Pros and Cons of a Walk-In Tub: Are They Worth It?

When making a purchase, especially a large one like a walk-in tub, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. In this article, we’ll help you gain an in-depth understanding of the pros and cons of a walk-in tub, from the benefits and standard features to the installation process, cost and warranty.

Benefits of a Walk-In Tub

From improved sleep and better heart health to muscle relaxation and pain relief, a walk-in tub offers no shortage of benefits. You can even enhance your experience with spa-like aromatherapy while enjoying peace of mind from the many built-in safety features. When considering how a walk-in tub may be right for you, keep in mind the three primary categories of benefits: safety, therapy and convenience.

Safety Benefits

Safety is often the number-one reason people gravitate to a walk-in tub or shower. For seniors and individuals with mobility limitations, the bathroom is one of the most common places for a fall. Studies show that of the different rooms in the home, falls in the bathroom are often the most likely to cause injury, due to loss of balance, slipping and uneven surfaces.

Walk-in tubs are built to mitigate these risks through careful design and features like anti-slip flooring, grab bars, wider doors and a low-step entry.

Ultra-Low Threshold

Getting into and out of your bath is made easy with a walk-in tub’s ultra-low step-in threshold. This means less strain and stress and no need to navigate the high wall of a traditional tub.

Built-In Grab Bars

Move securely and adjust your bathing posture with the aid of conveniently placed grab bars. Placement and number will vary depending on the type and style of walk-in tub.

Convenience Benefits

Convenient, more comfortable bathing is more in reach than ever. Enjoy improved bathing accessibility, independence and a full-body, spa-like experience in your walk-in tub. Some convenience features to look for while you shop include a handheld shower wand, no-strength locking handle, rapid-fill faucet, quick drain, water-resistant remote and an easy-to-use electronic keypad.

Therapeutic Benefits

Get more out of your bath routine with walk-in tubs designed to relax and rejuvenate. Target aches and pains with hydro massage jets and nourishing air therapy, while calming your mind with aromatherapy and chromotherapy (color-changing lights). Some walk-in tubs also include features like a heated seat and backrest for added muscle relaxation, perfect for individuals with arthritis or recovering from injury.

Hydrotherapy Jets

Unwind after a long week or prepare for the day ahead from the comfort of your walk-in bath. Many walk-in tubs include whirlpool water jets that deliver a deep, full-body massage while relieving tension and improving circulation.

MicroSoothe® Air Therapy

Nourish your skin with restorative, oxygen-enriched air bubbles. Air therapy provides a range of benefits, from a soothing massage to improving skin hydration and softness. In Safe Step Walk-In Tubs, MicroSoothe delivers an added layer of restoration by boosting blood circulation, gently exfoliating skin and removing impurities.

Drawbacks of a Walk-In Tub

For all of the benefits that walk-in tubs offer, they can pose certain disadvantages for some, depending on your preferences and needs.

Fill & Drain Times

In a conventional bathtub, you let it fill and can pass time waiting as you please. Walk-in tubs are a bit different and require you to sit in the tub with the door securely closed while the water runs. Fill times will vary based on your walk-in tub’s size, brand and model.

When you choose Safe Step, each walk-in bath includes a rapid-fill faucet that works in a matter of minutes. Plus, enjoy the cozy warmth of the heated seat and backrest for added relaxation.

Installation Process

Installing a walk-in tub can be tricky and may cause certain inconveniences if your space is not set up to accommodate one. Offset these cons by choosing a tub that fits the same footprint as your current bath, limiting any additional construction and making installation fast and easy.

With Safe Step, our certified installers provide quick, hassle-free service with 95% of projects completed in less than one day.

Walk-In Tub Cost

Walk-in tubs have higher upfront costs compared to their traditional counterparts. However, this investment into safer bathing at home can offset the price by reducing the need for assisted living or other at-home care options.

When shopping, look for walk-in tubs that include a reliable warranty and custom pricing. At Safe Step, we offer an industry-leading lifetime warranty covering all major parts, labor and features, alongside a lowest price guarantee for more accessible, safe bathing.

Typically Not Covered by Medicare

Typically, Medicare does not cover the costs of a walk-in tub. While there are some exceptions, individuals who rely upon Medicare to cover healthcare costs can apply for financial assistance and grants such as Medicaid or veterans benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Manufacturers may also offer additional discounts for those in need. Read our guide to Medicare coverage for more information.

Are Walk-In Tubs Worth It?

While only you can decide if a walk-in tub is right for your home and lifestyle, the benefits of a walk-in tub often outweigh the cons and are the reason so many people choose Safe Step. As North America’s number-one selling walk-in tub brand, our safe bathing solutions are specially designed with your safety, well-being and comfort at the forefront. Request a free quote today and discover the joys of stress-free bathing.