person lying in a bathtub with their eyes closed

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

It is important to consider the design of your home if you have limited mobility. Investing in products that make your environment safer is included.

A walk-in tub is an example. It is a safer alternative to a traditional tub, which requires you to step over a high threshold. It is easier to get in a walk-in tub that does not have this feature. This can give you a sense of security.

If you are thinking about investing in a walk-in tub, read on. We will look at the best walk-in tub and alternatives.

  • Soaker tubs: A soaker tub is a simple walk-in-tub design that looks like the standard bathtub design. This tub type submerges your body to your neck when sitting on it.
  • Aerotherapy tubs: These are tubs with air jets designed to provide soothing relief and ease pressure points with full body massages.
  • Hydrotherapy tubs: You might know this tub type as whirlpool tubs. These tubs deliver massage and relieve tension in the body with water jets.
  • Wheelchair accessible tubs: These tubs create easy access in and out of the tubs for people using wheelchairs with wide doors and handrails or grab bars.
  • Bariatric tubs: Bariatric tubs are designed for people with larger bodies, who weigh more than 300 pounds, and feature wider doors, seats, and size overall.

The safety features and recommendations from home contractors were used to pick the tubs on this list. Specialty features that make the tub more enjoyable were considered. We included a range of prices to fit different budgets.

Pricing guide

The price range for walk-in tubs can be very different. Walk-in tubs can range from $1,800 to $6,000 without installation.

The price of the tub is listed on the list. Pricing is indicated

  • $ = under $2,000
  • $$ = $2,000–$4,000
  • $$$ = over $4,000

The installation is an additional cost. According to CostHelper.com, replacing a bathtub may cost between $1,500 to $5,000.

Best for luxury

ANZZI Left Drain Walk-In Bathtub

  • Price: $$
  • Height: 37 inches
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: No

For a spa-like experience, consider this freestanding walk-in tub from ANZZI. “This walk-in bathtub comes with whirlpool jets that provide a soothing massage,” said Ryan Thompson, plumber and owner of Plumbing Informer.

It has a quick-fill faucet that can fill up the bathtub in a matter of seconds. One of the most common complaints about walk-in bathtubs is that they take too long to fill up.

The threshold is 4 feet tall. The showerhead with a 60-inch hose, grab bars, textured flooring, and an ADA- compliant seat are some of the safety features. The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, is the basis of the term “ADA- compliant”.

The spa features include air jets, color therapy lighting, and whirlpool jets. The tub has a built-in heating element that will keep the water temperature constant.

According to ANZZI, all products come with a lifetime warranty.

Shop now at Amazon

Best for design

Universal Tubs HD Series 60-Inch Walk-In Whirlpool Bath Tub

  • Price: $$
  • Height: 39 inches
  • Warranty: 10-year warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: No

This tub has ADA- compliant seating and flooring. It has buttons that are designed to reduce stress on fingers and joints. The tub has a grab bar and a step-in threshold.

The tub has a drain that is powered by a pump and will drain in about 1 minute. If time and convenience are your priorities, this might be ideal.

The tub has special features as well. It has 12 adjustable whirlpool massage jets and colored lights, which are used for chromatherapy, or color therapy. Universal Tubs offers a 10-year warranty on the tub shell, frame, and finish, as well as a lifetime warranty on the door’s watertight seal.

If you need help choosing a tub, the company invites customers to call their consultants. They can also help you find a certified and licensed installer.

Shop now at Home Depot

Best for small spaces

American Standard Gelcoat Premium Series Right Hand Walk-In Air Bathtub

  • Price: $$$
  • Height: 42 inches
  • Warranty: 15-year warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: Yes

The American Standard walk-in tub is designed for smaller spaces. It has a seat that is comfortable and has air jets for water-based therapy. Push-button controls, grab bar, and textured floor are safety features.

“It has an eschewed neck rest, which is a stand-out feature. If you are concerned about neck support, this may be ideal. Most walk-in tubs don’t have a neck rest.”

“The tub has a quick-draining system so you don’t have to wait for the open door. The company’s bath specialists can help you decide if the walk-in tub is right for you.”

American Standard offers a lifetime warranty on the door seal, a 10-year warranty on the tub’s shell, and a 5-year warranty on all other parts. The company also offers in-home evaluations and professional installation.

Shop now at Home Depot

Best for comfort

Empava EMPV-WIT373 Acrylic Freestanding Walk-In Bathtub

  • Price: $$
  • Height: 40 inches
  • Warranty: 3 years limited parts warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: No

If you are looking for a tub that is freestanding, you might like this tub by Empava. The Empava 52 is easy to install in the bathroom. It has safety features like grab bars and a handrail. The door is wider and the floor is resistant to slip.

“The extra-low step-in clearance height is a unique feature. Thompson said that this is great for people who can’t raise their feet high enough when entering the tub. The limited parts warranty is offered by Empava.”

Shop now at Amazon

Best for budget

Universal Tubs Builder’s Choice Walk-In Soaking Bath Tub

  • Price: $
  • Height: 38 inches
  • Warranty: 10-year warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: No

Universal Tubs has a product that is inexpensive if you are looking for a walk-in tub. The tub is very safe and affordable. It has a slip-resistant floor, safety rail, and low step threshold.

“The tub has ADA- compliant seating, a quick-fill faucet, and a wide- opening door. It is simpler than other walk-in tubs. The tub performs well at a lower cost if you don’t need a whirlpool or powered drain features.”

Universal Tubs has a 10-year warranty on the tub shell, frame, and finish. The company can help you find a licensed person.

Shop now at Home Depot

Best for safety

Boca walk-in tubs

  • Price: $$$
  • Height: 36 to 40 inches
  • Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: Yes

Boca allows you to build the walk-in bathtub you like by providing the option to choose the bathtub’s size, finish, and color.
The manufacturers design each bathtub for the safety of older adults and people with limited mobility or balance problems. The bathtub features slip-resistant flooring and seating to prevent slips and falls. This tub’s seat and grab bars are ADA compliant.
Boca makes stepping into its tubs smooth by building them with the lowest threshold and safest step in the industry, a 2-inch step-in.
You can also elevate your bathing experience by including additional features into your bathtub build like light therapy, aromatherapy, a heated seat and heated back, an Ozonator cleaning system, and more.
According to Boca, 90% or more of the product’s components and 100% of the product are assembled and manufactured in the United States.

Shop now at Boca Walk-in Tubs

Best for customizing

The Hydro Dimensions Series 2645

  • Price: $$$
  • Height: 39½ inches
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: No

Hydro Dimensions, a walk-in tub manufacturer, has a variety of walk-in tub features, including massage therapy, skin therapy, UV sanitization, ozone sanitization, and more, to meet your bathing and relaxation needs.

The Hydro Series 2645 bathtub can fit into smaller spaces without sacrificing comfort. It has a 5-piece faucet with a handheld shower, a built-in safety grab bar, a Sure-LOCK tub door latch system, and wall-to-wall installation.

The product is made in the United States and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Shop now at Hydro Dimensions

Best for shower and tub combination

Safe Step Hybrid™ Walk-in tub

  • Price: Not indicated
  • Height: Not indicated
  • Warranty: Lifetime warranty
  • Expert assembly option available?: Yes

You can also shower in a bathtub. The Safe Step hybrid walk-in tub is a great choice.

The heated anti-slip seat in this bathtub will help you relax while showering. It has an overhead shower so you can enjoy it on days you want to.

The bathtub has built-in grab bars, 10 hydro massage jets, anti-scald technology, a handheld shower wand, a sanitary gel coat, and safe water ozone cleaning, all of which support convenience, well-being, safety, and relaxation.

The bathtub is also designed to provide aromatherapy and color therapy to soothe and reenergize your body.
To find out the price and what size or model works best for you, speak with a Safe Step specialist to see what fits best for your needs.

Shop now at Safe Step

Name Best for Price Height Warranty Expert assembly option?
Anzzi Left Drain Walk-in Bathtub luxury $$ 37 inches lifetime limited warranty no
Universal Tubs HD Series Walk-in Whirlpool Bathtub design $$ 39 inches 10-year warranty no
American Standard Gelcoat Premium Series Right Hand Walk-in Air Bath Tub small spaces $$$ 42 inches 10-year warranty yes
Empava EMPV-WIT373 Acrylic Freestanding Walk-in Bathtub comfort $$ 40 inches 3-year limited parts warranty no
Universal Tubs Builder’s Choice Walk-in Soaking Bathtub budget $ 38 inches 10-year warranty no
Boca Walk-in Bathtubs safety $$$ 36-40 inches lifetime limited warranty yes
Hydro Dimensions Series 2645 customization $$$ 39.5 inches lifetime limited warranty no
Safe Step Hybrid Walk-in Bathtub shower/tub combo n/a–call for quote n/a–call for quote lifetime warranty yes

Here are some factors to consider when picking a walk-in tub:

  • Cost: You probably have a budget you’re working with and don’t have to exceed it. The price of each tub will vary depending on its size, special features, installation, etc. First, prioritize a bathtub that satisfies your basic bathing needs before anything else. You can speak with a customer representative to decide which tub to go for.
  • Size: A walk-in tub model can come in different sizes. You have to pick the one that fits in your bathroom and allows you to sit and lay in it comfortably.
  • Safety and convenience features: Consider looking out for tubs that are ADA compliant and have standard safety and convenience features like low step-in height, anti-slip seat, textured flooring, and grab bars.
  • Door design and accessibility: How easy is it to step in and out of the tub? Look at the door’s design — does it swing outward or forward — and see whether it allows you to enter the bathtub without any barriers. A physical therapist can look at the bathtub’s door and tell you if it works for you.
  • Warranty: A walk-in tub is an expensive long-term investment. Ensure that the warranty the company you’re buying from offers can protect you against manufacturer’s defects on the bathtub or its parts. You might get a lifetime or a 5- to 10-year warranty for the tub, parts, or door seal.
  • Special features: Asides from offering safety and convenience, bathtubs also provide features like aromatherapy, color therapy, heated surfaces, massage, and hydrotherapy — some of which you might have to pay extra for — that promote comfort and relaxation.

Walk-in tub are a good option if you want to create a safer bathroom environment.

Other potentially effective alternatives include:

Step-in shower

A step-in shower is a shower that does not have a threshold to step over. It has a seat that you can sit on. If you prefer a handheld shower, this is the best option.

You can install safety rails, flooring, and seating in a step-in shower. The floor tile can be continued in the bathroom.

A good option is the Freedom ADA Roll In Shower. Safety features include a folding shower seat, grab bars, and a textured floor. It also meets all ADA guidelines and has a 30-year limited warranty.

Built-in shower

If you want a shower that is tiled, you should contact a licensed contractor who has experience in bathroom remodeling. If you can, work with a contractor who has experience installing accessible showers for people with limited mobility.

Your contractor can install safety features. They can give suggestions based on your budget and needs.

Grab bars

Grab bars are an inexpensive and simple way to make bathing safer. A contractor with experience designing bathrooms for people with limited mobility can determine the best location for each bar.

“towel bars are not the same as grab bars. The towel bars don’t have enough support so they might not be safe to use.”

Shower bench

A shower bench or chair is another budget-friendly option. When choosing a bench, make sure the feet have a non-slip grip. Some benches fit into the tub, while others are placed over the edge so you can sit and slide into the tub.

Nonslip mat

A non-slip mat is a good way to reduce the risk of slipping. A non-slip mat or anti-slip rug can be placed outside of the shower.

“Financial assistance for walk-in tub installations is possible from some state programs. Medicare and insurance companies don’t provide coverage Walk-in tubs are usually not needed.”

“You can pay for a product over time with financing options. It might be easier to pay in smaller portions, but this won’t reduce the overall cost.”

You might get a tub that self-cleans. But if you don’t, you can clean your tub daily, weekly, and monthly. Here’s a guide from Safe Step on how to clean your walk-in bathtub.

Daily cleaning

  • After bathing every day, rinse the tub walls, seat, and other parts with warm water to prevent soap or body oil from building up.

Weekly cleaning

  • Use a sponge to clean the tub.
  • The tub can be scratched by using abrasive sponges.
  • Warm water is what you should wash off.

Monthly cleaning

  • Warm water should be put in the tub until the water gets to the first jet.
  • The bleach should be put into the bath.
  • Leave the tub jets on for 15 minutes.
  • The water should be drained.
  • If the tub is not filled until it reaches the level of the first jet with clean water, drain it.

What are walk-in tubs?

A walk-in tub is a bathtub with a door. It makes walking into the tub easier than stepping over a high edge.

Also, “Walk-in tubs have very high walls and an elevated seat,” said Ralph Severson, licensed contractor and owner of Flooring Masters. This means you can submerge yourself in water without sitting on the floor.

How do walk-in tubs work?

A walk-in tub has a door that is waterproof. It has a faucet that fills the tub just like a standard tub. It may have a handheld shower.

“The water goes down the drain when you are done bathing. You can leave the tub once it’s empty.”

Is a walk-in tub right for me?

If you have limited mobility, you might be a good candidate for a walk-in tub. Mobility issues related to age, injury, or chronic conditions are included.

Are all walk-in tubs ADA compliant?

ADA put down specifications that tubs must follow to be accessible to people with disabilities. Although walk-in tubs are generally designed to meet the needs of people with limited mobility and balance, a walk-in bathtub won’t be ADA compliant if its design doesn’t follow ADA’s specifications.

Are walk-in tubs covered by insurance?

Health insurance does not usually cover walk-in tubs. Some states might offer financial assistance for insurance companies. Your healthcare professional can let you know about state programs that can help.

Does Medicare cover walk-in tubs?

Currently, Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for walk-in tubs.

Medicare only covers durable medical equipment (DME). DME includes equipment and devices deemed medically necessary. A walk-in tub isn’t considered a DME, meaning Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for related costs.

Your state may offer programs that help with financial assistance.

“If you have limited mobility, a walk-in tub is ideal. The type of tub you choose is safer than a standard tub because you don’t have to step over a high edge.”

Walk-in tubs have safety features like grab bars. Specialty features like whirlpool jets and colored lights can be found in the tub.

There are different sizes and shapes of walk-in tubs. A licensed contractor can help you decide on the best option for your home.

“Health insurance and Medicare don’t cover walk-in tubs. Retailers often have financing options, and your state might offer a financial assistance program.”