Best Walk-In Bath: Updated October 2020

Arthritis and other conditions that affect mobility can make everyday tasks like bathing exceptionally difficult. Therefore, if it becomes difficult for you or a loved one to take a bath or shower, you might consider installing a walk-in bath.

“Walk-in baths are a good solution for anyone with mobility issues and are a preferred choice for the elderly. Meg Marrs of Massachusetts-based online healthcare resource Safer Elderly Care. “Their quick drain means you don’t have to wait long for the tub to empty completely to open the side door and get out of the tub. “

When does it seem like a walk-in bathtub would be a wise addition if not necessary? “Problems with balance or mobility are good signs to start shopping for a walk-in tub,” says Marrs. It also makes sense to anticipate. “They should be installed by professionals, so it is always advisable to start watching the signs appear so that they are ready for use when needed.”

When considering the type of walk-in tub that’s right for you or your family, Marrs says you need to consider the layout of your home and the general mobility of the person you’re buying it for. “Walk-in tubs come with a door and drain on the left or right. While this may seem to make it easier to choose your current plumbing, you need to consider the capabilities of the person who will be using the tub. “, she says. . “Problems with their right or left arm will play a role in the choice and may require plumbing changes in the bathroom. A weakness in the right arm would mean it is easier to hold the wall bar with your left hand for as you sit in. This would require a tub door on the left side.

A walk-in tub can make life easier for someone with mobility challenges and help them regain a sense of control. to clean. That said, “Walk-in tubs take up a lot of space and are quite expensive. Beyond the initial expense, they usually take more water to fill, which will be reflected in water bills, and sometimes a new, larger water heater would be needed, ”says Marrs. “If cost or space is a factor, then another option to consider is a Italian shower which has no step.

With that in mind, here are the best walk-in tubs, recommended by Marrs and other experts in home improvement and seniors’ needs.

Best walk-in tubs for seniors and others with limited mobility

4.5 ‘Ariel Walk-In Tub: $ 1,899 to Amazon or $ 1,993.96 to Home deposit

This Arial walk-in tub, which is ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) compliant, gives you the ability to “choose multiple configuration options and costs less than $ 2,000,” says Marrs. “It has a seat height of 17 inches and 23 inches and a free-standing stainless steel support frame with adjustable feet as well as a safety bar inside the tub.”

Some models may be temporarily sold out. On last check, a slightly different Ariel walk-in bathtub than the one mentioned above was listed as available for $ 1,999 at Amazon.

Empava 53 “Walk-in Freestanding Bathtub: $ 1,902 to Home deposit or $ 1,999 to Amazon

David Richardson is a Milwaukee based building manager for residential real estate. For homes and apartments aimed at older renters, he likes the Empava freestanding tub, which he calls “an aesthetic tub for homeowners looking for a sleek tub. It’s made of glossy white acrylic and its design makes it easy for everyone to use. The front handrail is a convenient and perfect safety device for the elderly. “

ADA Raven Compliant Walk-In Bathtub: $ 3,819.66 at Rehabmart

One of the advantages of Raven’s ADA-compliant walk-in bathtub is that it is designed to fit several different spaces, so it can work even if you have a smaller bathroom, depending Dr. Andrea Paul, founder and CEO of the online resource. Health media experts.

This walk-in tub has a watertight door, which helps prevent water from leaking out when the tub is full. The advantage of having this tub installed is that even though you recently removed a full-size tub, it can fit in easily, “says Dr Paul.” You don’t need to give it more space. The tub also has a non-slip floor, which means you can bathe without worrying about slipping and hurting yourself. ”

Total Care in the Bath BS Series: $ 5,362.20 at Lowe’s

Even in the world of walk-in tubs, luxury options are available if you have the money. The Total Care in Bathing BS series is sleek and packed with features that make it the ultimate in luxury in walk-in tubs. It comes with a lifetime warranty on a door seal, tub shell, bathtub sealed frame and finish, ”said Marrs. . “Equipped with quick drain system, 5 piece chrome faucet set with hand shower and exclusive LED faucet lighting kit, 20 air jets, 10 whirlpool jets and a bidet jet and heat exchanger to maintain the water temperature, it all adds up to a spa-like bathing experience. “

Flamingo II Walk-In Bath: $ 2,198.81 at Rehabmart

The Flamingo II Step-In is packed with enough features to make swimming not only accessible but also enjoyable, according to Dr. Paul.

“The best part about this walk-in tub is that it comes with pre-installed handles and faucets. So you don’t have to worry about worrying about installing them afterwards. ‘an extendable shower handle, which makes your showering experience easy, ”she says. . The tub also has an optional built-in jet system that provides a soothing massage to your body. Finally, the tub also comes with an optional padded neck rest, on which you can relax and enjoy your shower. “