The Benefits of a Walk-In Tub: Is It Right For You?

May 9, 2023

As we age, our mobility and balance can become compromised, making it difficult and even dangerous to step in and out of a traditional bathtub. This is where a walk-in tub comes in. A walk-in tub provides a safe and comfortable bathing experience, especially for seniors and people with disabilities. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of both a walk-in tub and a walk-in shower before deciding which option is best for you. 

Benefits of a Walk-In Tub

Overhead image of a walk-in tub with silver hardware.

  • Safety: The most significant advantage of a walk-in tub is the safety it provides. With a low threshold and a door that swings open, you can step in and out of the tub with ease and without the risk of tripping or falling. Additionally, walk-in tubs come equipped with features like handrails, non-slip floors, and grab bars that further enhance the safety of the bathing experience. 
  • Comfort: Walk-in tubs are designed with comfort in mind. With a built-in seat, you can bathe while sitting down while enjoying features like air jets and whirlpool systems that provide a relaxing and therapeutic experience. 
  • Accessibility: Walk-in tubs are accessible to people with limited mobility or disabilities. They provide a safe and comfortable bathing experience, even for those who require the assistance of a caregiver. 

Benefits of a Walk-In Shower 

Grey marble acrylic walk in shower.

  • Space-Saving: A walk-in shower can save space in your bathroom, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms or those with limited space. 
  • Low Maintenance: A walk-in shower is easier to clean and maintain than a traditional bathtub, as there are no hard-to-reach areas or crevices where mold and mildew can accumulate. 
  • Customizable: Walk-in showers are highly customizable and can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose from a variety of sizes, styles, and materials to create the perfect shower for your bathroom. 
  • Quick and Easy: Walk-in showers are quick and easy to use, with no need to wait for the tub to fill or drain. They also use less water than a traditional bathtub, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. 

THE VERDICT: SHOWER OR TUB?

Side by side image of a walk in tub and a walk in shower.
Walk-In Shower vs. Walk-In Tub

If you’re in the market for a bathroom remodel, both walk-in tubs and walk-in showers offer their own set of benefits. However, for most people, walk-in showers are the better choice for their lifestyle. Taking up less space and requiring less maintenance, walk-in showers are both functional and better looking. For convenience and environmental purposes, showers offer a quick and easy-to-use option, without having to wait for a tub to fill or drain. The absence of high thresholds makes it easy for those with balance issues to access the shower area safely. 

WEST SHORE HOME® BATH REMODEL

When you’re ready to remodel your bath, hopefully now you have a better understanding of what will work best for you and your home. West Shore Home is here to help you with your project, whether you know what you want or not. Schedule a free design consultation to see what would work the best for your home and enjoy the presence of our people-first design consultants to help you along the way. Your free consultation will provide an exact price and installation time, fast and convenient from start to finish. Contact us today to get started! 

*Walk-In Tubs are not available at all West Shore Home locations. Contact us to see what your options are for your bath remodel project.