Walk-in bathtubs
For people who still love a good soak
A walk-in tub has a door, so there is no high wall to climb over, and a built-in seat so you can bathe sitting comfortably. It is a great fit for some people and not for others. Here is an honest look.
Is a walk-in tub better than a walk-in shower?
Not automatically. A walk-in tub suits people who love to soak and can manage stepping through the door and waiting while it fills and drains. A walk-in or curbless shower is usually quicker to use, takes less space and can work with a wheelchair. The best choice depends on your mobility, how you transfer, your preferences and your bathroom.
What features should a walk-in tub have?
Door and entry
Inward- or outward-swinging doors with a low step-in. Door direction affects how easy it is to get in and out.
Seating
A molded seat at chair height, so you are not lowering yourself to the floor of the tub.
Grab bars
Built-in bars on the tub plus wall-mounted bars where you transfer in and out.
Controls
Easy-to-turn controls within reach of the seat, so you can adjust the water before you get in.
Handheld shower
For rinsing off after a soak, or for washing hair while seated.
Easy care
Smooth, non-porous surfaces that wipe clean. We explain the care each model needs.
Walk-in tub or accessible shower?
| Feature | Walk-in tub | Accessible shower |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | People who enjoy soaking and bathing seated | Quick daily use, seated or standing, with or without help |
| Getting in | Step through a door over a low threshold | Low step or no step at all |
| Wheelchair use | Requires transferring onto the seat | Curbless designs can allow a rolling shower chair |
| Time | You stay seated while it fills and drains | Ready as soon as the water is warm |
| Space | Usually fits a standard tub space | Fits a tub space or larger; curbless may need floor work |
Still deciding? We are happy to talk through both. Read more about walk-in showers and accessible bathrooms.
Space and installation
- Most walk-in tubs are designed to fit a standard bathtub space, but sizes vary by model.
- Your water heater needs to fill a deeper tub with warm water; we check this at the consultation.
- Some models have extra features that may need an electrical connection.
- We measure the doorway and bathroom to make sure the tub can be brought in and installed.
The final scope and price depend on the model, your plumbing and your bathroom. You receive a written, itemized proposal before you decide.
Common questions
Is a walk-in shower or a walk-in tub better?
Neither is better for everyone. A walk-in tub suits people who love to soak and can manage the door and the wait while it fills and drains. A walk-in shower is usually quicker to use, takes less space and can work with a wheelchair or a transfer bench. We will help you weigh it up based on how you move and what you enjoy.
Does Medicare pay for walk-in tubs?
Walk-in tubs are generally not on Medicare’s list of covered medical equipment. Coverage rules change and other plans differ, so please check directly with Medicare or your plan.
Keep exploring
Take the next step
Your home should keep working for you.
Tell us what is getting harder, or what you would simply like to be easier. We will listen, measure, and show you options that fit your bathroom, your style and your budget, with no pressure to decide on the spot.
