Without proper research and education, finding the right sized walk-in tub for your situation can be a bit challenging. It is advisable to meet with a potential provider to take measurements of your current bathroom layout in order to determine the best fit. Equally important, a discussion about but why a certain size/model is recommended should take place during your on-site survey.
In this brief walk-in tub guide, we will provide an outline of the unique sizes available and bring some clarity to your shopping process. The measurements included are defined in inches with a width by length format.
30”x52” – Most Popular
Designed for the traditional bathtub/shower stall that is 60” in length, this size is commonly chosen. During installation, a walk-in tub must be turned/rotated to fit into the existing space. A 52” tub has a turning radius of 59.5”, thus the 30”x52” sized walk-in tub is the best decision.
30”x52” – Wheelchair Accessible Models
These bathtubs are equipped to help those who are currently using a wheelchair. If you are disabled, a handicapped accessible model with an outward swinging door will make the transfer from your chair to the seat easier. Keep in mind; the outward swinging door typically requires a larger bathroom space. Be careful to consider obstacles around the bathtub like toilets or vanities as they may block the door and limit easy access. Some models are Hoyer lift/sling lift capable as well.
32”x38” – Cube Model or Front Loader
A walk-in tub of this size is chosen when the existing shower is a neo-angle shower and the stall is small. These bathtubs include an outward swinging/front-loading door but are not designed for folks using a wheelchair in the home. This size can accommodate smaller bathers.
28”x48” – Fairly Popular
This bathtub is selected when the traditional shower/bathtub stall is 48” in length. It is also commonly installed in smaller stalls.
33”x55” – Large Walk-In Tub
This walk in tub is available in a 33” and 35” width. It is designed for full figured folks over 300lbs. This tub is a great option if you have the space to bring this through the doorways and hallways of the house. The model will also need an upgraded hot water tank due to its size.
26”x53” or 26”x45”
Walk-In Tubs with these specifications are constructed with older homes in mind. Older homes often have doorframes that are only 24”-26” wide. Widening the doorway to the bathroom is a regular part of a walk-in tub installation, but if there are obstacles that cannot be adjusted/enlarged like a metal frame, this tub could be the best choice. The model should only be installed for customers that have a smaller project.
What About Smaller Spaces?
While we all might wish that we had a large luxurious bathroom in our homes, some places only have space for a small bathroom. When this is the case, you need to maximize every inch of your space. This becomes even more difficult as you age and require safety additions to make your bathroom work for you. If you are looking for tubs for small bathrooms, Independent Home offers several walk in tub options perfect for you.
Walk In Tubs To Fit Standard Tub Cavities
If your bathroom is small, but can accommodate a standard sized bathtub you can also accommodate many of our walk in tub models. Most of our walk in tubs are designed to fit in a standard tub cavity. This means you can easily replace the old and dangerous standard tub with a brand new walk in tub fairly easily. Choose a more basic model, or a luxurious spa like bath depending on your preferences.
Compact Walk In Tubs
If you can’t even spare the room for a standard walk in tub, the Cube Model by Independent Home is the ideal tub for you. This tub is shaped like, well, a cube, and can fit in the space of a shower stall. This tub has a door on the front of the tub instead of the side. It comes complete with a shower wand for easy bathing, and packs a lot of features into a compact tub. It even offer hydrotherapy jets for a spa-like experience!
Finding tubs for small bathrooms may seem like a challenge, but with the help of Independent Home you have options. Contact our customer service team today for more information on our products and find out which tub will best suit your needs. We are ready to help you bathe safer in your tiny bathroom!
Bringing It All Together
Our walk-in bathtub specialists survey thousands of bathrooms every year. When working with Independent Home, our customers can be confident we will help find the perfect size walk in tub for your specific bathroom layout. Remember, one size does NOT fit all. Contact us today for your free in-home consultation.