirlpool feature with heater is a nice relaxing soak.” (Amazon )
2.Companion Massage Walk In Tub by Ella’s Bubbles
Ella’s Bubbles presents an unprecedented model on the market – their Companion walk in tub with two removable-back seats, making it feasible to install two facing seats.
Featuring the unique two-person 60”x30”x38” model equipped with multiple safety features, Ella’s Bubbles tub stands out for a couple of more benefits it provides.
This acrylic tub shell is made of tempered glass and comes with a stainless steel frame, which are features that make it great for use for people of any weigh.
The tempered glass does not only make the tub appear stylish in your bathroom but ensures it can withstand water pressure.
Ella’s Bubbles designed a low step in threshold, fully-removable door, and slip-resistant flooring to make it easy to walk in or out of the tub, complementing these safety features with one deck mount for added safety.
Now that we are mentioning water pressure, the Ella’s Bubbles tub comes with a hydro and air massage system.
This feature is complemented with push controls that make it easy to set everything according to your needs and wishes easier, including the thermostatic control valve.
This way, you can adjust the temperature to your preferences and can be 100% carefree of any burns.
Ella’s Bubbles also introduces ozone sterilization, another impressive feature providing you with millions of pleasurable bathing moments.
What would you say if you knew the Ella’s Bubbles come with 15 air therapy jets?
That’s right – this walk in tub is full of surprises.
Yet, there is more – there is the 18-jet hydrotherapy system for extended pleasure.
Enjoy the MicroBubble feel as the massage exfoliates and hydrates your skin.
Thanks to the Dual Drain Technology, the Ella’s Bubbles walk in tub empties in less than 80 seconds.
Yet, there is more that makes this brand stand out from the competition.
Equipped with overflow drains, you don’t ever have to worry about flooded bathroom.
As a cherry to the top, this walk in tub is easy to install.
You will get almost everything you need in the installation package, while there is some room left to make your own DIY bathing project.
“This tub has changed my life. I can walk in, without having to lift achy hips or knees.
The seat is comfortable and it is heaven to soak in a tub without having to worry about how I’m going to get out of the tub. It’s wonderful.
It’s beautiful to look at and easy to clean. Works like a charm. BIG upgrade to our home… and ADA compliant.” (Amazon )
Benefits
- Impressive build quality
- Both hydro and air massage systems
- Two removable seats
- Can withstand heavy use
- Dual Drain Technology
- 3-speed controls
- 15 air therapy jets
- Thermostatic control valve
Cons
- You may need additional parts to install this tub, while the manual isn’t as straightforward as it should be
3. Walk in Tub by Empava
If you are hoping to purchase for a safe and comfortable, yet affordable walk in tub, the Empava walk in tub may catch your attention.
It is hard to stay immune to the luxurious appearance of this tub’s white acrylic finish, but its design is only one thing that will impress you here.
Besides the affordable price range of this bathtub, it still provides the latest safety and comfort features other more expensive tubs do.
Speaking of features, easy entry may come to the top of the list.
As the entry door of this tub is only 4-inches high, it makes it super-duper easy to come in.
What is even better, Empava designed a wide door (20% wider than the regular walk in bathtub doors) to meet the safety and comfort requirements of their customers, providing them with worry-free bath time.
With 94 Gallons of water capacity, the Empava walk in tub allows the average adult to soak in water up to their shoulders.
Empava manufactured a walk in tub with simple-to-use ergonomic knobs that are ideal for holding on when you lack stability.
On the inside, there is an integrated seat to sink in and enjoy your SPA-like home experience.
Two grab bars are installed on this tub, one on the outside, one on the inside – both providing a stable grip no matter if you are standing, sitting, or bathing.
A surrounding handrail on the outside of this walk in tub is build with the idea of added safety for the bather.
In the end, this bathtub comes with the cabled right side drain, showerhead, knobs, faucet, and overflow and pre-drilled and pre-installed accessories that simplify the installation process.
Certified by the ADA, coming at an affordable price, yet providing numerous useful features, the Empava walk in tub will take back the bath excitement for the elderly, people with disabilities, or anyone with limited mobility.
“I was impressed by the workmanship of this tub. Fit and finish is flawless. It sits lower to the floor than the one it replaced, forcing me to add spacers under the feet to match up the drain, but other than that installation was quick and easy for two people.” (Amazon )
Benefits
- Low and wide entry door
- 94 Gallons of capacity
- ADA-certified
- The simple installation process
- Bariatric-type bathtub
- Affordable
Cons
- It takes long to fill this tub up
How Much Do Walk in Tubs Cost?
Walk in tubs come at different prices.
The price is mostly defined by the manufacturer brand, the size, safety features, comfort, customization options, and the installation process.
The Empava walk in tub we reviewed comes at a price of under 2 grand, which is considered to be an affordable price for a tub of such quality.
On the othe hand, the American Standard walk in tub comes at the price about 4 grand.
Yet, you can install it yourself, without having to call a plumber, which may not be the case with the other two tubs we reviewed.
Of course, if you are a skilled DIY-er, you can always go for this option and save some money.
Yet, if you still decide to hire a professional plumber to install your walk in tub, expect the overall cost of the tub and the installation service to range from $2,500 to $25,000.
We don’t want you to break the bank, which is why we recommended products that fit most people’s budgets.
Which Walk In Tub Is The Right One for Your Needs?
Just like with different types of regular tubs, walk in tubs provide different features, and this section may help you get a closer idea of which type is the right one for your needs.
Whirlpool Walk In Tubs
Can you suppose what is the best feature of this type of a walk in tub?
It comes with regular jets that massage your body and provide instant pain relief.
Walk in bathtubs with massage jets for seniors circulate water, then suck it in and push it out.
The deep massaging action has a positive effect on sore muscles, relaxing the whole body.
It feels like you have just gone out from massage therapy!
Whirlpool walk in tubs require regular maintenance and cleaning sessions if you expect it to work optimally.
Yet, this won’t take much of your time.
Soaking Walk In Tubs
If you miss the pleasure of a nice and long soak in your regular bathtub, a soaking walk in tub will come as the best alternative here.
No matter of the reason why you are avoiding your regular bathtub, a soaking tub will bring back the good, old feeling of water embracing and caressing your whole body.
Aerated Walk In Tubs
Walk in bathtubs with massage jets for seniors got in the public eye not so long ago, and it seems seniors find them very useful.
Similarly to the whirlpool walk in tubs, aerated walk in tub will give you a nice massage, but in a slightly different way.
Aerated tub draws water from an outside source and pumps the air through the jets, which results in a million-bubbles-massage.
The air bubbles being sprouted at high velocity ensure you get a truly immersive and relaxing experience.
Air and Whirlpool Walk In Tubs
If you feel like you would like a little bit of everything – both bubbles and water jets, the air and whirlpool walk in tub will give you a bathing experience like no other.
What is even better – you can use both features at the same time!
Bariatric Walk In Tubs
A regular walk in tubs come with a regular door.
Yet, people weighing more than 300 pounds can’t fit into a regular tub, which is why the bariatric type of a tub imposes as the right solution.
Bariatric tubs are sturdy, with a large seat, and wider door opening.
Speaking of other safety features, the best bariatric walk in tubs have multiple grab bars, slip-resistant floors, and low steps.
Best Walk in Bathtub : Benefits and Drawbacks
Different models and configurations of walk in tubs on the market make them more or less convenient for elderly and people with disabilities.
The main purpose of a walk in tub is to increase the safety of a bather.
If in doubt, we will explain the biggest benefits and drawbacks of walk in bathtubs, so you can get the idea of how does it look like when using one in your bathroom.
Benefits
- Safety Features
We can’t stress the fact how safe walk in tubs are!
Almost all of the products on the market revolves are designed with falls and injuries prevention and safety in mind.
We will talk in depth about safety features in the next section, but mention a few here:
- Built-in handrails,
- Contoured seating,
- Low entry, etc.
The best walk in tubs are ADA compliant, just like the Empava walk in tub.
Some tubs even come with temperature valves and scald prevention valves that prevent burns.
- Water depth
Stepping into a regular tub is a risky venture if you are not fully stable.
On the other hand, a walk in tub lower entry makes it possible to soak into water on a deeper level, without exposing yourself to the risk of slipping over or out of the tub.
Not only walk in tubs are seated securely, but you can enjoy almost 4 feet of water depth in comparison to maximum 14 inches regular bathtubs provide.
- Reducing pains and aches
Hydrotherapy is multiple useful with seniors and people with disabilities, as it speeds the healing process, including ulcers and burns as the most common injuries.
Warm water can also alleviate pain and help patient deal with different types of medical conditions, such as arthritis.
Nowadays, walk in tubs come with built-in jets.
You can have the experience outdoor hot tubs offer in your bathroom, and use different massage features and speeds to relax muscles.
- Cost-effectiveness
A walk in tub offers a myriad of extra features in comparison to a single, regular tub.
Instead of spending money on bathtub accessories, such as non-slip flooring, anti-scald valves, or handrails, a walk in tub combines all these features into one.
On the other hand, it saves your time, as there is no additional remodeling required.
Even though you would have to make a slightly costlier investment right away, a walk in tub pays off long-term.
Drawbacks
- Time to fill and drain
Regular tubs are compact and won’t make you sit inside while the water is filling up or draining.
On the other hand, a walk in tub comes with a side door, making it impossible to open in when in use.
This can give you chills and cause a common cold if your immunity is weak.
If you don’t have a tub with Dual Drain Technology, such as Ella’s Bubbles walk in tub that empties in 80 seconds, you would spend a considerable amount of time in there, waiting for the water to drain.
- Temperature
When filling your walk in tub, you have to expose your body to temperature changes until you set it to optimal.
When using a regular bathtub, you are soaking your body directly into desired water temperature.
Because of this, make sure to take walk in tubs with scald prevention valve into consideration if your skin is sensitive to temperature changes.
- Installation costs
Just like we mentioned in the previous section, if you need help of a professional plumber with the installation, that will cost you money.
Complex bathtubs require complex installation, which may get you up to $10,000 from the pocket.
We had this in mind when writing our best walk in tubs reviews, so you can be carefree regarding this issue when purchasing any of the models from the above list.
Now that you know all the benefits and drawbacks of a walk in tub, you can make a comparison and pick a side.
However, knowing we listed only the best products that meet the utmost safety and comfort standards, with the modern technologies and extra features, that won’t break the bank, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages on all levels.
Walk In Tub or Walk In Shower?
For seniors losing mobility or people with disabilities and mobility issues, there are two choices – a walk in tub or walk-in shower.
Some people prefer baths, other showers, but when it comes to limited mobility, taking a shower may be a tricky option, especially when having in mind extended time spent standing.
If you ask us, a walk in tub is the best option for any type of limited mobility, but there are few things you should have in mind when making a decision.
How large your bathroom is?
When remodeling your bathroom, besides having your or your beloved one’s needs in mind, you should have the spare space in your bathroom in mind.
Walk in showers save about 12% of space on average, which may seem as the right option if you have a small bathroom.
Yet, if there is some extra space in there, a walk in tub would be a way better option, as with years, seniors lose even more mobility and need some extra support.
Why would you invest your money twice in two remodeling projects, when you can save up a nice sum?
Who would be using the bathroom?
Living with your children and grandchildren would make a big difference, as younger population prefers walk in shower.
On the other hand, if you are living alone, with your spouse, or you are remodeling your parent’s bathroom but live in your own space, a walk in tub is a preferable option.
Do you care about energy efficiency?
Being tight on a budget means you are counting every cent.
If so, a walk in shower would save you up about 10 gallons of water per use.
Walk in showers spend about 20 gallons, while walk in tubs use about 30 gallons per bath.
Yet, if you still prefer the spa-like experience walk in tubs enable, go for it!
Having all this in mind, if your final decision is to purchase a walk in tub, you should know which features are the most important one for seniors and people with disabilities.
After all, you want to make a good investment that will serve you for many years to come.
Down below, read more on the most important walk in tub features.
Pay Attention to These Walk In Tub Features
If you feel overwhelmed by the information we placed upon our top 3 walk in tubs, we are going to break down some of the most important features when making a choice.
This way, you will find it easier to determine which one is the tub for your needs.
- The door
While reading our guide for best walk in bathtub, you certainly noticed we paid special attention to the door of each product.
Placement and function of the door are two of the critical spots of many walk in tubs.
Thus, we highly recommend you to go for a bathtub with a watertight door (the American Standard tub).
- The seat
Walk in tubs are designed with the utmost safety in mind, but high-quality bathtubs provide comfort with every use as well.
A contoured or integrated seat makes bath time enjoyable insofar you would easily forget about the clock and stay in for hours.
- Water capacity
When purchasing for a walk in bathtub, you want to have water capacity and available space of the product in mind.
Well, you certainly want a tub to soak in completely and not to have your shoulders out of the water.
If you want to create a spa-like environment in your bathroom, we highly recommend you to check on water capacity, the size, and the depth of different walk in tubs.
- Extra features
Speaking of extra features, some walk in tubs can provide you with an impressive experience.
For instance, massaging jets and bubble technology are known for therapeutic benefits.
A quick-release drain is another extra feature to have in mind, as you don’t want a tub that clogs easily or requires additional maintenance.
Safety features like built-in grab bars and anti-slip floor are a must when picking your walk in tub, especially if you or your beloved one have limited mobility and lack balance.
Summary
A walk in bathtub ensures safety, comfort, and increases your independence while taking a bath.
With numerous innovative features, present-day walk in tubs have in mind, it was never easier to bring in the spa-like atmosphere in your home.
We truly hope our walk in tub reviews brought you closer to making a decision to improve the quality of life and regain independence while in the bathroom with one of the best walk in tubs.
Our Choice
After carefully considering the most important features and comfort of our top 3 walk in tubs, we have come to a conclusion.
Best walk in bathtub is : The Outward Opening Walk In Whirlpool Walk In Tub by American Standard carries the day by all criteria.
It provides customers with high-quality, endless value, and meets the needs of any senior and people with disabilities or limited mobility.
The watertight outward door, 6 water jets, contoured seat, textured anti-slip floor, and easy installation with no plumbing required made the American Standard walk in tub stand out from the competition. It is indeed a bit costlier than the other two walk in tubs from our list, but having all those safety and comfort features in mind it provides, it is worth every cent.
Which one is your favorite walk in bathtub? Please share with us below!
