Best Walk-in Bathtubs in Washington

To find the right walk-in tub for your needs in Washington, start by thinking about your mobility, available bathroom space and installation budget. The right choice will balance safety, comfort and future accessibility, especially if you or a loved one faces mobility challenges or chronic pain. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make the best decision.

1. Compare comfort and safety features

When evaluating walk-in tubs, focus on features that directly reduce fall risk and make bathing easier. Built-in grab bars, textured floors, anti-scald protection and rapid fill-and-drain systems are essential.

The height of the entry threshold and the width of the door will determine how easy the tub is to use for people with limited mobility or wheelchair needs. For comfort, consider extras like heated seats, hydrotherapy jets and even add-ons such as aromatherapy or chromotherapy.

2. Consider tub design and materials

Door style can make a big difference, especially in Washington’s older homes with tight spaces. Inward-swinging doors save space, while outward-swinging doors are best for wheelchair access.

When it comes to materials, gelcoat tubs offer durability and color longevity, but come at a higher cost. Acrylic tubs are lighter and more affordable, but can scratch more easily.

In Washington's damp climate, especially on the west side, choose a tub made from high-quality, mold-resistant acrylic and ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Walk-in tubs are available in a variety of sizes — standard models are typically 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches tall, but compact and bariatric options exist. Smaller tubs may require only 40 gallons of water, while larger tubs can need up to 120 gallons.

Not having a water heater that can support the tub’s capacity is a common issue with walk-in tubs. Be sure to double-check your water heater’s capacity before choosing a tub size.

Ruth from Quincy ran into this issue: “The tub takes long to fill, and the water doesn't stay hot, likely due to limitations of our water heater.

4. Read reviews

Before making a purchase, review feedback from other Washington homeowners. Pay close attention to comments about how well the tub drains, how easy the door is to seal and clean and whether the company honored its warranty. Insights from local customers can help you evaluate both product quality and the reliability of local installers.

Local reviews are especially useful since Washington’s damp climate can affect how tubs hold up over time, and installation challenges often vary between rural areas in Eastern Washington and older urban homes around Seattle or Tacoma.

5. Compare total costs

The price of a walk-in tub can vary greatly, depending on design, features and installation requirements. The base price for a tub can be several thousand dollars, but additional upgrades or necessary plumbing changes will increase the final bill. Be sure to factor in both tub cost and installation charges.

Walk-in tubs prescribed by a doctor may be considered exempt from sales tax in Washington, offering a direct way to lower the total price.

6. Prepare for installation

Most installations in Washington take one to two days, but the process can stretch longer if your home is older or requires major modifications — such as widening a doorway or updating plumbing. Plan ahead and check contractor credentials for peace of mind.

Before a Washington installation, use the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) website to verify your contractor is registered, bonded and insured.

» LEARN: Do walk-in tubs leak?

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Washington

When hiring a walk-in tub installer in Washington, first determine if installation is included by your chosen brand. Some companies use in-house crews, which often ensures a smoother process and a better fit.

If you need to hire your own installer, look for a licensed and insured contractor who has specific experience in bathroom renovations and home accessibility. Always check references, confirm credentials and request a clear, itemized quote and project timeline.

Washington's housing stock is a mix of Craftsman, Bungalow and Contemporary styles. While newer homes in suburban areas offer straightforward installations, older homes may have smaller bathrooms and require system upgrades.

Given the state's high cost of living, a realistic average labor cost for a full project would be in the $3,000 to $7,000 range.

Walk-in tub prices in Washington typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $3,000 to $7,000.

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

» MORE: Why are walk-in tubs so expensive?

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Getting financial aid for walk-in tubs is possible in Washington. Medicare Parts A and B do not typically pay for walk-in tubs, but some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may assist with home upgrades that improve accessibility. Always check with your specific insurance provider to see if you qualify for any additional funds or discounts.

The state's COPES (Community Options Program Entry System) waiver can cover "environmental modifications" for eligible individuals. For those in rural areas, the USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair Program is a key resource.

If you’re a veteran, you may qualify for VA programs that help cover walk-in tub costs. Medicaid also offers support for modifications in some cases — see the Washington Apple Health website for more information.