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6 Best Walk-In Tubs of 2024 | U.S. News
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A walk-in tub can be an appealing addition to many bathrooms, particularly for seniors and wheelchair users, thanks to their ease of use, safety features, and therapeutic benefits.
“Eighty percent of the falls in a home happen in the bathroom,” says Lisa M. Cini, founder, president, and CEO of Mosaic Design Studio and an expert in aging in place. “Using a walk-in tub can allow you to avoid the slips and falls of getting in and out of a normal tub or shower and keeps floors from having water on them, which can be a slip hazard.”
Walk-in tubs frequently come with a variety of add-on features so you can make your tub perfectly suited to your specific wants and needs. Some can become showers with the purchase of a kit, or they can become at-home spas with the inclusion of multiple therapy options, from hydrotherapy to chromotherapy. Whether it's safety or serenity you seek, walk-in tubs can deliver.
There is, however, much to consider when selecting the best walk-in tub, from technical details such as drainage time and door configuration to aesthetic considerations like color and design. To help you make a choice that works for you, we've compiled a list of the best walk-in tubs in six different categories.
The Ultra walk-in tub from Ella's Bubbles does everything you should expect from a walk-in tub, with the added perks of some bonus features. It has plenty of customizable options to keep you feeling relaxed while you bathe, including four therapy additions like microbubbles and foot hydrotherapy, as well as the option for heated seats. You can even turn your tub into a shower with the shower column kit and folding glass shower screen as add-ons.
The dual drain technology, which should allow the tub to drain in about 80 seconds when fully optimized, isn’t the fastest drain time in our list, but it’s close and still gets the job done quickly. The faster the drain time, the less time you have to wait to step out and dry off.
There are two control options: push and digital. Both are relatively simple to operate, but those seeking the most intuitive option may prefer the more standard push controls. There are two different types of pillow seat risers (standard and U-shaped) available, as well as an optional headrest and neck support.
All of these features add up to a fully customizable experience that makes using the Ultra as comfortable as possible. While we do find the price range to be reasonable compared to the rest of the market, we also think it’s important to note that the quoted price doesn’t include installation, which can be a significant additional charge.
Specs:
Price:
$4,686-$7,034; must receive quote on website
Tub dimensions:
30 in. W x 52 in. L exterior; 24 in. W x 42 in. L interior
AmeriGlide specializes in manufacturing accessible products, and the Sanctuary Duratub Large is no exception with its grab bar and overflow drain safeguards. Despite being the least expensive walk-in tub on this list, it's actually a bit larger than our top pick. This means you're not sacrificing space for money.
AmeriGlide also has budget-friendly policies – it offers financing options and has a best-price guarantee, which states that if you find the same tub for a lower price at another retailer within 10 days of your purchase, you'll receive a 110% refund of the price difference. The warranty covers the tub itself, the motor and pump, door seals, and the faucets, which should help ease concerns that this less expensive product is inferior.
As for optional features, you can choose air and/or water jets for therapy, which are relatively standard but nonetheless welcome. The model comes with auto drain, which the company says takes less than a minute, as well as chromotherapy and aromatherapy. It's not as customizable as some of the more expensive options, but if you're in search of a simple walk-in tub that doesn't break the bank, this model is a good choice.
When it comes to walk-in tubs, nothing says luxury quite like a tub designed specifically for you and your bathroom. Kohler goes one step beyond the customization of features, tailoring its walk-in tubs for your precise space. Of course, this means higher price points, ranging from $5,500 to more than $33,000.
The good news is that Kohler, unlike many of its competitors, includes installation fees in its quotes. To obtain your quote, you'll have to schedule an appointment, which makes the process a bit more laborious than usual. But for that hassle, you get the best walk-in tub for your bathroom.
In addition to sizing considerations, you can also choose from different colors, finishes, designs, and add-ons to suit the look and desired functionality of your bathroom. And what could be considered bonus features actually come standard – notably the handshower, heated backrest, and air and water jets.
We also like that Kohler's fast-drain technology promises to empty a tub as quickly as possible, and that the tub has a very low 3-inch step. Plus, the lifetime limited warranty adds a sense of security that your tub will remain operational for years to come. It's hard to beat Kohler's boutique approach to walk-in tubs for a true luxury experience.
Specs:
Price:
$5,500-$33,000+ (including installation)
Tub dimensions:
Customizable from 28 in. W x 52 in. L to 32 in. W x 60 in. L exterior; 21.5 in. W interior
Seat height:
17 in.
Drain time:
Unknown, but company describes it as “minimal waiting time” that varies based on your home’s water pipe capacity
When selecting a tub for seniors, two factors stand out as the most important: safety and ease of use. American Standard excels in both of these areas, especially with its Gelcoat Premium Series model. Simple yet vital features like slip-resistant flooring, a safety grab bar, an overflow drain, a cushioned neck rest, a handshower, and a low-threshold door are all perfect for seniors. It also has buttons that are easy to push – ideal for those with limited dexterity. While some of these features can be found in other American Standard models, the Gelcoat Premium Series includes them all.
Beyond its commitment to keeping its users safe, this tub comes with a fairly standard but solid selection of therapy options and accessories, like hydrotherapy and air jets, aromatherapy, and chromotherapy. Its biggest downside is that it's made of fiberglass instead of acrylic. This means that it's more porous and less durable, making it more likely to experience damage like chipping, cracking, or fading. That said, American Standard offers a 10-year warranty on the tub shell and a lifetime warranty on the door seal.
Independent Home is a company that focuses only on walk-in tubs. Its baths offer a robust hydrotherapy treatment that combines heat, buoyancy, and a light massage for maximum results. Microbubbles, chromotherapy, aromatherapy, and a heated seat and back all add to the therapeutic benefits – all controlled from an electronic keypad. Plus, you can add an overhead rain showerhead, though the tub comes with a handshower.
Independent Home offers one of the best warranties in the business. It's a lifetime warranty that covers the tub's key components: the door seal, tub frame, tub shell and finish, workmanship, faucets, motors, pumps, and control panel.
One big drawback is that the price range is unclear. Independent Home boasts that it has lower prices than many of its competitors but offers no specifics. A quote can only be obtained via a free in-home consultation. Although it's an all-inclusive quote with no obligation, it's nonetheless difficult to determine how affordable Independent Home walk-in tubs actually are before proceeding with a consultation.
Additionally, we generally prefer acrylic tubs over fiberglass, as acrylic has proven to be more durable over time, but the warranty helps to allay our concerns. If you’re looking for the best therapy options, Independent Home is a solid choice.
Specs:
Price:
Available with in-home consultation
Tub dimensions:
Ten different sizes available
Seat height:
17 in.
Drain time:
Unknown, but company describes it as “fast fill and drain”
The Meditub 3060WCA Series is specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility – it has a seat that is 21 inches high and contoured to easily slide in and out. It also comes with an outward-swinging door (most walk-in tub doors swing inward), which gives you more interior room to maneuver. Simple but important safety features such as a grab bar and slip-resistant flooring also make this tub extra accessible.
Perhaps best of all, beyond its suitability for wheelchair users, the Meditub 3060WCA Series has plenty of other handy features, including its therapy options and additional accessory options. You can add on air, hydro, and dual jet therapy models as well as aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and a headrest pillow.
While the price is quite reasonable, it doesn't include installation, which can be a major expense. We also prefer tubs made of acrylic rather than fiberglass, since acrylic is more durable. Nonetheless, we appreciate this walk-in tub's accessibility paired with its features.
Specs:
Price:
Must inquire with a dealer for price, but listed online between $4,000 and $6,000
Although there are certainly plenty of great walk-in tubs on the market, we ultimately found that the Ella’s Bubbles Ultra walk-in tub offered the best possible combination of pricing, therapy options, add-on features, and warranty protection. It's made of acrylic, which helps the tub survive longer than fiberglass models. We also appreciated that Ella’s Bubbles is forthcoming about what its product can and can’t do; the company provided numbers and statistics that helped us evaluate its tubs, while other manufacturers tended to be cagey about specifics. To some extent, this is because other companies design tubs for individual customers, which requires a consultation, but that doesn't excuse the inability to provide details like average price ranges or drainage time estimates. We appreciate Ella's Bubbles’ transparency.
Safety Features
Safety features are especially important if the walk-in tub is for a senior or wheelchair user. Standard safety features that are always good to have are slip-resistant flooring and grab bars, as these make getting in and out of the tub much easier. An overflow drain helps prevent water flowing onto the floor, which could create a slip risk.
Also consider the addition of various cushions to help protect your neck and back. If you've experienced an injury or have pain in one of those areas, a seat cushion or neck rest might be an inexpensive add-on that could greatly improve your comfort in the walk-in tub.
For wheelchair accessibility, consider features such as outward-swinging doors – as opposed to the standard inward-swinging doors – which are easier to maneuver around.
Finally, consider the height of the seat inside the tub. A seat designed to be an accessible height makes the transition from wheelchair to tub significantly safer and easier. All tubs in our list have a seat height of 17 inches, except for the Meditub 3060WCA Series, which is 21 inches.
Add-On Accessories
Many walk-in tub manufacturers offer a variety of optional accessories that can be added to your order. These can range from heated seat cushions and shelves to fixtures that allow your tub to double as a shower.
When purchasing a walk-in tub, consider how exactly you'd like to use it. Some might desire a spa-like, luxurious experience, in which case they should consider therapy options like hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and chromotherapy. Others may dread feeling cold while they wait for the tub to fill or drain, in which case a heated seat and backrest would come in handy. If you'd like the ability to fully customize your tub, avoid manufacturers that offer little in the way of add-ons.
Finally, one accessory that’s easily overlooked is the control panel. Some users might prefer the more standard and intuitive push controls, while the more technologically inclined might find digital panels preferable.
Pricing Details
When it comes to walk-in tubs, pricing can get a bit confusing because some listed prices don’t include installation. Average installation costs can range from $3,300 to $12,500, whereas the tubs may cost between $2,000 and $15,000.
Also, some manufacturers don’t list specific prices on their websites. This is usually because they require that a technician comes to your home to survey the area where you want to install the tub to create a more accurate quote. This isn't necessarily a bad thing if you want your tub to be custom-built for your bathroom. Plus, a technician can also check to see if there is anything that might complicate the installation.
Another benefit of an in-home consultation is that your quote will likely include the total installation cost. If you buy a tub by itself, you may find yourself paying more than expected to install it if there are complicating factors.
“It's worth noting that Medicaid may pay for the tub,” says Chris Hock, general contractor and owner of Earth Saving Solutions. “My grandma qualified for a new walk-in shower, toilet, and tile on the floor; she had to get three estimates, and Medicare paid $14,000. She now qualifies for Medicaid Home Modification benefit and can access an additional $4,000 for other projects or use it for repair/service. I would check with your state.”
Material
Walk-in tubs are typically made of either acrylic or fiberglass. We tended to rank acrylic tubs higher due to their durability. Acrylic lasts up to 30 years, while fiberglass only lasts up to 15 years. Acrylic is also less prone to scratching and cracking.
Durability aside, there are also aesthetic differences between acrylic and fiberglass, although picking between the two is a matter of personal taste. Nonetheless, acrylic will almost always win out in our book given its durability. However, fiberglass is generally less expensive than acrylic, so if you're not terribly worried about how your tub looks in a decade or two, saving money with a fiberglass tub might be a smart idea.
Ultimately, the choice belongs to you, and choosing between these two materials will depend on budget, design preferences, and long-term considerations.
Warranty
In our research, we found that some walk-in tub manufacturers were more forthcoming about the details of their warranty than others. But whether it's stated upfront or in the fine print, warranty protection should always be a consideration when buying a tub.
First, consider how long the warranty lasts – lifetime is, of course, the best option overall, but not all companies provide it. Second, examine what exactly the warranty covers. Does it cover only specific parts of the tub? Does it cover installation? You may find that some warranties apply to different parts of the tub for different durations. For example, the faucet may only be covered for one year, but the tub shell covered for 10 years.
The general rule is that the more elements a warranty covers and the longer it covers those elements, the better. If you do decide to go with fiberglass over acrylic to reduce cost, you may want to be especially attentive to the warranty details since fiberglass is less durable.
To create this list of the best walk-in tubs at U.S. News 360 Reviews, our contributor consulted with numerous experts, including Lisa M. Cini, the founder, president, and CEO of Mosaic Design Studio; Bill Bruininga, co-owner of Billy's Plumbing and Rooter in California; and Chris Hock, general contractor and owner of Earth Saving Solutions. We considered features like therapy options, drainage speed, and add-ons like shower kits to create a short list, then narrowed down the list further by examining product costs, installation costs (and whether or not installation is included), and warranty information. We also considered accessibility, since walk-in tubs are an ideal alternative to standard tubs for those with limited mobility. Ultimately, choosing the best walk-in tub is a subjective decision based on your personal needs and how it would fit in your bathroom at home.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?
Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Stefanie Waldek, the author of this piece, has written about home renovation projects, interior design, and real estate for more than a decade. She was formerly an editor at Architectural Digest and contributes to House Beautiful, Real Simple, The Spruce, and Hunker, among other outlets. An advocate of baths over showers, particularly in luxury hotels, she cares deeply about providing bath access to all.
In-person consultations are required by some walk-in tub manufacturers, usually because the tub will either be custom-built for your bathroom or because a technician will need to survey your bathroom to determine an accurate installation fee. However, many manufacturers don’t require an in-person consultation. They simply allow you to purchase the tub, and then it's up to you to either install it yourself or hire someone to do it for you.
It depends on the specific walk-in tub. Some come with many customization options, ranging from different types of therapies to add-on features like seat cushions and shower fixtures. Others may offer limited options when it comes to customization. Some tubs, such as the Kohler Walk-In Bath, are essentially custom-built for each user. If you're interested in customizing your walk-in tub, it's best to select one that gives you plenty of opportunities to do so.
“Installation of a walk-in tub involves more than just plumbing,” says Chris Hock, general contractor and owner of Earth Saving Solutions. “It could require electrical work for hydrotherapy jets, structural adjustments to the bathroom if that area doesn't have a large enough drain that could have to be enlarged, and upgrades to the water heater if the tub's capacity significantly exceeds that of a standard tub.”
As such, installation costs can range from $3,300 to $12,500, depending on the work that needs to be done. Also consider that because walk-in tubs have a different size and shape than standard tubs, your bathroom may need to be altered in order to accommodate one. Ultimately, the time, difficulty, and expense of installing a walk-in tub depends on the specifics of your bathroom. Some companies estimate installation taking less than a day, while others might take a bit longer.
Some walk-in tubs, such as the Meditub 3060WCA Series, are specifically built to be wheelchair accessible. This means that the door is outward swinging for easier maneuvering, the seat height makes sliding in and out of the tub easy, and there are safety features such as slip-resistant flooring and grab bars.
However, you don’t have to be in a wheelchair to take advantage of such features – there are walk-in tubs to accommodate nearly any level of mobility. In general, they’re also well-suited for seniors who may have difficulty getting in and out of a standard tub.
Yes, you must get into the tub and close the door before it fills up. You'll also have to sit inside the tub until it's finished draining and you can open the door again. This is one of the major drawbacks of walk-in tubs, which is why many manufacturers include or offer add-on features like heated seats and backrests to help make this process more comfortable.
It's also a good idea to look for quick-fill and quick-drain features. “You don’t want to be sitting in a tub naked waiting for it to slowly fill,” says Laura M. Cini, founder, president, and CEO of Mosaic Design Studio. And “there’s nothing worse than sitting in the tub naked while the water slowly drains away.”
All walk-in tubs on our list have websites that mention fast drain times, with some – AmeriGlide Sanctuary Duratub 3260 Large and Meditub 3060WCA Series – reportedly taking less than 60 seconds to completely empty.
It's best to lightly clean your walk-in tub after every use by rising or wiping down the walls and fixtures with warm water. You can also use the handshower wand if your tub has one. Cleaning the tub with water removes body oils and soap that may dirty the tub over time. Some even have a self-cleaning feature that can save effort.
You'll also want to do deep cleans with more heavy-duty cleaning supplies at least once a month, potentially as frequently as once per week, depending on use. “For tubs with jets, periodically running a cleaning solution through the jet system will help prevent mold and bacteria growth,” says Bill Bruininga, co-owner of Billy's Plumbing and Rooter. “Regular checks by a professional are recommended to ensure all mechanical parts are functioning correctly.”
Stefanie Waldek is a freelance journalist with a decade of experience. She writes about travel, home, and space for publications like Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Space.com, and TechCrunch.
Erica Beimesche is a senior editor at U.S. News 360 Reviews, where she leads the Home Services editorial team. Her goal is to provide readers with valuable advice and unbiased insights into all things homeownership. She covers everything from internet service providers and home security systems to solar panels and moving companies.
U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.
