Walk-in tubs are a great choice for people who want to enhance bathroom safety while aging in place. They can be easier and safer for those who have mobility or balance challenges that make traditional tubs difficult to use. Although safety is a good reason to install a walk-in tub, wanting a more luxurious bathing experience is also a good reason for an update, especially since walk-in tubs offer a variety of features that can enhance relaxation and alleviate pain and discomfort. Here are seven luxurious walk-in tub features to look for if you want to elevate your bathing experience.
Jets
Jets are one of the top walk-in tub features. Not only are they relaxing, but they can also reduce muscle pain and arthritis symptoms.
Jets come in a few different kinds:
- Air jets feature jetted warm air that creates bubbles in the water. Some patented systems feature microbubble therapy, which infuses the water with millions of tiny bubbles to create a relaxing bathing experience.
- Whirlpool jets use water in intense jetted streams designed to provide a hydro-massage experience. These jets are often located in key areas like the feet and back to target sore muscles.
- Bidet jets feature a lower-pressure stream of water strategically placed on the seat to help you clean hard-to-reach areas. Most bidet jets have their own knobs, so you can turn them on and off separately from the other jets in the tub.
If you’re looking for the most luxurious experience, some of our favorite feature-loaded walk-in bathtubs, like the Total Care in Bathing Fully Loaded walk-in tub, include all three types of jets.
Built-in heating
If you like to soak for a while, the bathwater can end up getting cold. Instead of partially draining and refilling the tub with hot water every time, you can install a tub with built-in heating.
Some tubs feature in-line heating, in which a hydro pump helps maintain the water temperature by heating the water pushed through the jets. Other tubs feature heated seats and backs that keep your body and the water around you warm. Some tubs have the option to feature both, like the Wheelchair Transfer Series of walk-in tubs from Ella, which we reviewed in our list of top wheelchair-accessible tubs.
Ozone sanitation
Cleaning a bathtub can be difficult for those with mobility issues. Ozone sanitation is an added feature of some walk-in tubs that can make cleaning easier.
Ozone sanitation systems help maintain clean water and air lines by generating ozone and pushing it through the jets to eliminate bacteria, mold, and mildew. The system works automatically when you turn on the jets, and cleaning doesn’t require any harsh chemicals.
Even small walk-in tubs can include this luxury feature. For example, the American Standard Luxury tub measures just 48 by 28 inches but includes jets and an ozone sterilization system.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has the potential to relieve pain, improve mood, and promote a sense of relaxation. Luxury walk-in tubs often include specialized dispersal units within the tub itself where you can place drops of your favorite essential oil or specialized aromatherapy canisters, depending on the type of tub you have. The bathtub then mixes the essential oil with the bathwater through the jets. For example, the Universal Tubs Rampart wheelchair-accessible tub with shower surround includes an aromatherapy system that disperses aromatherapy scents through the air massage injectors in the tub.
Chromotherapy
Many of the top walk-in tubs include chromotherapy as a feature, which makes taking a bath more fun but also has the power to boost mood. Chromotherapy can also help improve conditions like high blood pressure and sleep disorders.
In walk-in tubs that feature chromotherapy, colored lights are included inside the basin. You can cycle through all the colors or choose a specific color. Some bathtubs, like the Anzzi Fully Loaded walk-in tub, have lights inside the basin of the tub in addition to console lights that surround the knobs.
Fast-fill faucet
Walk-in tubs require you to sit in them while they fill, which can be cold and uncomfortable. Fast-fill faucets help reduce the time you spend waiting for the tub to fill up.
Many luxury walk-in tubs feature fast-fill faucets, but you may be able to purchase one separately and install it on your existing tub. For example, this fast-fill faucet from Ella’s Bubbles has a fill rate of 16 gallons per minute. Just keep in mind that the fill rate is based on ideal plumbing conditions, which means times will vary depending on your home’s plumbing.
Upgraded drain technology
Walk-in tubs also require you to wait while they drain before you can get out. The process can go more quickly in a tub that features upgraded drain technology.
- Quick drains allow water to drain faster. Some quick drains have larger openings, while others, like in some tubs from American Standard, use a pump to drain the water more quickly than standard drains.
- Dual-drain tubs feature two separate gravity-driven drains at the bottom to move water more quickly without the need for a pump. Ella Tubs often come with this feature.
Choose the luxury walk-in tub features that are right for you
Walk-in tubs offer more than increased safety. They can also turn your bath into a luxurious experience. Whether you want to ease aches and pains or have an easier time with cleaning, luxury walk-in tub features can elevate your bathroom. Be sure to choose features that tailor your tub to your needs to enhance both your safety and your quality of life.
