What Is a Walk-In Bathtub?

The bathtub can be a fascinating subject. If you need proof, consider its role in the tale of journalist H.L. Mencken. As Vox reports, Mencken’s 1917 newspaper story detailing the history of the bathtub was so popular that it was reprinted numerous times in newspapers across the U.S. Facts from the story were even cited in medical journals and on the floor of Congress. There was one complication: To quote its author, the article was “pure buncombe.” Mencken made the whole thing up to brighten the mood of a readership caught in the grasp of World War I. Despite his colorful imagination, Menken didn’t mention walk-in tubs. Fortunately, these modern marvels are quite real and offer very nice benefits that people of all ages can appreciate. What is a walk-in bathtub?

If asked to draw a bathtub, most people would sketch a shape resembling a knee-high box. While that’s a reasonable depiction of most modern tubs, bathtubs have taken many forms over the years. Before indoor plumbing was popular, water had to be hauled and heated manually, so it was less common to submerge an entire person. As a result, tubs were smaller. As the National Museum of American History shares, some bathtubs were shaped like hats. Others resembled chairs and allowed bathers to soak up to their navels as their feet hung over the sides.

The introduction of indoor plumbing made the joy of soaking the whole body in a warm tub a readily available pleasure. The basic rectangular tub is the most common choice. However, awareness of clawfoot tubs hints at other design possibilities. What is a walk-in bathtub? As the name suggests, it’s a bathtub that allows you to walk into it via a door in the side.

The Benefits of a Walk-in Bathtub

What is a walk-in bathtub good for? Why would you opt for one? These clever inventions offer numerous benefits.

Increased Safety

The first advantage of walk-in tubs is increased safety. Getting in and out of a traditional tub can be hazardous because of the need to step up and over the side while navigating wet surfaces. It can feel especially risky for people with mobility issues, older adults, and young children. Walk-in tubs make access easy. Doors in the tub’s side let users step over a low threshold to enter or exit the tub.

Walk-in tubs also offer additional safety features. Grab bars and slip-resistant flooring are fairly standard features. Many systems also have anti-scalding valves and sturdy built-in seating.

Enhanced Comfort

Getting up and down in a standard tub can be awkward for anyone. With a walk-in tub, you simply walk in, close the door, and settle on a chair-height seat. Then, you can relax as the water works its magic. When you’re done bathing, there’s no graceless scramble to rise from a slippery floor level. Instead, you can easily stand up and walk out.

Clever Practicalities

Top-rated walk-in tubs are delightful to use and a breeze to maintain. Doors can be installed on the left or right. Faucets often include a handheld showerhead, so bathing is safe and easy. Since the tub must be empty before you can exit, quick drain systems are popular. As for upkeep, a self-cleaning sanitary system means there’s virtually zero maintenance needed.

Pleasant Luxuries

Even the basic design of a walk-in tube promises enhanced comfort. However, these tubs often come with extra luxuries that make soaking even more pleasant. A neck pillow makes relaxing easy. Other possibilities include adjustable jet systems, whirlpool massage systems, massage systems for the back or legs, air bubble systems, and various heating systems. For a more spa-like feeling, some opt for aromatherapy systems that incorporate fragrances or chromotherapy systems that involve multicolored lights.

Potential Health Benefits

Walk-in tubs are widely recognized for their power to prevent slips and falls. However, reports also suggest they may help ease arthritis and other types of chronic pain. Users may experience reduced inflammation and better circulation. In addition, soaking in a walk-in tub may decrease stress.

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Liberty Home Solutions is delighted to offer innovation, safety, and a stylish solution with our top-quality walk-in bathtub systems. To discover how easy it is to install this fantastic addition to your Missouri bathroom, contact us today.