Things to Know Before You Invest in a Walk-In Bath
Modern walk-in tubs can be expensive. So, before jumping the gun, it’s important to understand what exactly you’ll be getting. In light of this here are some important considerations to keep in mind to make a more informed decision. This guide aims to help you select the right walk-in bathtubs, maximizing your investment to get more value for money.
When you talk about convenience, versatility, and flexibility, it doesn’t get any better than baths with door. While everybody can use them, they’re especially useful for people who’re suffering with limited mobility. These bathtubs come with an assortment of excellent features such as grip bars, air pressured water jets, and sealable doors. In addition, these tubs are built-in with a door access, allowing you to get in the tub without climbing over anything.
Some Important Tips and Considerations to Understand Before Buying a Walk-In Bathtub
There are a lot of aspects to keep in mind when investing in a walk-in tub for your bathroom. In light of this, mentioned below are some vital suggestions and tips you should keep in mind when browsing for the best option for your home.
Understand There are Different Types of Walk-In Baths
Because walk-in baths are expensive, you need to do ample research to figure out what you exactly you need for your family. Here some different types of bathtubs for your consideration:
Walk-In Tubs with Air Bath Features
Don’t be confused by the name, all walk-in tubs are traditional in the sense that you need to fill water to use them. However, air bathtubs come with additional features such as an installation of different, air powered water jet systems that blast pressurized streams of water when you’re sitting inside the tub. Air baths are an excellent option because they serve a dual purpose – allowing you to enjoy a comfortable bathing experience along with massaging your body.
Deep Soak Walk-In Baths
These are designed to be particularly deeper than other types of walk-in baths. In all, you’ll be able to sit upright in the bathtub while completely submerging your body.
Whirlpool Technology Walk-In Baths
These bathtubs are quite similar to air baths. They come built-in with an assortment of powerful water jets that keep on circulating underwater. However, whirlpool bathtubs offer one additional feature – the water is automatically reheated and circulated in the air jet system, allowing for a more therapeutic experience.
Walk-In Tubs with Bariatric Features
These are bathtubs designed for heavier individuals, 300-lbs and more. Bariatric tubs come with additional features such as grip rails and bigger doors to allow safe access to users. Plus, they also feature a more wider design to comfortably accommodate the size and proportions of the user without feeling cramped.
Consult with a Specialist Before Having the Bath Installed
Walk-in baths require specialist installation, which is why a lot of companies send their own professionals to install the unit. Reputed companies send their own professionals for a set up consultation.
This is where they will help measure your bathroom and water pipe fixtures, evaluating the overall limitations in terms of space and size. For example, it’s difficult to install a walk-in tub in particularly smaller bathrooms. However, you’re not going to have any problems if you have a moderately big or a large bathroom.
Moreover, the specialist will also offer advice and recommendations on the type and model of walk-in baths that are going to suit your requirements in terms of both proportion and features.
Understand the Different Types of Safety Features You Require
These are some excellent walk-in tub features you can opt for. However, keep in mind that the more safety features you seek, the pricier the product will get.
Temperature Control System
Just like any other tub, you need to fill water in it to use it. However, unlike traditional tubs, a walk-in bathtub also comes with water temperatures systems, which basically keep the water nice and warm, allowing you to steer clear of accidentally burning yourself in scalding-hot water. With this feature, you can wait for the tub to be filled without worrying about how hot or cold the water will be.
Effortless Handle Locking
This is another feature to consider. While all walk-in tubs come with handle door seals, less pricier models require users to exert a decent amount of force to seal the door shut. This can be an issue for individuals with mobility issues. This is why it’s wise to select a model that comes with a durable yet comfortably lockable door handle.
Anti-Slip Tub Surface
This can be a very important feature, especially if you bath your kids in the tub or have seniors living with you. Slip and fall accidents are quite common and can lead to debilitating injuries. So, to be safe at all times, go for a walk-in bath that comes with textured walls and anti-skid/slip surfaces.
Choose the Types of Luxury Accessories You Want or Need
Nothing’s more important than a walk-in tub with the right safety features. However, considering the investment, it’s also a good idea to get something that provides a more luxurious element to your bath. While you don’t have to select all of them, here are some of the best features you could for:
Shower Heads
Walk-in baths also come with handheld shower heads to offer a more comfortable and effortless bathing experience when it comes to rinsing your entire body. This feature is important for users with mobility issues, who can’t rinse hard-to-reach areas, like the back and shoulders.
Therapeutic Features
If you’re seeking a more spa-like bathing experience, go for a walk-in bath that comes with air or water jet systems that spray pressurized streams of water, massaging your entire body. This can have additional health benefits such as improved blood circulation, minimizing swelling, muscle relaxation after a workout, and much more.
Heated Bathtub Surface
A heated walk-in bath functions the same as a heating pad. High-end models come with heating features that help maintain a warmer temperature for the bath seat and bath surface to help reduce muscular tension and provide more comfort.
Bottom Line
So there you have it. A comprehensive look into all the features you could opt for in a modern walk-in bathtub as well as some tips to keep in mind before making a purchase.