Walk-In Tubs: 3 Essential Safety Features

Walk-in tubs are fast becoming a popular choice for people with and without mobility challenges because of the enhanced safety they bring to the bathroom. With thousands of emergency room visits chalked up to accidents in the bathroom each year, homeowners are more commonly opting for walk-in tubs even if they do not have elderly or disabled family members who may require a walk-in tub as a matter of necessity.

What is it that makes these tubs the safer option? Here are just three of the essential safety features that stand out in making walk-in tubs an excellent choice for any home:

·         The elimination of the step – Traditional bath tubs have a step over that is generally about 20 inches high. The act of stepping over the tub is one of the most dangerous actions that can be taken in a bathroom. By offering swing out or swing in doors with step overs that are mere inches rather than nearly 2 feet, walk-in tubs eliminate this concern. The doors on tubs seal watertight, too, so users don’t have to worry about creating puddles that may pose slip hazards.

·         The seat – Most walk-in tubs have built-in safety seats that are ADA compliant. This means bathers do not necessarily have to submerge in water to clean up and relax. The seats can make it a great deal easier to avoid common problems people may have getting out of a tub while also enhancing safety in models that also have shower heads.

·         The slip-resistant floors – Traditional bathtubs with porcelain floors can become slip hazards rather quickly due to soap build up and plain water concerns. Walk-in tubs are generally designed to compensate for this concern by having slip resistant bottoms built in. This eliminates a big concern for anyone, mobility challenges or not.

Upgrading a bathroom or building a brand new one with safety in mind is a smart way to go. Walk-in tubs are fast becoming a popular choice in all kinds of homes thanks to the inherent safety they offer. From their doors to their seats and slip resistant floors, these models make, using the bathroom a safer and more enjoyable experience for anyone.