Key Features to Look for in a Walk-in Tub

Doors and Seals

• "Walk-in" bathtubs have doors. Inward-swinging models are practical for use in tight areas like small bathrooms, but they can be awkward for individuals with limited mobility. Sturdy, watertight seals that come with a lifetime warranty are essential. Outward-swinging doors provide better emergency access if the bather has a problem. A low door threshold, one with a lip of 3 inches or less, is also essential to maximize safety. Wider doors will maximize ease of access and safety.

Seating

• Many models come with built-in seats, which provide comfort as well as additional safety. Some have preformed smooth and contoured benches, while others have pull-down seats. Consumers should make sure that the seat is the correct height for individuals using the tub. Feet should touch the tub floor when an individual sits on it. When more than one person will use the walk-in tub, look for seats with adjustable height.

Grab Bars

• Because safety is one of the prime reasons to buy a walk-in tub, the number and placement of grab bars is a primary concern. Grab bars assist in entering and exiting the tub, as well as aiding the bather in sitting down and rising. Look for safety bars approved by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Installation should take place onsite to ensure that the bars are placed at the proper height.

Slip-Resistant Surface

• Bathtub slips and falls are common. To minimize this possibility, tubs should have textured, slip-resistant flooring. The surface should remain slip-resistant even in the presence of water and soap, which can add to the danger.

Filling and Draining

• Bathers must enter a walk-in tub before filling it with water, and they cannot exit the tub until all water drains, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals. Some models offer high flow valves with rapid filling. Likewise, drains are larger at 1½ inches in diameter to quickly remove water. Models with two drains will remove water even faster.

Personal Considerations

• The size and health of those using the bathtub also factors into feature selection. Some tubs are manufactured for individuals weighing more than 300 pounds. Water jets are beneficial for those with arthritis or other painful conditions. Preset temperature controls help avoid scalding while antimicrobial surfaces are important for individuals with allergies.