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If you’ve fallen in the past, have difficulty getting in and out of a bathtub, or are concerned about your safety while bathing, you may want to consider investing in a walk-in bathtub as part of a comprehensive home falls prevention plan. With built-in safety features and a lower threshold to step over than traditional bathtubs, walk-in tubs can lower your risk of falls and injuries in the bathroom. In fact, many walk-in tubs are now compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Safe Walk In Showers
But how do you choose the best walk-in tub from all the choices available? There are soaker tubs (typically deeper with more room and no jets), whirlpool tubs (tubs with air or water jets), and various safety features to consider. Our Reviews Team has conducted in-depth research to find the best walk-in bathtubs on the market. We’ve compiled the results from our hands-on testing, analysis of customer reviews, and research on pricing and features to help you make an informed decision.
The Ella Ultimate Walk-In Tub, manufactured and sold by the Chicago-based Ella’s Bubbles company, comes with many features considered extras on other models. This is why we chose the Ella Ultimate as the best walk-in tub with the “Most Features for the Money.”
For example, while most walk-in tub companies charge more for features like hydrotherapy (water massage), air jet massage, and dual drains (which empty the tub more quickly), all of these are standard with Ella walk-in tubs. Many people find water and air massage to be great for sore muscles and joints, and quick drain systems add to the convenience of using a walk-in bathtub.
The Ella Ultimate is also one of the more modern models on the market, with a brushed stainless steel door and chrome fixtures. In addition to the wide range of features, its size will also be attractive to many customers.
At 60 inches long, the Ella Ultimate will fit the space of a standard existing bathtub. That extra length is also nice for taller people and those who want to stretch their legs out in the tub. Cleaning is easy with this brand, as the water jets create cleaning ozone bubbles every time the tub is used, and the air jets automatically pump extra water out after each bath.
The Ella company states that its gravity-driven dual drain technology allows the tub to drain in about 80 seconds, meaning users don’t have to wait long to exit the tub. You can also add the following optional features:
You can reach Ella’s customer service department in the following ways:
Ella’s Bubbles also provides free technical support for as long as you own the tub.
If you buy your walk-in tub directly from Ella, you can pay in the following ways:
Ella also offers financing through PayPal, Klarna, and Hearth, independent lenders that have variable interest rates depending on how quickly you pay off your purchase. Third-party retailers may offer other payment and financing options as well.
While this walk-in tub is pricier than many other models in our lineup, a variety of therapeutic benefits come standard with the Ella Ultimate. If you experience muscle soreness or fatigue, or other issues that are alleviated by massage, this model could be an excellent option.
The Kohler Walk-In Tub With Shower Package allows you and other family members to use the walk-in bathtub as a shower with added safety features. The shower package adds a wall-mounted shower head and clear divider to the quality walk-in tubs Kohler is known for, making it our top pick for “Best Walk-In Tub and Shower Combo.”
The Kohler brand sits at the upper end of the price range for walk-in tubs due to its high level of customization. It also offers more standard features than many other brands, including 10 water jets, 17 air jets, a quick drain system, and heated backrest.
A Kohler representative explained to our Reviews Team that you can adjust the intensity of the water jets. This is a feature that most brands don’t offer, and it’s nice to have because some people find that the massage provided by water jets (also known as hydrotherapy) can be a bit too forceful.
You can also choose from the following options when selecting your shower package:
Another standout feature of the Kohler walk-in tub is the low threshold. At only three inches, it’s the lowest threshold height on the market, even compared to the wheelchair-accessible bathtubs offered by other brands.
While the company’s website claims that its walk-in tub has a wide seat and one of the widest doors on the market, our Reviews Team found otherwise. The 21.5-inch-wide seat and 17.25-inch-wide door are actually more narrow than several other brands, including the American Standard and Ella’s Bubbles models in this review.
Our Reviews Team did like the fact that Kohler’s warranty is among the best in the industry. Many brands offer a lifetime warranty on the tub shell but only 5–10 years on parts. Kohler covers all parts for as long as you own the bathtub, with the caveat that it must be installed by a Kohler-certified installer.
You can reach the Kohler customer service department in the following ways:
Payment options will vary based on which Kohler dealer you purchase your walk-in tub from, but most accept the following forms of payment:
Financing is also offered through the third-party lender GreenSky, which provides the option of no payments for 18 months if your walk-in tub is purchased through a participating authorized Kohler dealer.
One potential drawback of this brand is that Kohler controls the entire process, from shopping to installation. Only authorized Kohler dealers can install its walk-in tubs, so if you want someone else to install your tub, this won’t be the best choice for you.
But if your budget allows for a higher-priced tub and you don’t mind going through Kohler for each step of the process, this is a well-known brand with a good reputation. The convenience of a walk-in bathtub and shower in one unit may be just what you need to age in place and cater to the needs of everyone in your household.
Read more in our full Kohler walk-in tubs review.
The Ariel Walkin 3052 Soaker is a basic model that doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, but it’s priced several thousand dollars less than most other brands, making it our top pick for “Most Affordable Walk-In Tub.”
It has a high-gloss triple gelcoat for durability, a built-in 23-inch seat, a anti-slip floor, and comes standard with a faucet plus a hand-held showerhead. You can choose between two configurations, a left drain with a door that opens to the right, or a right drain with a door that opens to the left.
Ariel walk-in tubs are available through the manufacturer or through retailers like Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Wayfair. If you’re interested in this model, it’s worth checking out all possible sellers to find the best price. Ariel doesn’t offer installation with its products, so whether you order from the company or a third-party retailer, you will need to find your own installer. Ariel does offer four-to-seven-day free shipping within the continental U.S., and some retailers offer free shipping as well.
While Ariel does not have a showroom to try out one of its models in-person before ordering, the company does offer a 90-day return policy. If the tub arrives at your home and you aren’t happy with it, you can return it—although you will have to pay shipping costs, which could be pricey for an item this big.
But keep in mind home improvement stores such as Lowe’s and Home Depot carry Ariel walk-in tubs, and you may be able to find a location that has a floor model to look at (and possible sit in) before ordering.
If purchasing your Ariel tub through the manufacturer’s website, you can reach the customer service department in the following ways:
A member of our Reviews Team member called Ariel and was greeted promptly by a representative, who was helpful in answering our questions.
Payment options will vary based on retailer, but if you buy your walk-in tub directly from Ariel, you can pay by credit card or PayPal. Third-party retailers may offer other payment and financing options as well.
If you need the added safety a walk-in tub provides but not a lot of extra features, the Ariel Walkin 3052 Soaker may be just what you’re looking for.
The American Standard Gelcoat Entry Series 52 x 30 with Soaker System is an affordably priced model that’s two inches taller than most other walk-in soaker tubs, allowing users to have a deep soak in the bath. This made it our pick for “Best Soaker Walk-In Tub.” Deep soaking tubs can help save space in the bathroom since they’re taller while also allowing the bather to be comfortably submerged in an upright position.
Because it’s a bit smaller than some other models, it uses less water. American Standard walk-in tubs come with a quick drain system that empties the tub in less than two minutes.
American Standard walk-in tubs are not available directly from the manufacturer, but they are widely available through home improvement stores and online retailers such as Amazon and Wayfair. American Standard provides a store locator on its website to help you find retailers and showrooms in your area.
This company is a trusted name in home appliances, with more than 140 years in the business. From about 1,100 customer reviews, the company has a star rating of 4.5 out of 5 on the Consumer Affairs website and a 4.3 out of 5 star rating on TrustPilot, indicating high customer satisfaction.
You can reach American Standard’s customer service department in the following ways:
Payment and financing options will vary based on retailer.
American Standard is a trusted brand in household fixtures, and because this company sells its walk-in tubs through retailers across the country, there is a good chance you can see one in person before purchasing. This, combined with affordability and a solid warranty, makes American Standard a good option for anyone wanting a soaker walk-in tub.
Read our full American Standard walk-in tub review.
The Ella Transfer walk-in tub includes an outward swinging door measuring 33–36 inches wide, depending on the model. That’s about twice as wide as most other brands: the Ariel Walkin 3052 Soaker, for instance, has an 18-inch-wide door. With the extra-wide door and a low 4.5-inch threshold, the Ella Transfer makes it easier for someone in a wheelchair to get in and out of the tub, giving it the title “Best Wheelchair-Accessible Tub.”
While the Ella Transfer doesn’t come standard with all of the features included in the Ultimate, you have a variety of packages and tub sizes to choose from. In addition to selecting the tub dimensions you want, you can also add the following options:
All Ella Transfer tubs come standard with digital controls and provide the same self-cleaning technology as the Ella Ultimate.
You can reach Ella’s customer service department in the following ways:
Ella’s Bubbles also provides free technical support for as long as you own the tub.
If you buy your walk-in tub directly from Ella, you can pay in the following ways:
Ella also offers financing through PayPal, Klarna, and Hearth, independent lenders that have variable interest rates depending on how quickly you pay off your purchase. Third-party retailers may offer other payment and financing options as well.
For people in a wheelchair who need the ease an outward swinging door can provide, the Ella Transfer is a great option with a variety of sizes, features, and prices to choose from.
The AmeriGlide Sanctuary is the most compact walk-in tub we found, so we chose it as the “Best for Small Spaces.” It’s also unique in that you can install it in the middle of a bathroom if you’d like. This can be a good option for people who have caregivers who need to reach into the tub from all sides.
Because this tub is compact, the seat (14.5 inches wide) is not as wide as that of most other walk-in tubs. Compared to many models with seats measuring at least 21 inches wide, losing 6.5 inches of width could result in a seat that’s too small for many people.
One of our Reviews Team members who is 5 feet, 5 inches tall sat in a walk-in tub with a 23 inch-wide seat and found it comfortable, but felt the 14.5 inch-wide seat in the Sanctuary 2646 might be too confining. If you’re looking at this model, it’s worth marking the measurements on a chair to see if it would be large enough for you. AmeriGlide also makes other walk-in tubs with wider seats.
You can add the following options to the AmeriGlide Sanctuary 2646:
The fast drain system will empty the tub in less than one minute. Another charge associated with this model is a shipping fee of $385.
If purchasing your AmeriGlide tub through the manufacturer’s website, you can reach the customer service department in the following ways:
When our Reviews Team called AmeriGlide’s customer service department, a representative came on the line right away. She was very helpful and friendly, answering all of our questions knowledgeably and even measuring a tub in the warehouse to obtain a measurement we couldn’t find online. She also gave us her email address in case we had any other questions. Overall, we were very satisfied with our customer service experience.
Payment options will vary based on retailer, but if you buy your walk-in tub directly from AmeriGlide, you can pay in the following ways:
Financing is also offered through PayPal and the third-party lender Bread. Third-party retailers may offer other payment and financing options as well.
For people in an apartment, condominium, or a house with small bathrooms, the AmeriGlide Sanctuary could be a great fit. But renters should check with their landlords before making any changes. And keep in mind the seat is smaller than other walk-in tubs, so it may be too confining.
Water/air jets, bidet jets, colored LED lights, foot massage
Two grab bars, slip-resistant flooring
Limited lifetime on parts, non-transferable
Kohler Walk-In Tub With Shower Package
Hand-held shower, 10 water jets, 17 air jets
Limited lifetime on all bath components
American Standard Gelcoat Entry Series
Quick drain system, hand-held shower
Two grab bars, slip-resistant flooring
Lifetime warranty (door seal), 10 years (tub shell), 5 years (all other parts)
Water/air jets, bidet jets, colored LED lights, foot massage
Two grab bars, slip-resistant flooring
Limited lifetime on parts, non-transferable
Lifetime warranty (door seal), 10 years (tub), 5 years (pump and motor), 1 year (faucet)
Walk-in tubs provide a safe and convenient way for people with mobility, balance, or strength issues to bathe. When shopping for the best walk-in tub, keep in mind safety should be your primary concern.
Nancy Mitchell , RN, is a senior care nurse who explained that not all walk-in tubs are created equal. “The major safety concerns relate to the height of the step threshold, number and placement of mobility bars, and overall ease of operation (how easy it is to reach the console, change settings, etc.),” said Mitchell.
These safety concerns should be considered when choosing a tub that best fits your needs. For some people, a roll-in shower without a threshold may be a more appropriate option. A roll-in shower requires a bathroom remodel, yet may be comparable in price to a walk-in tub plus the installation. An occupational therapist can assess your needs and help determine what is best for you.
Doors that open outward give you more room inside to sit down before closing the door, but they also require extra room outside the tub to accommodate opening the door. While inward swinging doors give you less room inside the tub to close the door and sit down, they require no room outside to open and carry a lower risk of leaking, because the water pressure from inside the bathtub helps keep the door closed.
Walk-in tubs generally use more water than standard bathtubs. About 50 to 80 gallons is a common volume for a walk-in tub, compared to 30 to 60 gallons for a standard tub. It’s important to know whether your hot water heater can supply enough hot water for a bath. In general, standard-sized walk-in tubs require at least a 50-gallon water heater, while larger-sized tubs (such as models for patients with obesity or couples) will need a 75-gallon water heater. Some walk-in bathtubs come with an in-line heater to help supply hot water as well.
Because the threshold of a walk-in tub is so low, users must get into the tub and then fill it up, which can take 10–15 minutes for the largest models. Filling time also depends on your home’s water pressure. You may also wish to adjust the water temperature before filling up the tub so you don’t have to wait for the water to reach your desired temperature. While the filling time isn’t a problem for most people, waiting in the tub while it drains may be a different story.
People who are mobile and have good balance can begin drying off as the tub is draining, but people with mobility issues are at risk of getting chilled while they wait. Those customers may want to invest in a tub with a double drain or a fast-draining system (such as American Standard) to speed up the wait time.
There are four main types of walk-in tubs:
Walk-in bathtubs can seem like complicated appliances to purchase if you’re new to them. Manufacturers offer a wide range of options, styles, and price points. But we’ve simplified the process by dividing the factors into categories and explaining each one.
The cost of walk-in tubs varies quite a bit depending on size and features. The models chosen by our Reviews Team are some of the most affordable walk-in bathtubs on the market, but installation will add to the cost of your new walk-in tub.
The cost of installation can vary as well and is affected by how much work, if any, needs to be done on the existing plumbing and electrical system, as well as any other construction needed for installation of the new tub.
Measure the space of your current tub or shower (or wherever you’re planning to install the new walk-in tub). When shopping, have these measurements handy so you can choose a walk-in bathtub that’s the same size. If it’s smaller, that’s usually fine too—many come with an extender kit to fill in any remaining gaps at the end or on one side.
Most walk-in tubs are about 40 inches high, compared to the standard 20-inch height of most standard bathtubs. This extra height accommodates the bench and allows the bather to be submerged in water.
It’s important to know what size of seat you will need to bathe safely and comfortably. A member of our Reviews Team (see figure 1 below) sat in a few different models with seats that measured 23 inches wide by 15 inches deep, which is standard for many walk-in tubs. While she found those seats to be adequately sized for her 5-foot 5-inch frame, someone taller and/or larger would likely have felt cramped.
Walk-in tubs come in all different sizes, including those for couples and larger people. If you’re concerned about having enough room on the seat, look around to find a model that’s big enough for your comfort.
You also don’t want a seat that isn’t deep enough. This could be a matter not only of convenience but also safety; a shallow seat may cause you to slip off when turning around while bathing or reaching for something behind you, for instance.
In addition to the walk-in tub’s dimensions, check to see which side the drain is on. You’ll want to make sure it’s on the same side as your current tub’s drain to avoid extra plumbing costs during installation.
The hallmark of a walk-in tub is that it has a much lower threshold to step over than a standard bathtub. But not all walk-in thresholds are equal. Some are taller than others (typically between three and seven inches), which the models above demonstrate, and some are shorter to allow for easier access for wheelchair users to transfer.
Most walk-in tubs on the market come with the following standard safety features:
Some walk-in tubs also offer overheating protection (also known as anti-scald valves). As an added safety measure, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends setting the maximum temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent burns. [1] Consumer Product Safety Commission. Avoiding Tap Water Scalds. Found on the internet at https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5098-Tap-Water-Scalds.pdf
The design and safety features of walk-in tubs can also help caregivers who may need to bathe older adults or people with a disability. A walk-in tub makes it easier for caregivers to move around in the bathroom without getting wet, and reach all angles of the bathtub to help someone bathe.
In addition to the standard features above that help ensure your safety while bathing, many walk-in tub makers offer some or all of the following special features.
Some models offer a hand-held showerhead attachment. This can make it easier to rinse your back and other hard-to-reach areas.
Some models include a cushioned headrest, which can provide comfort and support while you relax in the bath.
Some tubs come with two drains and/or a pump that quickly empties the tub after your bath. This is especially nice for people who are not able to dry off while waiting for the tub to drain.
Certain brands such as American Standard and Ella’s Bubbles offer quick draining technology as a standard feature, but other brands consider it an upgrade.
Also called water massage, hydro massage, and whirlpool, some walk-in tubs include jets that force water from the side of the tub into the sitting area, providing relaxation for sore or tense muscles. Keep in mind water massage is stronger than air massage, and it may be too strong for some people’s enjoyment.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns whirlpools can carry a higher risk of bacteria in the water compared to standard tubs. [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Water use in hydrotherapy tanks. Found on the internet at https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/other/medical/hydrotherapy.html For this reason, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using a whirlpool or hot tub of any kind if you have an open wound, burn, infection, or a compromised immune system.
Air jets work the same way as water jets, but instead of water coming through, air is forced through the jets into the tub. This gives more of a gentle, bubbling feeling to the bath rather than the strong massage of water jets.
Studies show that aromatherapy, or treatment with essential oils, can help boost mood, relieve anxiety, and lessen pain. [3] Ho SSM, et al. Experiences of aromatherapy massage among adult female cancer patients: A qualitative study. Found on the internet at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28252835/ Certain walk-in bathtub brands, such as Ella’s Bubbles and American Standard, offer the option of infusing the water with essential oils, potentially making your bath even more relaxing.
Also known as chromotherapy, color therapy is a centuries-old method of treating the mind and body through colored lights. While studies vary in validity and reliability, research has shown that color therapy can be beneficial for a variety of illnesses, from high blood pressure to wound healing. [4] Azeemi STY, et al. The mechanistic basis of chromotherapy: Current knowledge and future perspectives. Found on the internet at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096522991930915X?via%3Dihub
Some manufacturers offer walk-in tubs with an array of changing light colors. Whether they’re truly beneficial or not, many people enjoy relaxing in a colorful bath.
This is an important factor, especially if you buy a large walk-in tub or have problems with mobility and balance. Walk-in tubs are harder to clean than standard tubs or showers due to their larger size and depth compared to standard tubs.
If you have a caregiver or housekeeper who can clean the tub, that is a definite plus. Certain tubs are also self-cleaning, which means the jets spray a cleaner into the tub after each use. In the case of Ella’s Bubbles walk-in tubs, the ozone created during use and automatic emptying of the jets after use also helps clean the inside of the tub.
For larger people or those in wheelchairs, it’s important to pay close attention to the size of the seat and the width of the door on any tub you’re interested in.
First, decide what size seat you will feel comfortable sitting on to bathe without bumping the sides of the tub. It’s often not possible to try a tub out before purchasing it, but you can use the seat measurements from a manufacturer’s website or brochure and compare them to a chair or recliner you often use at home.
Practice reaching behind your back and turning in the seat to make sure you can move around without losing your balance. If you’re concerned about having enough room in the tub, it’s worth the time and effort to make sure you’re happy with the size offered before ordering one. Ending up with a seat that’s too narrow or not deep enough to sit on safely will affect your experience (and possibly your safety) while using a walk-in tub.
Next, check out the door. Look at the width to make sure you can get in and out easily. For people in wheelchairs, walk-in tub manufacturers offer accessible tubs with wide doors that swing out to allow easy transfer onto the tub seat.
It’s a good idea to have an occupational or physical therapist, or a nurse experienced in older adult care conduct a home safety evaluation before purchasing a walk-in tub with an outward-swinging door. They can evaluate your bathroom space, spot any hazards that need to be addressed when installing the tub, and talk you through getting in and out of the tub. You can usually set up an evaluation by asking your doctor for a prescription, which will ensure that insurance or Medicare pays for it.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to try out most walk-in tubs before ordering them. While some box stores do have a few models on their floor, most of the options are only available to look at online. Bath remodeling companies and walk-in tub manufacturers have even fewer choices to see in-person before buying.
Instead, they send a representative to your home to measure your bathroom space and look through models with you online. You make your choices on the model and features you want, and complete the ordering process with the representative. This can feel like a high-pressure sale for some people, although it does give you the chance to ask questions and speak to someone knowledgeable about that brand.
Buying a walk-in bathtub from a home improvement store can give you some of the best return options, as most of the large chains have store-wide return policies on all of their items. For instance, Home Depot offers standard 90-day returns on its walk-in tubs.
Manufacturers’ return policies vary, though. While some manufacturers such as Ariel provide a 90-day return policy similar to most home improvement stores, others, like AmeriGlide, do not accept any returns on their walk-in bathtubs.
American Standard and Ella’s Bubbles fall in the middle, both accepting returns within 30 days. Ella’s Bubbles charges a 25% restocking fee, though, which could be up to $2,000, depending on the cost of the tub.
One company the Reviews Team called (but didn’t include in this review) would not give a definite answer on returns, saying it would depend on the circumstances and how much the tub had been customized.
It’s important to see the return policy in writing before ordering, so you know what recourse you have if the tub arrives damaged or you simply don’t like it once you see it in person. For example, the seat may not be comfortable, or it may be hard to reach the faucet and controls while seated in the tub. One of our Reviews Team members was surprised at how much pressure it took to hold the door closed while latching the handle on several walk-in tub models.
Whatever the case, your new walk-in tub needs to be easy for you to use. After all, convenience is one of the major reasons many people buy a walk-in tub in the first place. If it’s not easy to use, it won’t be convenient for you to take a bath in.
Our Reviews Team recommends buying a walk-in bathtub from a company with a return window. This will give you the chance to sit in the tub, try out the door and controls, and make sure the grab bars are conveniently placed for you, all before installing it.
If it doesn’t seem like a good fit, you can exchange the tub for a different model. While returning an item this large is a hassle, it’s far better to get the right model than to spend thousands of dollars on a walk-in tub that doesn’t meet your needs.
Most manufacturers provide a lifetime warranty on the door seal. This is critical because without a secure, waterproof seal, you won’t be able to use your walk-in tub. On other parts such as the jets, controls, and tub shell, 5-10 years of warranty coverage is standard.
Many tubs on the market have ADA-compliant features, which means they adhere to specific standards that improve accessibility for all users. These standards include a seat, non-slip floors, and a hand-held showerhead. ADA-complaint seats must measure between 17–19 inches tall and 15 inches deep with a grab bar near by to help you get in and out of the tub. While ADA-compliance isn’t always necessary in the home, it helps you understand which safety and accessibility features are helpful when shopping for a walk-in tub.
Most walk-in bathtubs cost between $5,000 and $20,000 for the tub and installation. They are a significant investment, often costing more than a standard tub or shower.
Keep in mind that walk-in tubs are seen as a home upgrade and can add value to your house. If and when you decide to sell your home, having a bathroom with a walk-in bathtub and other safety features can be an attractive selling point. With an ever-growing number of people wanting to age in place, you can see this as a smart investment in your home.
The final cost of a walk-in tub breaks down into two parts: the tub itself and the installation. While the price of most walk-in bathtubs is around $2,000 to $10,000, installation can add another $1,000 to $10,000 depending on a number of factors, such as the amount of construction needed, bathroom layout, and the existing plumbing and electrical configuration.
“Even the most basic conversion from traditional tub to walk-in tub will require a competent, experienced plumbing professional, as well as decorators/contractors to finish the job,” said senior care nurse Nancy Mitchell, RN.
Purchasing a walk-in tub and paying for its installation represents a significant investment. Although the cost of walk-in tubs can be steep, it’s a necessary expense in some cases to ensure your safety or that of a loved one while bathing.
The good news is, with a little research and creativity, you can save money when buying a walk-in tub. Read on to see your options.
If you have a plumber or other handyman in your network of family and friends, you may be able to save thousands on installation fees by purchasing a walk-in tub from a home improvement store or an online retailer such as Wayfair or Amazon. These companies sell only the tub and don’t usually include installation.
Keep in mind, though, that whoever installs your new tub should have experience with both plumbing and remodeling to do the job right. You don’t want problems with leakage or parts failure due to faulty installation. But if you trust their expertise and skills, this can be a great cost-saving measure.
Making use of the financing plans some walk-in tub manufacturers offer is another way to save money. In June 2022, for example, American Standard offered $1,500 off plus no interest or payments for 12 months.
Don’t forget to search for good deals. As with most retail products, holiday sales are common. If you know you’ll be investing in a walk-in tub soon, wait until a week before the next big holiday and start watching the websites and store ads for the brand you’re interested in.
Chances are, you’ll be able to get money off at these times. For instance, Ariel was offering 20% off all walk-in tub models the week of July 4.
Some companies (especially big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s) will match the price of any competitor for the same tub. This means if you find the exact tub with the same measurements and features at another retailer (including the manufacturer), you can see if a store near you will match that price.
If you find a retailer offering free shipping or less expensive installation and will also match the price of a competitor, this can be a great cost-saving measure.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers Rural Repair and Rehabilitation grants and loans to help low-income people who don’t qualify for other financing to modernize and upgrade their homes, including the addition of walk-in tubs. You can visit their website to find out more details and fill out an application.
Programs such as Rebuilding Together, Habitat for Humanity, and other local programs are available in many parts of the country that help low-income older adults and persons with disabilities purchase and install walk-in tubs.
Contact your local area agency on aging or Center for Independent Living to learn what’s available in your community.
If you simply cannot afford a walk-in tub but need the convenience and safety of a low threshold, you can buy a conversion kit for your existing bathtub. Available from AmeriGlide and home improvement stores for $230 to $600, conversion kits involve cutting an opening in the side of your existing bathtub and installing a door with a waterproof seal. Your tub will then function very similarly to a walk-in tub, minus the raised seat and extra features.
Not only is the cost of a conversion kit far cheaper than a walk-in tub, you’ll pay much less in installation because there will be no removal of the old tub or adjustments to plumbing and electrical lines. You can also have extra grab bars and handles installed at the same time for added safety.
If you need a built-in seat, jets, fast draining, or other extra features, this may not be your best bet. But if cost is your primary concern, a conversion kit could be just what you’re looking for.
Unfortunately, Medicare will not cover the expense of walk-in bathtubs because they are not considered durable medical equipment.
In some states, Medicaid will help pay for the cost of a walk-in tub under certain circumstances. This can include situations in which someone is transitioning from a nursing facility to their own home and certain modifications are medically necessary.
If you’re enrolled in Medicaid, check with your state’s Medicaid program to see if it can provide coverage for your walk-in tub. [5] Medicaid.gov. Medicaid and CHIP How-To Information. Found on the internet at https://www.medicaid.gov/about-us/beneficiary-resources/index.html#when2contactstate
Anyone who is concerned about their safety in the bathroom, especially those at risk of falling or losing their balance, could benefit from a walk-in bathtub. A walk-in tub is one of the safety features that may allow you or a loved one to continue living at home even when extra care and precautions are needed.
In a study of adults over age 65 , researchers found more people fell in the bathroom than in any other room of their home. Bathroom falls were also more than twice as likely to cause injuries than falls in other rooms. [6] Stevens JA, et al. Circumstances and outcomes of falls among high risk community-dwelling older adults. Found on the internet at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700929/#__ffn_sectitle And bathrooms are the third most common room where serious falls happen. [7] Moreland BL, et al. A Descriptive Analysis of Location of Older Adult Falls That Resulted in Emergency Department Visits in the United States, 2015. Found on the internet at https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1559827620942187 It’s a smart idea to have a medical alert system in the bathroom for safety in case of a fall or other emergency.
Check out NCOA’s FallsFree CheckUp tool to see if you’re at increased risk of falling.
These tubs are also appropriate for certain people who use wheelchairs as some types allow for easier and safer transfer from a wheelchair to the seat in the tub compared to a traditional tub.
In addition to the added safety a walk-in tub provides, many people enjoy the convenience of stepping over a low threshold and sitting on a secure, comfortable seat while bathing.
Our Reviews Team recommends products and services we believe provide value in the lives of our readers. We’ve spent more than 400 hours conducting in-depth research on the best walk-in tubs to give you the most accurate review. To make these selections, we:
Based on independent research and consulting with geriatric care experts, our Reviews Team has determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a walk-in tub:
We had all of our selections medically reviewed by an expert in the field to ensure each brand and model is appropriate for our readers’ needs.
The walk-in tub market is filled with options covering a wide range of prices, sizes, and features. After researching the best walk-in tub brands, our Reviews Team likes the features of the Ella Ultimate walk-in tub sold by Ella’s Bubbles , a company with an excellent reputation. But it’s important to think about your budget and both your present and future needs when deciding on the best walk-in bathtub for you.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
It costs $2,500–$8,000 to install a walk-in tub, according to Kohler. The final cost will vary depending on several factors, such as the size of your walk-in tub, any plumbing or electrical upgrades you need to make, your water heater capacity, and removal of the old tub.
There are four main types of walk-in tubs:
Some of the best walk-in tubs on the market include the Ella Ultimate Walk-In Tub, which we named “Best for the Money,” the Kohler Walk-In Tub With Shower Package, which we named “Best Shower and Tub Combo,” and the Ariel Walkin 3052 Soaker, which we named “Most Affordable.”
Walk-in bathtubs are a safer option than traditional bathtubs because they have a lower threshold that helps minimize falls when entering the bathtub, and a built-in seat, which helps prevent slipping when inside the bathtub.
The best walk-in tubs can cost from $2,000–$20,000, depending on various factors such as tub size, any electrical or plumbing work needed, and installation cost.
For people at risk of falling or with compromised balance and strength, walk-in tubs can be not only a convenience but a necessity, making them well worth the expense.
While walk-in bathtubs are a several-thousand-dollar investment, there are reasonably priced options available. Looking for sales, taking advantage of government grants, and using financing when necessary are all ways to help pay for a walk-in tub.
Unfortunately, insurance does not cover the cost of walk-in tubs in most cases.
Walk-in tubs are constructed of fiberglass with a gelcoat or acrylic topcoat for a smooth finish and durability.
Yes, walk-in tubs do come with some type of warranty. Check with your manufacturer and the store you buy the walk-in tub from to see how long the warranty lasts, what it covers, and whether it can be transferred to a new homeowner if you were to sell your home.
Most walk-in tubs hold 50–80 gallons, compared to 30–60 gallons for a standard tub.
Walk-in tubs typically use more water than standard bathtubs, and you may need a large water heater to make sure you don’t run out of hot water before the tub is full. Check with the manufacturer to see what size water heater they recommend for the model you’re interested in.
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