What to look for when comparing walk in tub models and brands
Choosing a walk in tub is a significant home investment, and the right model depends on factors that vary from household to household. Below is a plain-language guide to the key features that differentiate walk in tub models β so you can have a more informed conversation when you request a quote.
Door style: inswing vs outswing walk in tubs
Most walk in tubs use an inward-swinging door β you step in, close the door, then fill the tub. Inswing doors are generally narrower and create a tighter watertight seal. Outward-swinging walk in tub doors are available on select Ella's Bubbles and Best Bath models and allow the bather to enter without stepping over a threshold at all β which can be a meaningful safety advantage for seniors with significant mobility limitations. The tradeoff is that outswing doors require more clear floor space outside the tub. We'll help you assess which style is realistic for your bathroom layout.
Soaker vs hydrotherapy vs dual massage walk in tubs
A soaker walk in tub fills with warm water and provides the comfort of a relaxing bath β simple, quiet, effective. These are often the most affordable models and ideal for seniors who simply want a safer way to enjoy a warm bath. Hydrotherapy walk in tubs add water jets that push warm water against muscles and joints β often recommended for seniors with arthritis, chronic back pain, poor circulation or post-surgical recovery needs. Dual massage systems, available on premium Ella's Bubbles models, combine both water jets and air jets simultaneously for a more comprehensive therapeutic experience. Air jets are softer than water jets and are particularly well-suited for sensitive skin.
Bariatric and wide-body walk in tub models
Standard walk in tubs typically have an interior seat width of around 17 to 19 inches. For larger bathers, bariatric walk in tubs offer extra-wide interior dimensions β often 30 inches or more β with reinforced walls and higher weight capacities, typically rated to 400β600 lbs depending on the model. Ella's Bubbles and Best Bath both offer bariatric configurations. If the bather is on the larger side, getting the right model from the start avoids costly replacements later. View our bariatric walk in tub options β
Walk in tub and shower combination models
Some seniors want the option to take a quick shower rather than always filling a full tub. Walk in tub and shower combination models include an integrated shower door panel and hand-held shower head β allowing the tub to function as both a soak station and a standing shower. Ella's Bubbles offers several well-regarded combination configurations. These models typically require a slightly wider footprint than a standard walk in tub, so bathroom dimensions matter.
Standard vs ADA walk in bathtubs
ADA-compliant walk in bathtubs are built to meet specific accessibility guidelines: grab bars at ADA-specified heights, seat height within a defined range, anti-scald protection and door threshold clearances that meet accessibility standards. Not every walk in tub sold as "handicap accessible" is truly ADA compliant β if ADA compliance is a requirement (for a grant application, a care facility, or VA documentation), let us know and we'll identify the models across our four brands that meet those standards.
Inline water heaters and fast-drain features
One of the most common concerns about walk in tubs is the fill-and-drain sequence: because you enter before filling and must wait for the tub to drain before exiting, there's potential to sit in cooling water. Inline water heaters continuously circulate warm water to maintain temperature during soaking. Fast-drain systems and dual drain configurations on select models can cut drain time significantly β from six or more minutes down to two or three. These features meaningfully improve comfort and are worth discussing when comparing models.
Walk in tub installation: one-day vs DIY
For most households, our one-day worry-free installation service is the easiest path. Our network of factory certified installers handles the full removal and replacement β typically working within your existing plumbing footprint. For customers who have a trusted licensed plumber or contractor already engaged, or who want to manage the installation themselves, we offer DIY drop-ship delivery directly to your home or jobsite. We can provide full product support and installation documentation for your contractor. Just include your preference in your quote request and we'll accommodate it.
Available Door Styles
Inswing, outswing, and combination models available across all four brands.
Jet Systems
Soaker (no jets), water jets, air jets, or dual massage β matched to your needs.
Weight Capacity
Standard models up to ~400 lbs. Bariatric models up to 600 lbs.
Footprint Options
Most models fit a standard 60β³ tub footprint. Wider models available.
Add-On Features
Inline heater, fast drain, chromotherapy, heated seat, hand-held shower.
USA Manufacturing
Meditub is built in the USA. All brands factory water-tested before shipping.
How we help you choose between walk in tub brands
The four brands we carry are not interchangeable β each has distinct engineering strengths, aesthetic profiles and price points. Ella's Bubbles offers the broadest model range and the most configuration flexibility, making it a natural starting point for many customers. Best Bath excels in modular accessibility solutions and is especially strong if a barrier-free shower is part of the plan. Meditub appeals strongly to buyers who prioritize American manufacturing and want a straightforward, well-built domestic product. Hydrodimensions is the choice for seniors who don't want to feel like their bathroom looks like a medical supply catalog β their contemporary styling integrates better with modern bathroom aesthetics.
The best way to identify the right model is a brief conversation. You don't need to arrive with a decision β just some information about the bather's needs, your bathroom dimensions and your general budget range. We'll take it from there and present options honestly, including when a shower might actually be a better fit than a tub.
Ready to compare walk in tub models? Call us now.
No forms required. Our team can walk you through all four brands and help you narrow down options in one call.