Your bathroom is your haven after a long day. It’s where you retreat for a nice, hot bath or just for some alone time. However, it can also be a dangerous place. According to studies, around 234,000 people have slipped in the bathroom, causing injuries. About 79% of bathroom injuries happen to people 65 years and older due to slips and falls.
Although most of these slips and falls were caused by slippery surfaces, out-of-reach items, or lack of lighting, most were caused by bathtub sides.
You can take various precautions to prevent slips and falls by installing anti-slip mats, improving lighting, or fixing your shelves for easy access. If you’re a fan of baths, these safety measures might not be enough to protect you from accidents in your bathtub.
A Safer Alternative
The good news is that there’s a safer alternative for a bathtub called walk-in tubs. These tubs are specially designed to help those with mobility issues and those who might struggle with using a traditional bathtub, such as senior citizens or those whose mobility and flexibility are reduced.
A walk-in tub is usually equipped with a door and seat. The user can enter and exit the tub from the side without climbing in or out of the tub. The entry is easy to access and is usually low in height, making it safe for use.
However, this does not mean that other age groups can’t use walk-in tubs. Walk-in tubs might be a better alternative to your home because they will significantly decrease the chances of slips and falls in the bathroom.
Benefits of a Walk-In Tub
The average cost of a walk-in tub is between $3,000-$10,000. This might sound steep for many of you, but think of the durability and use you can get out of it over the years. They also come with a few benefits, which we will discuss below.
1. Safer than a traditional bathtub
A walk-in tub has several safety features to keep you safe from slips and falls since its primary function is to keep the user safe during baths. Unlike the usual tubs you are accustomed to, walk-in tubs do not have slick, polished surfaces. They have non-slip material to help maintain grip, even if the tub is full of water.
Handrails are also usually found on walk-in tubs to help users get in and out of the tub with ease. Other than that, they also have an anti-scald system and sensors to protect users from burns if the water gets too hot.
2. Has self-cleaning features
Since individuals with mobility issues usually use these tubs, they are equipped with self-cleaning features. This way, you won’t need to scrub down the tub every week.
Most walk-in tubs have water lines that are self-cleaning to prevent bacteria build-up. This is an excellent addition to its safety features because it can also prevent mold growth in the long run. This way, you won’t need to worry about mold removal and dirty tubs.
3. Has multiple uses
Besides the added safety features and self-cleaning system, walk-in tubs also have other advantages. For example, they also have seats available for the user to ensure comfort.
Another thing is that walk-in tubs are also excellent for hydrotherapy— which has been proven to reduce joint pain, heal some skin conditions, and provide relaxation.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to change up your bathroom and upgrade your bathtub, a walk-in tub might be the right choice for you. Not only will it make you feel safer in your bathroom, but you will also have all the added benefits of a walk-in tub we mentioned above.
