Best Walk-In Bathtubs

Walk-In Bathtub Reviews

After our evaluation, we selected the nine best walk-in tub companies for you to consider. Each company listed offers ADA-compliant bathtubs for increased safety.

The primary benefit of Safe Step walk-in tubs is the ease of use for seniors with joint pain. Their tubs are equipped with hydrotherapy, aerotherapy, and lower back heating systems which are designed to alleviate the pain of arthritis, back pain, muscle pain, and other conditions. All Safe Step tubs come with an ozone-cleaning system. 

Cost range	$10,000+ for tub, shipping, and installation
Tub type(s)	Soaker, whirlpool, combination
Threshold	4 Inches
Water capacity	Not disclosed
Dimensions	Customized and fitted to your space
Warranty	Lifetime limited on tub plus labor
Standout features	Shower wand, ozone cleaning system, 16 massage jets, anti-scald technology, inline water heater, and chromotherapy, hydrotherapy, and aromatherapy options

Safe Step is also one of few brands that offer a combination tub, the Hybrid™ Walk-In Tub, a walk-in tub and shower combination with a handheld shower wand and dual hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets, positioned in key locations to provide joint relief. Another benefit is its rapid fill advancements, which now fill the tub 20% faster.  

The company told us that they don’t advertise dimensions online because the tubs are available in different sizes, which helps eliminate the need for renovations. The technicians will also remove your existing tub.

Safe Step has the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease of Use certification, an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and is a National Aging in Place Council accredited company. 

For more information, read our Safe Step review.

The trusted kitchen and bath company, Kohler, also makes a walk-in bathtub product that comes equipped with multiple safety and comfort features as well as several upgrades. In addition to a low three-inch threshold, Kohler offers an industry-leading warranty for the Walk-in Bath. It’s a limited lifetime warranty, which can be found at other companies; however, Kohler’s warranty covers more. Pumps, motors, jets, bath door seals, and hand showers are all covered under the warranty, as long as the tub is installed by a Kohler-certified professional.

Cost range	$2,000 – $20,000 depending on customizations
Tub type(s)	Whirlpool
Threshold	3 Inches
Water capacity	50 gallons
Dimensions	52″ L x 28″ W x 39″ H (Up To 60″ L x 32″ W)
Warranty	Limited lifetime
Standout features	Super low entry thresholds, control panel, several heating features come standard on all tubs, handheld showerheads, financing options.

The Walk-In Bath from Kohler is not wheelchair accessible, and although the website advertised a seat 30% deeper than competitors, our editorial team found that its seat is actually smaller than other brands. The variety of therapeutic and spa-like features available means that Kohler’s price point can be higher than competitors, though chromatherapy and aromatherapy options are not available. 

On the plus side, all Kohler walk-in baths come with a heated backrest for added comfort that other brands charge more for, and at three inches tall, it has one of the lowest entry thresholds in the industry. Financing is also available.

Read our full Kohler walk-in tub review for more details.

Every Boca walk-in tub is made with a gel coat/fiberglass material, a bacteria-, mold- and mildew-resistant finish, a two-inch entry threshold, non-slip flooring and seating, and a head and seat cushion. Boca’s walk-in tub line features ultra-low thresholds of 2.25 inches. Its lifetime warranty covers the tub shell, door, seal, faucet, drain and controls, as well as the pump, blower, and heater.

Cost range	Custom pricing upon request
Tub type(s)	Soaker, whirlpool, two-person
Threshold	2.25 Inches
Water capacity	40 – 80 gallons
Dimensions	Standard tub: 30” W x 51” L x 36” H Petite, short, narrow, wide, deep, and two-person sizes available
Warranty	Limited lifetime
Standout features	Range of tub dimensions (including one of the few two-seater options on the market), bidet upgrades, music system, MICRO THERAPY®

Boca offers several models that accommodate taller and larger bathers. Its wide and deep option provides the largest soaking volume for a single bather (though an 80-gallon water heater is recommended if you go with this option). You might also appreciate these distinguishing features:

• Jets, aromatherapy, and chromatherapy (light therapy) upgrades
• Ozone/purge cleaning features
• Bluetooth speaker installed on the tub
• Marine-grade gel coat/fiberglass material

Boca’s MICRO THERAPY® option offers hydrotherapy that cleanses, hydrates, and moisturizes without the need for soap or scrubbing. This is beneficial for those with mobility issues and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, according to the company.

Our editorial team found Boca’s website to be the most detailed and transparent. You can browse tub types and product-specific dimensions without contacting a representative. Boca has spec sheets available for download, which can help you determine the model that best fits your existing layout. For example, the wide and deep model is eight inches wider than the Ella’s Bubbles Monaco model (considered to be standard industry sizing) our editor sat in and pictured below.

Also, important features like quick fill and drain systems and set cushions come standard with Boca tubs, while other manufacturers consider them upgrades.

To learn more about walk-in tub options, read our full Boca review.

One of the most recognizable home appliance brands, American Standard also builds walk-in tubs. Its models have a ton of options, from basic soaking tubs to aromatherapy and whirlpool systems. Most American Standard tubs come with an ozone-cleaning feature to eliminate bacteria. Its Value Series models are the most affordable, but its Premium Series tubs are considered more wheelchair-friendly thanks to its partial seat transfers.

American Standard has the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease of Use certification and has an “A-” Better Business Bureau rating. There is a lifetime warranty on the shell and a range of five to 10 years on all other components. Free in-home evaluations are available.

Cost range	$4,987 – $14,497
Tub type(s)	Whirlpool, soaker, air, wheelchair-accessible, combination
Threshold	As low as 3 inches
Water capacity	45 – 75 gallons
Dimensions	Gelcoat Entry Series: 51.5” L x 29.75” W x 42” H Varies by type
Warranty	Lifetime on door seal, 5 – 10 years on components
Standout features	Wheelchair-accessible, outward swinging doors, built-in aromatherapy, RevitaJet™ Whole Body Hydrotherapy System with 44 air and water jets

American Standard offers a walk-in tub product that is sure to meet a variety of needs. Many American Standard tubs come equipped with built-in aromatherapy. Depending on the model you choose and your budget, you can also access:

• RevitaJet™ Whole Body Hydrotherapy System with 44 air and water jets
• Custom ‘Legs-only’ massage options like “legs only” or “wrists”
• Chromatherapy light system
• Self-cleaning system

Browsing tub options online is a bit confusing given its layout and extensive product list, but American Standard is one of only a few brands that list prices on its website. Comparatively, American Standard’s warranty coverage on walk-in tubs is more limited. It offers a lifetime warranty on door seals, a 15-year warranty on tub shells, and a 10-year warranty on everything else.

To learn more, read our full American Standard review.

Independent Home’s primary purpose is the manufacture and installation of walk-in tubs. Choose from eight walk-in tub models with a variety of additional features like heated seating, aromatherapy, LCD control panels, 60-second speed drains, designer faucets and quiet water pumps. 

Independent Home walk-in tubs are all ADA-compliant and come in a variety of sizes that will accommodate wheelchairs and larger individuals up to 500 pounds. For example, their “Royal” walk-in tub model is equipped with a motorized seat that safely lowers or raises the person into or out of the tub.

Cost range	Custom quote available upon request
Tub type(s)	Soaking, whirlpool, bariatric, and wheelchair-safe
Threshold	Not disclosed
Water capacity	Up to 80 gallons
Dimensions	Custom sizing available
Warranty	Lifetime
Standout features	Hydrotherapy, dual massage system, microbubbles, aromatherapy, self-cleaning features, overflow system

Costs will vary depending on the features you choose. The company suggests having one of their highly-trained specialists perform a free in-home estimate before purchasing a tub. The specialist measures your current bathroom and explains what’s required to install an Independent Home walk-in tub in your space. 

Because Independent Home operates every aspect of its business under one roof, a specialist can guide you through a free consultation, product selection, installation, and service—all of which are backed by a lifetime warranty.

Read our full Independent Home review.

Ella’s Bubbles is a leading U.S. manufacturer of acrylic walk-in bathtubs for seniors of all sizes and wheelchair users. The company is best known for its exclusive models: the Two-Seat Walk-in Tub and the ShaK, which is the world’s largest walk-in tub. The lay-down acrylic walk-in tubs are ideal for anyone with a disability or mobility challenges. 

If you’re seeking luxury, Ella’s higher-end models, like the Ultimate Walk-In Tub, include an independent foot massage, a patented 360-degree swivel tray, chromotherapy, and a combination of hydro, air and foot/calf jets.

Cost range	$3,500+
Tub type(s)	Two seater, extra long, wheelchair-accessible, lay-down
Threshold	As low as 6 inches
Door Style	Inward and outward
Water capacity	45 – 85 gallons
Dimensions	Customizable; Standard tubs are 30″ W x 52″ L
Warranty	Limited lifetime
Standout features	48-hour shipping, custom sizing, swivel tray for drinks, triple massage system, foot massage 17 water jets (including bidet jets), 17 air jets, dual drains, inline water heater to maintain bathing temperature, auto-clean system

Ella’s Bubbles stands out to us because its tubs suit a variety of people and its long list of luxury feature upgrades. In addition to the standard ADA-complaint features, Ella’s Bubbles tubs include dual drains that can drain water in as little as 80 seconds, the ability to customize your tub with a soaking option, hydrotherapy, massage systems, Infusion Microbubble therapy, heated seats, heated backrests and aromatherapy.

The company is based in Chicago and though many brands make this claim, Ella’s is one of the few manufacturers that source U.S.-made parts and assemble their tubs in America.

To learn more about our experience testing an Ella’s Bubbles walk-in tub, read our full Ella’s Bubbles review.

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Other Walk-In Tub Companies

Known for its hot tubs, Jacuzzi makes two models of walk-in tubs with varying features. Read our comprehensive Jacuzzi walk-in tub review.

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Our Review Methodology

To offer our recommendations for best walk-in tubs, we analyzed 10 data points and conducted 45 hours of research to give you a well-rounded review of each provider. First and foremost, we limited our list to only feature companies that sell ADA-compliant walk-in tubs. Then, we sourced feedback and reviews from real consumers, contacted manufacturers, visited showrooms, and talked with aging experts to narrow down our original list of nine best walk-in tub companies. In addition, we considered these features:

• Credentials
• Costs and fees
• Discounts and financing available
• Tub types available, including dimensions
• Safety, health, and comfort features such as wheelchair access and door type
• Service area
• Warranty options
• Installation process
• Customer service availability
• Consumer reviews

We also reached out to companies and requested additional information that could help customers make a responsible choice, like context surrounding the installation process, product availability, and financing options. Businesses that did not respond were dismissed.

Basically, we followed our own buying tips to uncover the best providers. Our favorite manufacturers offer products made in the USA and with features beyond your basic soaker tub. A good walk-in tub company should provide options like hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, and additional heating, for example.

Companies with additional certifications, such as those from the National Aging in Place Council and the Arthritis Foundation were given preference. We also checked Better Business Bureau ratings and cut companies with failing scores, excessive complaints, and poor ratings—specifically those that mentioned leaks and lackluster customer service.

Finally, we eliminated companies that obscured their prices and had difficult or confusing policies and procedures. The result of our analysis is the best walk-in tub companies for you, a friend or a family member to consider.

Our Experience Testing Walk-In Tubs

Walk-in tubs are a considerable investment, so when possible, the Retirement Living editorial team evaluates products in person to create the most accurate reviews.

Our editor visited a local showroom to test the Monaco walk-in tub from Ella’s Bubbles and found it more spacious than expected (our editor is 5 feet and 3 inches tall). Measuring 32 inches wide and 52 inches long—roughly the same size as a standard alcove bathtub—the Monaco is two inches wider than the Capri model. It also offers a 23-inch seat to accommodate larger body types and bathers who want a roomier bathtub interior.

More importantly, this tub had an outward swinging door with a lever handle and a low four-inch threshold, which is key for creating a safer, easier entry and exit of the tub.

Walk-in tub sizes and features vary considerably, but after seeing one in person, we recommend that buyers prioritize brands that offer deeper and wider seats for safer bathing—at least 13 inches deep and 23 inches wide, as shown above. Also, when full, the water in a walk-in tub could reach your chest depending on your height, so it’s important to look for tubs that offer quick-fill and dual-drain technology that helps keep you warm while you wait. The dealer we spoke to recommended adding towel hooks and a wall nook nearby so you can store a towel, robe, and book to keep you warm and occupied during the fill and drain process.

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How to Find the Best Walk-In Tub

1. Pick a Type of Walk-In Tub That Fits Your Needs

A basic soaker tub is the simplest, most cost-affordable model. Still, other tubs can serve specific needs and should not be overlooked—particularly if you plan to age in place. In other words, consider your long-term needs when exploring the various types of walk-in tubs.

Soaker Tubs

The soaker tub is your basic walk-in bathtub that allows you to sit on the built-in seat or bench while your lower body is submerged in water. If you aren’t looking for anything too fancy, this is the type of tub you’re looking for.

Wheelchair-Accessible Tubs

A wheelchair-accessible tub has a wider opening for people in wheelchairs to move from a seated position into the tub itself. You can also ask your dealer about sliding wall options, which allow those with limited mobility to bathe in a reclined position rather than a seated one.

Bariatric Tubs

Similar to wheelchair-accessible tubs, bariatric models are designed to accommodate individuals 300 pounds or heavier. Bariatric walk-in tubs have wider seat designs for added comfort and safety. These models increase capacity up to 600 pounds.

Aerotherapy (Air Jet) Tubs

These tubs have air jets that move water gently, creating a champagne-like bubbling and massage experience. Aerotherapy can have therapeutic benefits and provide relief for those with muscle aches and spasms, tightness, and/or pain. Areotheraphy and hydrotherapy tubs have a cleaning feature you’ll need to run regularly to prevent buildup. Also, consult a doctor before ordering these types of tubs, as the jets can potentially harm those with open wounds, or medical conditions.

Hydrotherapy (Water Jet) Tubs

Hydrotherapy tubs (also known as whirlpool tubs) use jets to provide a massage-like experience. These jets are stronger and the extra water pressure is said to relieve some pain associated with joint pain like arthritis. The added power may be uncomfortable for seniors with sensitive skin, open wounds, or hypertension, so consult a doctor before purchasing.

Combination Tubs

A walk-in tub and shower combination includes the benefits of a walk-in tub and the ease of a shower. These tubs might have a tall, transparent wall surrounding the tub or a three-wall enclosure with a shower curtain entry.

2. Insist On These Walk-In Tub Features

Moreover, you should seriously consider investing in these useful and/or necessary features that will help you maximize the benefit of using your walk-in tub.

Handrails

The right walk-in tub should come with handrails already installed. Grab bars and handrails will increase stability when getting in or out of the tub. Depending on your needs, installing a handrail on the wall near the tub can also be a good idea.

Textured Flooring

It’s very important for a good walk-in tub to have non-slip, textured flooring. Though you can place non-slip mats in the tub, we recommend choosing a tub with non-slip flooring already built in. Textured flooring that doesn’t adequately fit the bottom of the entire tub can sometimes lift and float if not properly secured.

Quick Drainage

Some tubs come with two drains or a pump to help empty the tub so you don’t get cold while waiting to dry off. Remember, the tub door cannot be opened until the water has been drained. This could take anywhere from four to 15 minutes. Brands such as American Standard and Ella’s Bubbles offer fast-draining technology as a standard feature, but others mark it as an upgrade. 

Easy/Self-Clean Features

It’s essential to keep the components of your tub clean to avoid mold and bacteria growth. The best walk-tubs won’t have extensive cleaning manuals and are compatible with everyday cleaning products. Other tubs have a self-cleaning functionality, such as an ozone-cleaning system. 

In-line Heating

Depending on your water heater setup, you might have trouble keeping the water warm during long soaks—especially hydrotherapy tubs that use more water. Your contraction might recommend an in-line heating system to help keep your bathwater warm.

Aromatherapy and Chromatherapy Upgrades

Aromatherapy models mix essential oils in the tub water, while tubs with chromatherapy features add subdued, colored lighting during bathing for better relaxation.

Seat Structure and Height

Most walk-in tubs come with a seat to promote sit-down bathing. During the showroom evaluation, our editorial team learned that it’s also important to pay attention to the seat specifications—particularly the depth and width. Smaller seats pose a safety and comfort risk for larger bathers. You may find it helpful to add a textured cushion or mat to the seat to keep from floating or slipping off the bench. Also, some may prefer the option to sprawl out, and therefore, opt for a lay-down walk-in tub.

Step-in (Threshold) Height

The hallmark of a walk-in tub is the lower threshold. Some models have a three-inch step, while other models can reach seven inches tall. Seniors with limited mobility should look for the lowest clearance possible. In the picture below, our editor is stepping over a four-inch threshold. A professional installer told us customers must also account for any leveling devices that could increase threshold height, as your existing floor layout may require adding padding to the bottom of the tub to create a level surface.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Walk-In Tub

1. Calculate the Dimensions of Your Space

You will also need to have enough room for your walk-in tub. A typical walk-in tub is usually around 60 inches long—the same length as your standard tub—and between 38 and 42 inches tall, and between 25 to 32 inches wide. Wheelchair-accessible tubs or bariatric tubs might have wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or bathers over 300 pounds.

Measure your doorways and hallways to ensure your tub can be moved into your bathroom. Also, you’ll need to confirm that your subfloor can handle the weight of your new soaker.

2. Check Your Hot Water Capacity

Many walk-in tubs require upwards of at least 50 gallons of water to fill. Check the size of your water heater—if you have a 40-gallon tank, you will probably need to wait for the water to reheat in the tank. Consider upgrading to a larger water heater or purchasing an additional tankless water heater to ensure you can fill your tub with warm water quickly.

For example, a Kohler walk-in bath is designed for a standard 50-gallon water heater; however, the age and condition of the water heater may affect performance. Larger tubs will require more water.

3. Source Quotes for Professional Installation

Most walk-in tubs require professional installation to ensure the proper plumbing and electrical hookups. Installing a walk-in tub can run between $500 to $2,500, depending on the model. Ask each manufacturer for an installation quote—a company might offer an in-home visit to check your bathroom configuration and determine the price. If contractors need to remove your old tub before installing the new one, this will add to the price. Check with your dealer to discuss discounts and financing options.

4. Ask Clarifying Questions

Most manufacturers partner with reputable local dealers to sell you your tub. A local dealer in Charlotte, North Carolina told us that most dealers partner with professional plumbers and contractors to install your walk-in tub. Typically, installation is included in the purchase price when you buy from a dealer. Before getting your walk-in tub installed, ask these important questions:

• Are they licensed and insured? Can they share references?
• Do they have experience installing walk-in tubs, specifically the brand you want to buy? 
• Will the dealer visit your home first to determine installation challenges that might affect the cost?
• Will permits be required? If so, will they source them?
• What are the plumbing and/or electrical requirements?
• Will the tub require supplemental water heating?
• What are the company’s warranty and service policies?
• If your tub requires repairs, what is the typical wait time for scheduling a visit?
• How long will the installation take?
• Is the estimate free, or will there be a charge?

5. Consult a Specialist

An occupational therapist, home modification professional, or certified aging-in-place specialist (CAPS) can provide insights into the process of buying a walk-in tub. For example, these professionals might recommend a certain feature to help you with an ailment or connect you with a reputable dealer that can help install your next soaker. Contact your local area agency on aging for help connecting with an expert.

Your local National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) chapter is a good place to start. The National Association of Home Builders has a directory of CAPS professionals, or you can search The University of Southern California’s directory of professionals with the Executive Certification of Home Modifications designation.

Walk-In Tub Costs

The cost of a walk-in tub ranges from about $2,300 for a basic soaker to $25,000 for a two-person tub with spa-like features. Most seniors can find and install an ADA-approved walk-in tub between $5,000 and $10,000. Costs depend, and vary widely, on features like size, number of jets, seat type, and therapeutic and design options. Larger tubs cost more and drive up the utility bills used to run and heat the water.

• Standard walk-in tub: $2,500 to $5,000
• Air bath or hydrotherapy tub: $5,000 to $10,000
• Bariatric bathtub: $7,000 to $10,000
• Combination bath (air and hydrotherapy) tub: $7,000 to $15,000

How to Save Money on Walk-In Tubs

Unfortunately, walk-in tubs are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance. However, state programs and grants are available, and if you’re a veteran, you might be able to get reimbursements for a walk-in tub. Homeowners can save money on a walk-in tub by choosing a preowned model.

To offset hefty upfront costs, ask whether the walk-in tub company offers financing options. It’s also wise to compare contractor rates to save on installation-associated costs.

Pros and Cons of Walk-In Tubs

Pros	Cons
Safety, comfort, and health benefits	More expensive
Easier for caregivers to use	Potential for increased water usage
ADA compliance and wheelchair accommodations	Longer time to fill; must wait in the tub
Advanced spa-like features such as aromatherapy and chromatherapy	Professional installation may require additional plumbing and electrical upgrades
ADA compliance and wheelchair accommodations	Parts require ongoing maintenance

What Walk-In Tub Customers Say About Their Experience

To learn how customers rate their experience with walk-in tub companies, we analyzed three years’ worth of customer reviews of walk-in tub companies on our site. According to the 300+ reviews posted on Retirement Living, customers who have purchased a walk-in tub from the companies on this list have an average satisfaction rating of 4.1 stars.

Key takeaways from our review analysis of walk-in companies on Retirement Living include:

• While customers do consider the cost of a walk-in tub, price factors into customer satisfaction less than other aspects like customer service availability, how easy a tub is to use, and the installation process. For example, reviewers who reference ease of use rate their companies 4.2 stars on average, while those who mention customer service give their companies 3.9 stars.
• Roughly 87% of walk-in tub reviews mention installation: 53% of reviews that mention installations are negative and 47% are positive.
• Reviews that reference repairs have an average rating of 3.1 stars. The most common repair type mentioned is leaks, followed by hot water access, fill time, and small-part electrical repairs.
• Customer experience with the company’s products differs from their experience with the dealers who service the products. While customers rate their experience with the tubs themselves as high, working with local dealers and service providers is less favorable. As one reviewer in Michigan says, “It is not Jacuzzi that services the tubs they sell; it is the local dealer’s service department, and that is an entirely different but very important aspect to consider. My experience with Jacuzzi and their JL-X has been quite positive: 5 Stars.”

The reviews posted on Retirement Living appear to match the overall sentiment of reviews posted on ConsumerAffairs. When comparing reviews for the companies featured on our list to the thousands of reviews featured on ConsumerAffairs, customers rate their experience with the same companies just slightly higher on ConsumerAffairs: 4.5 stars compared to 4.1 stars on Retirement Living.

Walk-In Tub Companies Near Me

• Atlanta, GA
• Austin, TX
• Boston, MA
• Chicago, IL
• Cleveland, OH
• Dallas, TX
• Denver, CO
• Detroit, MI
• Fayetteville, AR
• Fort Worth, TX
• Houston, TX
• Las Vegas, NV
• Los Angeles, CA
• Memphis, TN
• Miami, FL
• Minneapolis, MN
• Charlotte, NC
• Orlando, FL
• Philadelphia, PA
• Phoenix, AZ
• Portland, OR
• Raleigh, NC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Jose, CA
• Seattle, WA
• St. Louis, MO
• Tampa, FL
• Tulsa, OK
• Washington DC

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Frequently Asked Questions about Walk-In Bathtubs

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Concluding Thoughts on Walk-In Bathtubs

Bottom Line: Walk-in tubs can significantly cut down on bathing-related injuries.

Erring on the side of caution may prevent or help you cope with a life-altering injury. As an added bonus, while you will have to sit down in the tub and wait for it to fill, a good walk-in tub will have enough features to offset the inconvenience. Aside from safety, a walk-in tub can provide a truly spa-like experience, replete with pleasant smells, soothing lighting and massaging jets of water.

The type of tub you choose comes down to what you’re looking for and your mobility needs. Massage jets can soothe aching joints and other ailments, while air-powered jets can provide a low-pressure therapeutic massage for those with sensitive skin. There are tons of options, with the price to match. That’s why it’s no wonder why walk-in tubs can get so expensive. Adding extra bells and whistles like aromatherapy and chromatherapy can cost more, but may not be necessary if you’re on a budget. Don’t shy away from getting several quotes from competing companies and see if any will price match or offer additional discounts when shopping for your ideal walk-in bathtub.

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