5 Best Walk-In Tubs With Showerheads (2024 Guide)
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Walk-in tubs come in many forms, each offering comfort, convenience, and ease of use compared to traditional bathtubs. When paired with a showerhead, you can easily rinse suds off while remaining in your seat. Our team compared seven walk-in tub brands and chose the best walk-in tubs with shower attachments.
Top 5 Walk-In Tubs With Showerheads
We analyzed multiple factors before choosing our top walk-in tub brands. We considered cost, customer reviews, design, safety, and therapeutic features. In addition, we reviewed warranty options to help you choose the best walk-in tub for you or your loved one. We selected the following as the best walk-in tubs with showerheads:
- Ella’s Bubbles: Best Selection
- Kohler: Most Customization
- Leaf Home Safety Solutions: Best for Accessibility
- American Standard: Best Value
- Hydro Dimensions: Best for Massage Therapy
Ella’s Bubbles offers seven walk-in tub designs and more than 20 different models, making this brand a great choice for individuals with unique needs. While browsing its website, we found that Ella’s Bubbles provides a showerhead option for all of its models. Its walk-in tub designs range from standard inward-swinging doors to bariatric tubs. The company provides many safety features, such as quick-draining valves and textured nonslip floors. It’s one of few brands that offer anti-scald valves as an add-on to help regulate the tub’s water temperature.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty on the tub and a five-year warranty on parts
- Offers both wheelchair-accessible and two-person tubs
- Has a large selection of tub options, both safety and luxury
Cons
- Cost information doesn’t include installation fees
- Customer reviews mention that the seats are hard
Features
Ella’s Bubbles’ walk-in tub designs offer the following features:
- Two 2-inch gravity-driven drains
- 360-degree swivel tray
- Air jets
- Aromatherapy system
- Auto-purge system
- Heated backrest and seat system
- Infusion Microbubble therapy add-on
- LED chromotherapy features
- L-shaped aluminum-frame outward-swinging door
- Ozone self-cleaning sterilization
- Six-jetted independent hydro foot-and-calf massager
- Stainless-steel removable door
- Three-speed variable push controls
- Two 2-inch gravity-driven drains
Kohler walk-in tubs are another solid brand to consider. Kohler offers the most customization options of all providers in this article. You can choose from up to 10 wall accents and two tub colors. Kohler also provides ergonomic controls and features; its showerhead option includes an ADA-compliant on-and-off control. The showerhead has three spray functions. We noted that we could choose from a showerhead with a brushed nickel or polished chrome finish while shopping on Kohler’s site.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers numerous customization options
- Includes a lifetime warranty on material defects and workmanship
- Has a user-friendly website with a transparent installation process
Cons
- Requires an agent to visit your home for accurate pricing
- Offers narrower door options than several other brands
Features
Kohler walk-in tubs can include the following features:
- 10 adjustable hydrotherapy jets
- 17 three-speed air bubble jets
- 21.5-inch-wide seat
- Adjustable heated backrest
- Easy-grip handrails
- Eight LuxStone bath wall options
- Fast-fill faucets
- Fast-drain system
- Inward-opening door
- Multifunction handheld showerhead
- Optional built-in shelving and storage
- Three-inch step-in low threshold
- Two faucet design options
Leaf Home Safety Solutions
Best for Accessibility Leaf Home Safety Solutions provides fully customizable walk-in tubs. The company allows you to design all aspects of your walk-in tub, from the tub material to the handrail placement. It offers four models, each with standard features such as hydrotherapy jets. According to a Leaf Home representative our team spoke with, its showerheads are adjustable in length and tub placement.
We discovered that Leaf Home Safety Solutions requires an inspection of your home before providing a cost estimate. Also, the company doesn’t offer service in all ZIP codes. When our team requested a quote using the 95328 ZIP code, the representative stated it doesn’t currently service the area.
Pros and Cons of Leaf Home Safety Solutions
Pros
- Provides all-in-one design, installation, and sales service
- Offers four completely customizable tub models
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty on components and sealing system
Cons
- Requires a home inspection before presenting an accurate quote
- Offers showerheads only in its two high-tier models
Features
Leaf Home Safety Solutions offers walk-in tubs with the following features:
- 13–22-inch soaking depth
- 20 invisible air jets
- 23 1/4-inch wide seat
- 70–95 gallon operating capacity
- Adjustable handheld showerhead
- Aromatherapy
- Bidet
- Comfort heated seat system
- Grab bars
- In-swing and out-swing doors
- In-tub control panel
- Mounted towel bar
- Ozone sterilizer
- Pure Bubbles skin therapy system
- Removable headrest
- Six back True Massage Preferred jets
- Two calf-centered True Stream Preferred jets
- Two foot-centered Luxury Sole Soothers jets
- Two-inch speed drain technology
American Standard
Best Value American Standard provides various walk-in tub models. Its walk-in tubs have many standard features, such as a low entryway and step threshold, ADA-compliant seats, easy-lock doors, and hydrotherapy jets. American Standard includes a handheld shower wand for each model. The company includes an in-line water heater per walk-in tub, which helps stabilize and keep water temperatures in your preferred setting.
Pros and Cons of American Standard
Pros
- Is one of the most trusted brands in home appliances and fixtures
- Offers in-home evaluations to create the perfect tub
- Has custom design options
Cons
- Is expensive compared to some competitors
- Varies its lifetime warranty stipulations on acrylic tubs and gelcoat tubs
Features
American Standard walk-in tub models can come with the following features:
- 44 air and water jets
- ADA-compliant built-in seat
- Automatic water-purging system
- Brass fixtures and faucets
- Built-in aromatherapy
- Jets directed to your back, legs, feet, and wrists
- Leak-free door system
- One-touch control system
- Inward- and outward-opening doors
- Self-cleaning ozone system
- Seven-color chromotherapy
- Slip-resistant textured floor
- Quick-drain water-removal system
Learn more: American Standard Review
Hydro Dimensions
Best for Massage Therapy
Our final walk-in tub with showerhead provider is Hydro Dimensions. The company provides more than 15 models, ranging from bariatric to lie-down tubs. Hydro Dimensions’ models also provide the most hydrotherapy options in this article. The brand offers six massage therapy jet packages, including air massage, dual jetted massage, and PureBubbles skin therapy. Like most brands, Hydro Dimensions provides handheld showerheads as a standard option.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers extensive massage therapy add-ons
- Offers add-on UV or ozone sanitation systems
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty on the tub, system, and faucet
Cons
- Only includes a one-year warranty on parts and labor
- Varies availability of particular models according to your local dealership
Features
Hydro Dimensions’ tubs include the following:
- 17-inch ADA-compliant seat
- 20-color LED chromotherapy add-on
- Aromatherapy add-on
- Built-in safety grab bar
- Cable-operated polished chrome waste and overflow
- Custom jetting and pump locations
- Extension panels for 60-inch wall-to-wall installation
- Five-piece polished chrome faucet
- Handheld showerhead
- Heated backrest
- Medical-grade ultraviolet (UV) light sterilization system
- Ozone sanitation
- Removable front-access panels
- Six massage therapy options
- Sure-lock tub door latch system
Walk-In Tub Types
Since no walk-in tub can suit every bather’s needs, companies design several types for specific uses. Common types include the following:
Bariatric Tubs
Companies design these tubs for larger individuals. Bariatric tubs typically have sturdier construction, wider seats, and more volume inside the tub to accommodate up to 600 pounds. Bariatric tubs also tend to hold a greater volume of water—typically more than 90 gallons.
Hydrotherapy Tubs
These tubs use strategically placed jets around the inside of the tub to provide massage therapy as you bathe. These jets soothe sore or achy muscles. We recommend talking to your doctor before purchasing a hydrotherapy tub if you have cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension.
Soaking Tubs
These tubs don’t include hydrotherapy jets. As the name implies, soaking tubs fill up to your upper torso, allowing you to soak while you remain seated. The bath water remains still because there aren’t any air or water jets.
Two-Person Tub
Two-person tubs allow you and your loved one to bathe together in the same walk-in tub. Companies design these tubs to allow occupants to face one another. This allows you and your loved one to assist each other while bathing. Additionally, two-person tubs usually include built-in aromatherapy and chromotherapy systems.
Wheelchair-Accessible Tubs
These tubs provide a wider method of entry for individuals who use a wheelchair. Typically, wheelchair-accessible tubs have large, outward-swinging doors and lower seat placement to transition from a wheelchair to the tub easily. These tubs are a safe and comfortable option if you or your loved one has limited mobility.
Features To Look For
The two most important features to consider when shopping for a walk-in tub are comfort and safety. Each company listed here provides relatively similar comfort and safety features. Based on your needs, a model with more safety features, such as a low step and nonslip floors, may work better than a model with a chromotherapy system. Here are the features you should consider:
Anti-Scald Valves
Anti-scald valves prevent your tub’s water temperature from rising suddenly. A sudden rise or fall in water temperature can surprise the occupant, which can cause an injury if they get up suddenly.
Aromatherapy Add-On
Aromatherapy systems use plant extracts and essential oils to release scents. These scents have several uses, such as aiding relaxation as you bathe.
Chromotherapy Add-On
Chromatherapy is another type of relaxation therapy companies offer. Providers insert LED lights along the tub’s water-fill line to give the water a soothing glow.
Handheld Showerhead
Tubs with a handheld showerhead can help individuals with limited mobility rinse hard-to-reach areas. In addition, a showerhead can double as a walk-in tub cleaner.
Handrails and Grab Bars
Companies include these bars in all walk-in tub models. However, your arm strength, grip, leg strength, coordination, and range of motion can influence the best placement for grab bars. Discuss with your manufacturer if it can adjust its grab bar placement to your needs.
Nonslip Surface
Companies typically include anti-slip surfaces on the floor of the tub. Ask your manufacturer if it uses textured nonslip material instead of smooth material. In addition, you can add a nonslip bath mat to your tub’s floor to further reduce the chance of slipping.
Quick Drain System
Since you must drain the walk-in tub to exit, choose a model with a quick-draining system. A quick-draining system removes the tub’s water faster. Therefore, it reduces your time inside the tub after you bathe.
How Do Walk-In Tubs Work?
Providers design walk-in tubs to be straightforward with accessibility and convenience in mind. The instructions below refer to a soaker walk-in tub. Here are the steps to use a walk-in tub:
- Entry: The journey begins with stepping into the tub through a low-entry door designed to minimize physical effort. A lower entry is suitable for individuals with mobility issues, such as arthritis.
- Sealing: Once inside, secure the door. The design ensures easy closing and sealing, requiring minimal strength. The tub is completely watertight, eliminating concerns about potential leaks on the bathroom floor.
- Filling: The next step involves filling the tub. Use a control panel or faucet to fill the bath to your preferred level. Fill times may vary based on your home’s water pressure. You may need an additional pump to expedite the process in certain cases. This is a factor your installer can identify and address beforehand.
- Usage: Now the tub is ready for you to relax and enjoy. Some models have extra luxury or comfort features to enhance your bathing experience.
- Draining and exiting: After your bath, drain the tub before opening the door. Once fully drained, it’s safe to open the door and step out.
What Makes Walk-In Tubs ADA Compliant?
Walk-in tubs are ADA compliant if they meet or exceed the ADA compliance section 4.20 standards. These standards highlight features companies can include in their walk-in tubs. The ADA designed these standards to aid older adults or individuals with disabilities in entering and using a walk-in bathtub. We suggest checking with your manufacturer to see if it includes ADA-compliant requirements.
Below are the most important ADA-compliant features walk-in tubs must meet:
- Bathtub enclosures: ADA-compliant walk-in tub enclosures can’t cover tub controls.
- Grab bars: The ADA requires grab bars to be in designated areas, such as the midpoint of the tub. These areas help occupants enter and exit the walk-in tub safely.
- Floor space: The ADA requires walk-in tubs to have an open, unobstructed floor space spanning at least 30 inches wide and 60 inches long.
- Seat: ADA-compliant walk-in tubs require a sturdy seat with two handrails on each side. Additionally, the seat must have non-slip material to prevent sliding.
Walk-In Tubs Cost
The cost of a walk-in tub can vary significantly. On average, a walk-in tub costs between $2,000 and $5,000. Note that walk-in tub prices usually don’t include the cost of installation. Installation costs range from $2,000 to $10,000, much higher than a typical bathtub installation.
How To Save on Walk-In Tub Costs
Due to the high cost of walk-in tubs, it’s natural to think of ways to reduce the total bill. Below are some tips to limit walk-in tub costs:
- Find local grants: Various states provide grants to older adults who need help paying for home modifications. The USDA Rural and Rehabilitation grant program assists individuals with up to $7,500 to renovate their homes to address health or safety concerns. Note that these grants typically have requirements including a minimum age and income level.
- Get multiple quotes: Most walk-in tub companies provide the total unit cost plus installation via a quote. Request at least three quotes from different companies to compare costs and features.
- Limit unnecessary features: Consider your needs and purchase the features that best help you. Extra features such as chromotherapy can balloon your total walk-in tub costs.
- Purchase your own materials: Due to the complexity of walk-in tub installation, contractors may limit what materials you can source yourself. Accent pieces, such as tile or sheetrock, are best sourced yourself so you can avoid paying the contractor markup.
Are Walk-In Tubs Worth It?
Deciding whether to install a walk-in tub involves considering your health benefits, budget, and potential assistance options. Walk-in tubs are an expensive home modification for enhanced safety, comfort, and therapeutic bathing, so making an informed decision is crucial.
First, talk with your doctor to clarify the health benefits you might receive from a walk-in tub. Benefits can include improved mobility, reduced fall risk, or therapeutic relief from certain conditions.
Second, it’s vital to evaluate your financial position. Consult a financial planner to understand your budget constraints and explore financing options. Contact your local aging agency about potential Medicaid or Veterans Affairs (VA) assistance. These organizations often provide aid for such home improvements.
Finally, an occupational therapist can offer valuable insights. They specialize in home modifications for seniors. They also provide practical training to help you adjust to your new bathing environment. You can find certified therapists through the American Occupational Therapy Association or your state’s occupational therapy association.
Pros and Cons of Walk-In Tubs
Pros
- Provides an increased water depth of up to 4 feet for a comfortable immersion experience
- Combines safety and comfort features for a holistic, therapeutic experience
- Provides comparable water usage to standard bathtubs, so your energy bills won’t increase
Cons
- Is expensive to install
- Makes it more difficult to control the bath’s temperature compared to standard tubs
- Poses a flood risk if not secured properly
Our Conclusion
If you or your loved one has difficulty bathing, a walk-in bathtub can help restore their independence. Tubs with handheld showerheads add extra accessibility for hard-to-reach areas.
Our team recommends Ella’s Bubbles due to its extensive list of walk-in tub models. It also provides unique safety features such as anti-scald valves and stainless-steel doors. We also recommend Kohler because it provides the most customizable walk-in tub configurations. Leaf Home Safety Solutions is another solid choice for those who prefer an all-in-one design and installation service.
Before purchasing a walk-in bathtub, talk to your primary doctor to see if it suits your health needs. We also suggest pulling several quotes to compare costs.
FAQ About Walk-In Tub Brands With Showerheads
Why are walk-in tubs more expensive than traditional tubs?
Walk-in tubs are more expensive than traditional tubs due to the additional safety and convenience features. Walk-in tubs include higher walls, headrests, massage jets, and wide doors, all adding to their total cost.
Should I purchase from a walk-in tub manufacturer or a retailer?
We recommend purchasing a walk-in tub from a manufacturer because of their customization and installation services. If you purchase a walk-in tub from a retail store, you are responsible for finding a contractor to install it.
How is a walk-in tub installed?
A walk-in tub installation can be simple or very complex. A simple installation reuses the bathroom space and plumbing left by your existing bathtub. A complex installation involves adding custom drainage, plumbing, and other room modifications. We recommend hiring a professional contractor with experience installing walk-in tubs to avoid installation pitfalls.
How long does a walk-in tub typically last?
A walk-in tub can last between 10 to 30 years on average. If your tub is fiberglass-based with a gel coat, expect it to last roughly 15 years. Acrylic walk-in tubs can last upwards of 30 years.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and data to support our ratings and recommendations. Our rating system for walk-in tub providers is on a 100-point scale based on six factors:
- Types (10 points): We browse each provider’s catalog to learn which types of walk-in tubs it offers, including two-person tubs, bariatric tubs, hydrotherapy tubs, deep soaker tubs, and wheelchair-accessible tubs. Providers that offer more types score higher.
- Safety features (25 points): We ensure the provider offers ADA-compliant tub models. We also assess if other important safety features are included handrails, a non-slip floor, a quick-drain system, and anti-scald technology.
- Ergonomics (15 points): We verify that each walk-in tub provider’s design, buttons, and other functions are easily accessible and to use. Walk-in tubs with features such as easy-lock handles, outward-swinging doors, pillows, and three-inch step thresholds scored higher.
- Warranty options (20 points): We analyze each provider’s warranty to determine its length and whether it covers more than just a few parts. Providers with more comprehensive warranties, such as a limited lifetime warranty on the whole tub, receive more points than providers with a limited warranty, such as a 10-year warranty.
- Average cost (15 points): We average the price of each provider’s tub selection to determine a typical cost range. The more affordable a provider’s pricing, the more points it receives.
- Extra features (15 points): We consider any extra comfort features a provider can add to its tubs, such as handheld showerheads, extra water jets, and aromatherapy and chromotherapy add-ons.
Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.