How to choose the best walk in bathtub

A walk in bathtub has an inwards swinging sealing door and either has or does not have, a seat. This is to make it accessible to people with disabilities or the elderly who find getting into, or out of, a regular bathtub difficult. But what is the best walk in tub for your particular needs? Take a peek at our walk in tub reviews to help you make the perfect choice for your space and needs.

But first, did you know there are different types of walk-in bathtubs?

Best Walk In Tub Reviews

So let’s be frank with each other. Making the correct choice regarding the best walk in tub is difficult. Walk in tub reviews will all tell you this make of product or that make of product is the best. The reason is usually that walk in tub reviews are written by people for a specific company. So our team had a look at a number of walk in tubs and reviewed them for you. Here is our list of favorites.

1.  Universal Tubs 46-inch HD Series Whirlpool Bath Tub

Treat yourself with this jetted whirlpool bath therapy that is made out of fiberglass and stainless steel material. This material is lightweight compared to other types, so it is easy to carry and install. Fiberglass is also highly resistant to mildew and scratches, so it is low maintenance and it lasts for an extended time.

Aside from that, the HD Series Whirlpool can be considered as one of the best walk in tubs because it has 13 adjustable and directional whirlpool jets. These jets have massage features that will give you a relaxing bath time experience. You can adjust it to your preference using its easy press button that is effortless for your fingers.

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2.  Universal Tubs 53-inch HD Series Air Bath and Whirlpool Tub

According to walk in tub reviews consumer reports, this one makes the list because of its air bath and whirlpool features. It provides more than relaxation but muscle therapy as well. Aside from that, it also has Chromatherapy, which will help your mind be soothed with colored lighting.

The 53-inch HD Series air bath and whirlpool tub is sealed with a marine-grade gel coat to prevent any types of leakage. It is then reinforced by a free-standing steel frame and fiberglass, making it durable and sturdy.

Also, this tub is equipped with safety features. These features include a built-in grab handle that will help you get in and out of the tub without slipping. It has a low step threshold and secure footing to prevent tripping incidents.

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3.  American Standard 60-inch x 30-inch Exclusive Series Whirlpool Tub

Save yourself from the headache of waiting for your tub to drain with this Exclusive series. It is equipped with a quick drain system that removes water in under 2 minutes. It is also made out of gel-coat and hi-gloss construction, which makes it durable and beautifully designed.

Aside from that, this tub has eight water jet systems that can be used for deep tissue massage for the legs. It also has a built-in seat with ergonomic controls to make your soaking experience more relaxing and comfortable.

Another noteworthy feature of this walk in tub review is its textured flooring which prevents you from slipping or tripping while going inside and out of the tub. It also provides you balance even though the tub is filled with water.

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4.  American Standard 60-inch Acrylic Luxury Air and Whirlpool Tub

Here’s a tub with a large water capacity and plenty of comfort features. It has a heated blower with variable speed that regulates the temperature of the air bundles, which gives you more therapeutic benefits. Aside from that, its 26 air jets are strategically placed around the tub to provide an invigorating massage.

Furthermore, this tub is equipped with safety features, which include a V-shape full-sized door with a low-profile threshold. This design is intended to give people with mobility issues independent and secure access to bathing.

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5.  Ella 2 seat Companion Air and Hydro Massage Acrylic Bathtub

The particular bathtub is one of the best rated walk in tubs out there due to its spacious interior and dual massage features. Its shell is made out of high gloss acrylic cast that is reinforced with gel-coat fiberglass making it durable and sturdy. The materials used in its construction also make it resistant to leakage.

This 2 seater tub has several relaxing features. It has 14 hydro jets and ten air jets that are strategically placed around the tub for a relaxing deep tissue massage. It also has a Chromotherapy feature to help your eyes relax as well.

You also do not have to worry about waiting for it to drain because it has a quick drain feature that can be easily controlled using levers.

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6.  Pinnacle 4.5 ft Air and Whirlpool Bath Tub with Tranquility Package

If you have been looking at walk in tub reviews for budget-friendly options, then you might consider this one. It is reasonably priced, yet you still get high-quality features that you’d want from a walk-in tub.

This particular tub is made out of an acrylic shell that is coated with fiberglass backing resin to make it look beautiful and protect it from leakage. It also has a stainless steel support frame, which was rigidly polished so that it is protected from water damage making it last longer.

Furthermore, you also get stainless steel jets and a 2 HP water pump, which can be considered as a good deal given the price of this tub.

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7.  Safety Tubs 48-inch Value Series Walk-in BathTub

Here’s another budget-friendly option that might fit what you are looking for. Buying this walk-in tub already includes a premium faucet and a matched color trim giving it a seamless and beautiful design. It also includes an installation kit to make retrofitting straightforward and easy.

Aside from that, this tub is also equipped with several safety features. One of its most notable ones is its textured flooring that protects users from slippage. It has a builtin seat at chair height for comfortable seating. This tub also has easy touch control buttons so that you can use its features easily.

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8.  Ariel 5 ft. Ariel Air and Whirlpool Bath Tub

This tub has a combination of fiberglass and acrylic design, which makes it seamless and durable. It is a dual series model that has an air and whirlpool jet system for a comfortable bathing experience, unlike any other. It has six hydro jets and 18 air jets that are strategically located around the tub for maximum relaxation.

Aside from that, this tub also offers safety features, and its accessibility is ADA compliant. Its safety feature includes a slip-resistant floor for worry-free use and a built-in handlebar for balance support while inside the tub. Its door is also low-profile for easy access.

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9.  Amluxx 52-inch Amluxx Aqua Air and Whirlpool Bathtub

Experience luxury with this air and whirlpool bathtub. It is equipped with a three-speed pump air massage system for complete relaxation. The air massage has a three-speed pump while the hydro massage has an 8.1 amp pump that you could adjust depending on your preference. It also has a heated backrest and seat for added comfort and luxury.

The general issues in walk-in bathtub reviews are that it takes a long time to fill up and drain; however, this tub is different. It has a 5-piece faucet set, which enables it to fill the tub quickly and a pull-chain drain for more efficient drainage.

Furthermore, this tub has a heated backrest for additional comfort. It also has a handheld show that is chrome plated and can be retracted up to 5ft for a comfortable shower experience.

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10.  Therapeutic Tubs 60-inch by 30-inch HandiTub Air and Whirlpool Bathtub

Not only does this tub provide relaxation, but it also gives several medical benefits because of its therapeutic features. It is ideal for people who have joint and muscle pain.

This tub is designed to be extra accessible, especially for people with limited mobility. This extra attention to accessibility is evident in its simple food operation and non-slip flooring.

Aside from that, this tub has an air and whirlpool massage system. It has 26 air injectors strategically placed around the tub powered by a 1HP air blower. This enables you to get a deep tissue massage according to the setting that you prefer.

Furthermore, this tub is made out of fiberglass material, which is resistant to damages caused by water. It also gives the tub better sealing to prevent leakage.

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11.  Walk in Access Tubs with Hydro Jets

This tub combines an air bubble and whirlpool massage systems to create luxurious body massage experiences. The jets are located at key areas to give the body a soothing embrace of water for relaxation. The pressure and directions of the jets can be fully adjusted by you so that you get the highest satisfaction.

Aside from that, this tub is exceptionally accessible and comfortable. It has a wide opening and a low-profile step for easy access. It also has a chair level seat with spacious legroom so that you can sit back and enjoy the massage features of this tub comfortably.

Furthermore, do not worry about the drainage of this tub. It has an auto drain system that drains the water in under a minute.

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12   3260LBA Meditub

Plenty walk in bathtubs review about this says that it is excellent for people who have mobility issues. With this tub, they can bathe themselves independently and safely. It is compliant with ADA standards and features.

Furthermore, it has 16 air bubble massage injectors, which can be controlled with pneumatic buttons. This gives the user a relaxing deep and soothing deep tissue massage. This type of massage is not only relaxing but is also great for muscle pains and soreness, especially when it is combined with heated water.

This bathtub is made out of fiberglass and a stainless steel frame, which is lightweight but durable and sturdy. It has an acrylic coating that protects it from damages caused by water increasing its longevity.

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13.  Arista Hydro-Therapy Walk-in Bathtub

Aside from its massaging water jets, this amazing bathtub by Arista also shoots massaging air bubbles to your body. The air bubbles are much gentler and gives a more relaxing sensation as you soak in the tub.

If you want t experience both water and air massage while bathing, then this Hydro-Therapy Air Walk-in Tub by Arista is for you.

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14.  Ellas Bubbles Combination Walk-in Bathtub

Another popular walk-in tub shower combo that has great reviews online is this Combination tub by Ellas Bubbles.

This is an Air and Hydro walk-in bathtub with a lot of space for comfortable soaking time. It has a total dimension of 60-inches by 30-inches that allows up to two users. This is the best jacuzzi walk-in tub for couples!

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15.  American Standard Left-Hand Walk-in Bathtub

If we’re going to mention best walk-in tub brands, American Standard is a name that shouldn’t be missed. The brand has established a good reputation in the home furnishings industry. Hence, it is not at all surprising why a lot of people fell in love with their products.

One of the best-selling American Standard walk-in tubs is the 3060SH.LL model. It is a classic tub with seated shower, overflow drain, and integral tile flange.

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16.  American Standard Gelcoat Value Series Whirlpool Walk-in Bathtub

This American Standard walk-in tub is known for its gelcoat finish, giving the tub a smooth glossy look while giving it optimum protection.

Albeit expensive, this walk-in tub is a favorite choice in commercial buildings because of its durability and amazing warranty programs. This walk-in tub also boasts advanced technologies that you can’t find in any other tub brands like the focus leg massage.

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17.  Ariel Bath Soaker Walk-in Bathtub

A perfect soaking tub should be one that allows full-body soak. However, this is quite rare to see in most walk-in tubs. Fortunately, we found this Ariel Bath Soaker Tub.

We were mesmerized by the tub’s deep rectangular shape while still able to integrate a walk-in type of installation. Most walk-in tubs are usually whirlpool or air jetted. But this one remains true to its purpose which is to only give you a full body soaking experience, hence the name Soaker tub.

This, dare we say, is a great tub for those who have sensitive skin and who just want to enjoy a relaxing soak tub with easy access.

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The Different Types of Walk In Bathtubs

As with regular bathtubs, walk-in bathtubs also comes in different types, so you can choose the best walk in tub that is just right for you.

Soaking Tub Walk In Bathtubs

A soaking Tub Walk in Bathtub gives its user the benefits of any of the regular best bathtubs around – a nice, long soak at the end, or beginning, of the day. Just because you are unable to get into a regular bathtub, it does not mean you should be denied the pleasure of using one, after all.

Whirlpool Walk In Bathtubs

A whirlpool walk in bathtub comes fitted with regular jets, just like the best hot tubs around. These jets circulate water throughout the bath,  sucking in water and pushing it out at high speed, giving you a great, relaxing massage after a long, hard, day.

The massaging action gets to sore muscles, giving almost instant relief due to a nice, deep massage without any of the hurt from going for massage therapy.

Whirlpool walk in bathtubs have higher maintenance needs than an aerated bathtub. This is because used water is filtered through the system, resulting in the system needing a regular cleaning session to ensure it works optimally.

Aerated Tub Walk in Bathtub

This type of walk in bathtub, much like the whirlpool walk in bathtub, also has jets. In this case, however, the massage action is provided by air pumping through the jets from an outside source to provide you with millions of bubbles that massage you all over.

The air is sucked into the system, heated, and pushed out at a high velocity, ensuring a warm, soothing feeling against the skin

Air and Whirlpool Walk In Bathtubs

With these bathtubs, you get the best of everything. You get the great message resulting from the water pressure shooting out of the water jets, or you can opt for a gentler experience from the air bubbles.

You could, of course, opt for both these systems to work at the same time, giving you a bathing experience not to be missed.

Different Features for Most Walk-In Tubs

In order to decide on the best walk-in bathtub for your buck, you need to first decide why you actually want one. Do you want one for therapy, safety reasons, or for comfort?

Therapy Reasons

Walk-in bathtubs have a variety of potential health benefits which include reducing aches and pains, improving your blood circulation, and improving mobility. For example:

Safety Reasons

Older people, those with disabilities, or those who are overweight may find it difficult to get into and out of a ‘normal’ bathtub. They also stand at a higher risk of slipping and falling. Walk-in bathtubs have a number of safety features that are not commonly found in a normal tub.

Can Walk-In Tubs be Customized?

With the wide variety of features that are available, you can most certainly pick the type of tub that suits you perfectly.

A Tub With the Convenience of a Shower

Many people feel safer using a walk in tub yet they still want to be able to shower. Many of these tubs are fitted with a hand-held shower that allows them to still sit while using it. This also saves on water costs as you use less water, while some of the hand showers have adjustable spray options.

You could, if you wish, add a shower holder to the wand in a fixed position, just like a ‘regular shower, that can still be removed and held in the hand for when sitting.

Inserting a Tub Extender

Because these bathtubs are not built in, you may find there is a space between the tub and wall. A tub extender gets rid of this space and at the same time protects you from accidental electrical or water damage.

There is a Lower Step-Up

Getting into or out of a regular tub sees you having to lift your leg quite high. In the case of a walk in tub, the threshold is extremely low. This makes it much easier for those who are not very mobile to use.

The Door

There are tub options that have the door swing inwards, or outwards, depending on your needs. Those that swing inwards (towards the bathtub) stay closed due to the water pressure inside the tub and are usually cheaper than tubs with doors that swing outwards.

Tubs that have doors swinging outwards are usually a little more expensive because their closing mechanisms are quite complex as they are designed in such a way to resist the pressure coming from the water inside the tub.

The Construction Materials Used for the Shell

These tubs are either molded from fiberglass or acrylic. Fiberglass tubs are usually cheaper, are very strong, and usually given a triple gel epoxy coating. Acrylic shells, on the other hand, are very long-lasting and easy to clean.

There is, however, a third option: a combination shell. Here, the base of the tub is molded from acrylic and fiberglass is used for reinforcement purposes.

The Frame Type

Some tubs have metal frames while others do not. Those that do not have frames usually have great design options, although the depth of the tub suffers as a consequence. They are also less strong than those with frames.

Frames are usually made of aluminum or composite materials and are less prone to sprouting leaks due to the way they are finished off. They are also usually cheaper than frameless tubs. Their doors, however, usually only open outwards.

Neck rests and Seating Options

It is generally a good idea to check out a hot tub’s seating and neck rest options. As these vary, you may want to investigate the option that suits your needs best.

The Size of the Step-In Bath Tub

As with regular tubs, size here also varies – including length, breadth, and height. It depends on your available space and needs. In cases where they are shorter than your regular bath tub’s space, you may want to use an extender in order to fill the gap.

The Extras

You can opt for extras such as a padded seat or even neck cushions if you so wish. Many of these tubs come with a quick drain feature as you cannot exit the tub while it contains water and could get cold waiting for the water to drain. Tubs that have doors that open outwards are usually preferred for those in wheelchairs as they give much easier access to the tub.

How Do Walk In Tubs Work?

Walk in tubs are usually sold as a complete unit that only needs attaching to your water supply and a drain. If, however, you opt for a whirlpool or aerated walk in tub, or even one that has both, you would also need to take the power attachment into consideration.

A walk in tub is fitted with a door that either swings inwards, or outwards. You would open the door and transfer yourself (from a wheelchair) to the seat, if disabled, or simply walk in and sit down. The floor, which is usually slip resistant, and added arm handles, are added safety features that ensure you do not fall.

Most of these bathtubs are fitted with a quick-draining function, as you would, typically, have to wait for the water to drain before being able to get out.

The door threshold is usually very low to allow for easy access.

Pros and Cons of Walk In Bathtubs

As with all types of baths, even the best walk-in tubs have their own set of pros and cons attached.

Pros

How Do I Choose the Best Walk In Bathtub?

Choosing the best walk in bathtub is a matter of perspective, i.e. your perspective.  You need to ask yourself: “What are my needs?”

One of the things that need thinking about is size. These bathtubs range in size, so you need to decide on the size that fits your bathroom, and your needs. In addition, do you want a soaking tub walk-in bathtub, a whirlpool walk-in bathtub, an aerated tub walk-in bathtub, or a dual function tub, i.e.an air and whirlpool walk-in bathtub? Price and personal preference play a role in making this decision.

Then there are door options to consider. Do you prefer an inward swinging or an outward swinging door? While an outward swinging door might be a better option for someone in a wheelchair, it does tend to take up quite a bit of bathroom space.

Safety Considerations

A walk-in tub is not only large but also very heavy, especially when filled with water. Most use water as well as electricity, so ensuring they are safe is an absolute necessity. One way of doing so is checking out their safety certifications.

If living in the United States of America, you need to ensure that it meets all of the American Standards Association’s criteria. In Canada, this means the those of the Canadian Standards Association Safety Certification.

Although most manufacturers adhere to these certifications, the onus is on you to verify before installing your new tub.

Besides these certifications, you will also need to ensure your tub has the following certifications:

• The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
• The Edison Testing Labs of North American Safety Certification for Electrical Equipment
• The American National Standards Institute (product safety)
• The American with Disabilities Act (for ADA compliance)

Do keep in mind, however, that not all tubs need all these certifications. For example, you may not need a tub that is ADA compliant if mobility is not a major issue, i.e. you are not wheelchair bound. A tub with no certifications whatsoever would, however, raise some red flags.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding walk-in bathtubs

Who needs to use walk-in bathtubs?

A walk in bathtub is recommended for everyone who has mobility issues, including those who are in a wheelchair, or those that have mobility issues such as the elderly or obese people.

Which would be better for seniors losing mobility, a walk-in tub or a walk in shower?

Although a walk in shower is a great option for seniors, a walk in tub is safer. The reasons are that it has a built-in seat as well as a non-slip floor and grab rails as added safety measures. These are precautionary measures that ensure an elderly person does not slip and fall, can be seated for comfort and has something to hold on to when entering or exiting the tub.

What are the features of a walk in tub?

Standard features include a door that ensures low entry (no lifting of legs to get in or out), a handrail or handrails, and a chair that is built in. More expensive models have extra features, such as water jets, a hot water regulator, neck pillows, and even therapy lights, plus a whole lot more.

Are there any health benefits of walk-in tubs or are they for comfort only

Besides the obvious safety benefits, these tubs may also have certain health benefits, especially those fitted with whirlpool jets as they relieve aches and pains by providing a great massage.

What are the safety benefits of walk-in bathtubs?

It provides those with low mobility a number of safety perks. The floor is usually constructed in such a way to avoid slipping, while the seating provides you a place to sit while bathing without the risk of falling. Additionally, the safety handles provide you with a place to grip when either entering or exiting the tub.

What is the most comfortable style of bathtubs?

Here, the answer depends on your personal needs. A regular walk-in bathtub meets most of your mobility needs. However, one with added features adds to your experience.

What should I expect to pay?

Please remember that when you buy a walk in tub you need to budget for installation as well. A walk in bathtub, depending on what type you choose, can cost anything between approximately $2,000 and $5,000. The installation costs (remember you need someone for the electrical and plumbing connections) could be anything in the region of about $2,000. The costs should thus not, generally speaking, of course, exceed approximately $10,000. If you are doing an entire remodel of your bathroom, however, you would have to add those costs to this estimate.

Are walk-in tubs covered by Medicare?

Unfortunately, no. Medicare does not, at any cost, pay for walk-in tubs. Walk-in tubs can be used by anyone or by any member of your family. So, unlike hospital beds, wheelchairs, nebulizers, etc., this is not eligible for Medicare insurance.

How much space do you need for a walk-in tub?

Walk-in tubs come various shapes and sizes. Moreover, they have different installation types. For this reason, the space needed to set up a walk-in tub depends on the size, shape, and installation process.

Usually, walk-in tub brands include the tub’s dimension so that you can calculate on your own if the tub can fit perfectly in your bathroom.

How much water do walk-in tubs require?

Most tubs require a lot of water, that’s for sure. But it still depends on the size and depth of the tub. If you fancy soaker tub, then you most likely need at least 45 gallons of water. Some even require up to 90 gallons of water.

Conclusion

Walk-in tubs are definitely great for people with mobility issues or those who simply want a luxurious and comfortable bathing experience. In the walk in tubs reviews mentioned above, it is easy to say that the 46-inch HD Series Whirlpool Bath Tub is the overall winner.

The 46-inch HD Series Whirlpool Bath Tub takes the first place because it is priced reasonably, yet it has plenty of amazing features to choose from, such as adjustable and directional whirlpool jets and quick fill faucets. Aside from that, it is also fully equipped with safety features, and it is relatively straightforward to install.

However, the other walk-in tubs mentioned above are also notable tubs, and you should also still consider them if they fit what you are looking for in terms of function, comfort, and price.