Walk-in bathtubs make for fantastic alternatives to the traditional bath. They have a gate that allows for an easy way to get in and out, making them the perfect pick for people with disabilities, painful ailments, or those that don’t want to put too much pressure on their joints.

There’s no reason to put yourself in danger just to find some pain relief in the tub. A walk-in tub provides you an easy threshold, you will find yourself looking forward to a daily soak in the tub. Instead of being anxiety-inducing, it will truly become your favorite source of relaxation.

Walk-in tubs come in many varieties and thus, they also vary in prices. Some are compact models that only allow for a sitting position, others are full-on tubs with water and air jets. 

So, How Much Do Walk In Tubs Really Cost?

While these tubs have countless benefits and very few flaws, you may be asking yourself, “how much does a walk in tub cost?” 

If that’s you, we understand you. Walk-in tubs seem like a luxury only few could afford, but the truth is, considering the big variety of them, you will be able to find one that suits both you and your budget. The average cost of a walk in tub truly varies from model to model and thus, it’s possible to find one regardless of the budget.

Remember that a walk-in tub is an investment. It’s not something that has to be bought once and then re-purchased once every few years. Most of these tubs will last for decades! As such, it’s best to find one that is suited to your particular needs, walk-in tub will become your companion for many years.

Balancing the budget and your own needs is not all that easy, but for a walk-in tub, it’s worth it.  While we may not answer the question “how much does it cost to install a walk in tub” as that is specific to your area, we can definitely give you a ballpark on how much you’re looking to spend on the tub itself.

Therefore, If you’re interested cost of a walk  in tub, we recommend taking a look at 5 of our favorite walk-in tubs that are currently on the market.

Comparing the Top 5 Walk In Tubs

Safety Tubs SSV5230RJ-BC 30″x52″ Right Hand Value Series Jet Massage Biscuit

First of all, this walk-in tub apart from a massive list of quality of life features. This safety tub is also extremely secure and suited to people who suffer from chronic pain or are disabled. 

It has a built-in safety grab bar that will make it easy for you to stand up or sit down in this tub. The threshold is easily manageable and when you step in, your feet land on the anti-slip flooring that will keep you safe and allow you to relax without any worries.

It has several jets that will massage you while you bathe as well as a legs-only massage feature. Many people suffer from chronic leg muscle pain. Whether you spend most of the day on your feet or sitting down. A gentle massage may be just what your calves need after a long day. 

Easy To Get Used 

This tub fills very quickly and has a minute drain. This is an exceedingly important feature in walk-in baths, as you are unable to step out before all the water has drained. 

As a final perk, this tub is controlled by a set of easy-to-use buttons. You can adjust the jets to your needs anytime with just a touch of a button.

Pros

• Fast-fill and quick drain
• Secure due to the grab bar, anti-slip flooring and more
• Easily controlled by a set of buttons

Cons

• It only comes with 8 jets

Ella’s Bubbles H3058 Deluxe Hydro Massage 30″x 55″ White

This Ella’s Bubbles walk-in tub takes the meaning of “comfort and relaxation” to a whole new level. It’s a luxury tub that is sold at a reasonable price. 

The first thing to love about it is the fact that while it is a long, rectangular tub, it also provides a place for you to sit. As such, it is suited to all kinds of people and will meet their needs excellently. If you suffer from ailments such as back pain, you will find the ability to differentiate between sitting and laying down a wonderful relief.

That’s not all. This tub truly is suited to people who need more than just a relaxing soak. It comes with a full 12-jet hydrotherapy system. Hydrotherapy is something that the doctor may prescribe you to seek, but now, you can have access to it in your very own home.

For a quick drain after the bath, this tub comes with 2 independent drains and 2 drain openers. It is sturdy and made out of rust-proof stainless steel. It also features 2 stainless steel grab bars that will ensure your safety while getting in and out of this walk-in bath.

Something that is not often seen in similar models is the fact that this tub has a removable rubber neck/backrest for extra comfort. Combined with the 2-in-1 sitting and soaking feature as well as the complete hydrotherapy system, it’s safe to say that this tub will go above and beyond to ensure your well-being.

Pros

• Luxury tub with a variety of features
• 12 hydrotherapy jet system
• Removable backrest/rubber neck

Cons

• Some tubs have more water jets

Ella’s Bubbles O2SA3260DMH-HB-R Tub4Two Acrylic Hydro+Air+Microbubble Massage+Heated Seat Walk-In Tub with Right Outward Swing Door, Fast Fill Faucet, 2″ Dual Drain 32″ x 60″ x 42″ White

If you thought that tubs for two will not have therapeutic qualities, this Ella’s Bubbles product sets out to prove you wrong. With this tub, you can take a relaxing bath with someone else and improve your health in perfect company.

This is a luxury product and it is reflected in the price, but as it is an investment for many years, it’s worth stretching the budget for. Other than being capable of fitting two people, this tub comes with a wide range of features that will simply blow your mind.

It has a set of sixteen air jets for air therapy and an impressive twenty-two hydro jets for hydrotherapy, four of which are adjustable. These jets provide features such as Infusion Microbubble Therapy which will improve your spirits and your health all in one.

The seat and the backrest are heated and controlled by an easily used button. This makes sure that you will stay warm while the bath fills up.

This tub provides an experience that you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere, and it is completely worth the price.

Pros

• Amazing hydrotherapy, air therapy and microbbuble therapy systems
• Fits two people
• Heated seat and backrest

Cons

• It’s not very affordable

Ella Malibu 30″x 52″ Soaking Acrylic Walk-In Bathtub, Left Outward Swing Door, Thermostatic Faucet, 2″ Dual Drain, OA3052-L

Ella Malibu is a tub that will fill up quickly and bring you the ultimate bathing experience while paying the utmost attention to your security.

This is a soaking-only tub that will not provide a massage feature, but for many people, this can be a good thing. You can rest easy and soak for however long you like, allowing the warm water to soothe your body and mind after a long day.

As mentioned, it fills rather quickly thanks to a very handy feature – it can be filled simultaneously through the spout and the handheld shower. You won’t have to sit and wait for it to fill up for too long.

Similarly, you won’t have to wait for it to drain. It comes with two independently operated drain openers that ensure it won’t be long before you can safely step out of the bath.

To ensure your safety, it has two stainless steel grab bars that won’t rust but will make it easy for you to get in and out.

Pros

• Quick fill up due to using the spout and the handheld shower at the same time
• Two independently opened drain openers
• Extra safety due to the two stainless steel grab bars

Cons

• No massage feature

Spa World Venzi Vz3140rwd Rectangular Air & Whirlpool Walk-In Bathtub, 31×40, Right Drain, White

This beautifully designed sitting tub is the ultimate pick for those that want to enjoy a nice warm soak without compromising their health in any way.

The advantages of a sitting walk-in tub are many. You don’t have to pressure your joints bu lifting your legs high when you get in and out, and you don’t have to worry about standing back up from a laid down position. This tub solves all these issues and then some.

When you step in over the easy threshold, you will be greeted by anti-slip flooring that will keep you safe until the very moment you sit down. And once the tub fills up, you will be able to enjoy a relaxing water massage that could only be rivaled by commercial-grade jacuzzi hot tubs.

This compact-sized, unassuming tub comes with an impressive number of air jets: eighteen! Eighteen jets work hard to provide an amazing bubble massage. They are powered by a 1HP air blower. 

There are also six directional and adjustable water jets for an even better massage experience, also powered by a 1 HP pump.

If you want to enjoy a relaxing massage in complete safety, you can’t go wrong with this tub.

Pros

• 18 air bubble massage injectors
• 6 adjustable water jets
• Soaking tub

Cons

• The wall kit has to be ordered separately

Buyer’s Guide

While you may have already found your new walk-in tub, it’s really good to know all the specifications prior to making your purchase. Other than the cost of a walk in tub, there are factors that come into play which will tell you whether a particular model is exactly what you seek.

Before you make that final decision, please consider the following factors.

Do you need a surround?

A surround is a vertical surface that envelops your tub. For a walk-in tub, you’d need a specific kind of surround to accommodate the walk-in feature of it. However, if you are able to get one, it is a good addition that provides a little extra space and comfort.

Do you need water jets?

This is a good question and definitely one that has to be considered prior to making your purchase. A water massage has an almost endless list of perks, but is it for everyone? The answer depends on a case-by-case basis. If you suffer from chronic pain and aren’t sure if you should be receiving massages, it’s always best to consult your doctor prior to buying your new tub.

However, it’s safe to say that for most people, hydrotherapy should be very beneficial both for the body and the mind.

Comfortability

This is one of the top considerations for any person buying a walk-in bath. Some tubs are compact-sized and only allow for a sitting-up sort of position, while others allow you to lay down and soak as much as you please. The question depends on your own preference and any possible health limitations.

What Did We Learn?

Walk-in tubs, while pricier than their regular, traditional counterparts, come with a variety of features that bring a lot to the table when it comes to both preserving and improving your health.

A normal budget bath will not feature a massage option, and most of all, it will require a lot of pressure on the joints as you get in and out of it. Regular tubs also come with a risk of slipping.

Putting your health first is a good choice. If you want to enjoy your baths to the fullest without compromising your security, consider picking up one of the above walk-in baths.

Walk-in bathtubs are a source of relaxation and relief for those that may have trouble using a regular tub. We all love a nice warm bath or a quick soak, but getting in and out of the bathtub can be difficult for those that face medical issues or painful ailments. 

This is where walk-in tubs come in. They offer an alternative to the traditional tub that allows for getting in and out safely and easily.

Thanks to their construction and design, they can be used by people with disabilities and other reasons that prevent them from using traditional bathtubs.

If getting in the bathtub is a painful experience, it no longer has to be. Consider getting a walk-in tub. Before you settle on a given model, we recommend taking a look at our list of five of the best ones.

Why Should I Get a Whirpool Tub?

Whirlpool walk-in tubs provide water-based therapy in your own home. Water can relieve chronic and acute pain, allow you to relax and free your mind of worries.

Whirlpool tubs often come with water jets that provide a relaxing massage. They will often also have an in-line heater that maintains water temperature while you bathe. These features will not just bring the ultimate way to wind down after a long day but also have a positive effect on your health.

This type of tub is ideal for people with disabilities, arthritis, those that are recovering from injuries, and many other conditions that call for extra care when bathing.

Comparing the Top 5 Whirpool Tubs

Front Entry Whirlpool Walk-In Tub Drain Location: Left

This front-entry whirlpool walk-in tub was designed to allow for an easy way to soak – and it has the added benefit of its included seat.

This type of tub is very compact-sized. It’s like a pocket bathtub that will accommodate just about anyone without forcing them to risk experiencing pain during the process of getting in and out of the tub. 

While you will not be able to lie down in this tub, for many people this will be a perk rather than a downside. You can sit comfortably and allow the water to surround you instead of laying back. This minimizes the impact on your joints while still providing the relaxation of a regular tub.

Front Entry Whirlpool Walk-In Tub Drain Still Not Good Enough?

The option to lay back in the tub may be nice for some people, but for many others, getting up from such a position can be difficult or even downright dangerous. As this tub contains not only a walk-in gate but also a chair that supports your back and your joints while you bathe, it’s the ideal pick for anyone who struggles with regular tubs.

The threshold is remarkably easy to use, and the moment you step inside, you will rest your feet on the secure anti-slip floor. This is a walk-in tub that provides the utmost safety while allowing you to just sit back and relax after a long day.

This tub has a capacity of 50 gallons and weighs around 150 lbs, is made out of stainless steel, and has a left-side drain. You will be pleased to know that the manufacturer provides a rather lengthy warranty on this product – 25 years on the tub body, lifetime on the door seal and air jets, and 5 years on the faucet and pumps.

Pros

• Extremely secure walk-in tub
• Allows for a sitting position
• Impressive warranty

Cons

• It may take some time to drain after a bath

Spa World Venzi Vz3060silwh Rectangular Whirlpool Walk-In Bathtub, 30×60, Left Drain, White

This rectangular walk-in bathtub features six directional water jets which are completely adjustable. They are powered by a 1HP pump. Which guarantees relaxation, and healing kind of massage.

As this is a rectangular tub, you can expect to lay down in it. The jets will then envelop you and bring healing qualities to your body.

It’s like having your very own jacuzzi in the comfort of your bathroom! There’s no need to go out and seek relaxation elsewhere when it can be achieved so easily each and every day.

Spa World Venzi Offers Extra Features 

Being a walk-in bathtub, it features a gate that allows for walking in as opposed to having to stretch your limbs when getting in and out. When you combine that with the strong water jets, you will have a bathtub that is ideal for people with all manners of disabilities and physical ailments.

It also comes with a friction heater that will maintain water temperature. This allows for extended warmth while you bathe without requiring extra power. As such, you could call this bath rather cost-efficient.

Spa World Venzi was made out of industrial-grade materials, granting durability and safety. It is fully ADA compliant, so other than the easy-to-use walk-in feature, you can expect things such as a textured bottom surface to prevent slipping.

There is no way to go wrong with this tub. Whether you need a massage, a warm bath that won’t run cold while you’re still soaking, or a combination of the two, you will find it in Spa World Venzi.

Pros

• Six adjustable water jets
• Friction heater will keep you warm
• Durable – made out of industry-grade materials
• ADA compliant

Cons

• Relatively short 2-year warranty

Ariel Bath EZWT-3054-DUAL-R Walk in Bathtub Right Side Drain with 6 Whirlpool/18 Air Jets and Inline Heater

This is the second sitting tub on our list, ideal for those who prefer not to lie down when bathing. It also has the added perk of having 18 built-in air jets!

Ariel Bath offers an affordable alternative, but the lower price did not come through compromising quality. This walk-in whirlpool tub shower allows for a supreme bathing experience even in situations where a bath is not just a means of relaxation but also a way to relieve chronic pain.

Not Loving Ariel Bath EZWT-3054 Yet?

It’s extremely compact and easily installed. It has a drain on the right side, which is important to know when preparing to install it. The door system has extra reinforcement and is considered to be heavy-duty. Therefore,  your mind can be free of worries about potential leaks.

Perhaps the best thing about this Ariel Bath product are the whirlpool and air jets. With six whirlpool jets and an impressive eighteen air jets, this tub was built to provide the ultimate water massage. 

Of course, we must not forget yet another beneficial thing about this walk-in tub – the fact that it’s a sitting tub. It allows you to enjoy all the perks of an amazing bath without having to compromise your health by laying down.

It comes with a handheld showerhead and roman faucets. This is a free-standing model with a stainless steel support frame. We highly recommend it for everyone who enjoys the security of a sitting tub but still wants a relaxing massage to go with it.

Pros

• Affordable but dependable
• 6 whirlpool jets and 18 air jets to provide the ultimate healing massage
• Built-in inline heater to keep you warm during your entire bath

Cons

• Short 1-year warranty on all parts

Signature Bath LPI4730-C-RD Walkin Air Injection and Whirlpool Bathtub with Right Drain and Door, 47″ x 30″ x 38″, White

This American standard exclusive series right-hand walk-in whirlpool tub with quick drain is a luxury that we all deserve. Ideal for those that simply want to relax but also those that have a medical condition that calls for the use of it, this tub is going to suit nearly everyone.

While this is a rectangular tub with plenty of space, it also has a built-in seat. It’s up to you how you want to relax today – whether you want to stretch your legs or simply sit and allow the water to release the pent-up tension in your muscles, this bath can provide you with both of those things.

Why Signature Bath LPI4730-C-RD Amazing?

It has an impressive number of air injectors and water jets, allowing for a top-quality massage. It has the added benefit of allowing you to lie down, thus reaching more painful places in greater comfort.

Due to the water massage feature, this tub is vastly recommended for people who need long-term pain relief. Water massage is known to be extremely safe, as we are all light in water and our muscles are relaxed, allowing for the best possible results.

It has a quiet 1 HP heated air blower to keep you toasty and a 2 HP water pump, all of this within its ridged, polished stainless steel support frame.

Pros

• Right-hand drain and walk-in
• Comes with a number of air jets and water jets
• 2-in-1 – allows for both sitting and laying back

Cons

• No owner manual included

Lay Down Long Soaking Whirlpool Walk-In Tub Drain Location: Right

This Lay Down tub is all about safety. It will keep you comfortable and secure with its walk-in feature. The safety grab handle will give you the support you may need when standing up after a long, relaxing warm bath. And the floor is covered in an anti-slip texture to top off the ultimate security.

It measures at a comfortable 60″ end-to-end. This is a big tub that grants you a moment’s peace as you soak in the warm water for as long as your body needs. 

The threshold is remarkably easy to use, and as soon as you step in, you are greeted by anti-slip flooring. It has several faucets and a built-in showerhead that will provide great hygiene and a relaxing massage.

While it doesn’t feature any whirlpool jets, this can be a good thing. If you don’t need a water-based massage and instead feel the need for a good, long, warm soak, you truly can’t go wrong with this tub.

Pros

• Comfortable lay down tub
• Support grab handle
• Anti-slip flooring

Cons

• No water or air jets

Buyer’s Guide

Having seen the top 5 walk-in tubs currently on the market, you may have already made up your mind. However, in order to make sure you know all the factors, here is a list of things to consider prior to purchasing your new tub.

Comfortability

When it comes to bathtubs of all shapes and sizes, this will always be the #1 factor. Tubs, as opposed to most showers, have the added benefit of allowing you to either sit or lie down comfortably while you tend to personal hygiene. For many people, a hot bath is the ultimate form of relaxation.

As such, prior to purchasing, make sure you ask yourself if you prefer to sit or lie down in the tub and consult your doctor in case of any physical limitations.

Surround

A bathtub surround is a vertical surface that protects the area just around your tub. For walk-in tubs, it’s often not recommended unless it’s specifically tailored to match your tub gate. If you are able to get one, it can be a great addition to your tub.

Water flow

While all the tubs on our list have great water flow, some of them include jets while other ones don’t. A massage in the bath can be an amazing experience, but it’s definitely not for everyone. Prior to purchasing, ask yourself if this is a feature you want to have.

Ready to Buy a Whirpool Walk In Tub?

Walk-in bathtubs are more than just sources of relaxation and hygiene. They are often sources of pain relief and are sometimes recommended by doctors as a way for a person with disabilities.

Whether you need one due to a chronic pain issue or perhaps you just enjoy the walk-in feature, we hope that our guide has helped you pick your new walk-in tub. We’re certain that you won’t regret the switch from traditional to walk-in!

If you are searching for a walk-in tub, chances are that you or a loved one experience mobility issues that prevent the use of a regular bathtub (Source).

There are many different models of walk-in tubs out there, some featuring the bare minimum of safety and bathing features and others providing an entire spa experience within the tub.

Any tub should be safe and easy for the bather to use regardless of mobility or pain issues.

These types of tubs require professional installation and can be expensive so it is important to shop around and consider all your requirements, as well as your budget, before purchasing a tub.

Walk In Tub Reviews: Who Can Benefit from Walk-in Tubs?

Walk-in tubs are designed for people with limited mobility and disorders that might make sitting in a tub or standing in a regular shower difficult.

The actual features of each tub will vary but they all have some of the same safety features, such as built-in seats, grab bars, anti-slip surfaces on the floor, a low threshold for stepping in easily, and doors that are watertight.

Some walk-in tubs also include extra features, such as the ability to use them for aromatherapy or hydrotherapy. They may also include massage features or whirlpools for an added spa-like experience. Some even have Bluetooth speakers!

Comparing the Top 8 Walk In Tub Models

1. Ella Deluxe 30″x 55″ Air and Hydro Massage Acrylic Walk-in Bathtub – Super Easy to Step-In

This right-hand walk-in tub from Ella Deluxe features an easy to clean tub shell that is made from acrylic and reinforced with a fiberglass gel coat.

It also has a beautiful gloss finish and a white color that will easily blend in with whatever bathroom decor or tile surround you already have in your bathroom. 

It measures 30”x55”x38” and includes an integrated seat that is 20” wide. The depth from the seat to the waterline is 18”.

The safety features include two stainless-steel grab bars, slip-resistant floors, and a low threshold for easy step-in. It also has additional features for added comfort, such as 18 separate jets (10 air jets and 8 hydro jets).

The air jet system has three different air settings and automatically removes any water from the pipes so your air stream isn’t backed up. The hydro jets are great for massaging sore feet, backs, hips, and legs and are gentle enough to use on a regular basis without issue.

This model comes with pre-installed faucets and does not have holes for installation of faucets you may already have. If you want to install your own faucet, you will need to make a special order from the manufacturer.

It also comes in one piece, weight 250 lbs, and cannot be disassembled. You will need to be sure that the door opening to your bathroom is at least 30” wide, if not more, in order to accommodate the size of the tub when moving it for installation.

American Standard 32″x52″ Right Hand

American Standard’s right-hand walk-in tub has a balance of safety and therapeutic features. A left-hand version of this tub is also available from the manufacturer.

The tub featured here is white but a linen color is available as well. This walk-in tub has a chrome drain that quickly and efficiently pumps out water in under two minutes so that you don’t have to wait long for all water to be drained so you can safely exit the tub.

It is made from fiberglass and has an hi-gloss gel coat. The tub measures 52”32”40 and the seat is 24” wide.

There is also a grab bar and the floor is textured to increase its anti-slip effectiveness. The door to the tub is contoured, durable, and easy to grip so that you can fully transfer yourself over the low threshold safely. The tub has been tested for weights of up to 1,000 lbs so you bathe easy knowing it is going to be able to handle your weight and hold up over time.

Therapeutic features include an in-line water heater, 6 hydro jets, leg massage, and a fast-fill faucet. Combined with the quick draining feature this makes it an excellent choice if you don’t like to sit around waiting for your tub to fill and drain. This makes taking a quick bath into an easy experience, not a chore.

One downside is that you will need two separate circuits when hooking up the tub, one for the pump and drain and another for the heater. It can also take a while to install and is definitely not something that can be done quickly in a weekend, even with professional installation.

American Standard 30″x 52″ Whirlpool and Spa

This left-hand walk-in tub is similar to the above tub, also from American Standard, but it has more spa and therapeutic features.

The tub has a full-size, contoured door that has a watertight seal. The low threshold allows for partial transfer. It has easy-touch control buttons and is constructed of fiberglass with a high-gloss gel coat.

It also features the same quick-fill faucet and quick drain that pumps out water in two minutes or less. The tub measures 52×30”x40” and the seat is 22” wide.

The tub has standard safety features such as the low threshold and watertight seal. It also has a grab bar and a textured, slip-proof floor. The seat within the tub is also contoured in order to make it easier and safer to sit down and stand out, as well as making it more comfortable to sit on while bathing.

Therapeutic features include an air spa system that has 21 separate air jets. This only has one speed but it effectively blows heated air for a relaxing massage and creatures thousands of bubble to encourage circulation. There is also an automatic purge feature to keep the system running smoothly. In addition to the air jets, there are six hydro-jets that provide legs-only massage.

The tub is free standing but only the front side is enclosed so you would still need some sort of cover on the back and sides to give it a finished look. It also comes with a tub extender that can fit on either side of the tub for ease of installation within your existing tub surround.

One downside is that the owner’s manual isn’t as thorough as it could be. It can take some tinkering around to figure out the adjustable door latch and all of the control knobs, as these aren’t well explained in the manual.

Arista Walk-In Bathtub 2753

Arista’s model 2753 walk-in tub is available in both left- and right-hand configurations for easy installation into your current bathroom. It has an acrylic finish that is reinforced with durable triple-coat fiberglass.

The frame is made from solid stainless steel and features eight different support points for added stability. The door swings inward and has a watertight seal with a lifetime warranty. The tub measures 53”x27”x40”. It weighs 300 lbs.

Safety features include three built-in grip bars and slip resistant flooring. The molded bathing seat, grab bars, and low threshold are all ADA compliant. The tub takes about 3-4 minute to drain so you won’t have to wait too long.

The tub also has a variety of extra features. It comes with a hand-held shower hose that can be easily used while sitting. 20 air jets and 12 hydro jets are also included for a spa-like massage experience. The tub is also deep enough to allow for a relaxing deep soak and it has an in-line electric water heater that will allow you to enjoy a long, warm bath. It’s electronic soft-touch control pad is both comfortable and easy to use.

This tub has easy to remove front access panels that allow for quick and easy maintenance. It is freestanding but is also designed to be installed into an alcove if you need to. If you do have a shower head above this tub keep in mind that it does not have a lot of room to stand and take a shower.

The shower hose included makes washing hair and rinsing easy, though. It is recommended that you have a hot water heater of at least 50 gallons in order to be able to fill this tub to capacity.

Spa World Venzi Vz2747rws Rectangular Soaking Walk-In Bathtub

This soaking tub from Spa World has a right-hand drain. It has a gel coat finish and is reinforced with fiberglass. It measures 58”x34”x49” and weights 350 lbs.

The seat measures 20.5”x15”. It has an outward opening door that opens easily without draining the tub in case of emergencies.This is a relatively simple tub but it includes all the necessary safety features to have an easy and enjoyable bathing experience.

The tub also comes with an optional wall set that enables it to be used as a standing shower as well. The tub itself has a seat low enough for a person up to 6’ tall to comfortably bathe.

The tub comes with a heater and a hand-held shower hose for easy bathing and rinsing even if you do not purchase the separate wall set. A 65-gallon hot water heater is required to fill the tub to capacity.

Ellas Bubbles 60″ x 30″ Walk-In Tub

If you want to enjoy a romantic soak with your partner this is a great option as it features two seats and a centered door that allows for easy access for two people. It has a gloss finish, acrylic shell, and fiberglass gel coat. It measures 30”x60”x38” and both seats are 20” wide. It weighs 220 lbs, lighter than some other models.

The tub includes two independent drains that will drain your tub in about 80 seconds. It has a stainless steel door with tempered glass that is easy to remove for cleaning and maintenance purposes.

It also has 15 air jets with three different speed settings and an auto-purge system. 18 hydro jets with inline heaters are included as well and a microbubble therapy system exfoliates your skin to help ease skin conditions.

The seats come with removal backs. There is a reversible end panel so you can install the tub in a right or left corner. Keep in mind that his tub does not include faucets so you will need a wall mounted tub filler.

Ariel EZWT-3048-DUAL-L Walk-in Tub

This is a free-standing walk-in tub from Ariel. It is constructed with a stainless steel frame and has adjustable feet for ease of installation. It has a heavy-duty fiberglass coating and a trip gel coat. This is one of the larger tubs on this list, measuring 48”x30”x39”. The seat measures 17”x23”. It weighs 237 lbs.

Safety features include reinforced doors, a built-in grab bar, and textured floors. Therapeutic features that are included are a whirlpool and heating system.

It also has an air jet system with 18 jets. A hand-held shower hose is included as well. Lumbar support on the backrest provides additional comfort.

Keep in mind that faucet holes are not pre-drilled and you will need to either use wall-mounted water fillers or have your installer drill the holes for your faucets. It requires a 65-gallon hot water heater and requires 3 20-amp circuits so you may need to expand your electrical service if your electric box cannot accommodate that.

Ella Titan Outward Swing Dual Massage Walk in Tub with Left Drain

This walk-in tub from Ella features an outward swing door with an easy-grip handle on top. The shell is made from sold acrylic reinforced with fiberglass.

The tub measures 35”x53”x37.5”. The seat is 30” wide, making it the widest seat on this list. The threshold step is 6” and you have the ability to raise it another 2” if needed. It weighs 245 lbs.

Safety features include two built-in grip bars, outward swinging door for easy opening in case of emergencies, and an anti-slip floor. The dual massage system has both air and hydro jets included. This model also comes in a right-hand drain option. All plumbing and safety features are ADA compliant.

When moving this tub for installation, the handle can be a problem when it comes to fitting through doors as it sticks out beyond the top of the tub.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Walk-In Tub (Buyer’s Guide)

Walk-in tubs can be an expensive investment. They are often necessary for older people and others with mobility issues so you want to be sure that you are getting the best tub for both your needs and your budget. Here are some things to consider before buying a tub.

Tub Doors

All walk-in tub doors should be sealed and watertight, that is a requirement for safety. The majority of tubs will come with an inward swinging door but outward swinging doors are also an option.

Inward swinging doors are better at sealing the door due to the water pressure that forms against the door and they are also easier to open and close. On the other hand, they are nearly impossible to open when there is water in the tub. Outward swinging doors can be opened in an emergency without draining the tub first.

You should also look at the height of the threshold. Most models are going to be low-step so that you can get into the tub without tripping but if those are still too high, extra low step models are available.

The width of the door is important as well. Extra-wide doors make it easier for wheelchair users to transfer themselves in and out of the tub. Safety rails on the side of the tub, near the door, also make transfer easier.

Jets

A basic walk-in tub with no jets is going to be a better option if you are on a budget and simply looking for a safe and easy way to bathe.

If you have extra money to spend and suffer from any sort of chronic pain, such as arthritis, hip replacement, back pain, or other conditions then a walk-in tub with air jets, hydro jets, or a combination of both is a great way to massage sore areas and improve circulation. Jets are also good for exfoliating the skin, an added bonus if you have any skin conditions.

Size

Walk-in tubs come in a wide variety of sizes, with 60”x32” being the average size. You will need to consider the size of your bathroom as well as the size of your doorways when selecting a size.

If the tub comes in one piece and cannot be disassembled, you need to get something that will fit through your door. Narrow staircases or hallways can also pose a problem when moving the tub.

Wider tubs are easier to use if you need to transfer from a wheelchair or if you need to use a lift chair with the tub. Also, consider the size of your current tub. If the walk-in tub you want is longer than your current tub, you will potentially need to make additional renovations to your bathroom. If your walk-in tub is shorter than your current tub, tub extenders and extension shelves are an easy way to fill up the extra space.

Your bathroom floor and subfloor need to be able to support the weight of your tub. Walk-in tubs are much heavier than regular bathtubs so do not think that just because your floor supports your old tub fine that it will support the new one. It is a good idea to get a professional contractor to check your subfloor for its weight limits. If your floor cannot support the tub you will need to make additional renovations.

Fill and Drain Features

Due to the fact that walk-in tubs have a door, you have to sit inside the tub while it fills and drains with water. Standard tubs tend to take about as long as you’d expect a regular bathtub to fill and drain, meaning you may be waiting in the tub for a while before and after your bath.

If you do not want to wait, consider getting a tub with fast-fill and quick drain features. Tubs are available that fill quickly and pump out water fast, some being able to fill and drain in under five minutes. These features tend to cost more so keep that in mind.

Left-Hand or Right-Hand

The drain and the doors need to fit the drain you currently have in your bathroom. Be sure to check the orientation of your drain before buying a tub. Both left- and right-hand options are available for most walk-in tubs so do not worry about being unable to get the tub you want due to it not fitting with your current drain.

Surround

Some walk-in tubs are free standing. This means that you do not necessarily need a tub surround in order to install them into your bathroom. These models may be enclosed on all sides or they may only be enclosed on the front and require extra covers or paneling on the other sides.

Tubs that are not free standing will require a tub surround to cover the back and sides. If you have a pre-existing tub surround you simply need to ensure that the tub will fit within it or that you can make renovations to the surround in order to better fit the tub. If your bathroom does not have a surround, you will need to do heavier renovations in order to create a surround or simply consider another model that is free standing.

Our Final Review 

Walk-in tubs are a necessary home addition for anybody with mobility issues or pain issues that prevent them from using a regular bathtub. All walk-in tubs will allow the user to independently move in and out of the tub but features beyond that will vary widely by model.

The most important consideration in choosing a walk-in tub is safety. All the models featured here include all the required safety measures such as watertight seals, slip-proof floors, low thresholds, and grip bars. These products are high-quality and reliable. Consider any other requirements or wants that you have (such as massage jets) when choosing a tub but any of these walk-in tubs are a great choice.