As you get older, you may become more concerned with your safety, whether you might slip and fall, and if you might injure yourself. This is especially true in the bathroom, with all its slick, wet surfaces. This guide to the best walk-in tubs in Pennsylvania may help alleviate some of your worries.
Walk-in tubs eliminate the need to step up and over a small wall to get into the bathtub. You simply open the door, step inside, sit down, and fill the tub to your liking. We’ve reviewed the best walk-in tubs to help you decide which one is best for you.
The Top 7 Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania 2023: Reviews and Ratings of Leading Brands
- Kohler Walk-In Bath: Best Overall Walk-In Tub in Pennsylvania
- Ella’s Bubbles: Best Pa Walk-In Tub for Wheelchair Accessibility
- AmeriGlide: Best Bathtub Conversion Kits in Pennsylvania
- Universal Tubs: Best Brick-and-Mortar Walk-In Tub Stores in Pa
- ANZZI: Best Budget-Friendly Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania
- Empava: Most Accessible Pennsylvania Walk-In Tubs
- Endurance: Best Size Range in Pennsylvania
1. Kohler Walk-In Bath — Best Overall Walk-In Tub in Pennsylvania
Pros of Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Wide range of price options
- Long list of customization choices
- Fast-draining capability
- Price quotes locked in for a year
- Lifetime warranty
Cons of Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- May be pricier than competitors
- No wheelchair-accessible tubs
- No bariatric tubs
Kohler Walk-In Bath offers a wide range of price options to fit every budget. It boasts a long list of customization choices, including fast draining. When you get a price quote from Kohler, it’s locked in for a year. The company has the best warranty in the industry: a lifetime limited warranty on defects in material or workmanship, if your tub is installed by an approved contractor.
However, there are a few drawbacks. Depending on the level of customization you opt for, Kohler may be more expensive than its competitors. The company has no options for wheelchair-accessible or bariatric tubs, limiting its ability to serve those populations.
Kohler Walk-In Bath Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 5/5
Kohler’s tubs can be customized from 52 to 60 inches long, and from 28 to 32 inches wide. Its step-in height is three inches, making it one of the lowest available.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs: 3/5
Kohler boasts about fast filling and draining times, but doesn’t offer any specifics. It only says that it employs fast-drain technology, and the speed of filling and draining relies on the water pipe capacity and plumbing flow rate in your home. Filling and draining speed is important because you have to fill and drain the tub while you’re sitting in it. The longer it takes, the longer you’re waiting, and the longer you may feel chilly.
Best Pa Features of Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs: 5/5
You can customize your Kohler Walk-In Bath to include grab bars, an accessible control panel, and an extra-wide door for safety. For comfort, you can add hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets, a heated backrest, and a multifunctional, handheld shower.
Pennsylvania Pricing of Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs: 3/5
Kohler’s prices run from $2,000 to $25,000, without including installation costs. Installation costs run an additional $2,500 to $6,000, depending on how much work has to be done to get your old tub out and your new one in.
Overall Score of Kohler Walk-In Bath Tubs in Pennsylvania: 4.9
Check out More from Kohler Walk-In Bath!
2. Ella’s Bubbles — Best Pa Walk-In Tub for Wheelchair Accessibility
Pros of Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Line of wheelchair transfer tubs
- Ozone sterilization keeps tub clean
- Offers two-seater option for couples
- Wide variety of walk-in tub choices
- Sizes designed to fit in any bathroom
Cons of Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Pricing isn’t as transparent as would be ideal
- No bariatric tub available
- Customers complain of discomfort from seat back
Ella’s Bubbles offers a wide variety of walk-in tub options, including a two-seater tub for couples and a wheelchair transfer tub. The wheelchair transfer tub is available in five sizes, while the two-seater comes in four. Every tub in Ella’s lineup comes in multiple sizes. The ozone sterilization system keeps your tub clean for you, so you don’t have to bend and stretch to wash it.
On the downside, the pricing isn’t as transparent as would be ideal. No bariatric tub options are available, though Ella’s does state that a few tub models could work for larger-sized people. Some customers complain that the back of the seat is too vertical, making it difficult to relax in the tub.
Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 4.5/5
Ella’s tubs come in every size you could want. Widths range from 26 to 36 inches, and lengths go from 36 to 80 inches. Tub step-ins are six to seven inches.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs: 4/5
Ella’s tubs have two drains, which, with ideal plumbing in your home, will drain your tub in under 80 seconds. The tubs take approximately seven minutes to fill.
Best Pa Features of Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs: 5/5
Ella’s offers a variety of features, including grab bars, a shower column, a handheld shower, hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets, a swivel tray, a four-fold glass shower screen, a heated seat and backrest, seat pillows, a headrest and neck support, and a variety of faucet choices.
Pennsylvania Pricing of Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
Prices aren’t listed anywhere on Ella’s website. One source indicates that tubs run from $4,000 to $8,000, which doesn’t include installation.
Overall Score of Ella’s Bubbles Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania: 4.8
See if Ella’s Bubbles are right for you!
3. AmeriGlide — Best Bathtub Conversion Kits in Pennsylvania
Pros of AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Wide variety of bathtub conversion kits
- Transparent pricing
- Several wheelchair-accessible options
- Wide range of other mobility products
Cons of AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- May be less sturdy due to materials
- Warranty is severely limited
- Higher step-in than competitors
AmeriGlide offers a wide variety of bathtub conversion kits, letting you keep your original bathtub in place, thereby reducing your costs. Its website has prices listed clearly on every conversion kit and new walk-in tub. There are several wheelchair-accessible transfer tubs. AmeriGlide also has a broad range of other mobility equipment available.
Unfortunately, AmeriGlide doesn’t always use the sturdiest materials. Many of its tubs are made from fiberglass, instead of the stronger acrylic used industry-wide. Its warranty is much more limited than some competitors: only one year on most tubs. The tubs aren’t the easiest to get into. Some have step-ins as high as 13.5 inches. Most are between six and 7.5 inches high.
AmeriGlide Walk-In Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 3/5
The high step-ins on these tubs are concerning. The width varies from 26 to 32 inches, and the length is anywhere from 38.5 to 60 inches.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
You can add on “Auto Drain,” which claims to empty the tub in less than a minute, for an additional $299.
Best Pa Features of AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs: 3.5/5
Every feature you select is an additional cost to the base model shown on the website. Only one grab bar is provided. For hydrotherapy jets, you pay an extra $484. Aerotherapy jets cost an additional $1,211. To add both together, it costs $1,574. Shipping is an additional $385 for tubs. With conversion kits, shipping is free. Some models allow you to add additional grab bars for safety.
Pennsylvania Pricing of AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs: 4/5
Pricing is clear and transparent for the base model of every tub and conversion kit on AmeriGlide’s website. Conversion kits run from $230 to $592, and tubs cost between $2,493 and $5,390.
Overall Score of AmeriGlide Walk-In Tubs: 4.7
Find out how Ameriglide can help you!
4. Universal Tubs — Best Brick-and-Mortar Walk-In Tub Stores in Pa
Pros of Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- All tubs are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards
- Wheelchair-accessible options available
- Featured at Home Depot
- 18 sizes available
Cons of Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Built from fiberglass
- Limited warranty
- No real customer support
All of Universal Tubs’ walk-in bathtubs are ADA compliant. They have wheelchair-accessible tubs available. There are 18 sizes available, and you can see the tubs exclusively at Home Depot.
On the flip side, these tubs are made of fiberglass, instead of the more robust acrylic of some competitors. The warranty is limited to 10 years on structure and parts, and one year on the pump, the motor, and the electrical work. There’s no real customer support. As of this writing, Universal Tubs’ website is down, and only gives a phone number for customer service — which is the same phone number for Endurance, reviewed below.
Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtub Size in Pennsylvania: 5/5
All tubs are sized to fit standard bathtub alcoves. They are between 50 and 60 inches long, and between 30 to 34 inches wide.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs: 4/5
Draining time is less than a minute, depending on the quality of your home plumbing.
Best Pa Features of Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs: 5/5
The most popular model, the HD series, has 13 adjustable whirlpool jets, built-in grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and chromatherapy to enhance your mood.
Pennsylvania Pricing of Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs: 4/5
Prices start at $1,989 and run through $4,025 for the tubs.
Overall Score of Universal Tubs Walk-In Bathtubs in Pennsylvania: 4.6
5. ANZZI — Best Budget-Friendly Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania
Pros of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- 10-year warranty on parts and workmanship
- Left and right draining models available
- All models are low-cost
- Multiple safety features
Cons of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Limited models available
- Made from fiberglass
- Only sold via Amazon
ANZZI is a lesser-known walk-in tub manufacturer. Its tubs are low-cost and have multiple safety features. Left and right draining models are available, and there’s a 10-year warranty on parts and workmanship.
Unfortunately, there are only three models available, and they’re all made from fiberglass, instead of the more durable acrylic of most competitors. Even though ANZZI has a beautiful website, its walk-in tubs are nowhere to be found there; they’re only sold on Amazon.
ANZZI Walk-In Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 3/5
Since there are limited models available, the sizes are limited as well. Lengths run between 50 and 60 inches, and widths go from 26 to 30 inches. The step-in height on all models is 4.25 inches.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining ANZZI Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
One reviewer stated that it took an hour to fill the tub to the desired level, even though the product specifications say it has a “quick fill” faucet. Another stated that it drained in less than 60 seconds.
Best Pa Features of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs: 5/5
On its top-of-the-line model, ANZZI went all-out with features. It includes hydrotherapy, aerotherapy, and aromatherapy jets, a Euro-grip showerhead with a 60-inch reach, built-in grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, chromatherapy lighting, and an inline water heater to keep the water at your desired temperature.
Pennsylvania Pricing of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs: 5/5
The right-draining whirlpool tub costs $3,495. The standard right-draining tub is $2,895, and the standard left-draining tub costs $1,995.
Overall Score of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania: 4.5
See how ANZZI compares to the competition.
6. Empava — Most Accessible Pennsylvania Walk-In Tubs
Pros of Empava Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Available online and in brick-and-mortar stores
- Well-regarded for quality
- Built-in safety features
- Easy-to-install standalone tubs
Cons of Empava Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Three-year warranty on limited parts
- Limited options available
- May take a long time to fill
- Some customers complain of uncomfortable seat
Empava is well-known for quality products, and its standalone walk-in tubs are no exception. The tubs are available both online and in brick-and-mortar stores, such as Lowe’s. There are built-in safety features, and these standalone tubs are simple to install.
On the downside, the warranty is only for three years, and only covers some parts. There are only two models available, so if you want more selections, you should shop elsewhere. Some customers have reported that the tub may take a long time to fill, and others have complained that the seat is uncomfortable.
Empava Walk-In Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 4/5
Both tub models are about 53 inches long and 26 inches wide. The step-in threshold is less than four inches, making these tubs among the best in that area.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining Empava Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
No information on the speed of filling and draining is available beyond customer complaints.
Best Pa Features of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs: 5/5
The Whirlpool model features hydrotherapy jets. Safety features in both models include three built-in grab bars. The doors of these tubs are 20% wider than most competitors’, making it easier to get in and out.
Pennsylvania Pricing of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs: 4/5
The standard tub costs $2,621.93, and the whirlpool tub is $3,285.13. Both are out of stock on the manufacturer’s website. However, on Amazon, you can purchase them for $2,999.99 and $3,199.99, respectively.
Overall Score of ANZZI Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania: 4.4
7. Endurance — Best Size Range in Pennsylvania
Pros of Endurance Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Available at Lowe’s
- Large range of sizes
- Strong quality control process
- Built-in safety features
Cons of Endurance Walk-In Tubs in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and More:
- Limited customer support
- No installation available
- Not all parts included when purchasing tub
Endurance is a brand of walk-in tubs that sells exclusively at Lowe’s. It offers a large range of sizes, and all of its tubs go through a rigorous quality control process. It has several built-in safety features.
However, there is limited customer support, since you’re buying from Lowe’s. Installation is not included, and neither are all the parts — for example, the faucet is not always included. As of this writing, the company’s website is down, offering only a phone number for customer service, which is the same number as Universal Tubs, reviewed above.
Endurance Walk-In Tub Size in Pennsylvania: 4/5
Sizes range from 26 to 32 inches wide and 45.5 to 60 inches long.
Pa Speed of Filling and Draining Endurance Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
No information on filling and draining speed is available.
Best Pa Features of Endurance Walk-In Tubs: 3/5
Not all tubs are ADA-compliant, but most have built-in grab bars and non-slip surfaces. Whirlpool tubs may include hydrotherapy, aerotherapy, chromatherapy, and aromatherapy.
Pennsylvania Pricing of Endurance Walk-In Tubs: 5/5
Prices run from $3,039 to $8,939. Installation is not included.
Overall Score of Endurance Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania: 4.3
See what Endurance tubs have to offer.
How We Ranked the Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania
When we considered the best walk-in tubs, we looked at four key metrics: sizes available, speed of filling and draining, features, and price. We evaluated each data point individually and ranked them on a scale of one to five, with one being the lowest score and five being the best. We then compared each brand to the others and provided a weighted score.
FAQs About the Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania
What Is a Walk-In Tub?
A walk-in tub is a bathtub designed with a door in the side to make it easier to get in and out of. It typically has much higher sides than a standard bathtub, giving you room to sit comfortably on the seat inside and be submerged in water up to your shoulders. Most walk-in tubs have built-in grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and a ledge of three to seven inches to step over, as opposed to the 20- to 24-inch height of the side of a standard bathtub. Many walk-in tubs are ADA-compliant, meaning they meet the standards set forth by the ADA for easier, safer, and more comfortable use by people with disabilities.
Why Should I Use One of the Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania?
Bathrooms are dangerous places, especially for people who have disabilities or are getting older. As you age, your balance and strength tend to suffer. That can make climbing in and out of a standard bathtub, whether to take a bath or a shower, more difficult and more hazardous.
A walk-in tub eliminates that climb. It also provides you with a comfortable seat to sit on as you bathe or shower, lowering your fall risk. The floor is typically made of a non-slick surface, further decreasing the chance of an accident.
How Does the Water Stay in the Tub if There’s a Door?
There are two types of doors for walk-in tubs: those that open into the tub, and those that open outward. Both types of doors are equipped with strong sealing mechanisms to keep the water in the tub, where it belongs. When you latch and lock the door of your walk-in bathtub, the seal is pressurized. Inward-opening doors also have the pressure of the water helping to keep the door shut and sealed.
What Are the Health Benefits of the Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania?
A walk-in tub makes it easier to take a long, hot bath, which has many benefits. Baths can lift your mood, with or without aromatherapy or chromatherapy. They provide the perfect combination of solitude, quiet, and comfort. They cause you to feel calm and serene.
Bathing can help ease sore muscles and joints. Using hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets can improve blood flow in your body, which can help with heart health by lowering your blood pressure. The jets can also help with diabetes by improving your circulation. A hot bath that makes you sweat can also burn calories, even as many as taking a long walk.
If you’re coughing or congested, a hot bath can help. The steam will open your nasal passages by getting the blood vessels in your nose moving more freely. It also helps mucus move more easily.
Walk-in tubs are easy solutions to help people who have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Climbing over the tub wall can get confusing, and simply walking in and sitting down is an easier process for people with those conditions.
Taking a bath is a good way to relax your body and rest your brain. This can lead to easier and better-quality sleep. Studies have shown that you sleep better when you’re colder. Taking a nice, warm bath before bedtime cools your body more quickly, helping you fall asleep faster.
What Is Chromatherapy and Why Should I Use It?
Chromatherapy involves using different-colored lights to evoke a mood or promote healing in your body. It’s often used to balance out your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energy. Chromatherapy comes in a wide range of colors, each of which has its own healing effects.
Red works on your circulatory system, promoting energy and vitality. Orange works on your respiratory and nervous systems, fighting fatigue and nurturing your mind and body. Green also works on your nervous system to help promote feelings of calm and peace.
Yellow stimulates vitality. Turquoise relaxes your mind. Blue stimulates your intellect. Magenta helps harmonize your emotions.
How Do I Find the Best Walk-In Tub in Pennsylvania for Me?
To find the best walk-in tub for you, carefully consider your options and do your homework. Think about whether you want to buy a tub from a company that includes installation, or if you have the ability to install it yourself. You can also have a contractor install it for you.
Consider how big you need the tub to be, and whether you need it to fit into the existing space where your current tub is. You may have to do a complete remodel of your bathroom, complete with extra plumbing and electrical work, to have a walk-in tub installed.
Study the list of features on the tub you’re considering. The filling and draining speeds are important to your decision, as they dictate how long you’ll be sitting in the tub waiting for the water to rise or go down. Safety features are crucial, and should include grab bars, a comfortable seat, a non-slip surface, and controls within easy reach as you’re sitting in the tub. For example, you shouldn’t have to reach down into the tub to release the drain.
Look at the pricing options. While a lot of companies offer financing options, you want to be sure you can afford the tub you want, as well as the installation costs. When you think about the price of the tub, also consider the cost of using it.
For example, if your hot water heater only holds 60 gallons of hot water, and you’re looking at a 94-gallon tub, you could run through your entire hot water supply in minutes, increasing your electric bill. You’d also be increasing your water bill, since standard tubs only hold 42 gallons, and a typical shower uses just over 17 gallons of water.
Comparing the Seven Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania
- Best for: Best overall
- Size: 52 to 60 inches long, 28 to 32 inches wide; step-in height is three inches
- Filling and Draining: Fast-drain system mentioned, but no specifics given
- Features: Grab bars, accessible control panel, an extra-wide door, hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets, heated backrest, multifunctional handheld shower
- Pricing: $2,000 to $25,000; installation $2,500 to $6,000
- Best for: Best for wheelchair accessibility
- Size: 36 to 80 inches long, 26 to 36 inches wide; step-in height is six to seven inches
- Filling and Draining: Fills in seven minutes; drains in 80 seconds
- Features: Grab bars, shower column, handheld shower, hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets, swivel tray, four-fold glass shower screen, heated seat and backrest, seat pillows, headrest and neck support; variety of faucet choices
- Pricing: Not listed on website; sources say $4,000 to $8,000; no installation included
- Best for: Best for bathtub conversion kits
- Size: 38.5 to 60 inches long, 26 to 32 inches wide; step-in height from six to 13.5 inches
- Filling and Draining: “Auto Drain” empties tub in less than a minute
- Features: Grab bars; hydrotherapy and aerotherapy jets
- Pricing: Conversion kits cost $230 to $592; tubs cost between $2,493 and $5,390, plus $385 shipping
- Best for: Best for brick-and-mortar buying
- Size: 50 to 60 inches long, 30 to 34 inches wide; step-in height unknown
- Filling and Draining: Drains in less than a minute
- Features: Adjustable whirlpool jets, built-in grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and chromatherapy
- Pricing:
- Best for: Best for budget-friendly tubs
- Size: 50 to 60 inches long, 26 to 30 inches wide; step-in height 4.25 inches
- Filling and Draining: Some customers say it takes an hour to fill; drains in less than a minute
- Features: Hydrotherapy, aerotherapy, and aromatherapy jets, Euro-grip showerhead with 60-inch reach, built-in grab bars, slip-resistant flooring, chromatherapy lighting, inline water heater
- Pricing: $1,995, $2,895, or $3,495
- Best for: Best accessibility
- Size: 53 inches long, 26 inches wide; step-in height is less than four inches
- Filling and Draining: Customer complaints indicate long fill time
- Features: Hydrotherapy jets, three built-in grab bars, extra-wide doors
- Pricing: $2,621.93 or $3,285.13 on company’s website; $2,999.99 or $3,199.99 on Amazon
- Best for: Best size range
- Size: 45.5 to 60 inches long, 26 to 32 inches wide
- Filling and Draining: No information available
- Features: Built-in grab bars, non-slip surfaces; Whirlpool tubs may include hydrotherapy, aerotherapy, chromatherapy, and aromatherapy
- Pricing: $3,039 to $8,939
Summing Up the Best Walk-In Tubs in Pennsylvania of 2023
While we believe that Kohler Walk-In Bath is the best solution for your walk-in tub needs, we recognize that it may not be the greatest fit for all situations. This guide lays out the best seven options for walk-in tubs in 2023. After comparing the size, the fill and drain times, the available features, and the price of the tubs, we’re sure you’ll find a great fit for your bathroom and your lifestyle.
