Air Tubs vs. Whirlpool Baths: Let’s Compare
One of the best ways to start or end your day is with a soothing massage from your tub. Whether you choose an air tub with microbubbles or a whirlpool bath with hydro jets, both offer benefits to your mind and body —and, luckily, Safe Step walk-in baths offer both options. You’ll be able to make use of both air and hydro jets when enjoying a safe, relaxing bath! Learn more about the benefits of air tubs and whirlpool baths below.
What is an Air Tub?
Air tubs use air jets to create a gentle massage with air bubbles. That’s why you may also hear these tubs referred to as air jet tubs. The jets are usually located around the sides and at the back of the tub—jets in multiple locations give you plenty of microbubbles for a soothing, relaxing sensation.
Benefits of an Air Tub
- Pain Relief: About 21% or 53 million Americans report living with diagnosed arthritis. The gentle bubbles in air jets help relieve pain caused by conditions like arthritis and rheumatism or simply the effects of a long day.
- Tension Reduction: Touch receptors in your skin respond to the air jets’ soothing bubbles, alleviating muscle tension and reducing stress as you soak.
- Skin Rejuvenation: Air therapy enriches your skin with oxygen for a 43% boost in hydration and noticeably softer, smoother skin.
- Endorphin Stimulation: As bubbles come in contact with your skin, your body releases endorphins, a natural hormone produced by your brain to block the perception of pain, improving your mood and promoting relaxation.
What is a Whirlpool Tub?
Just as air tubs use air to soothe and massage your body, a whirlpool tub uses jets of water for a more dynamic, targeted approach. Water therapy, also known as hydrotherapy, often includes customizable speed and pressure settings, letting you adjust the massage to receive relief where you need it most.
Benefits of a Whirlpool Tub
- Circulation Improvement: The pressure and intensity of water therapy can increase your temperature. A higher body temperature dilates blood vessels throughout your body, improving circulation and promoting unrestricted blood flow.
- Immune System Support: A warm water massage encourages lymph movement throughout your body, boosting your immune system to prevent illness and hasten recovery.
- Stress Relief: A relaxing soak with massaging water jets promotes endorphin production, relieving stress and anxiety.
- Muscle Relaxation: Water jets soothe sore or tight muscles and help ease joint pain from conditions like arthritis. A regular soak may even help your flexibility when combined with regular stretching.
How Do Air Baths and Whirlpool Baths Compare?
With the benefits of stress relief and muscle relaxation among others, there’s plenty in common with air baths and whirlpool tubs. However, what are the differences between them and how do they compare?
| Air Tub | Whirlpool Tub | |
| Operation |
|
|
| Massaging Sensation |
|
|
| Customization |
|
|
| Rejuvenation |
|
|
Safe Step Walk-In Tub Brings The Best of Both
Choosing between a whirlpool or an air tub may seem like a difficult decision, but with Safe Step, you don’t have to choose. Our feature-packed walk-in bath and Hybrid walk-in bath both feature our hydrotherapy whirlpool jets and the MicroSoothe® air therapy system. Pick what you need on a day-by-day basis and enjoy the benefits of both types of therapy, all from the comfort of your own home.
MicroSoothe® Air Therapy System
The restorative bubble technology in our MicroSoothe® air therapy system soothes and surrounds sore muscles in an invigorating cloud of oxygen-enriched bubbles. It provides therapeutic relief from aches and pains, whether related to arthritis or a strenuous day, and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated.
Hydrotherapy Whirlpool Jets
Safe Step’s 10 hydrotherapy jets are strategically placed in our carefully designed tubs to deliver targeted relief from sore muscles and stress. The jets’ speed and intensity are completely customizable, so whether you have sensory needs, sensitive skin or need a high-pressure massage, the perfect experience is easily available for you.
Your Spa, Your Way with Safe Step
Safe Step’s walk-in baths provide a spa-like experience in a secure environment that seniors and those with mobility challenges can easily and safely enjoy. We’re committed to helping our customers enjoy the simple experience of independent bathing at an attainable price point, so get in touch with us to discuss your free quote!
