The Pros and Cons of Walk In Tubs

Walk in tubs are a popular option for seniors. They serve the same purpose as a regular tub. However, they have additional features that make them more comfortable and safer for the elderly and disabled.

First, walk in tubs have a door so that it’s very easy to get in and out of the tub. The door gets rid of the need to have to climb over the side of a regular tub in order to get in and out. The doors in a walk in tub are watertight so water doesn’t leak out when the tub is filled.

Walk in tubs usually also have a seat height chair for safety and comfort. Another feature they usually have is a handle to help provide support and make it easier to maneuver.

While there are a lot of benefits of a walk in tub, they have some drawbacks too. Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of walk in tubs.

Pros Of Walk In Tubs

Safer than a “regular” bathtub

As we mentioned, there’s not need to climb over the side to get in. You just use the door. The chances of slipping in a walk in tub are much lower too.

Deeper Water Depth

Walk in tubs offer deeper water depth than traditional tubs. In fact, walk in tubs can provide up to four feet of water depth. This lets those taking a bath immerse themselves in water while comfortably sitting in a raised seat.

Combined Features

Walk in tubs offer some pretty nice features. These include some luxury type options as heated seating, chromotherapy lighting, safety features and more. Common safety features include anti-slip flooring, contoured built-in seating, built-in handrails, and low step height for entry. They also can have scald prevention valve to prevent hot water burns.

Hydrotherapy Options

For seniors, there are plenty of benefits from bathing in warm water. This includes relief for certain aches and pains. It also provides relief for arthritis, diabetes, muscle pains, fibromyalgia, rheumatism, and stiffness. Some walk-in tubs also feature hydrotherapy jets that are similar to what you would find in most outdoor hot tubs.

Improved Circulation

Walk in tubs also help improve overall circulation which helps prevent pain and increase mobility.

Cons Of Walk In Tubs

Could Require Water Heater Upgrade

If you have a smaller water heater, it may not be enough for a walk in tub. This means you might have to upgrade your water heater in order to have a hot bath every time.

Installation

Installing a walk in tub may be a bit of a hassle in terms of cost and inconvenience. And in older homes, there may need to be some extensive electrical or plumbing work needed in order to support a walk in tub.

Higher initial cost

As you might expect, a walk-in tub costs more than traditional bathtubs.

Waiting For The Tub To Drain

Since it has a door, you can’t get out of a walk in tub until all the water drains out. Otherwise, you’ll have a very wet bathroom floor!!

So there you have it. The pros and cons of walk in tubs. We hope this article has helped give you a better idea whether or not a walk in tub is a good choice for you.

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