A Buyers Guide To Purchasing A Walk-In Bath

When it comes to purchasing a brand-new bath, there is so much to consider. If you are leaning towards a walk-in bath, there are a number of decisions you must make ahead of time. Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about walk-in baths and how they can simplify your life today.

Choose the right style for you

One of the first decisions you should make when purchasing a new walk-in bath is which style is right for you. There are several options to choose from. From traditional models to shower baths, there is guaranteed to be a walk-in bath out there to suit your budget and style preference. Most manufacturers also offer an extended range of walk-in baths for disabled or elderly customers.

Establish a budget 

Cost is one of the most important factors during the process of purchasing and installing a new walk-in bath. Prices differ depending on a number of factors including the dimensions of your bathroom and mobility needs catered for. It is a common misconception that walk-in baths are expensive and out of reach for the everyday consumer. Shop around for a reputable manufacturer in your local area and be aware of scammers and door-to-door sales. You may also qualify for a number of finance options to help you pay for the cost of your walk-in bath in manageable monthly instalments.

Full-length or sit-in

Another key consideration when shopping around for a walk-in bath is whether you want a full-length or sit-in model. Full-length baths tend to be cheaper than sit-in baths as they can be installed into a space currently occupied by an existing bath. They also give you the option to either stand up or sit down depending on your own personal mobility needs. Sit-in baths, on the other hand, tend to be slightly more expensive but they allow for greater mobility. They also take up less room so are a great option for those with less bathroom space. You must weigh up the pros and cons of each model before making an informed decision.

Thermostatic control

Walk-in baths fitted with thermostatic control allow you to regulate the water temperature as necessary. They are not usually a key feature of all walk-in baths but are typically included in luxury models and can be purchased for an additional price. Users with limited mobility may struggle to control taps with separate water temperatures. Thermostatic control can cool the water when it hits a certain temperature and stop the cooling process when it falls below a specific threshold. This can prevent the water from reaching a temperature that is too cold or too hot for the user.

Lifting aids 

You must assess your current and future mobility needs to decide whether or not you want your walk-in bath to include lifting aids. If you require assistance getting in and out of the bath, this option may benefit you. There are also a number of lifting aids available on the market to help you lower yourself in and lift yourself up. For example, bath boards and seats allow you to enter and exit your bath in a series of steps. Power-assisted aids, on the other hand, are available for users with impaired mobility and include bath cushions and seats. You may also benefit from investing in a bath hoist or bath lift. These can be built into an existing model or purchased as an additional extra.

Purchasing a walk-in bath can be a time-consuming process. You must consider which style is right for you, establish a budget, choose between full-length or sit-in, consider thermostatic control, and decide whether or not you would benefit from lifting aids. By making these decisions ahead of time, you can purchase the perfect walk-in bath for you.