Rub-A-Dub-Dub Should You Consider A Walk-In Tub?

Are you struggling with getting in and out of your bathtub? Do you or a loved one dream of taking a bath without needing to ask for help? When it comes to the joys of bathing, you may want to consider getting a walk-in tub.

Walk-in tubs are like traditional bathtubs, but with an added entry door. The watertight door in the side makes it easy and safe for users to walk into the tub and sit down.

If you love bathing, and want to retain your independence in bathing alone, a walk-in tub may be the ticket. Many seniors find stepping into a walk-in tub is easier and safer. There is no tricky climbing in and out. Grab bars are there for safety and reassurance. It’s an easier, safer way to continue bathing without stress.

You or your loved one may have encountered some challenges with bathing in a classic tub. Many people opt to get a walk-in tub to facilitate ease and freedom of bathing.

As safety is a primary concern in getting a walk-in tub, here are a few of the safety features that these systems offer.

• Anti-slip Surfaces
Most walk-in tubs have anti-slip surfaces on the floors and seats. These standards help to reduce the risk of falls or slips.

• Anti-scald Systems
These regulate the water temperature coming out of the faucet or showerhead. In many cases, your tub may not be the only water-using appliance in your home. If someone else uses water, flushes a toilet, or turns on the tap—the water temperature will remain constant. This is a key consideration for safety.

• Safety Bars
Safety bars, also known as grab bars, are useful for balance when entering or exiting the tub. You don’t have to use them. However, if you should feel unsteady, it’s comforting to know that it’s there should you want to steady yourself.

• Quick Drain System
It’s easier and safer to have water drain rapidly. If you’re in the tub, you don’t have to sit for a long time before opening the door. Additionally, you can quickly drain the tub and prevent overflowing.

What Are Some Ease-of-Use Options?
In addition to must-have safety features, these features make for a quality experience.

• Low Threshold
A low threshold makes it easy to step in and out of the tub.

• Self-cleaning System
You want to keep your tub clean and hygienic. With a self-cleaning system, the water lines will be up to par, without mold or bacteria build up.

• Leak-proof Door Seals
To prevent spills or bathroom floods, make sure your new walk-in tub has a leak-proof door seal, with a lifetime guarantee.

• Lifetime Guarantee
This is a major appliance purchase and a considerable investment. Make sure you pick one that offers a lifetime guarantee. This is key to have not only an exceptional bathing experience, but also peace of mind.

• Easy Press Buttons
Make sure that the buttons and controls are easy to press.

We’ve been looking at safety and ease. Let’s be sure to include the fun part too: bathing is a relaxing, stress relieving and in many cases provides therapeutic relief. Many people who struggle with muscle tension and joint pain find relief in bathing.

That’s why it’s great to evaluate how you expect to use your tub. With this in mind, it’s easier to pick features that support your personal preferences.

• Soakers: a soaker tub is perfect for bathing, yet does not have massage jets or air jet functions.

• Whirlpool: This is like a massage experience, perhaps like one you’ve experienced in a spa. The water jets keep the water moving and may be useful to enhance muscle relaxation.

• Air jetted: air jetted walk-in tubs use compressed air rather than water. This provides a gentler experience to whirlpool models.

Different tubs are suited to different physical needs and budgets. Here are the most common types:

• Inward Swinging Door
The most common walk-in tubs for home use feature an inward swinging door. This is an elegant and less expensive tub. It’s a good choice for many seniors who don’t have any special physical requirements.

• Bariatric Tubs
Bariatric Tubs are designed for people, such as bariatric patients, who weigh 300 lbs or more. They are similar to inward swinging tubs, yet have sturdier features and a wider entrance.

• Outward Swinging Door
These are not as common as inward swinging door models, however it may be easier and safer for people who have mobility issues.

• Slide-in Tubs
These are wheelchair accessible, with wider entrances and no steps to climb over. They are larger and more expensive. The outward swinging door makes them easier for wheelchair users.

A walk-in tub makes bathing easier and safer. This is especially true for people with mobility issues, which may include some seniors.

• Do you find it difficult to climb in and out of a traditional bathtub?
• Are you experiencing balance issues?
• Are you nervous about falls and slips?
• Do you have joint problems?
• Do you struggle with stiffness?
• Do you experience weakness in getting in or out of a bathtub?

For many people, bathing has always been a soothing ritual of relaxation. If taking a bath is part of your self-care regime, worries can get in the way of enjoyment. A walk-in tub may allow you to continue using bathing as a calming resource—without the concerns of a traditional tub. In short, it’s easier, safer, and more conducive to relaxing.

If you enjoy bathing and want to bathe worry-free, consider a walk-in tub. You may find that this purchase offers solutions to bath easily, independently, and safely.