Best walk-in bathtubs in Tennessee

To make a smart choice for a walk-in tub in Tennessee, assess your medical needs, home layout and budget. Beneficial walk-in tub features that promote safety, accessibility and comfort should be at the top of your list, especially if you’re planning for long-term use or adapting a home for a loved one. Follow these steps to help you select the best walk-in tub:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

Look for tubs with sturdy grab bars, slip-resistant flooring and quick fill-and-drain systems. Pay close attention to the threshold and door width, as these impact ease of use and reduce the risk of falls. In many parts of rural Tennessee, access to in-home care may be limited, so features that promote independent bathing are especially important.

Comfort features, such as heated seating and hydrotherapy jets, can make a big difference for those with joint pain or limited mobility.

Patricia from Memphis told us she has “arthritis and a pain in my left ankle and usually, by the end of the day, I can't stand.” Fortunately, her walk-in tub has whirlpool jets that ease her pain, and she reported, “I feel very relaxed when I use the tub.”

2. Consider tub design and materials

Evaluate which door type works best for your space: inward-swinging doors are great for tight bathrooms, while outward-swinging doors are essential for wheelchair users. When choosing materials, keep in mind that gelcoat tubs offer lasting durability but cost a bit more, while acrylic tubs are lighter, more budget-friendly and easier to install, though more prone to scratches.

To combat Tennessee's high humidity, opt for a tub made of solid acrylic with antimicrobial properties to prevent mold and mildew growth.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Walk-in tubs come in a range of sizes, from standard to compact, bariatric and two-seater models. Most standard tubs hold about 40 to 120 gallons of water. Before you buy, confirm your water heater’s capacity. Many homeowners discover they need to upgrade to ensure hot water doesn't run out mid-bath.

Edward from Maryville says that the installer didn't tell him up front he needed a bigger water heater, and because of this said, “I have to find a 80-gallon water heater so I haven't got to use the tub except for the shower.” He’s still pleased with his purchase, but wishes he had been alerted ahead of time.

4. Read reviews

Take time to read reviews from other Tennessee buyers to see how different tubs and installers perform over time. Focus on feedback about drain speed, door seals and jet performance, as well as the responsiveness of customer service and warranty support.

5. Compare total costs

Prices for walk-in tubs vary widely, depending on size, features and brand, and some tubs can be very expensive. Don’t forget to factor in installation and any necessary upgrades to your bathroom or water heater. Tennessee's Options for Community Living program is a potential funding source for home modifications for seniors who meet the program's eligibility criteria.

6. Prepare for installation

Expect most installations to last one or two days, with older or nonstandard bathrooms sometimes requiring more time. Updates like doorway expansion, reinforcement of flooring or new plumbing may be necessary.

Homes built on slab foundations, especially common in West and Middle Tennessee, may require more costly plumbing reroutes than those with crawl spaces or basements.

» LEARN: Pros and cons of walk-in tubs

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Tennessee

To ensure a smooth installation, start by checking if the company provides in-house installation, which can simplify coordination and accountability. If you need to hire your own installer, confirm their licensing and insurance, ask for references and request a written estimate and timeline for the work.

Tennessee's housing stock is a mix of traditional Southern, Colonial, and Farmhouse styles, as well as modern designs. Many homes are built on slab foundations, which can make rerouting plumbing drains more difficult and costly than in homes with basements or crawl spaces.

A realistic average labor cost for a standard installation in Tennessee would likely fall in the $1,800 to $4,500 range. Projects requiring significant concrete work for plumbing modifications on a slab foundation would be at the higher end of this estimate.

Walk-in tub prices in Tennessee typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $1,800 to $4,500.

Walk-in tubs are not covered by standard Medicare, but some Medicare Advantage plans in Tennessee may provide limited help with home modifications. Always check with your plan for specifics.

The Tennessee Housing Development Agency's (THDA) Emergency Repair Program provides grants to correct, repair or replace an essential system for low-income homeowners who are elderly or disabled. The state's CHOICES in Long-Term Services and Supports program can also cover home modifications.

If you’re a veteran, you may 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 TennCare website for more information.

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

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