Best Walk-in Bathtubs in Wisconsin

To find the right walk-in tub in Wisconsin, start by considering your unique accessibility needs, the size of your bathroom and your budget. Prioritize features that provide safety and comfort throughout Wisconsin's long winters. Here's how to identify the best model for you or your family:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

Start by looking for walk-in tubs with built-in grab bars, non-slip floors, anti-scald valves and fast-fill-and-drain systems. The lower the entry threshold and the wider the door, the easier and safer it will be to get in and out, especially for anyone with limited mobility.

Additionally, walk-in tub benefits like heated seating, hydrotherapy jets and optional aromatherapy can make the tub more relaxing and relieve aches and pains. In Wisconsin, look for models with heated seating and faster fill-and-drain systems to minimize exposure to cold air during the winter months.

2. Consider tub design and materials

Select a tub with a door style that matches your space — inward-swinging models fit compact bathrooms, while outward-swinging doors are important for wheelchair users.

Gelcoat tubs are durable and fade-resistant, but acrylic tubs are lighter and better at retaining heat, which is important in Wisconsin's cold climate. Acrylic also resists mineral buildup, which is helpful for homes in Wisconsin regions with hard water, such as parts of Milwaukee, Madison or the Fox Valley.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Check the tub's dimensions to ensure it fits your bathroom and suits the user's needs. Compact tubs use less water, while bariatric and two-seat models require larger water heaters and more space. Always verify your water heater can deliver enough hot water for a comfortable soak or that your tub comes with an inline heater to maintain the temperature.

Tony from Richfield reported that although he was happy with his Safe Step walk-in tub, he was slightly frustrated that he had to replace his water heater. “I had to install a tankless water heater since my initial one couldn't keep pace, adding a couple of thousand dollars to my expenses.”

Many older homes in Wisconsin, especially in areas like Kenosha or Wausau, were built with 30- or 40-gallon water heaters, which may not be sufficient for larger walk-in tubs.

4. Read reviews

Read feedback from other Wisconsin homeowners to get a sense of which tubs really perform as promised. Pay close attention to comments about door seals, drain speed and the reliability of jets. Reviews often reveal whether company representatives honor warranties and respond quickly to service requests.

5. Compare total costs

Walk-in tub prices can vary dramatically depending on features, size and brand. It's important to look at the full cost, including installation, plumbing, electrical upgrades and possible bathroom remodeling.

Companies may offer special pricing for some customers, which can further bring down costs. Wisconsin resident Gerald was pleased with his new Kohler tub and the discounts he was able to get, saying, “The product was $1,000 off and since I'm a veteran, they gave me another $1,000 off for that.”

Some state programs and local grants may help offset these expenses for eligible buyers. Wisconsin's Family Care and IRIS programs are designed to help eligible adults with long-term care needs, and may cover the cost of a walk-in tub.

6. Prepare for installation

Walk-in tub installation can usually be completed in one or two days, but older homes may need additional electrical or plumbing work. Be ready for possible upgrades like doorway widening or floor reinforcement to ensure your new tub works safely and efficiently.

For a Wisconsin installation, ensure your contractor holds the proper credentials by checking with the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Wisconsin

To ensure a safe and reliable installation, first check if your walk-in tub company provides in-house installation services. If not, screen local contractors for licensing, insurance and experience with accessibility upgrades. Always ask for references, written estimates and a clear project timeline.

Wisconsin's housing stock features many historic Victorian, Tudor and Bungalow homes, often with smaller bathrooms and outdated systems that require a full remodel. The common presence of basements, however, is an advantage for plumbing modifications.

Given the age of the housing stock, a realistic average labor cost for a full project in Wisconsin would be in the $2,500 to $6,000 range.

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

Walk-in tub prices in Wisconsin typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $2,500 to $6,000.

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Medicare typically does not cover walk-in tubs under Parts A or B, but some Medicare Advantage plans might provide assistance for home modifications like walk-in tubs. Always verify with your insurance provider to see if any benefits are available.

The state's IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) program allows participants to use their budget for home modifications. Some municipalities, like Milwaukee, offer a STRONG Homes Loan Program with partially forgivable loans for essential home repairs.

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 Wisconsin Department of Health Services website for more information.

» MORE: Does a walk-in tub add value to your home?