Five Mistakes to Avoid Before You Buy a Walk in Tub

Buying a walk-in tub isn’t something you do every day. There are many important things to consider before you buy a walk-in tub. Aging in place options like walk-in baths and handicap showers are becoming extremely popular because people want to stay in their homes. As we get older and become elderly, basic tasks like bathing or going upstairs can be difficult. However, it doesn’t have to all be bad news. Some of the hydrotherapy walk-in tubs can transform a standard bathroom into a hydrotherapy spa. You can combine safety and the utmost comfort with bath jets to massage your muscles. Before you buy a walk-in tub, you should think about these important five factors.

1. MOBILITY – Does the walk in tub step-in height work well for the bather? Not only for today but planning for the future makes sense a lot of times. The standard walk-in bathtub step-in height is about 7” although some models go as low as 3”. Certain installation parameters can also play a role. Depending on the installation, you may be able to recess the step-in tub below the floor to make it even lower. Some people may have limited use of their legs, so a transfer bathtub may be a better solution. With transfer bathtubs, bathers can simply sit down and slide their legs into the handicap bathtub before closing the door. These types of tubs are ideal for caretakers and can even work in conjunction with a lift.
2. SEAT WIDTH – You want some space to enjoy your bath. Some walk-in tubs only have 19” internal seat widths. This may not be a good fit for all bathers. Measure your body’s widest point from right to left. Make sure the internal seat width is wider than the bather. Depending on the bather’s mobility and preferences, you may want more or less room in the walk-in tub.
3. SOAKING DEPTH – Some walk-in tubs don’t have a very deep soaking depth, while others have over 20” of soaking depth. It’s important to note, the more soaking depth, the more water you will need to fill it. But some people simply want to take a deep soak and get their body fully submerged in the water. Taller bathers also will appreciate a deep soaker walk-in tub. Aging Safely carries several deeper walk-in tubs to choose from.
4. ACCESSORIES – Imagine getting a new bathtub and kicking yourself for not getting what you really wanted. Do your own research on hydrotherapy. It’s something we get feedback from our customers on often and we’re constantly amazed by the stories. What is taking a relaxing hydrotherapy bath and feeling good worth? You cannot put a price on well-being and enjoyment. Life’s short, spoil yourself! Walk-in tubs can also come with soothing Chromatherapy mood lights and aromatherapy. Do not forget the heated seat and fast drain! UV lights and Ozone Sanitizers are important too and can help minimize bacterial growth within the jet lines. You can’t be too careful.
5. FITS BATHROOM – Walk-in tubs and transfer bathtubs come in many sizes. Not all bathrooms can easily fit a 30” x 60” walk-in tub. In some instances, it may require going through a wall to get it in the bathroom. Make sure the step-in tub you want can actually get into the bathroom via a hallway or another access.

Those are some of the more important things to consider when buying a walk-in bathtub. Don’t forget to make sure your water heater works with your walk-in tub size. Many standard walk-in tubs require a 50-gallon hot water heater, but some are even larger. You also may want to consider the design and color of the walk-in tub. Some of Aging Safely’s models have tempered glass doors that look very modern. No matter what your needs, our walk-in tub experts will help guide you to the best possible solution. Getting older isn’t always fun, but there are things we can do to make life a little better. Having independence and a sense of security when bathing is an absolute must. Aging Safely Baths is a family-owned business that’s dedicated to finding you the best walk-in tubs or handicap showers at the lowest prices possible. Please call 1-888-779-BATH(2284) today for a free no-obligation consultation.