Walk-In Baths Buyers Guide

1. Types of Walk-In Baths

This comprehensive guide will assist you in finding the ideal walk-in bath to meet your unique requirements. Walk-in baths come in three main types: full-length baths, tub-style baths, and shower baths. We will delve into the advantages of each type and provide a detailed explanation of their differences. By the end of this guide, you will be well-equipped to choose the walk-in bath that suits you best.

Full Length Walk-in Baths

Choose a full-length walk-in baths for the ultimate convenience. These baths not only provide accessibility but can also be used in the conventional way. This versatility is particularly beneficial in households where multiple individuals will be using the bath. Additionally, we offer two outstanding options with an assisted lifting mechanism, ensuring extra assistance for a seamless bathing experience.

Benefits/Suitability

• Low Threshold - Improved safety and accessibility
• Size compatibility allows easier installation from a standard bath
• Thermostatic taps and anti-slip base
• Easy door locking mechanism
• Optional extras include: Air spa, lever operation taps, chromotherapy lighting, wireless sound system, shower screen, inward facing door opening, lifting seat, powered reclining seat, deep fill.

Suitable for: those who are finding it difficult to get in and out of a traditional bath due to balance, flexibility and mobility limitations or joint pain.

Our Most Popular Full Length Baths:

Avrail

A beloved choice among our customers, the Avrail walk-in bath offers a multitude of features that enhance safety and convenience. Its clever locking, inward opening door ensures easy access, and the slip-resistant base further contributes to a worry-free bathing experience. With both left and right hand entry versions available, the Avrail can cater to various bathroom layouts. For those seeking additional relaxation, hydrotherapy and chromotherapy light options can be added to create a spa-like ambiance.

Cambridge

The Cambridge bath is a versatile mid-range option that offers additional seat support for easy entry and exit. Its powered lift operation can accommodate users weighing up to 26 stone and also is also fitted with a battery back-up system. The inward-opening door is available in both left and right hand configurations, allowing for greater flexibility in bathroom layout. With the inclusion of BioCote antimicrobial technology, the bath's surfaces are resistant to bacteria, ensuring a more hygienic bathing experience. Additionally, the bath boasts a lifetime leak-free seal, providing peace of mind for customers. With its combination of practical features and stylish design, the Cambridge bath is a popular choice for those seeking both functionality and aesthetics.

Enhancing the Cambridge bath to create a luxurious bathing experience is incredibly simple with the addition of features such as an air spa, chromotherapy lights, and a wireless sound system, these features are optional extra's and will increase the final cost of the installation.

Easy Riser

The Easy Riser walk-in bath is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Its standout feature is the fully powered reclining backrest and seat, allowing you to adjust it to your preferred position for a truly relaxing and laid-back bathing experience. With the Easy Rider, you can unwind without any worries.

This high-end bath tub is made with BioCote antimicrobial technology and boasts a modern design that will add a touch of sophistication to your bathroom. It is available in two options: the peninsular and curved models, both featuring a wide entry glass door for easy access. Additionally, the remote control is designed with safety in mind and is waterproof, ensuring a hassle-free bathing experience.

Optional features to really set the mood in your adapted bathroom include air spa, chromotherapy, or a wireless sound system.

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Dimensions

The advantage of our full-length walk-in baths is their standard size, which makes them easily replaceable for existing baths.

• Abalone RV: H: 950mm, L: 1200mm, W: 660mm
• Avrail: H: 980mm, L: 1500mm or 1700mm, W: 750mm
• Avrail RV: H: 980mm, L: 1600mm, W: 750mm
• Aventis: H: 950mm, L: 1700mm, W: 750mm
• Cambridge: H: 950mm, L: 1500mm, W: 750mm
• Easy Riser: H: 950mm, L: 1300mm, W: 660mm
• Cotswold: H: 950mm, L: 1690mm, W: 750mm

Tub Style Small Walk-in Baths

If you have difficulty maintaining balance and face challenges when trying to enter or exit a standard bathtub, our small walk in baths are the ideal solution for you. These baths not only enable you to enjoy your bathing experience while comfortably seated, but also offer a wide range of features to ensure safety and comfort. Equipped with a leak-proof door, these baths provide a secure enclosure. Additionally, you have the option to include a spa feature for added relaxation, as well as automatic temperature control for effortless convenience. With these innovative features, these walk in baths for small bathrooms provide a safe and comfortable alternative to traditional full-length baths.

Benefits/Suitability

• Suitable for tight spaces
• Dual waste for faster emptying
• Inward opening doors and comfortable higher-up seating options
• Optional extras include: seat extensions, 16-jet spa system, Adjustable water jets for hydrotherapy, chromotherapy lights options, thermostatically controlled water temperature for TMV3-standard anti-scald protection, BioCote antimicrobial technology

Our most popular tub-style baths:

Georgia

The Georgia bath benefits from BioCote antimicrobial technology, which ensures a clean and hygienic bathing experience. No need to worry about slipping, as the surfaces are slip-resistant to keep you safe. And that's not all - the inward opening door comes with a lifetime leak-free seal, giving you peace of mind.

It boasts a modern and elegant look that will transform your bathroom into a luxurious oasis. With a generous capacity of 246 litres, you can enjoy a relaxing soak without any worries.

Customisation is key, and the Georgia tub-style bath gives you the option to choose between left or right-hand opening doors. So, you can pick the configuration that suits your bathroom layout perfectly. Its range features and intelligent design make it a top choice for anyone seeking comfort and convenience in their daily routine.

Priya

The Priya walk-in bath features a contemporary design with a 10mm thick toughened glass door, an easy-to-operate lever lock, and a slip-resistant bathing area. It includes a comfortable integrated seat with a contoured backrest, dual wastes, and options to specify a hydrotherapy air spa and chromotherapy lights. It is available in left-hand and right-hand configurations, a reduced height bath screen is also available. The Priya combines modern aesthetics with safety and comfort for an enhanced bathing experience.

Tranquility

The Tranquility bath is an advanced deep soak bath tub designed for easy access and comfort. It features a spacious bathing area and an 800mm wide entrance, allowing for slide-in transfers from a wheelchair without needing to step into the bath. The door closes effortlessly, making it suitable for users with arthritic hands.

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Dimensions

The sizes of tub style walk-in baths can vary, making them suitable for bathrooms with limited space. These baths often come with a removable frame, which helps in their installation process.

• Affinity: H 860mm, L: 1050mm, W: 665mm
• Ambiance: H: 860-975mm, L: 990mm, W: 760mm
• Athena: H: 936mm (min), L: 1270mm, W: 660mm
• Athena Mini: H: 936mm, L: 1060mm, W: 660mm
• Caversham: H: 945mm, L: 1210mm, W: 660mm
• Georgia: H: 950mm, L: 1245mm, W: 660mm
• Maestro: H: 860mm, L: 900mm, W: 650mm
• Plymouth: H: 1015mm, L: 1195mm, W: 715mm
• Priya: H: 945mm, L: 1210mm, W: 660mm
• Tranquility: H: 980mm, L: 1300mm, W: 660mm (L/H & R/H) or 750mm (L/H & R/H)

Walk-In Shower Baths

Combining your bath and shower is not only convenient, but it can also save space. For individuals with reduced mobility, the choice between having a bath or a shower can be difficult. However, with a walk-in shower bath, they can enjoy the best of both worlds. This innovative solution allows for a seamless transition from shower to bath, providing convenience and accessibility for all. These p shaped walk in baths are the perfect solution in properties that have a single bathroom.

Benefits/Suitability

• Can be used as a bath or shower
• Low level easy access
• Many offer BioCote antimicrobial technology
• Quick drainage and leak proof door
• Optional extras include: Spa options, shower screen, underwater lights, bluetooth surround sound

Our most popular shower baths:

Louisiana

The Louisiana Walk-In Shower Bath from Absolute Mobility is designed for individuals with limited mobility. It features a full-length bath with a P-shaped design for an expanded shower area. Key features include powered seat lift with control panel, removable seat for full-length bathing, two internally folding glass doors, optional left or right hand entry, back-up battery power. It comes in two lengths (1500mm or 1700mm) and has is available spa for increased relaxation.

Indiana

The Indiana walk-In bath is a compact, P-shaped bath designed for small bathrooms. It features a power lifting seat with a handheld control pad, BioCote antimicrobial protection, and a lifetime guarantee on the door seal. Optional features include a shower screen, air spa, therapeutic lights, and Bluetooth sound. The bath is 1688mm in length, 850mm in width at the shower area, 700mm at the seat end, and 574mm in height, with a capacity of 287 litres.

2. Features and Designs of Walk-in Baths

Doors and Integrated Seats

Walk-in bath doors are an essential feature of easy-access baths that provide a safe and convenient way for users to enter and exit the bathing area. These doors are designed to be 100% watertight, ensuring that no water leaks out during use. The inward-opening design of the door allows for easy access without the need to step over the side of the bath, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

The guarantee offered on walk-in baths ensures that users can have peace of mind knowing that their bath is of high quality and will last for years to come. This guarantee typically covers any manufacturing defects or issues with the functionality of the bath, providing added security and assurance to the user.

Installation of a walk-in bath should be completed by an experienced professional to ensure that it is properly fitted and functioning correctly. Quite often walk-in baths require additional support to be added to the floor area due to their heavier weight. It is vitally important that the bath is 100% level and square. An even surface or a surface that is not level will affect the structural integrity of the design and damage the door and its waterproof seal in the long-term. Bath manufacturers do not honour their warranties on their products if the installation process does not meet their guidelines and specifications.

Luxury Walk-In Bath Options For a Relaxing Bathing Experience

Bathing no longer needs to be a source of discomfort or stress. It can be transformed into a therapeutic experience, offering the benefits of hydrotherapy and chromotherapy. Walk-in baths can be specified with luxury optional extras that can provide you with the opportunity to alleviate stress, soothe pain, and have the peace of mind knowing that you can safely enter and exit the bath independently.

Many luxury walk-in baths are available with the following options:

• Powered seats for added convenience: these can be reclining or raising depending on your needs.
• Air spa system: they offer a quieter alternative to the traditional whirlpool. By using air instead of water, the bubbles produced are softer, resulting in a gentle massage that can help alleviate joint pain.
• Heated seats: Some walk-in baths offer heated seats, which can provide added comfort and warmth during your bathing experience. The gentle warmth can help relax your muscles and create a soothing environment.
• LED Lights/Chromotherapy: Colour therapy, also known as chromotherapy, has a long history of promoting mental and physical well-being. Numerous studies have demonstrated that chromotherapy can effectively reduce stress levels, leading to a decrease in pain experienced by the body.
• Bluetooth Wireless Sound System: With a built-in Bluetooth wireless sound system, you can easily connect your favourite music or listen to a podcast or audiobook while enjoying a relaxing bath. Create your own soothing playlist or play an audiobook to set the mood before you even step into the bathtub. Plus, the waterproof controls make it convenient and safe to adjust the volume or skip tracks without any hassle.
• Bristan Taps: Bristan has built a solid reputation for delivering top-notch products and has been supplying high-quality taps to the U.K for over 75 years. When it comes to selecting the perfect tap system for your bathroom, Bristan offers a wide range of options to suit your needs and complement your overall design.

3. Choosing the Right Walk-in Bath for Your Needs

Considerations for Bathroom Layouts with Limited Space

When it comes to choosing the right walk-in bath for limited space or unusual bathroom layout, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, measure the available space in your bathroom to ensure that the walk-in bath will fit comfortably. Take into account any existing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and cabinets, and make sure there is enough room for easy access to the bath. It's also important to consider the placement of the bath in relation to other fixtures and the overall flow of the bathroom design.

If space is limited, you may want to opt for a compact walk-in bath. These baths are designed to fit into smaller spaces without compromising on functionality and comfort. They often come with space-saving features such as integrated seats and shower options, allowing you to make the most of the available space.

Suitability

Walk-in baths can be particularly beneficial for a variety of health conditions, including those with:

• Mobility challenges: Individuals with arthritis, joint pain, or other mobility issues benefit from the low threshold of walk-in baths, which reduces the risk of falling while entering or exiting.
• Seniors: Elderly people who sometimes find it difficult to maintain their balance are run a higher risk of falling when using a standard bath. Walk-in baths can support personal independence and safety.
• Chronic Pain: Those suffering from chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia or sciatica may find relief through the hydrotherapy features that many walk-in baths offer, such as jets and warm water.
• Post-Surgery Patients: People recovering from surgeries, particularly those involving the hips, knees, or back, may find it easier and safer to bathe in a walk-in tub.
• Cardiovascular Issues: The warm water in walk-in baths can help improve circulation and reduce blood pressure, which is beneficial for people with cardiovascular conditions.

Delivery and Installation Process

Our installers are vetted and approved by respected organisations like the Which? Trusted Trader scheme and Checkatrade, ensuring quality and respect throughout the process.

After completing the installation, our installers will guide you through the operation of your walk-in bath, ensuring your complete satisfaction before leaving your home as tidy as they found it. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive guarantee for your peace of mind. Our installation process is quick and we ensure that you are able to use your bathroom as soon as possible.

All fitters are Discloser and Barring Service (DBS) checked and have undergone extensive training on the products we install and can effectively honour the manufacturers guarantees.

4. How Much Does a Walk-In Bath Cost?

The price of walk-in baths can vary depending on factors such as the specific bath model chosen and any additional features needed deliver to deliver a safe bathing experience. If you choose to commission an adaptation via an accessible bathing specialist such as Absolute Mobility, then the mandatory pre-installation survey may also reveal additional requirements such as reinforcements to the bathroom floor or adjustments to the essential services such as wastewater/drainage. These elements are likely to add to the walk-in baths installation cost but should be seen as essential to preserve the value of the property, to comply with the warranty requirements of the manufacturer, and most importantly to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

For some customers there is the potential to access financial support via grants and benefit schemes, subject to certain criteria being met. This can effectively reduce walk-in bath costs.

Understanding Grants and Benefits

Grants and benefits come with certain criteria that must be met to qualify. Here’s what you need to know:

• VAT Exemptions: If you have a disability or a long-term illness, you could be eligible for VAT exemptions on products and services for personal or domestic use, including bathroom installations and adaptations.
• Disabled Facilities Grant Eligibility: To qualify for this, one must meet several criteria, including property ownership, intention for long-term residency, and an income/savings assessment by the local council.
• Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs): Organizations like Foundations provide assistance in securing grants for major home adaptations, like creating accessible bathrooms.
• When considering the various financial options, it is advisable for individuals and their families to thoroughly research and seek comprehensive advice from their local authority or local HIA. It is important to explore every possible avenue for assistance in order to make informed decisions.

VAT Exemptions

This exemption allows individuals who are chronically sick or disabledto save money on products designed or adapted for their own personal or domestic use. It is important to note that you do not need to be registered disabled or eligible for any other benefit to qualify. This means that the elderly person in receipt will not have to pay VAT on items for accessibility modifications for their home if they are deemed eligible. To take advantage of VAT exemptions, they will need to provide the supplier or contractor with a written eligibility document; they can use the form provided by the government, which can be found here.

For more information you can refer to the Government website: Financial help if you're disabled - https://www.gov.uk/financial-help-disabled/vat-relief

The VAT exemption extends to the cost of installing these items, repairs and maintenance, spare parts, and accessories. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of making necessary modifications for individuals with mobility challenges but it is recommended you check with your supplier or chosen contractor.

In addition to VAT exemptions, individuals with mobility issues and disabilities may also be eligible for a grant to help cover the costs of home adaptations. For example, the Disabled Facilities Grant is available to assist individuals with disabilities in funding necessary modifications to their homes. This grant can help offset the expenses associated with creating a more accessible bathroom or living space, ensuring that individuals can maintain their independence and quality of life.

Overall, VAT exemptions and grants play a crucial role in making home adaptations more affordable and accessible.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-relief-on-certain-goods-if-you-have-a-disability

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) in the UK may help pay for bathroom adaptations such as installing a wet room or walk-in bath.
To be eligible for a grant;

• either you or a resident of the house must be disabled and/or have the intention of residing in the property for the duration of the grant period (typically 5 years, although this may be shorter, especially if the person is terminally ill).
• The individual submitting the application must be the owner, tenant or landlord.

The council will evaluate the application based on the following factors:

• The necessity and appropriateness of the proposed modifications in meeting the needs of the disabled person
• The feasibility of carrying out the necessary work, considering the age and condition of the property.

To apply for a walk in baths grant and find out the amount you may be entitled to based on your income and savings, reach out to your local council.

Click on the following link to visit the official government web page about DFGs: https://www.gov.uk/apply-disabled-facilities-grant

Home Improvement Agencies

What is a home improvement agency?

A Home Improvement Agencies (HIA) are non-profit organisations that help individuals find schemes to help with the cost of home adaptations. They can provide advice, assistance, and resources to help individuals make necessary modifications to their homes for accessibility and safety. HIAs may also offer information on grants, benefits, and funds that are available to help with home improvements.
For more extensive adaptations, such as converting a spare room into a wet room or widening doorways to accommodate wheelchair users, financial assistance can be pursued with the help of a HIA.

How can I find a Home Improvement Agency?

To find a Home Improvement Agency (HIA) in your area, you can start by contacting your local council. You can also search online for resources that list HIAs in different regions, such as Find My HIA Online.
Additionally, you can reach out to organisations such as Foundations, Turn2us, Charity Choice, Living Made Easy, Independent Age, and Money Helper for assistance in finding an HIA that can help with the cost of home adaptations. These organisations can provide valuable advice and information on accessing resources and support for making your home more accessible.

PIP

PIP stands for Personal Independence Payment. It is a benefit provided by the UK government for individuals who have long-term health conditions or disabilities. PIP is intended to help people with the extra costs associated with their condition, such as mobility aids, home adaptations, and other necessary support to maintain independence. It is designed to assist with the costs of daily living tasks and getting around. Eligibility for PIP is based on an assessment of how your condition affects your ability to carry out specific activities.

Can I use my PIP allowance to cover some of the cost?

Yes, you may be able to use Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to fund adaptations to your home. PIP is a benefit for people with a long-term health condition or disability who need help with daily living tasks or getting around. You can use PIP to help cover the costs of adapting your home to make it more accessible and safe for you.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

How do walk-in baths work?

Walk-in baths feature a watertight door that provides easy access to the bathing area without the requirement to step over a high threshold. Doors generally open inward which means that once closed and the bath has been run the pressure of the water presses the door and its seal against the side of the bath keeping in watertight.

Most walk-in baths can be specified with thermostatic valves for the mixer/tap so that the temperature of flowing water stays within a safe range. Some models also feature two wastes which can enable water to be drained away faster. Some baths offer spa features like hydrotherapy jets and chromotherapy lighting.

What are walk-in baths power seats?

Walk-in baths with power seats provide extra comfort and convenience. These motorised seats can gently lower the bather down into the bath and raises them to a comfortable position to stand once finished bathing, the lifting seats are also available with an upright or reclining backrests. Power seats can be controlled through a handheld remote. They are suitable for individuals with limited mobility or physical disabilities. In addition to their convenience, power seats offer therapeutic benefits by relieving pressure on joints and muscles. Some even have heated seat options. When purchasing a walk-in bath, consider the available power seating options that align with your needs and preferences.

How do walk-in bath doors work?

Walk-in bath doors are what make these baths so specialised. They are watertight, ensuring safety. Materials like acrylic or tempered glass provide strength and durability. Doors are easy to operate with smooth mechanisms. Some models have low-threshold doors for easier access. Aesthetic appeal is considered, with various styles and finishes available.

Do walk-in baths help with getting in and out of the bath?

For those with reduced mobility walk-in baths enable easier and safer access to the bathing area. The smooth mechanisms of the doors make them effortless to operate. Low-threshold doors eliminate the need to climb over what for some, can feel like a significant obstacle. Walk in baths help to make bathing accessible and convenient for those who find it a challenge to use traditional tubs.

What are mobility bath tubs?

Mobility bath tubs, also called accessible tubs, are designed for those facing mobility issues. The low threshold eliminates climbing over the high ledge of a traditional bath, reducing the risk of falls and also have integrated seats which allow the bather to sit in comfort to either bathe or shower with the addition of either a shower rail & curtain or a suitable bath screen which are available for most baths on request.

Who makes the best walk-in baths available in the UK?

This is quiet a subjective question as you can buy a top of the range walk-in bath from the likes of Mantaleda, but if it is not installed by a specialist there is a chance that it will not perform as well as it could. Some people opt to buy walk in baths from Wickes or potentially B&Q walk in baths and then contract with their local builder. On the surface this may look like the best option, but accessible bathroom design is not just about price. If what is installed is not fit for purpose, either now or in the near future, you have not made a saving or got the best product, and you end up paying twice for the same work. In summary, the best walk-in bath is one that is professionally installed, incorporates all of the main features needed, for a price that the customer can afford. If you would like to get an idea of the required budget for your project, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team of accessible bathing experts.

Bath lift or walk-in bath?

There are various types of bath lift available to suit different budgets. Everybody’s circumstances will be unique, so you’ll need to make a choice based on both your needs and what is affordable.

Belt bath lifts are equipped with a belt to assist in lowering and raising users in and out of the water. The belt is connected to a unit that is secured to the wall and bath or the bathroom's flooring. For more information on belt style bath lifts please see the Molly Bather.

One popular type of bath lift is the chair or seat style. These lifts are easy to install as they don't require any special fixings. You just unfold the chair and place it in the bath. A backrest helps with posture and prevents falls. It's especially helpful for users with limited core strength.

A bath cushion is an inflatable type of bath lift that works by inflating and deflating as the user sits on it and lowers into the bath. It is a cheaper option and portable for use anywhere.

People generally select a bath lift if they are on a budget or if they themselves do not have mobility difficulties, but some of their house guests do.

Walk-in baths are specifically designed for a safe and accessible bathing experience. They have a built-in door, integral anti-slip surfaces, and in some cases adjustable seats for added comfort and safety. The choice between a bath lift and a walk-in bath depends on specific needs and preferences, with bath lifts being more affordable and temporary while walk-in baths offer long-term safety features. You can read more about bath lifts in our detailed guide.