What is a walk-in tub and how does it work?

How a walk-in tub works

Walk-in tubs are designed with a low step-in threshold. This makes it easier to step directly into the tub rather than lifting your legs over the side to enter. To bathe, you simply:

1. Open the door: Doors can be installed to open outward or inward and from the left or the right.
2. Step in: Step-in heights range from 2 inches to about 8 inches.
3. Sit down: The seats are typically covered with a textured surface to prevent slipping.
4. Shut the door: All walk-in tubs have sealed doors to prevent leaks.
5. Turn on the water: Tub filling times vary from about five to 10 minutes. Some brands, like Safe Step, feature high-flow taps to fill more quickly.
6. Bathe and relax: You probably already know how to do this part; hopefully the sense of relaxation is even deeper with a walk-in tub.
7. Empty the tub: Once you're finished, release the drain and wait for the water to empty from the tub. This can take up to 15 minutes. Some brands, like American Standard, feature quick-drain technology that works in as little as two minutes. After this, you can open the door.
8. Exit the tub: Rising from the seat is easier than getting out of a standard tub — you don’t have to worry about getting over the much higher step threshold.

Filling and draining

The time it takes to fill or drain a walk-in tub varies based on several factors, including the size of the tub, your home’s water pressure, and the age and quality of your plumbing. A standard-size walk-in tub usually takes several minutes to fill.

Standard walk-in tubs take six to eight minutes to fill and up to 15 minutes to drain.

Most walk-in bathtubs take about six to 15 minutes to drain. Fast-draining models can take less than four minutes, and some drain in two minutes or less.

Since most walk-in tubs come with a hand shower, you can use that to stay warm while the tub drains. A model with heated seating can also help keep you comfortable. Tubs with quick-fill and -drain features are great because they prevent you from having to sit in tepid water before or after you bathe.

Walk-in tubs vs. traditional tubs

In some ways, walk-in tubs work similarly to traditional baths — they take up about the same amount of space and use your regular tub’s plumbing. The main difference is that walk-in tubs have seats and much lower step-in thresholds than traditional bathtubs.

A traditional bathtub requires a big step to get in and has slick surfaces and few places to find a stable grip — and then it can be challenging to get up once you're in one. With a walk-in bathtub, you don’t even have to lie down in the tub.

This means you can bathe yourself with more independence if you have mobility issues. Caregivers like walk-in tubs because they reduce the physical strain of helping patients wash.

Types of walk-in tubs

The right type of tub for you depends on your long-term needs and budget. Nearly all walk-in tub models include a textured floor surface to prevent slipping.

Finding the right tub for your specific needs is easier if you're prepared. Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, decide what you want to get out of the tub.

• Soaker tub: This is the standard walk-in tub. It typically comes with at least one or two grab bars or handrails. Some feature hand-held showerheads, often located near the faucets, but some tubs have raised showerheads with adjustable rods.
• Combination tub: Some companies, like Safe Step and Kohler, offer models with the accessibility of a walk-in tub plus the convenience of a shower. Walk-in showers can give you the option to shower sitting down or standing up. For more, compare the differences between walk-in showers and walk-in tubs.
• Hydrotherapy and aerotherapy tubs: Hydrotherapy refers to water jets; aerotherapy refers to air jets. Some tubs feature one or the other, and you can also find tubs that combine both types of jets plus more beneficial features.
• Two-seaters: These are designed for two people to use at the same time. Ella’s Bubbles and BOCA both offer two-seater walk-in tub options.
• Bariatric tubs:Bariatric tubs are specifically for larger individuals; standard-size walk-in baths can be too uncomfortable for some people to get a full-body soak immersion.

How walk-in bathtubs are installed

Walk-in tub installation doesn’t usually require extensive construction or renovation. However, you will likely need a licensed plumber and electrician, so you shouldn’t try to do it yourself.

Many manufacturers work with a network of local technicians who can install your tub. If the brand doesn’t provide installation services, you’ll likely have to hire a bathroom remodeling contractor. The job usually takes anywhere from one to a couple of days to complete.

“And the other thing is, if you’re gonna have a walk-in tub in your house, you need a BIG bathroom,” Baskin said. “I mean, they’re not small. It's not like just getting a real cute tub in your house.”

 Some companies offer optional trim kits to ensure the tub fits correctly in the available bathroom space. Other manufacturers sell compact walk-in tubs specifically designed for smaller areas.

If a tub doesn't fit correctly in your bathroom, your installer can use a tub extender to eliminate gaps between the tub and the wall. Extenders can also be used as shelves to store soap, shampoo or other bath materials.

Tile around the edge of the tub deck is often used to create a watertight barrier and prevent leaking. Tile flanges also give your tub an updated look.

Bottom line: Why get a walk-in bathtub?

The most common reason older adults purchase walk-in bathtubs is to prevent falls due to entering or exiting standard tubs. With high walls, nonslip floors, seats and grab bars, these are typically safer than standard bathtubs.

Like with most other aging-in-place home modifications, a walk-in tub doesn’t make sense for everybody. It’s a significant investment that you may not need.

“You have to look at all the bells and whistles that you’re paying extra for and make sure that you need them,” according to Baskin. Compare walk-in tub alternatives that are both less expensive and less complicated.

If your plan is to stay in your home to age in place, a walk-in tub might be worth it. In some cases, it could even add value to your home.