By PensionsWeek Team
Updated: 2021, May 15
Reviewed by Kristi Stalder
This guide will provide a clear overview of the best walk-in tubs for seniors and a clean comparison of the extra safety comfort features that separate these tubs.
- Our Top Pick : American Standard
- Best Air Massage: Ella Ultimate
- Most Affordable: Empava Acyrlic
- Best Walk in Shower: Ariel Soaker
- Best Accessible: Ellas Bubbles
Nowadays, more than 75% of Americans above age 50 prefer to “age in place,” according to AARP[1].
This desire to remain in their home comes with some risk. As our bodies age, our ability to survive falls or simply to move about the house safely gradually erodes.
The most dangerous room in the house to take care of the seniors, is the bathroom. A recent study[2] published on the National Council On Aging shows that one in four Americans above 65 years old fall each year, and most of the slips are seen in the bathroom.
Walk-in tubs are an excellent investment to make bathrooms a safe space for many seniors. So we’ve evaluated the 5 best walk-in bathtub brands here. Check out the best walk-in tubs in our comparisons. There are also cheap walk-in tubs available on the market.
How we Picked the Best Walk-in Tubs for Seniors?
We’ve compiled our top picks by evaluating more than 28+ walk-in tub reviews. We have also listed out comparisons of each product to make things a bit more clear for you to show you exactly what’s out there.
We have a team of editors who research, test and recommend the best product. Also, note that, although product testing has been done with a few models, it is not possible to do product testing for a variety of models that we have listed here. We only tested accessible models which were highly praised and rated amongst the others.
Our team has compared 28+ walk-in tub standard features and specifications, as well as potential pros and cons, giving you a few great options to choose a walk-in tub and ways to make your bathing time more comfortable and risk-free. We’ve also checked manufacturer reputation, warranty policy & terms, and coverage periods before choosing the best walk-in tubs for the elderly.
We went through 450 + customer reviews and have handpicked a few walk-in bathtubs for seniors, which have had a great user rate and have reviewed them extensively. So here we recommend the top-rated walk-in tubs in each category and one which will suit your budget as well.
Comparison of 5 Best Walk-in Tubs 2022
Our Top Pick: American Standard Gelcoat Value Outward Walk-In Bath Tub
American Standard is a popular brand when it comes to bathrooms, kitchens, and walk-in tubs for seniors.
Since 1872 American Standard has been leading in North America as a manufacturer for quality plumbing and building products.
They offer over 100 different walk-in bathtubs with grab bar features for seniors and quick drain systems.
Their innovative products are designed in a way to ensure safety and comfort features to their users.
American Standard’s walk-in tub is available in wide arrays – from outward-opening doors to whirlpool jets air bath features.
They also made soaking models and safe step tubs with water jets to allow for an ultimate relaxation experience.
Every walk-in tub is built along the safety guidelines to fit the needs of seniors with limited mobility.
They are built with an Air Spa System and a Whirlpool Massage system to create an invigorating and relaxing bathing experience. Also, the anti-scald valve provides you safety from sudden water over-heating and maintains its temperature.
The whirlpool jets massage system with 6 water jets and an inline heater delivers the therapeutic legs-only massage.
The outward-swinging door with a low threshold is built to allow seniors for ease of entry and exit. An Air Spa System with 21 air jets offers luxurious water-based massage.
The heated blower delivers warmness through different bubbles, which encourages circulation.
It is made up of a hi-gloss Gel coat with quick-fill faucets and a handheld shower wand.
The inbuilt grab bars and textured floors are used to prevent slipping off the seat, which allows a safe bathing experience for your elderly one.
The compliant seat height is contoured in a way that allows seniors to sit comfortably as they bathe. The tub is available in White and Linen color with the faucet deck mount.
The Quick drain feature quickly drains the water in 2 minutes, making it safe to open the door.
This is a solid product with a lifetime warranty on the bath door seal and a 10-year warranty on the tub’s shell.
Also, the company offers a five-year warranty on the tub components.
Watch a Video on American Standard Walk-In Tubs Quick Drain Facility.
Spa experience with whirlpool massage and air spa system for a reasonable price. Extra care to be taken while using the showerheads.
Specification
Item Dimensions: 52 x 32 x 40 inches(LxWxH)
Finish Type: Polished
Material: Fiberglass
Item Weight: 151 Pounds
Capacity: 40 Gallons
Color: White
Shape: Rectangular
Features
It is equipped with a Whirlpool Massage System that comes with six water jets, a Legs-Only Massager and an in-line heater for an exceptional therapeutic bathing experience.
The chrome grab bar, low threshold, textured floor, along with height of the chair seat ensures safety and comfort.
With 21 air jets, this walk-in bathtub also features an Air Spa System.
The patented Quick Drain® and deck-mount faucet ensure an easy and fast fill and drain process without much hassle.
Watch a Video on American Standard Walk-In Tubs
Best Air Massage - Ella Ultimate
Image source:Twitter
Ella’s Bubble offers many high-quality walk-in tubs with accessible showers and other bathroom accessories.
They specialize in offering safety solutions such as ADA-compliant seat walk-in showers, slip-resistant floors with the seats, and handlebars modeled in a way to fulfill the bariatric needs of the user.
Ella’s products also cover a microbubble therapy that keeps the tub and the water clean and warm and helps to exfoliate and moisturize the skin.
Additionally, the tub includes aromatherapy, chromotherapy, standalone air, hydro, and foot massage features that provide the seniors to recreate a spa at home.
Among Ella’s favorite model(s), this model stands out due to the triple-massage system.
Ella’s Dual drain technology, which requires no power, provides a quick filling facet and two gravity-driven drains that help your tub to drain quickly, which minimizes the time of your loved one who wants to sit in the tub.
It is equipped with 2 openers and two overflows for fast drainage from the tub. The inbuilt heated surfaces are 20 inches wide and are contoured for extra comfort.
These tub frames are built up with stainless steel material, and the tub’s white acrylic shell is covered with layers of gel coat, providing a non-porous surface resistant to molds which in turn provide safety against the risk of seniors falling.
A low step-in threshold of 8.5 inches is built for easy step-in and step-out. For extra safety of the elderly, two grab bars are provided to offer stability while standing or sitting in the tub.
A textured floor with a slip-resistant feature is made to enhance the safety of your loved ones.
The triple massage setting includes foot massage, hydro jets, and air jets which deliver therapeutic massages to your back, hips, feet, and legs. The 17 Air therapy system helps to remove residual water from the pipes.
The company also gives a limited lifetime warranty on the frame door and door seat.
This tub can be perfect because of its narrow entry and can be considered as the best overall luxury walk-in tub for its spa feature.
Specification
Material: Stainless Steel
Color: White
Item Dimensions: 60 x 30 x 38 inches(LxWxH)
Item Weight: 240 Pounds
Capacity: 95 Gallons
Features
Slip-resistant floor, stainless-steel grab bars, and low step-in threshold elevate the bathing experience with safety.
It allows you to enjoy the foot massage without filling the bathtub fully.
Ella Dual Drain Technology makes it easy for you to drain the water quickly.
It comes with a 3-speed airflow push control system, making the 17 Air Massage System the perfect addition to the bathtub.
Read Next – Top Glides for Walkers
Most Affordable - Empava acrylic freestanding soaking spa bathtub
Founded in 2015 in Los Angeles, Empava is the fastest-growing Kitchen and Bath Appliances manufacturer in the United States.
They deliver appliances like jacuzzi, bathtubs, sauna, and everyday kitchen mainstays like ovens and stovetops. The products are designed in a way to improve the quality of your everyday life.
This Empava, walk-in tub model is highly appreciated due to its ultra-low step-in threshold, which is less than four inches, allowing seniors to take short steps while entering the tub.
It lets you feel safe and secure as it helps to prevent water from spilling into your bathroom floor. Standalone streamline design with glossy white design can boost up your bathroom decor.
External handrails and non-slip surfaces are built in for added safety of the elderly while sitting/standing.
This tub comes with pre-installed faucets, copper drain, pillow, a cabled left side drain, faucet, Knobs, hand-held shower head for easy installation.
This tub also offers an inbuilt seat so that the elderly can be immersed up to the shoulder in the water and can relax and feel additional soaks.
It offers extra-wide doors than other walk-in bathtubs and provides enough space for them to step in and out of the walk-in bathtub easily.
If you are looking for a SPA-like experience for seniors or disabled people then, you can get an Empavas walk-in tub. It is worth a try!
Specification
Installation Method: Freestanding
Material: Fiberglass
Item Dimensions: 52.5 x 26.5 x 40 inches(LxWxH)
Finish Type: Glossy
Item Weight: 160 Pounds
Capacity: 94 Gallons
Color: White
Shape: Rectangular
Features
This freestanding bathtub comes with a contemporary stand-alone design and features an integrated seat.
The ultra-low step-in threshold keeps the water from spilling into your bathroom, thus helping you stay secure.
Along with a surrounding handrail to the rim of the bath, a grab bar inside the bath is installed for added stability.
Ideal for seniors or those with disabilities since it enables safe entry and exit with spa-like comfort at home.
See Also – Best Raised Toilet Seats For Elderly
Best Walk in Shower - Ariel Soaker Gel Coat Fiberglass Walk-In Bathtub With Right Side Drain
Ariel is a lesser-known brand but provides the highest quality bathroom products that are specifically designed to provide a spa-like experience at home.
The products which they have designed are crafted with attention so that they can provide unparalleled quality that is not seen in the market and can give their senior customers a dream bathroom.
Ariel tubs come in three different models – A simple soaker tub, Tub With Air Massage, and a dual massage tub.
Ariel’s basic Soaker Fiberglass bathtub model comes with all the accessibility and standard safety features. These walk-in bathtubs come with ADA-compliant seats and are available in varying sizes.
Featuring a built of a high-quality steel frame, this tub is designed with a gel-coated fiberglass shell for extra protection.
Other standard features include bars for extra safety, easy lever door handles, a handheld showerhead, a low threshold to make entry and exit easier, specifically for those seniors who have mobility issues.
This safety tub for seniors could be an excellent choice for the ones who are looking for a full-body bath experience.
Specification
Color: White
Installation Method: Alcove
Material: Alloy Steel
Item Dimensions: 36 x 26 x 51 inches(LxWxH)
Item Weight: 234 Pounds
Finish Type: Whites
Features
The Ariel tubs come with a heavy-duty reinforced fiberglass resin-coated and reinforced door system.
It is equipped with Roman faucets and handheld showers.
The textured bottom assists the user in preventing slipping.
The durable Gelcoat construction makes the tub tough and long-lasting.
It is ADA compliant in order to ensure safe accessibility.
Read Also – Best Walking Cane for Balance
Best Accessible - Ella's Bubbles Malibu Hydro Massage Acrylic Walk-in Bathtub
Image source:Twitter
The Ella Malibu 30″ x 52″ x 43″ is an outward swing walk-in tub with a 20″ built-in seat, perfect for average body size.
Ella’s bathtubs are made up of white acrylic along with glossy fiberglass to provide extra durability.
To ensure effective safety and comfort for seniors, special attention is taken to the slip-resistant flooring of the tub and stainless steel grab bars to offer a good grip. The company also takes extreme care of an outward swing door with a low step threshold for easy entry and exit.
This tub is equipped with therapeutic packages, including a 16 Air Jet Therapy system, 14 jet hydro massage systems, and Infusion Micro-bubble systems.
The Jet air system removes residual water from the pipes, whereas the hydro massage system is used to increase their relaxation.
The infusion micro-bubble therapy system can get rid of seniors’ dead skin cells and keep their skin hydrated.
Dual Drain technology ensures fast drainage. It comes with two different faucet options, Fast Fill and thermostatic faucet.
It comes with a wall extension kit to fit a 60” tub opening. Ellas Malibu model offers one of the best value full-featured walk-in tubs in the market.
Specification
Material: Acrylic
Item Dimensions: 52 x 29.5 x 43 inches (LxWxH)
Finish Type: Glossy
Color: White
Item Weight: 220 Pounds
Capacity: 90 Gallons
Installation Method: Alcove
Shape: Rectangular
Features
The HydroMassage system is the USP of this walk-in bathtub.
The HydroMassage includes an in-line water heater, six adjustable and nine fixed jets, and intensity dial control for a soothing massage experience.
The tub also features ozone sterilization to keep the system and water clean.
The amazing attribute of this tub is the door seal and ANTI-leak 3 latch system.
Its dual drain technology, stainless-steel grab bars, faucet options, and strategically positioned jetting make this walk-in tub a worthy choice.
What are walk-in Tubs?
Walk-in tubs are special bathtubs with watertight doors and molded seats that allow the seniors to bathe safely at home.
Compared to conventional tubs, these tubs have low threshold entry for increased safety, specifically for seniors and disabled people.
Many walk-in tubs come with molded seats to ensure that the seniors are sitting in an upright position while immersed in air-jetted water instead of lying down and soaking.
Walk-in bathtubs can provide up to four feet of water depth compared to the traditional tub, which has a depth of 13 to 14 inches and allows for a thorough soak.
A Walk-in tub can be a great choice for seniors, those who have mobility issues, or who cannot get up easily from a slippery tub.
How do walk-in tubs work?
Walk-in tubs are equipped with tight doors and a low threshold entry to make it easier for seniors to enter the tub without lifting their legs.
The sealing provided on the doors keeps the water inside the tub, which leads to leak proof doors.
The fast drainage system in the walk-in tubs does not allow the user to stay in the tub for a longer period.
The tub has a variety of features like adjustable bubble jets, handrails, a hand-held shower, and inbuilt chair-level seats.
How to Buy the best walk-in tubs for your elderly Ones?
Check out the parameters below to know how to zero down the best walk-in tub for seniors
1. Budget
Walk-in tub prices range from $1,500 -$20,000 depending on the quality, features, and cost of installation the tub offers. If you are a little tight on budget, then you can look for financing options. So do your basic research and then buy it.
2. See the Space for your walk-in tub
Check the available bathroom space for your walk-in tub before buying. The ideal tub is usually around 60 inches long, and the width ranges from 25 to 60 inches. Technicians who perform an inspection may assist you in getting the correct tub dimensions and may help you to choose the best.
3. Check the hot water capacity
Walk-in tubs may hold more water compared to your water heater, so it would take much time for the water to reheat in the tank. So consider buying a larger water heater or models with an in-line heater to avoid the delay in the flow of hot water, which would eventually make your loved one wait in cold water, which is totally not right. So, it is strongly advised to check the water heater capacity.
4. Choose the type of walk-in tub
Soaker Tub – This is a basic and the most affordable tub which does not have any fancy air or water jets.
Wheelchair Accessible Tubs – Wheelchair accessibility in tubs allows people who use wheelchairs to transfer from a wheelchair to the bathtub more easily. This is done with the outward swinging door. The seat provided with this tub is generally shorter in height compared to other tub seats.
Bariatric Walk-In Tubs – Bariatric model is larger compared to the basic model and is designed for obese individuals around 300 lbs or heavier.
Aerotherapy (Air Jet) Tubs – Walk-in tubs with jets are designed to provide bubbling water giving your body a gentle massage. They help in draining and cleaning the tub by preventing bacteria from building up in the water.
Aromatherapy Tub -This kind of tub allows bathers to try and mix essential oils with the water to gain an aromatic experience. You can use lavender, jasmine, and other relaxing scents as well.
Hydrotherapy Tub – These tubs have water jets that provide an intense massage to the user, which helps in relieving joint pain. The hydrotherapy systems also have hydrotherapy jets. The added power can harm the sensitive skin of the user.
Chromatherapy – It uses colored light in combination with water which can create soothing effects.
Combination Tubs – There are other walk-in tubs apart from these basic ones. You can find different combinations of tubs like fast-draining tubs, outward and inward swinging door tubs, walk-in showers, etc.
SEE ALSO – Best Adjustable Bed for your loved ones.
5. Look For Basic Walk-in Tub Features
Walk-in tubs have important features that one needs to look at before investing in the walk tub.
Handrails
Most of the Walk-in tubs have handrails already installed to avoid slip surfaces. This is best for disabled or senior people. You can even install a grab bar on the wall near the tub for extra safety.
Self-Cleaning System
To avoid manual cleaning of the tub, you should consider self-cleaning tubs.
Self-cleaning tubs just need bleach and dishwashing soap, or else you can look for tubs that have an ozone cleaning system that helps to keep the tub clean.
Non-Slip Textured Floor
Nowadays, most walk-in tubs have a non-slip textured surface to prevent slipping while entering and going out of the tub. If you buy a tub for a senior or disabled person, you should look for this feature.
Fast Drain System
If you want to avoid sitting in a bathtub for a long time waiting for the water to drain, then you should look for a fast-filling faucet and fast drain system.
Built-In Seat
Nearly all the models include an inbuilt heated seat so that the user can have a warm and safer bathing experience since it can easily step in and step out. The anti-scald devices are used to prevent sudden temperature changes in the water..
Step-Up Height
Step-up height is the height of the threshold that goes to the tub. The lower the step-up height, the better it is. Mostly the step-up height for these tubs is 3-7 inches.
This walk-in tub is very important for people with mobility issues.
6. WALK-IN TUB WARRANTY PACKAGE
Before buying a walk-in tub, it is important to understand the limited warranties on all the components, what it covers, and whether it offers a lifetime warranty period.
7. PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED
Walk-in tubs are an expensive endeavor, so proper care should be taken while installing them or maintaining them.
Customers should choose an installer who is well trained or may choose its trusted local plumber to get it installed.
SEE ALSO – Are Walk-in Bathtubs Worth The Investment?
Why walk-in tubs Are so important for seniors?
1. Convenience:
Every person who uses a walk-in tub can gain an advantage from their convenience. When you have a tiring day, you can have a long hot bath. It has a front door opening and a seat to rest and enjoy while taking a bath.
2. Safety:
Seniors, kids, and people with injuries have the highest risk of falling in the bathroom. Walk-in tubs are a great option to alleviate this stress and are designed with handlebars for holding out whenever needed.
3. Luxury:
Walk-in tubs offer many therapeutic and luxury features for everyone who uses them. You get hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, massage jets, and molded seats to enhance your bathing experience. Massage therapy offers numerous benefits to seniors like
1)It increases blood flow to limbs
2)Relieves arthritis pain
3)Improves sleep
4. Affordability:
Many seniors think about the cost of switching from standard tubs to walk-in tubs. However, walk-in tubs are affordable and are made from quality material that lasts for a long time.
what questions you should ask to your contractor?
Reviewing and analyzing all the factors for your walk-in tub before finalizing your purchase will ensure that you are indeed buying the perfect walk-in bathtub, which will be ideal for your family and loved ones.
Apart from the factors, features, and types, it is also crucial to know some of the critical questions that you must ask your contractor.
How long have you been in business?
Are you a licensed contractor?
Are you fully insured?
Do you have experience in installing walk-in bathtubs? If yes, which brands?
How long does it take to install a tub?
Will there be any requirements for permits?
What will be your plumbing requirements?
Besides all this, you can ask them about their company’s warranty and service policies. When there is an in-home visit for the installation, you will eventually get to know the additional charges that may add to your costs.
At PensionsWeek, we will be more than glad if we helped you get the perfect walk-in bathtub for your loved ones through our article. If you still feel confused, refer to our reviews and much more informative articles to gain a good understanding of retirement plans and gears.
Faq’s about Walk-In tubs
Walk-in Tubs can hold a maximum of 40 -80 gallons of water while the traditional tub can hold 25 to 45 gallons of water. While looking for a walk-in tub you need to check your hot water heater’s capacity as well.
In comparison to a regular bathtub, a walk-in tub has safety features such as a low barrier to prevent sliding, handrails, slip-resistant flooring, and built-in chairs, making it well worth the money. Massage jets, an automated cleaning system, and a handheld shower wand are among the other amenities that make it well worth the money.
Medicare does not include walk-in tubs as they are no considered durable medical equipment.
Many wheelchair-accessible walk-in tubs, also known as slide-in tubs or transfer baths, are particularly built for wheelchair users. They have sliding outward doors that provide access to the seat. A transfer tub is the ideal solution for you since its step-up height is less than 5″ and allows the user to easily transition from their seated position.
Walk-in tubs are ideal for elders and handicapped persons because they have a variety of safety features like as non-slip textured surfaces, grab bars, handrails, and ADA-compliant chairs, all of which help to decrease the chance of falls and accidents.
There are just a few walk-in tub types that include a shower, often known as a walk-in shower or shower combo senior walk in tub. Standing and sitting showers with hand-held shower wands and simple controls are available in walk-in showers.
American Standard, SafeStep, and Ella Bubbles, all well-known household names, are among the top walk-in tub manufacturers.
Walk-in tubs are a significant investment, with prices ranging from $1500 to $20,000 depending on the tub’s quality features and installation fees.
It is critical to examine the manufacturer’s warranty policy before purchasing any ordinary bathtub. Traditional bathtubs with the greatest operating systems and bathtubs will have a longer warranty policy.
If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford a walk-in tub, see if there are any financing alternatives available. You can always buy a walk-in shower instead of buying the product if you don’t want to finance it.
The Ella Ultimate is one of the best choices for walk-in bathtubs because of the following features:
- High-grade acrylic body
- Quick Dual Drain System
- Anti-scald technology.
As mentioned in the article, the majority of top sellers do not include the cost of installation in their sales. As a result, you need contact a professional installation service to instal the bathtub. If you want to instal the tub yourself, there’s a good possibility you’ll end up paying twice as much.
Pros: 2.5 Feet Water Depth which reduces the need to step over a tall wall like a traditional tub.
Cons: The duration to fill the tub and drain might give you an issue.
READ NEXT – 4 wheel walker with seat
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Last update on 2023-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
Read Next - About Kohler Walk-in Bathtub - Complete review
We hope you have some clarity now to find the walk-in tub.
The perfect tub with its safety features can prevent your older loved ones from getting any injury and thus can improve their quality of life.
Though it is expensive, it is worth the money.
All the above walk-in tubs are solid, with most of them catering to budgets. To save your time, we chose the American Standard Walk-in Tub as the best choice for your home.
It is one of the best walk-in tubs for seniors with amazing features and spa experiences.
References
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Last update on 2023-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I found the walk-in tubs very useful. These sit in tubs have come handy for me. I can easily shift on the walk-in tub from my wheelchair. I have the American standard walk in tub installed in my home. I loved the quality and enjoy my experience in the tub. It is a great mobility gear!
I am so happy with these walk in safety tubs. I choose Ella’s Bubbles Malibu Hydro Massage Acrylic Walk-in Bathtub for my grandmother. I installed it a week back and she loved it. It was amazing to see that the tubs works great and installation was done perfectly. I loved you review, it was really helpful!
Let me say, the EMPAVA’s walk in bathtub with jets functioning and the furnishing is excellent. This is a great tubs at a very affordable price. I loved it. The tubs was very easy to order and was delivered unharmed. Only issue i had was the drain working very slowly. Rest the tubs is great! I would recommend you go through this guide and find the best one for you like it found mine!
Hello Beth! I work for Ella’s Bubbles and we are thrilled to hear you chose the Malibu! I hope your grandmother is loving it!!!
I went through this American standard walk-in tubs reviews and finally got it for my mom. It was comfortable to use and my mom was able to get inside the tub without any assistance. These walk-in tubs with shower, hand grips, and anti-slip flooring are perfect for the seniors. I was most worried about it but my mom is overall happy with the product.
Hi, I loved this review of bathtubs for seniors, however, I wanted to know that can I install walk in tub with shower? My mother likes to take shower rather than sitting and spending her time in a tub. What would you suggest?
I have this walk in tubs and showers at my home for nine months now and I must say I have no regrets. I absolutely love the comfort and the pleasure these tubs offer me! Great choice of bathing experience and safety if you are looking for your loved one.
Hi, I have been searching for full immersion walk-in bathtubs for seniors. I loved the Ella’s walk in tub, however, I am still confused. Can you help?
Thank you very much for sharing about best walk in tubs here… I really hope I can work on your tips and it works for me too, I am happy to come across your article. Great post I must admit, keep sharing more…