Walk-in tubs are the same thing as safety tubs. They allow the user to get inside the bathtub without having the stress of stepping over into a tub. They feature built-in door that permit you to walk into the tub. The doors feature the use of a watertight seal. Variations of a walk-in tub will only open for you after all the water drains from the tub.
There is a slight elevation of approximately 2-inches, which makes for easy entry. These tubs also feature over-sized controls for convenient temperature adjustments, unlike those of regular tubs. Some of these tubs include hand-held shower nozzles and shower heads. Some include water jets as a therapeutic aid for your convenience.
Walk-in Tubs are for Everyone
The original design of walk-in bathtubs were to accommodate the elderly and the handicapped. However, these tubs have grown very popular with many other individuals who are not elderly or handicapped. It features a design that is narrower and taller than regular tubs. This is convenient for many individuals, especially those who are considering installing one in a small bathroom or even as an additional bathroom. The elderly and handicapped do take advantage of walk-in bathtubs, since it offers them an ideal option for bathing.
Walk-in Tubs Create an Easier Experience for Everyone
Generally bathing is rather routine and easy for most individuals. However, this is far from true when it involves those who are elderly or handicapped. For them the entire process can become painful and dreary, especially for those in wheelchairs. Having to request the need of others for bathing can be inconvenient as well as an intrusion of privacy for many individuals.
The convenient design of walk-in tubs with doors as well as built-in seating is most resourceful. Once seated inside the tub, there is not need to adjust your position. They also feature side rails and a transfer bar for better leverage. With the inclusion of therapeutic jets, these tubs can help soothe tired, strained muscles, which helps to increase mobility.
The In or Out Debate
There is a debate as to the type of walk-in tub door that is the best choice to use. Theses doors are either outward swinging doors or inward swinging doors. Many customers debate about the convenience of both doors and to which option offers the best value and safety measures.
Many will criticize the inward swinging door of walk-in tubs, saying it permits you to walk into it only for you to have to maneuver around it once you are inside. Obviously, this can be inconvenient for the handicapped. Another complaint is with the issue of the water draining from the tub before you can exit the tub. For instance, while faced with an emergency, the door cannot be opened until all the water has been drained. The inward swinging tubs are more affordable and the are relatively safer than standard tubs, which is why it is so popular today.
Keep in mind, that while you are shopping for yourself, that you need to depend on your own personal needs and preferences, regardless of which design of walk-in bathtub you choose.