Given data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that more than one-third of American adults experience at least one fall annually, resulting in around 800,000 hospital admissions.
To prevent these accidents, elderly people are opting to buy walk-in tubs with safety features to make their bathing routines safer and more convenient.
What is a walk-in tub?
A walk-in tub allows users to walk directly into the tub, providing a safer and more accessible bathing option, especially for those with limited mobility. Unlike traditional tubs, it eliminates the need to step over high walls, reducing the risk of accidents. Its inclusive design makes it stand out as a superior choice for enhanced accessibility and safety in bathing among seniors.
How does walk in tub work?
A walk-in tub is a bathtub equipped with a sealed door, enabling individuals to enter without stepping over the side of the bath. Once inside, they simply close the door, allowing the tub to fill with water for bathing. After bathing, the water drains, enabling safe exit from the tub. In essence, a walk-in tub operates by providing a secure and convenient bathing experience through its accessible design and water containment system.
How much is a safe step walk-in tub in 2024?
The price range for walk-in tubs varies, starting from $2,000 and going up to $10,000 for the tub itself, while the average cost of walk-in tub installation can range from $1,000 to $20,000. Though walk-in tubs are generally more expensive than the regular tubs, there are trusted brands that offer quality tubs for a much affordable price like MediTub.
Types of walk-in tubs for seniors
1. Jacuzzi walk in tub
Featured Product: Venzi 30x53 Left Drain White Whirlpool Jetted Walk In Bathtub By Meditub
The Jacuzzi walk-in tub, a highlight of Jacuzzi's standard product range, is an excellent option for bathroom renovations due to its walk-in design and accessibility features. These tubs are popular worldwide for seamlessly fitting into standard bathtub spaces.
Noteworthy for their soothing jet system, hydrotherapy walk-in tubs offer relief for sore muscles. Featuring an extra-wide, leak-proof door and a Fast-Fill faucet, they prioritize convenience and durability. Available in both compact and large sizes, Jacuzzi walk-in tubs cater to diverse needs while ensuring accessibility and ease of use.
2. Bariatric walk in tub
Featured product: Ella Wheelchair Transfer 36"x55" Acrylic Soaking Walk-In-Bathtub
A bariatric walk-in tub addresses a common issue with standard models by offering a wider frame, door entrance, and a spacious 30-inch seat. Its large walk-in tub design is specifically tailored to accommodate larger individuals, typically those weighing 300 lbs. or more. It retains all the features of a typical walk-in tub but provides extra room and comfort for users with larger body sizes.
3. Two person walk-in tub
A two-person walk-in tub is tailored for those seeking a shared bathing experience with a partner or requiring additional space for a caregiver. It features two wide seats positioned facing or alongside each other, with the door located in the center. This design allows for simultaneous use by two individuals, providing all the benefits of a walk-in tub for both users.
4. Lay down walk-in tub
A lay-down walk-in tub resembles a traditional lay-down bathtub but features an accessible door for easier entry and exit. Unlike soaking walk-in tubs, it's designed to fully accommodate the bather's body and limbs, offering ample space to recline and stretch out.
With relatively low walls compared to high-walled soaker walk-ins, it may not be the most practical choice for individuals with limited ability to bend down low.
5. WCA walk-in tub/ Wheelchair accessible walk-in tub
Featured product: Ella Wheelchair Transfer 30"x52" Acrylic Soaking Walk-In-Bathtub
A wheelchair-accessible (WCA) walk-in tub is specifically designed to provide optimal accessibility and convenience for wheelchair users. Its features include a barrier-free seat, extra-wide doors, and a smooth acrylic frame, allowing for easy entry and exit from any wheelchair.
Unlike inward-swing doors, the outward-opening doors of this tub require minimal strength to operate. Additionally, it boasts a leak-proof door seal, innovative handles, and smooth gliding locks, offering individuals with physical limitations the independence and privacy they desire. In essence, a WCA walk-in tub is tailored to meet the unique needs of wheelchair users, ensuring ease of use and safety during bathing.
6. Shower walk-in tub combo
Featured product: Shower Column Kit for Deck Mounted Walk-In Tub Faucets
A shower-walk-in tub combination provides the versatility of both upright bathing and efficient showering. This design integrates an adjustable, multi-functional shower head into the high-walled frame of a typical soaker walk-in tub. Users can opt for either a relaxing, deep bath or a swift, comprehensive shower with various spray options, all while seated for added comfort and accessibility.
7. Compact soaker walk-in tubs
Featured product: Venzi 27x39 Left Drain White Whirlpool & Air Jetted Walk In Bathtub
Compact soaker walk-in tubs, also known as sitting baths, offer bathers the opportunity to enjoy full submersion while sitting upright. Characterized by vertical high walls, easy-entry swing doors, and a chair-height seat (typically 17 inches high), these tubs eliminate the need for users to stoop down during entry.
With a hollow bathing well boasting almost 20 inches of water depth, individuals can indulge in a deep, relaxing soak while experiencing additional bath luxuries such as air or whirlpool massage, foot massage, and therapy lights. The appeal of soaker designs lies in their compact size, often less than 60 inches long, enabling easy maneuverability through narrow doorways and fitting into small bathrooms.
Walk-in tub accessories/ walk-in tub parts
FAQs about Walk-in Tubs:
- How to operate a walk-in tub?
To operate a walk-in tub:
- Open the door and step inside. Choose between inward or outward swinging doors based on your preference and bathroom layout.
- Close the door and start filling the tub. Sit comfortably and seal the bathtub before turning on the tap. Consider using a bath filler for precise temperature control.
- Relax and enjoy your bath. Adjust the water temperature to your liking, and take advantage of additional features such as support hand bars, stylish designs, and spatherapy or chromotherapy options.
- Drain the water when finished. Open the sealed door and step out of the walk-in bath.
How long does it take to fill a walk-in tub?
Filling a walk-in tub usually takes 10-15 minutes, depending on water pressure and the type of water heating system. Modern models can fill in as few as 6-8 minutes, with a typical capacity of 50-80 gallons.
How much space do you need for a walk-in tub?
You'll generally need a space around 60 inches long and 30 inches wide for a walk-in tub. The exact size can vary depending on the specific model you choose. Also, remember to account for the space required for the door to swing out. If space is tight, some models have doors that swing inward instead.
Where to buy walk-in tubs online?
Discover the perfect walk-in tub online at BathtubsPlus. We have a wide variety of walk-in tubs and other bathtub models to choose from. Conveniently browse our walk-in bathtub selection from home. With safety, style, and therapy options, find your ideal tub hassle-free!
