Which Features Matter for Walk In Bath Tubs?

When you’re in the market for step in tubs, you may have one purpose in mind and that probably has something to do with the safety of yourself of your loved one. However, these bath options have a lot to offer those who purchase them. They may come with the option for a number of amenities or upgrades. In addition to improving the peace of mind of those who will be using the tubs, consider some of the ways that this home improvement might also impact comfort and independence.

Standard Features

Some of the basic features of a walk in bath tub include anti-slip materials, grab bars and low entries. You might also consider the direction that the doors swing and the length of the shower handle. Depending on how long you believe the tub will be used, you might opt for more safety and convenience features.

Safety Features

There are several features that could be part of a walk in bathtub that will lead to increased safety, the primary reason for most of these tubs. The features include technology that controls the flow and temperature of the water and prevents your loved one from getting scalded or from sitting in cold water for too long as it drains. Other safety features include anti-slip surfaces and coatings that prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. When you’re researching the best buying options in this area, safety features should be standard and shouldn’t be considered optional.

Features for Convenience

There are some features that can greatly enhance the convenience of step in tubs. These include the comfort of the seat. You might consider a walk in bath tub with heated seta and back, for example. Other features that you may want to keep in mind for your convenience include the size of the bath (Will it fit in a standard tub space?), the ease of use (Can you loved one reach the controls or the shower wand?) and the locking mechanism (Will your loved one be able to undo the lock without a lot of grip strength?). These features may not immediately seem to affect the safety of the person using the tub, but a closer look might suggest that these features meant for convenience will have an impact on the welfare of the user.

Preventing Falls

One of the main causes of injury in bathrooms is falling. Whether they are the result of slippery surfaces or a loss of balance, falls can be both dangerous and expensive. Even if a fall doesn’t result in significant injury, it could lead to less confidence and might limit the independence of elderly adults. With as many as a third of older adults falling in a year, this should be a major consideration as you look at the items available in your area. As you consider the well-being of your family member, consider how step in tubs would impact their safety in the bathroom. When the time comes for you to buy a walk in bathtub, keep safety, convenience and freedom from falls in mind.

Taryn Johnson is an avid writer. She loves all things about electronics and marketing. In a perfect world, Taryn would be writing from the beaches of Hawaii all day long.