Best Walk-in Bathtubs in Minnesota

To choose a walk-in tub in Minnesota, start by assessing individual mobility requirements, your bathroom’s structure and your budget. Focus on design elements and safety features that match your household’s needs and make daily bathing safer and easier — especially with Minnesota’s cold winters. This step-by-step guide will help you make the right decision:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

Start by evaluating features like grab bars, anti-slip floors, anti-scald protection and fast-drain systems. Entry height and door width are essential for those with mobility challenges, making it easier to get in and out safely.

For those seeking therapeutic benefits, consider heated seats, hydrotherapy jets and upgrades such as chromotherapy or aromatherapy.

2. Consider tub design and materials

Pick a door configuration that works best for your space and daily use. If you need wheelchair access, prioritize outward-swinging doors, while inward-swinging doors work better in smaller spaces.

Gelcoat tubs are long-lasting and retain their color, but they are more expensive. In contrast, acrylic tubs are lighter, making them easier to install, but they can scratch more easily.

For Minnesota's extreme cold, a walk-in tub made from thick, multi-layer acrylic offers the best heat retention, keeping your bath comfortably warm.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Standard walk-in tubs are about 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches high. However, you can choose compact, bariatric or two-seat models. Smaller tubs use about 40 gallons of water, while larger models may need up to 120 gallons.

Always check whether your water heater is up to the task. Edward from New Prague described a common situation where he doesn’t have enough hot water to fill the tub: “Use all of my hot water before it fills even with my new 50-gallon water heater.”

4. Read reviews

Check reviews from Minnesota homeowners for honest feedback on performance, drainage, durability and company service. Reviews often reveal how well companies provide support and warranty service, which can be crucial down the road.

5. Compare total costs

Expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a basic walk-in tub to more than $30,000 for premium options. Installation and any required remodel work will add to the cost.

Minnesota has no sales tax on most medical equipment prescribed by a doctor, so be sure to get a prescription to present to the seller.

6. Prepare for installation

Installation can take one or two days, but may require extra work if your bathroom is older or needs updates to plumbing, electrical or flooring.

Before work begins in Minnesota, verify your contractor's license status with the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI).

» MORE: Aging in place modifications

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Minnesota

When selecting an installer in Minnesota, find out if the company provides its own installation team. This often leads to a smoother process and better results. If you need to hire independently, choose a licensed and insured contractor with a proven record in accessibility remodeling. Always get references, verify licensing and request a detailed quote.

Minnesota homes almost always have full basements and modern insulation. This simplifies installation and offers direct access for plumbing upgrades.

Labor costs run $2,500 to $5,500. Access is rarely a problem, but high demand for trades may impact scheduling and pricing in metro areas.

» LEARN: How to handle a walk-in tub salesperson

Walk-in tub prices in Minnesota typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $2,500 to $5,500.

Before signing a contract, ask whether installation, haul-away of your old tub and warranty coverage are included in the price.

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Walk-in tubs are usually not covered by Medicare Parts A or B. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may provide limited support for home modifications, so it’s important to check with your insurer for specifics.

Minnesota’s Elderly Waiver and Alternative Care programs can fund accessibility changes. The Housing Finance Agency also supports home improvement loans.

If you’re a veteran, you might qualify for VA grants that cover the cost of a walk-in tub. Medicaid may also help cover the cost of a walk-in tub in some cases — check the Minnesota Department of Human Services website for more information.

» LEARN: How to get financial assistance for walk-in tubs