Whenever I almost slip in the shower or help my mother into the tub, I hear an echo of that old ad “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” echoing in my mind. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 66% of nonfatal falls that take place in bathrooms occur in the tub or shower. Could a walk-in tub or tub-shower combination help prevent these falls? The experts say, “Yes.”
Dr. Barbara Paris, past division chief of geriatrics and vice chair of medicine at Maimonides Health in New York emphasizes that fall prevention is the primary health advantage of a walk-in bath or shower. She also explains that accommodating wheelchair users requires a walk-in tub with a wide, level entry from the bathroom floor. The main drawback? The high cost.
As people live longer and a growing number of us choose to age in place rather than move to a different house or assisted living facility, the walk-in bathtub and shower market is only expected to grow, with an expanded array of options and customizations available to potential customers. And while having more options can be nice, it also makes it harder to narrow down your choices when faced with a major (and expensive) bathroom renovation.
To make the market a little easier to navigate, we spoke with health care and home renovation experts to determine which features are most important in a walk-in tub. Then we did the research for you. As a health journalist with extensive experience analyzing health-related products, I dug into available options and compared their details to the parameters provided by the experts, weighing cost, customization and the need for home renovations to accommodate the tubs. Here we’ve provided you with the best walk-in tub and best walk-in tub shower combinations for a wide range of needs, including the best walk-in tub for small spaces, the best option for bariatric customers and the best for accessibility.
Table of contents
Best overall walk-in tub shower combination
Kohler
Cost: $2,500-$15,000 depending on customization | Type: Hydrotherapy tub/shower combo | Step-in height: 3″ | Wheelchair accessible: Yes | Safety features: Low threshold, handrails, grab bars and extra wide entry door with an airtight seal and bath screen | Jets: 10 water jets; 17 air jets | Capacity: 66+ gallons
With the Kohler Walk-in Bath With Shower package, there’s no need to choose between a safe, relaxing bath or a refreshing shower. This configuration allows people with mobility challenges to feel secure and independent while providing other family members with the versatility they need.
This walk-in bath has one of the lowest step-ins on the market, easy-to-grip handrails on both the interior and exterior of the bath and an extra wide entry door that opens all the way. An easily accessible control panel allows you to adjust the heated backrest, “BubbleMassage” air jets and hydrotherapy whirlpool jets from any position. A gooseneck shower arm allows you to stand while showering, and the multifunctional handheld shower head offers three spray settings, including one for sensitive skin.
The Kohler walk-in bath with shower combines the best of both worlds. Its wide door and other safety features, as well as the included hydrotherapy and other spa-like features, can turn any bath into a luxury soak.
- Convenience and versatility of an all-in-one product
- Ultra-low threshold
- Number of jets and other special features
- Only one model
- Warranty valid only with Kohler-certified installation
More walk-in tubs and walk-in tub shower combinations we like
Ella
Cost: $6,566 | Type: Hydrotherapy tub | Step-in height: 6″ | Wheelchair accessible: No | Safety features: Wide door, slip-resistant floor, grab bars, towel bar, gravity-driven dual drains | Jets: 4 different jet package options | Capacity: 75 gallons
This tub is one of Ella’s Bubbles’ most technologically advanced walk-in tubs. It has more interior space, a longer and wider seat and a lower step-in than some of the brand’s other options. There are also some new features, such as a uniquely designed brushed aluminum inward-swinging door with frosted tempered glass. The door is extra wide on top to allow for easier access in and out of the tub.
The Ultra comes with Ella’s fast-fill faucet and dual drain technology, which provides fast gravity-driven drainage. Hydrotherapy, microbubble therapy, intensity dials, push-button controls and free end and extension panels are included.
The Ella Ultra is a technologically advanced, feature-rich tub thoughtfully designed for function, safety and aesthetics at a mid-range price point.
- Affordable luxury option
- Drains in under 90 seconds
- Ozone sterilization reduces bacteria
- 6″ step-in threshold may be too high for some users
- High price
American Standard
Cost: $6,635 | Type: Soaker tub only | Step-in height: 6″ | Wheelchair accessible: No | Safety features: Full-sized watertight door, Quick Drain technology, push-button controls, chair height built-in seat, grab bar and textured bath floor | Jets: Customizable | Capacity: 75 gallons
The American Standard Gelcoat Series is an excellent entry-level soaking tub that requires no additional plumbing.
Available with either a left- or right-hand door and drain configuration, its contoured door swings inward and is completely watertight. It also has easy-touch push-button controls, a fast-fill faucet, handheld showering wand, neck rest and safety grab bar.
When you’re done bathing, American Standard’s patented quick drain technology pumps water out of the tub in less than two minutes.
Possible add-ons include a heated whirlpool massage with a self-cleaning sanitation system, and a multicolored chromotherapy LED light system for a relaxing spa-like bath experience.
The American Standard Gelcoat is well-priced and safety feature-rich out of the box. There are also other options in the series, so if you’re looking for more or less features (and a higher or lower price point) or a different size, you may be able to find a good fit.
- Fits in a standard bath space
- No additional plumbing is required for the basic model
- Wide array of add-ons available
- Higher step-in threshold
- Inward-opening door may hinder entry and exit
Ella
Cost: Starting at $4,665 for the smallest soaker-only tub (26″ x 52″) | Type: Whirlpool tub only | Step-in height: 4.5″ | Wheelchair accessible: Yes | Safety features: L-shaped outswing door, two-latch lock system, steel grab bars, textured floor, gravity-driven dual drainage | Jets: Dependent on tub size | Capacity: 75 gallons
With its L-shaped outswing door, this tub is explicitly designed for easy wheelchair accessibility. An acrylic decorative cover hides the door’s unique shaft-driven two-latch lock system.
The Ella Transfer has five widths and seat sizes to accommodate different needs and many special features, including full-body hydro massage. Select models offer foot and calve massage using six footwell jets, allowing you to ease aching legs without filling the whole tub.
Like other Ella models, the Transfer has a fast-fill faucet, gravity-driven dual drainage and free end and extension panels.
The Ella Transfer tub is specially designed for people in wheelchairs and is a functional option for bathers of various heights and weights, space sizes and budgets.
- Designed for wheelchair accessibility
- Multiple sizes
- Dedicated foot and calf hydro massage
- Smaller models don’t include hydrotherapy jets
- Step-in height may be too high for some
AmeriGlide
Cost: $3,866 | Type: Soaker tub only | Step-in height: 6″ | Wheelchair accessible: No | Safety features: Built-in seat, overflow drain, grab bar | Jets: Available as an add-on | Capacity: 46 gallons
The Sanctuary 2646, measuring 26″ x 46″, is a compact, freestanding tub that fits seamlessly anywhere in your bathroom. It’s made from reinforced fiberglass with a high-gloss triple gel coat and enclosed on the front and sides for a sleek look.
It comes equipped with an overflow drain, a grab bar and an extension panel. The built-in seat is 17 inches high, providing comfort and accessibility. While faucets aren’t included, you can opt for water- and air-jet features to enhance your bathing experience.
The freestanding AmeriGlide is one of the most compact, caregiver-friendly tubs we found. It has basic safety features and possible add-ons. It also comes at one of the lowest price points on our list.
- Compact size
- Freestanding design
- Affordability
- Faucets aren’t included
- Water and air jets only available as add-ons
Safe Step
Cost: $2,500 to $10,000 depending on tub size and features | Type: Tub-shower combo | Step-in height: 4″ | Wheelchair accessible: No | Safety features: Low threshold, built-in door, anti-slip floor and seat, grab bars, anti-scald technology | Jets: 16 air jets;10 hydro-jets | Capacity: 50–85 gallons
If you’re looking for impressive features, the SafeStep is our top pick. It offers a combination of accessibility and independence with features like a low step-in threshold, a built-in door, textured anti-slip floor and seat and dual grab bars, ensuring enhanced safety and comfort. The SafeStep also includes advanced technologies such as anti-scald and sanitary gel coat features.
Moreover, each tub has options for therapeutic elements like a rainfall shower head, MicroSoothe air therapy, hydro massage, heated seat and backrest, chromatherapy and aromatherapy, providing a touch of luxury to the user.
The SafeStep Hybrid tub has a compelling range of safety and luxury features making it a top choice for those looking for peace of mind and comfort.
- Numerous safety and therapeutic features
- Versatile bath and shower options
- Affordability
- No quick return water heater
- Some luxury features are add-ons
Boca
Cost: Varies based on level of customization | Type: Tub, shower or tub-shower combination | Step-in height: 2″ | Wheelchair accessible: Yes | Safety features: Ultra-low threshold, anti-slip floor and seat, grab bar, locking door, overflow drain and anti-scald technology | Jets: Dependent on upgrade | Capacity: Various
Boca Walk-In Tubs are an excellent choice for larger individuals seeking bariatric-friendly bathing options. These tubs are designed with generous interior dimensions, providing ample room for comfortable bathing and ease of movement no matter your mobility. The wide and deep Boca tub is the largest and deepest on the market at 32 inches wide x 56 inches long x 40 inches tall.
All seats meet ADA standards for height and width, and both the floor and seat feature a slip-resistant coating for safety. There’s also a low step-in threshold, which reduces the risk of tripping and allows for easy entry and exit.
Boca tubs come with additional features such as a moisture-wicking antimicrobial seat cushion and head pillow, a grab bar, thermostatic valve, high-flow faucet spout, handheld wand and a rainfall shower head, ensuring a luxurious bathing experience while prioritizing safety and comfort.
Every Boca model can be customized with wall surrounds, hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, aromatherapy, a bidet and a Vibe music system. Made from marine-grade fiberglass and fully customizable, Boca offers a lifetime warranty on every tub and provides a military discount.
With the largest tub size, lowest available threshold and a fantastic range of features, the Boca Walk-in Tub should meet most bathers’ needs, no matter their size. Unfortunately, the brand isn’t transparent about pricing, making it harder to know how to budget for the purchase.
- Offers several large tub options
- Lowest step-in threshold available
- Highly customizable
- Lack of transparent pricing
- No screen or enclosure options
When to consider a walk-in tub or walk-in tub and shower combination
Choosing a walk-in tub or a walk-in tub and shower combination can significantly improve safety and convenience for those with mobility issues. But how do you know if it’s the right choice?
According to Brittany Ferri, occupational therapist with the National Council on Aging and founder of Simplicity of Health, if someone struggles with stepping over or moving around the tub’s edge or cannot sit on a bench and scoot into the shower over the tub’s lip, a walk-in option may offer a practical solution.
Additionally, Ferri points out, “If someone [else] is doing 75% or more of the work to get them into the tub, that’s definitely an indicator.” In other words, if a caregiver provides most of the assistance needed to help the individual into the bath, this is a clear sign that a walk-in tub could be a beneficial and safer alternative.
Types of walk-in tubs and tub-shower combinations
Walk-in tubs come in various designs to suit different needs and bathroom layouts, from a simple soaker to a luxurious hydrotherapy experience. Here are some of the most common types available:
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Standard walk-in tub: Often called a soaker tub, a standard walk-in tub is generally 32 inches wide, 52 inches long and 38 inches high. It has standard safety features but no jets or other frills. Its extra depth makes it perfect for soaking.
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Standard walk-in tub with attached shower: A traditional walk-in tub with a built-in shower head and bath screen.
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Walk-in tub with shower enclosure: A separate shower stall is integrated into the design.
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Corner walk-in tub-shower combination: A space-saving design for smaller bathrooms.
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Whirlpool/air tub with shower: Combines tension-releasing hydrotherapy benefits with a shower option.
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Bariatric walk-in tub-shower combo: Specially designed with a wider door and seat for larger individuals.
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Wheelchair-accessible: Extra-wide doors and a contoured seat design to help facilitate transfers in and out of the tub.
Choosing the right walk-in tub or tub-shower combination requires careful planning and consideration. Here are the principal factors to keep in mind before purchasing:
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Budget: There’s a wide price range for walk-in tubs. They start at $2,000 to $3,000 and can go up to $20,000+ depending on tub material, features, plumbing and electrical upgrades and installation costs.
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Step-up or step-in height and door opening size: Threshold height can be as low as 3 inches or as high as 7 inches. You should consider your range of motion and mobility level when making this decision.
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Bathroom size and layout: Accurate measurements are critical, especially if you need some customization or renovation. Also, if your bathroom is small, a standard tub size may not be a viable option, requiring you to look at space-saving corner models.
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Door style: Right-hand or left-hand and inward or outward swing. An inward-swinging door can conserve space, but depending on the bather’s size, it might make getting into or out of the tub more difficult. On the other hand, once inside, an inward-swinging door might provide an additional safety benefit since the water pressure against the door will help keep it closed.
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Tub material: Gelcoat, fiberglass and acrylic are the most commonly used materials. Gelcoat is the cheapest and easiest to install, while acrylic may last longer.
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Shower features: Options include goosenecks, handheld shower heads, multiple stream models and jets.
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Tub features: Hydrotherapy jets, heated seats or floor and special lighting can all be therapeutic and improve your bathing experience.
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Safety features: Grab bars, non-slip surfaces and appropriate seat height and width make bathing safer.
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Installation: Smaller tubs or showers may not need additional plumbing, but ask about plumbing and electrical requirements before buying.
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Maintenance: Consider the ease of cleaning and the costs of long-term upkeep.
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Style and design: Do you want to complement your existing bathroom aesthetic? The design might make a difference.
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Water efficiency and energy usage: Take note of fill and drain times, power controls and lighting. Walk-in tubs generally use 50-80 gallons of water compared to the 30-50 gallons a regular tub uses.
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Warranty: Check what the warranty covers and the available customer support options.
For complete warranty protection, it’s recommended to use the manufacturer or their approved installers for the setup. “Poor installation often leads to problems,” says Kay Hart, office manager at Knockout Renovation in New York. “People try to forego this [professional installation] to save on costs. This is not a DIY project. Invest in professionals.”
Before starting an installation or remodel, ensure your contractor and their subcontractors are experienced with walk-in tubs. Additionally, if you live in a condo or co-op, check with management to ensure they allow the necessary work, as some buildings may not permit curbless showers.
How we chose the best walk-in tubs and bathtub-shower combinations
To identify the best walk-in tubs and showers of 2024, our team collaborated with three experts in walk-in tubs, occupational therapy and geriatrics. Over two weeks, we thoroughly researched 10 different products. Additionally, we gathered insights from people fitting these tubs and showers in new homes to gain valuable insights into their installation and selection processes.
FAQs
How do I know if a walk-in tub is right for me?
If you’re experiencing mobility challenges and find using a standard tub difficult, a walk-in tub could help. These tubs are specially designed and engineered for people with reduced mobility.
How much do walk-in tubs cost?
Walk-in tubs can run you anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the size, features and how much setup they need.
How long do walk-in tubs last?
Your walk-in tub should last 10-15 years with regular care and maintenance. Some high-quality acrylic tubs might even last longer.
Are walk-in tubs covered by insurance, Medicare or Medicaid?
No, walk-in tubs are generally not covered by insurance or Medicare. In rare cases, Medicaid may cover the cost, such as transitioning someone from a nursing facility to their home. Therefore, it’s advisable to inquire about discounts or financing options when shopping for a walk-in tub.
How long does it take to fill a walk-in tub?
Once you’re seated and the airtight door is closed, most tubs fill in 6 to 8 minutes. If your bath has a heating feature, you can turn it on while waiting for the tub to fill. If not, you can use the handheld shower attachment while the tub fills to stay warm.
Can I use a walk-in tub if I have mobility issues?
Walk-in tubs are specifically designed for people with mobility issues. However, if you’re in a wheelchair, a walk-in shower may be a better option.
Meet our experts
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Barbara Paris MD, is a board-certified geriatrician who has been practicing for over 40 years. She is the past division chief of geriatrics and vice chair of medicine at Maimonides Health, where she mentors faculty. Her clinical focus is frailty, health maintenance and prevention.
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Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L, CPRP, CEO and founder, Simplicity of Health, Rochester, N.Y.
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Kay Hart, office manager of Knockout Renovation, former urban planner for the city of Mount Vernon, N.Y.
Olivia Martin celebrates the art of living well in her lifestyle articles. She explores topics ranging from travel and fashion to home decor and culinary delights, offering inspiration for readers seeking a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle.
