Adding a walk-in tub to your home is a big investment, so you want to make sure you’re choosing the right one for your lifestyle. With so many things to consider, it can seem a little overwhelming.

Our bathing experts are here to help with tips for choosing the perfect walk-in tub for your needs.

Self-Assessing Your Needs

When purchasing a walk-in tub, you’ll have a lot of options. Different brands, sizes and accessibility features mean there are a variety of things to consider that affect safety, comfort and aesthetics.

To find the tub and features that best fit your lifestyle, start by looking at what you want and need to enjoy bathing safely. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a walk-in tub.

Daily Activity Levels

Walk-in tubs aren’t just for seniors! Are you a runner? Maybe you enjoy golf, tennis or pickleball regularly, or perhaps your job keeps you on your feet. No matter how you stay active, whirlpool hydrotherapy in a walk-in tub is a great way to relax and recover sore muscles.

Look for a tub with features like strategically placed whirlpool jets or a heated backrest to make the most of every soak. (More about that in just a bit.)

And if you’re looking for more ways to lead a healthy lifestyle at any age, check out our Active Living Guide.
woman in yoga posture

Tub-Shower Combo

One of the common misconceptions about walk-in tubs is that they don’t have a shower component. Many walk-in tubs, including the KOHLER Walk-In Bath, have shower package add-ons. A walk-in tub shower combo is perfect for shared bathrooms because it accommodates the bathing routines of everyone in your household, regardless of age or mobility.

Planning for Upcoming Life Events

Life changes may necessitate the addition of a walk-in tub. Events like purchasing your forever home, renovating an in-law suite or moving senior family members in with you are a great time to install a walk-in bath. This addition ensures you and your loved ones can safely enjoy bathing now and in the future.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Walk-In Bath

With your lifestyle and needs in mind, here are some things to remember when shopping for your new walk-in tub.

Bathtub Doors

The door of a walk-in tub allows for easy entry and exit, but there’s more to it. Doors may swing inward or outward, which is something you’ll want to consider before making your decision. A door that swings inward is ideal for small bathrooms and allows you to open it while sitting in the tub.

The door on the KOHLER Walk-In Bath can be installed to be left- or right-facing. This means the tub will work with the layout of your bathroom, so you never have to settle for the default door placement.

Jets or No Jets?

As we mentioned, jets provide restorative hydrotherapy in the comfort of your own home. But not all jets are created equal.

Pay attention to the placement of the jets to ensure you’re getting the most benefits from hydrotherapy. Jets that target your body’s biggest pain points—typically the back, legs and feet—will provide maximum relief at the end of a long day. In addition, adjustable jets allow you to customize your massage based on your pain level. Add some Epsom salt to your bathwater for maximum muscle relief.

The KOHLER Walk-In Bath combines whirlpool and BubbleMassage™ air jets for your most therapeutic soak. These jets are strategically placed to target the body’s stress points, making them ideal for athletes and those with limited mobility.

Woman rinsing off using handshower in KOHLER Walk-In Bath

Fill and Drain Time

A major concern with walk-in tubs is the fill and drain time. Since you’ll be sitting in the tub while the water runs and drains, you want to make sure you’re comfortable. Tubs with a quick fill and drain time minimize the wait so you can enjoy your bath from start to finish.

Safety Features

Safety is the top priority when it comes to walk-in tubs. Here are some of the most important safety features and how to choose the right ones for your new bath.

Grab Bars

A hallmark safety feature in a walk-in tub is grab bars. These bars can be placed vertically, horizontally or diagonally for safer movement when entering, exiting and standing. Look for textured grab bars to reduce the risk of slipping when your hands are wet. The KOHLER Walk-In Bath includes a grab bar inside the tub for stable transitioning.

Low Step-In

The step-in height of a walk-in tub is vital for stable, effortless movement. For those with limited mobility, a low step-in makes it possible to bathe independently. For maximum safety, look for an entry point with a low step-in you’re comfortable using.

Woman steps out of walk-in bath

Additional Accessories

Further customize your walk-in tub with accessories to make bathing easier or stay organized.

  • Shelving: Keep your bathing essentials within reach with shelves in your tub area.
  • Additional grab bars: Increase safety and mobility with more grab bars and handrails.
  • Handshower: Enjoy the convenience of a shower within the comfort of your walk-in bath.
  • Bath tray: If you’re the type to enjoy a book and a beverage in the tub, a bath tray is a great addition to your space.

Learn More About Safer Bathing

Get started by scheduling an in-home quote appointment with KOHLER.