Best Walk-In Tubs of 2025

We compared 22 companies and chose the top walk-in bathtubs

    • Super-low step-in
      Boca Walk-In Tubs
      4.9(274)
    • Best overall
      Kohler Walk-In Bath
      4.9(1,044)
    • Hydrotherapy
      American Standard Walk-in Baths
      4.6(2,324)
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Fact-checked by: Liz Seegert

    Best Walk-In Tubs of 2025

    Choosing the best walk-in tub depends on accessibility, bathroom space and key features like fast drains or hydrotherapy jets. Based on thousands of verified reviews, safety features and pricing, Boca is the best overall walk-in tub company in 2025. Kohler stands out for affordability, while American Standard is our top pick for hydrotherapy.

    Each brand offers multiple models to suit different needs — we’ll help you compare your options.

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    Our 6 picks for the best walk-in tubs

    1. Our pick for best overall: Boca
    2. Our pick for accessibility: Kohler
    3. Our pick for hydrotherapy: American Standard
    4. Our pick for added features: Hydro Dimensions
    5. Our pick for professional installation: Independent Home
    6. Our pick for affordability: Ella's Bubbles

    Our research team compared popular walk-in tub companies and chose our top six based on customer satisfaction in eight categories. We also considered step-in height, discounts and availability of luxury features.

    Read our full methodology for details on how we selected our top picks. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations. Our publishing policy ensures that the journalistic content and user reviews on ConsumerAffairs remain independent of commercial influences.

    Learn more about walk-in tubs
    Our pick for best overall
    Boca Walk-In Tubs
    Step-in height
    2 inches
    Financing
    Yes
    Warranty
    Limited lifetime on defects, shell and other components
    boca walk-in tub

    Boca stands out as the best walk-in tub company thanks to positive reviews across the board. The installation process, fill and drain time, features, pricing and customer service are all highly rated by reviewers on ConsumerAffairs.

    For many with mobility issues, a low step threshold is crucial to bathing safely, and Boca has the lowest step-in height of any of our picks. It also stands out in the industry for offering online quotes (though getting an in-person quote still might be more reliable). The company offers seven walk-in tub sizes/orientations: standard, petite narrow, petite short, deep, wide, wide/deep and two-person.

    Boca offers five-, eight-, 10- or 12-year financing opportunities for walk-in tubs. You could also qualify for a 12-month “same as cash” option with no interest or monthly payments for the one-year period.

    • Gelcoat finish
    • 18 air jets and 10 hydrojets
    • 40- to 80-gallon capacity
    • Door widths of 16.375 to 22 inches
    • Drains at 18 gallons per minute
    • One grab bar
    • Inward-swinging door
    • Super-low 2-inch step threshold
    • Bidet jets
    • Customizations for door placement, wall surround and tub/faucet colors
    • Microtherapy, aromatherapy, chromotherapy and music system add-ons 
    • Heated seat/back
    • Rainfall showerhead
    • Ozonator/purge systems

    Boca’s limited lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, tub shell, tub door and seal, faucet, drain, controls, pumps, blowers and heaters.

    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Kohler Walk-In Bath
    Step-in height
    3 inches
    Financing
    Yes
    Warranty
    Lifetime, 1-year (components)
    kohler walk-in tub

    Kohler is a well-known brand with positive reviews for both product quality and ease of installation. Thanks to its combination of a 3” step-in height (about as low as it gets) and high user satisfaction with fill and drain times, it’s our pick for the most accessible option available.

    We also love that you can find lots of walk-in tub estimates on the Kohler website (though your costs depend on the model, installation, add-ons, etc.). Kohler has six walk-in tub models, including bariatric, wheelchair-accessible and hybrid tub-shower units. The brand is known for its luxury tub and background options.

    • 17 air and 10 hydrojets
    • Three-inch ultralow threshold
    • Grab bar and indented handrails
    • Inward-swinging door
    • Three seat temperature settings
    • Aromatherapy and chromotherapy
    • 50-gallon capacity
    • 17 ¼-inch wide door
    • Shower package available
    • Luxury design options
    • Shelf, tray and grab bar add-ons
    • Customizations for door placement, tub and background color

    Kohler Co. covers any walk-in tub defects or workmanship issues. The company’s lifetime limited warranty is one year for all other walk-in tub components (door seal, hydrotherapy systems, faucet and hand-held showerhead).

    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    American Standard Walk-in Baths
    Step-in height
    3 inches
    Financing
    Yes
    Warranty
    Lifetime on door seals; varies for shell and components
    american standard walk-in tub

    American Standard stands out as the best option for hydrotherapy. With up to 44 hydro jets and 28 multi-speed, heated air jets, its walk-in tubs are the premier option for those looking for a spa-like experience.

    American Standard offers five walk-in tub styles, including two wheelchair-accessible models. The tubs drain and fill within two minutes, which means you won’t have to wait long in a cold, empty tub before or after your bath. Depending on your mobility needs, you can have your door open inward or outward.

    You can also finance your American Standard walk-in tub with no interest or payments for 12 months (as long as your tub costs $10,000-plus total).

    • 62 air and water jets
    • In-line water heater
    • 45- to 80-gallon capacity
    • Door widths from 16 to 17 3/4 inches
    • Grab bar
    • Self-cleaning system
    • Fill and drain in under two minutes
    • Inward- and outward-swinging door options
    • Aromatherapy and chromotherapy
    • Customized door placement
    • Acrylic or gelcoat finish

    American Standard provides a lifetime warranty on walk-in tub door seals. Its acrylic tubs come with a 15-year warranty on the tub shell and a 10-year warranty on other components.

    The glossy gelcoat models have a 10-year warranty on the tub shell and a 5-year warranty on other parts.

    2x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best Product Offering
    Our pick for added features
    Hydro Dimensions
    Step-in height
    5 inches
    Financing
    Undisclosed
    Warranty
    Lifetime on shell, door seal and other components
    hydro dimensions walk-in tub

    We selected Hydro Dimensions as a standout for its additional features, like customization options for door and jet placement. Hydro Dimensions has 16 models to choose from, including two wide-door tubs, a lie-down tub, a plus-size tub and a tub with a super-deep basin. No matter which series or size you choose, you have the option of adding hydrojet, air jet and microbubble therapy systems.

    You can also upgrade your Hydro Dimensions tub with a heated backrest, UV or ozone sanitation, a high-speed drain, aromatherapy and chromotherapy.

    • 20 air jets and six hydro jets
    • Grab bar
    • Four- to six-minute fill; 85-second drain
    • Self-cleaning system
    • Inward- and outward-swinging door options
    • Aromatherapy and chromotherapy
    • LED lights
    • Heated seats
    • Gelcoat finish
    • Customizations for door and jet placement
    • Selection of faucet and fixture colors
    • Heated back and headrest add-ons

    The bathtub’s shell, door seal, motors, electronic controls, frame, finish, faucet, overflow system and supporting equipment come with a lifetime warranty.

    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Independent Home
    Step-in height
    4.5 inches
    Financing
    Yes
    Warranty
    Lifetime on workmanship and key components
    independent home walk-in tub

    Independent Home earned our pick for professional installation thanks to the consistent praise reviewers give the company’s installers. All tubs are installed by in-house licensed installers with at least five years of experience, and the company claims it can install a tub for you with just two weeks’ lead time.

    Independent Home’s walk-in tubs come standard with safety features like anti-slip floors, angled grab bars, handrails and 17-inch ADA-compliant seats. Its walk-in tubs also feature a self-purging cleaning system and a rain-style showerhead. Independent Home also partners with multiple providers to find a financing option that fits your needs.

    • Anti-slip floors
    • Two angled grab bars and handrails
    • Ergonomic lever faucet
    • Self-cleaning system
    • Microbubble therapy
    • Aromatherapy and chromotherapy
    • Heated seat and back
    • Rain showerhead
    • Extendable shower wand
    • Customizable number of jets

    Independent Home’s lifetime warranty covers the door seal, metal frame, fiberglass spa shell, gelcoat finish, faucets, motors, pumps, control panels and workmanship.

    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Product Offering
    Our pick for affordability
    Ella's Bubbles
    Step-in height
    3.75 inches
    Financing
    Yes
    Warranty
    Limited lifetime; 5-year (components)
    ella's bubbles walk-in-tub

    Ella’s Bubbles gets our pick for affordability because of its numerous models that start for under $5,000. It’s also one of the most transparent brands we reviewed; price ranges for all its models are clearly listed on its website, and you can quickly see how much additional features will cost to add. Discounts are also available for active military veterans and seniors.

    While Ella’s doesn’t install its tubs, the company will help connect you with a nationwide network of installers.

    We like the range of tub sizes that Ella’s offers, as well as the customizability of added features. Our editorial team also appreciates the dual drain technology that can empty your tub in as little as 80 seconds. So do our reviewers, who give near-perfect scores in reviews related to fill and drain times.

    • Two grab bars
    • Dual drain technology
    • Push controls
    • Leakproof doors
    • Slip-resistant floors
    • Hydrotherapy (14 to 26 hydro jets)
    • Air massage (16 to 18 air jets)
    • Infusion Microbubble therapy
    • Dual and triple massage systems
    • Heated seats and backrests
    • Aromatherapy and chromotherapy
    • Foot massage
    • Calf jets
    • Hand showerhead
    • 360-degree swivel tray

    Since Ella’s Bubbles doesn’t install tubs, there’s no labor warranty for installation; you’ll have to get that separately through the contractor you hire. But you do get a limited lifetime warranty on the tub’s parts.

    Walk-In Bathtubs Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Boca Walk-In Tubs logo
    Kohler Walk-In Bath logo
    American Standard Walk-in Baths logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Compare tubs that match your style, needs & space.

      Walk-in tubs provide a safer bathing option for those with mobility challenges, making them an essential product for aging in place.

      Most standard walk-in tub models include safety features, including a low-step threshold, grab bars and an anti-slip surface. More expensive models include luxury and therapeutic upgrades like massage jets, heated seating, shower wands and other features.

      So, which walk-in tub is right for you or your loved one? In this guide, we break down how walk-in bathtubs work, their costs and how to choose the best walk-in tub model for your particular needs.

      Key insights

      The average price of a walk-in tub is $2,000 to $7,000 for a standard walk-in tub, but high-end models with hydrotherapy features can cost up to $20,000.

      Jump to insight

      Medicare and Medicaid don’t typically cover walk-in tubs, but you may qualify for financial assistance through VA programs, home modification grants and state programs.

      Jump to insight

      When shopping, make sure the brand carries the style of bathtub — lay-down, two-person, bariatric, etc. — that fits your needs.

      Jump to insight

      Look for a walk-in tub company with a generous warranty and a history of happy customers.

      Jump to insight

      How do walk-in tubs work?

      Walk-in tubs feature a watertight door that allows users to enter and exit without stepping over a high rim. After entering and securing the door, the user can sit in the built-in seat, fill the tub with water and bathe. When finished, the user can drain the water and exit through the door.

      How to choose a walk-in tub

      To choose a walk-in tub for yourself or a loved one, prioritize safety, ease of use and therapeutic benefits. Look for essential features like a low-step threshold, slip-resistant flooring, built-in grab bars, a watertight door and intuitive touch controls. Optional upgrades like anti-scald technology, heated seats, hydrotherapy jets, and fast fill and drain systems can enhance comfort and usability.

      Stick with established brands known for quality and strong customer feedback. Marilyn Rantz, professor emerita at the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing, advises trying a tub in person to ensure you can comfortably enter, sit and exit without strain.

      Be sure to account for both the price of the tub and installation costs. If needed, research financing plans, rebates or home modification grants to help offset expenses.

      Safety features For most users, safety is the main draw of a walk-in tub. Almost all tubs come standard with nonslip surfaces and a low step-in height of anywhere from 2 to 7 inches — for comparison, a standard tub is 14 to 16 inches tall.

      If balance or mobility is a concern, look for tubs with an ultralow threshold (2 to 3 inches) for easier entry. Also, be sure to ask what kind of handrails and grab bars come standard and what customization options are available. User-friendly controls and easily accessible shelves also improve safety and convenience. Standard safety features generally include:

      • Low step threshold
      • Handrails and grab bars
      • Nonslip surfaces
      • Hand-held shower wand
      • Easy-to-reach controls
      • Easily accessible shelving
      Comfort features Features like air jets, hydrotherapy jets, heated seats, aromatherapy and chromotherapy can enhance your bathing experience. These are especially helpful for those with arthritis, sore muscles, poor circulation or joint pain.

      Air jets provide a full-body massage to relieve muscle tension. Hydrojets perform a similar function but offer a stronger massage and adjustable pressure controls. Chromotherapy uses LED light to stimulate physical and psychological responses (e.g., green light for calm, yellow for energy).

      Quick drain and fill features are also important — you don’t want to get cold while sitting for a long time in a not-quite-full tub.

      These are common comfort features on walk-in tubs:

      • Fast drain and fill
      • Self-cleaning technology
      • In-line water heater
      • Headrests
      • Massage jets (air or hydro)
      • Aromatherapy
      • Chromotherapy
      • Heated seats
      Warranty A strong warranty can save you from expensive repairs down the line. Before purchasing, review the coverage details and duration. Some manufacturers offer more comprehensive warranties, especially if they handle installation and repairs in-house.

      Here’s what to check in a warranty:

      • Coverage length (e.g., 10-year, lifetime)
      • Are both parts and labor included?
      • Is installation covered?
      • Does the company handle repairs directly?
      Tub materials Walk-in tubs are typically made from fiberglass or acrylic. Acrylic tubs are more durable and scratch-resistant, but more expensive. Fiberglass tubs are more affordable, usually coated with gelcoat for protection, but may not last as long as acrylic.

      » MORE: Questions to ask a walk-in tub company

      How much do walk-in tubs cost?

      Walk-in tubs cost between $2,000 to $7,000 for a standard model, while high-end models with several luxury features can exceed $20,000. Installation can also be pricey, especially if your bathroom needs a big renovation to accommodate the tub or you need a new, higher-capacity water heater. The average cost to install a walk-in tub falls between $2,000 and $8,000.

      Medicare and Medicaid typically do not cover walk-in tubs.

      Though the upfront cost may cause sticker shock, it’s important to consider long-term savings. If a walk-in tub allows you to age in place, it could be far more cost-effective than assisted living or nursing home expenses.

      Cost breakdown by tub type

      The total price depends on features, materials and installation requirements, so be sure to factor in additional plumbing or electrical modifications if needed.

      • Entry-level soaker tub: $2,000 to $5,000 (DIY installation)
      • Mid-range model: $5,000 to $10,000 (includes more features and better materials)
      • Luxury models: $10,000 to $20,000-plus

      Walk-in tub installation cost breakdown

      The cost of a walk-in tub installation depends on the complexity of the job, the model you’re installing and any additional features. If plumbing and electrical modifications are required, and the footprint of your old bathtub differs from the new tub, installation costs are much higher than a straightforward tub replacement.

      How to save money on a walk-in tub

      To save money on a walk-in tub, explore financial assistance programs for walk-in tubs, consider financing options and look for manufacturer rebates or discounts. You can also purchase a smaller size or choose fewer luxury features.

      • Explore VA and state-funded grants: Veterans and individuals with disabilities may be eligible for walk-in tub grants or discounts through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
      • Choose a smaller size: Smaller walk-in tubs are less expensive, so opt for a standard size if you don’t need a larger model.
      • Choose fewer features: Add-ons can push the cost of a walk-in tub much higher. If you don’t require a feature like chromotherapy, there’s no need to pay extra for it.
      • Consider the material: Fiberglass tubs are less expensive than acrylic models.
      • Look for manufacturer discounts and rebates: Many manufacturers offer seasonal deals, ongoing discounts or rebates, reducing the total cost of your walk-in tub.
      • Check for financing options: Some manufacturers offer low-interest or 0% financing.
      • Consider alternative safety solutions: Alternatives to a walk-in tub, like shower chairs, benches or bath lifts, can provide increased safety at a lower cost.

      How to buy a walk-in bathtub

      To buy a walk-in bathtub, evaluate your needs, space and budget. You’ll also want to do the following:

      1. Measure your space. Standard walk-in tubs are about 60 inches long, 38 to 42 inches tall, and 25 to 32 inches wide. Wheelchair-accessible and bariatric tubs are wider. Be sure to measure your bathroom, doorways and hallways. Also, confirm that your floor can support the tub’s weight.
      2. Choose the right tub type. A soaker is a basic option with no jets, if you just need a simple path tub with low entry and non-slip flooring. A whirlpool tub is great if you’re looking for hydromassage features. If you’re in a wheelchair, look for a wheelchair-accessible model with an outward-swinging door and a low threshold.
      3. Check your hot water supply. Most tubs hold over 50 gallons. If your water heater is under 50 gallons, consider upgrading your tank or adding a tankless heater. Otherwise, you may not have enough hot water to fill the tub.
      4. Compare brands and prices. Once you know the type of tub you’re looking for, you can compare apples to apples across brands. Check customer reviews to see how users rate the quality of the product, its features and the installers.
      5. Get installation quotes. Pro installation is almost always required. See if you can get an in-home estimate for free. Be sure to ask installers whether the removal of your old tub is included (it almost always is) and if they offer financing or discounts.

        Independent installers may be less expensive than having in-house installers do the job, but make sure they’re licensed and insured. Don’t forget to factor in plumbing and electrical upgrades in your budget.

      6. Schedule inspection and installation. Once you’ve made your decision, you’re ready to schedule a final inspection and installation. Confirm the timeline; many brands can get the job done in under two days.

      Is a walk-in tub worth it?

      A walk-in tub is worth it for individuals with mobility issues or who value enhanced safety and comfort in their bathing experience. If you prefer to age in place rather than moving to a nursing home or similar facility, a walk-in tub is likely worth the price.

      The two major benefits of a walk-in tub are safety and therapy. Slips and falls are more common in bathrooms than in any other room, and a walk-in tub can mitigate many of these risks. Being able to submerge your entire body in water and using features like air jets, hydrojets, aromatherapy, chromotherapy and heated seats can also contribute to a more comfortable experience.

      Still, it’s important to consider the cost of a walk-in tub, the space requirements for installation, increased water and energy consumption, and extra maintenance that a walk-in tub requires. Ultimately, whether a walk-in tub is worth it depends on individual needs and priorities.

      Pros and cons of walk-in tubs

      If you’re still on the fence about whether a walk-in tub is right for you, explore the pros and cons of installing one. For most homeowners, the biggest drawback is the cost. Even if you can afford the tub — as well as installation — keep in mind that these tubs use quite a bit of water (average tubs hold about 50 gallons; walk-in models often hold around 80 gallons). So, your water bill could also increase.

      Pros

      • Enhanced bathroom safety
      • Therapeutic features
      • Ideal for aging in place

      Cons

      • High upfront costs
      • Increased water usage
      • Possibly complex installation

      Types of walk-in tubs

      Soaker tubBest for: Safety- and budget-focused users who don’t need luxury features.
      • Deeper soaking tub than a standard bathtub
      • Low step-in threshold
      • Molded seat
      • Inward- or outward-swinging door
      • At least one grab bar
      Lay-down tubBest for: Those with good mobility who prefer a full-body soak and the ability to fully recline.
      • Wider than a soaker tub but lacks a molded seat
      • Designed like a traditional bathtub with a low step-in height and watertight door
      • Allows users to fully recline for a more traditional bathing experience
      Bariatric tubBest for: Bathers over 300 pounds who need more room.
      • Wider and more spacious for comfort and accessibility
      • Supports higher weight capacities
      • Bariatric tubs offer the same safety features as standard walk-in tubs
      Wheelchair-accessible tubBest for: Wheelchair users who need easy transfer seating.
      • Features a wider, L-shaped door for easy entry
      • Slide-in seating allows for a smooth transfer from a wheelchair
      • Designed to be ADA-compliant for better accessibility
      Hybrid walk-in shower-tubBest for: Those who want the option of a combination walk-in shower-tub.
      • Includes a built-in grab bar, showerhead and bath screen
      • Functions as both a walk-in tub and a standing shower
      • Often includes optional therapeutic features like hydrotherapy jets
      Two-person tubBest for: Couples or caregivers who assist with bathing in “companion” tubs.
      • Slightly larger than standard walk-in bathtubs
      • Designed to accommodate two users with limited mobility
      • Some models feature dual seating and independent controls

      What makes a walk-in tub ADA-compliant?

      Walk-in tubs designed for accessibility must meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring they are safe and functional for individuals with mobility challenges.

      Key ADA requirements for walk-in tubs include:

      • Seat height: Must be 17 to 19 inches tall
      • Seat depth: Must be at least 15 inches deep
      • Entrance clearance: Must have at least 30 inches of clearance in front of the tub
      • Grab bars: Must follow specific size and spacing requirements

      Most walk-in tubs meet ADA standards, but it's important to double-check specifications — especially if you have specific mobility needs.

      » MORE: 8 aging-in-place home modifications for seniors

      FAQ

      What is the best price for a walk-in tub?

      Low-end walk-in tub models typically range from around $2,000 to $5,000 — but keep in mind this usually doesn’t include installation costs. Adding on therapeutic elements like chromotherapy or hydrojets will increase the price and may require upgrading or replacing electrical or plumbing lines.

      What is the average price for a walk-in tub?

      The average cost of a basic walk-in tub is around $5,000, but the style of tub and features you choose can dramatically increase the unit cost — you could end up paying $10,000 to $20,000.

      Does Medicare or Medicaid cover walk-in tubs?

      No, Medicare and Medicaid do not typically cover walk-in tubs. While both programs pay for some durable medical equipment (equipment intended for everyday use, like oxygen tanks, wheelchairs and hospital beds), walk-in tubs are not classified as such, even with a doctor's recommendation.

      If you have Medicare Advantage, it's possible your plan may pay part or all of certain related home modifications, thanks to expanded rules from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that allow for "non-medical" supplemental benefits. However, these vary widely by plan and may require a physician referral or prior authorization.

      » RELATED: Are walk-in tubs tax deductible?

      How long does it take for a walk-in tub to fill and drain?

      Typically, it takes about five to 15 minutes to fill the tub and an additional five to 15 minutes to drain it, depending on features like quick drain and fill technology. The time it takes for a walk-in tub to fill and drain can vary significantly based on the model of the tub and the water pressure in your home. Quick drain systems can help minimize the waiting time, making the experience more comfortable. Some of the walk-in tub companies we highlight above can fill and drain in as little as two minutes.

      Will a walk-in bathtub add value to my home?

      In some cases, a walk-in tub can add value to your home. If your neighborhood is popular among older adults and retirees, for instance, the presence of a walk-in tub could be a real selling point.

      If it’s your only bathtub, though, or if you don’t also have a shower, a walk-in tub could negatively affect your home’s value. Ultimately, the cost-benefit depends on how much you spend on the tub.

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

      You’ll need an area of at least 30 inches by 60 inches for a walk-in tub. Most homes (even many mobile homes) can accommodate a walk-in tub in the existing bathroom space. Before installing a walk-in tub, consider the size of your doorway openings (to get the unit into the house and into the bathroom) and the opening of your current shower or tub.

      » MORE: What size water heater do I need?

      Do I have to do a full bathroom remodel to install a walk-in tub?

      Most bathrooms require at least some remodeling for a walk-in tub installation, but the extent of this can vary greatly. Many of these remodels include widening the space the shower occupies or reconfiguring plumbing and electrical lines, which could add thousands to your total cost.

      If you’re concerned about making too many changes (and the associated costs), address this during your in-home consultation so your rep can work with you on a solution.

      » RELATED: Best bathroom remodeling companies

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach informed by our expert editors to choose the best extended car warranty companies. We looked at thousands of verified reviews, safety features like step-in height and grab bars, luxury features like hydrojets and discounts.

      Companies were given a score out of 10 for each metric, with 10 going to the company with the highest value and other companies receiving relative scores. We then weighted each metric and added together the nine metric scores to get a final score.

      • Reviews: We analyzed consumer sentiment related to installation, features, customer service, pricing, fill time and drain time.
      • Luxury features: We evaluated the availability and quality of upgrades like heated backrests, hydrotherapy systems, chromotherapy lighting and aromatherapy, prioritizing tubs that offer a more spa-like experience.
      • Discounts: We assessed whether brands offer discounts for veterans, seniors or bulk upgrades, giving higher marks to companies with broader savings opportunities.
      • Number of jets: We considered the total number and configuration of hydrotherapy and air jets, rewarding models with more jets and customizable pressure options.
      • Step-in height: We measured the lowest entry threshold for each tub, favoring options that reduce tripping risk and increase accessibility for users with limited mobility.

      Get expert advice on walk-in tubs

      We asked experts how walk-in tubs and other bathroom upgrades can help older adults maintain safety, independence and peace of mind at home.

      How can walk-in tubs help older adults or individuals with limited mobility maintain their independence?
      Pamela Toto

      Pamela Toto

      Professor and director, occupational therapy program, University of Pittsburgh

      Traditional bathtubs and tub/shower combinations present a challenge because they require good balance, strength and flexibility to step in and out of the bathtub (and even greater strength, flexibility and balance to actually sit in the bathtub basin and get out of the tub.) A walk-in shower (full remodel, no threshold to enter) eliminates the need to “step over” the bathtub edge to enter and exit, eliminating the associated risk of falling during that transition. Being able to bathe and shower independently and safely is important for our physical and mental well-being. In addition to keeping us clean, it also increases our quality of life and allows us to engage in our homes and communities confidently.

      There are many types of walk-in tubs, and it’s important to consider each option since not all of them will be ideal for solving all individual mobility challenges. For example, many have raised surfaces that individuals must step over to enter or exit the tub, increasing the risk of a fall or injury.

      Read their bio
      Leon Watts III

      Leon Watts III

      Learning and development specialist, University of Southern California

      When individuals have limited mobility, they are likely to have experienced at least one fall already. If an individual has experienced a hard fall resulting in an injury, they may develop a fear of falling again that heightens their risk of future falls. They might also require assistance to perform many of their daily functions, like transferring and bathing. Assistive devices like walk-in bathtubs increase a person’s confidence and reduce the risk of another fall, helping caregivers provide safer service for themselves and the person they care for.

      Quality of life is another factor to consider when purchasing a walk-in tub. Buyers must ask if the product can help provide additional safety, comfort and enjoyment while bathing. When mobility challenges have become a factor in someone’s life, what is the reduction of a risk of falling or injury worth? I can assure everyone that additional safety and comfort can cost less than injuries on many levels.

      The population of those aged 65 and older is growing by 12,000 every day. Longer life spans are changing how younger and less physically challenged people consider purchases like a walk-in tub. Luckily, more manufacturers and models exist for buying these assistive devices than years ago.

      While there are many benefits associated with walk-in tubs, they may not be the best solution for everyone. A person’s ability to safely use a walk-in tub and their home’s ability to allow easier installation could drive up costs, making the purchase less likely.

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      Marilyn Rantz

      Marilyn Rantz

      Professor emerita, nursing, University of Missouri

      Staying active and independent is critical at any age, especially as we get older. Walk-in tubs address one of the biggest safety risks in the bathroom — stepping over the high edge of a traditional tub. This movement can be difficult and even dangerous for those with limited mobility. Walk-in tubs eliminate that high step, making it safer and more manageable. I recommend that anyone considering one thoroughly test it out by sitting in it and stepping in and out. Taking these steps will ensure it’s a helpful solution. It’s vital that a walk-in tub provides the right clearance and stability.

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      What types of injuries are individuals with limited mobility more likely to avoid by using walk-in tubs?
      Pamela Toto

      Pamela Toto

      Professor and director, occupational therapy program, University of Pittsburgh

      The primary type of injury would be a fall-related injury. The most common fall-related injuries for older adults are hip fractures, wrist fractures and head injuries (e.g., hitting their head on the fall).

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      Leon Watts III

      Leon Watts III

      Learning and development specialist, University of Southern California

      These features offer people, with or without assistance, more independence and safety confidence:

      • Reduced risk of tripping: A walk-in tub allows a person to get into a bathtub with an entry threshold of 4 to 7 inches, reducing the risk of tripping. Conventional tubs have an 11- to 18-inch exterior entry measurement.
      • Reducing falls: Walk-in tubs provide a nonslip floor and a regular, chair-height, nonslip seat for the tub’s occupant. Grab bars or handles strategically built into the tub unit provide safety and stability.
      • Safer assistance from caregivers: There is less risk of injury while transferring or lifting a person into the tub by a caregiver.

      Some walk-in bath units come with aromatherapy and music, and most units can use the same amount or less water than a conventional bathtub. A hand-held shower wand provides more independence for sitting individuals while bathing because they do not have to stand or hold onto something to secure themselves.

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      What psychological barriers may prevent older adults from purchasing a walk-in tub?
      Corinna Loeckenhoff

      Corinna Loeckenhoff

      Professor, psychology and gerontology, Weill Cornell Medicine

      Multiple psychological barriers might discourage older adults from investing in a walk-in tub even though it would be beneficial from an ergonomics/fall prevention perspective and within their financial means.

      First, there is a barrier to acknowledging that one is experiencing age-related physical limitations because it conjures up stereotypes of frail older adults. From a self-image perspective, getting a walk-in tub may make people feel like they’re “getting old,” and they may want to distance themselves from that idea.

      Framing the purchase of a walk-in tub from a positive angle, such as noting that it can help maintain independence in later life, can help address those concerns. There is also a social stigma around disability that is known to prevent people from using other forms of assistive devices (walkers/canes, hearing aids), and this likely extends to walk-in tubs. In this regard, people may be more willing to get a walk-in tub if it’s in a part of the house that is hidden from casual visitors.

      More broadly, older adults tend to avoid/postpone decisions that they find stressful. Rather than explicitly deciding against a walk-in tub, they may postpone purchasing one and arrange themselves with the status quo. This decision subjects them to avoidable pain and puts them at a higher risk of potential falls. Again, putting a positive angle on the decision (highlighting benefits in terms of convenience and maintaining independence) may help to overcome decision aversion.

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