The Evolution and Need for Step-In Tubs

Posted by Safety Bath Walk in Tubs on April 27th, 2017

Modern step-in bathtubs have become a popular fixture in homes across the globe for a long list of good reasons. These unique designs tend to make it much easier for the disabled or elderly to bathe, but the concept isn’t exactly new. Today’s high-tech, sleek designs trace their roots back to ancient times and the gradual, but steady evolution of bathtubs through the ages.

Ancient Roman tubs that offered steps down and the ability for bathers to lounge in a more relaxed manner helped lay the groundwork for all tubs that would follow, including today’s step-in designs. Turkish baths, too, helped set the stage for more modern concepts in tubs. While claw-foot designs and other freestanding models popularized in Europe and the Americas took bathing off the ground, these designs also contributed to what would eventually become the modern step-in tub.

Contemporary step-in tubs offer some of the relaxing features found in Roman and Turkish baths while also drawing on the basic design behind above ground, modern tubs. Unlike their standard bathroom counterparts, however, step-in tubs eliminate the 20-inch step-over traditional tubs require for people to gain access to refreshing, cleansing waters. The installation of a swing-in or swing-out door makes it much simpler and safer for the elderly and people with disabilities to bathe. It also eliminates a highly common bathroom slip-and-fall hazard that poses risks for people of all ages and mobility levels.

Aside from helping people with disabilities and age-related concerns retain some dignity and independence in the bathroom, walk-in tubs are preferred and needed in many homes for these reasons and more:

• The overall safety provided – The bathroom is considered one of the most dangerous rooms in any home for a long list of reasons. In fact, thousands of emergency room trips every year are attributed to slips, falls and other mishaps that occur in bathrooms. Step-in tubs help reduce one of the biggest hazards in the bathroom, which makes them a benefit in any home or medical setting. In addition to the doors, these tubs may also offer slip-resistant flooring and seating. These two additional features can greatly enhance bathing safety.
• The relaxation features that can be provided – While basic walk-in tubs simply offer a door for easier access, many modern designs also feature hot water jets, massage seats and other upgrades meant to make bathing more relaxing. The stress reduction benefits can be huge for users.
• The therapeutic benefits – People with arthritis, back problems and other similar concerns are likely to find walk-in tubs with massage and hot jet features help them ease pain. This type of tub, in fact, may be recommended by healthcare providers for these very reasons.

Modern walk-in tubs were designed to help people who are elderly and disabled retain greater independence in the bathroom. These unique designs, however, do trace their roots back to the earliest tubs known to man and offer features that can benefit anyone.

About the Author:

Safety Bath Walk in Tubs has been manufacturing tubs since 1992.  Our tubs are made with the highest quality materials, from one piece Fiberglass backed acrylic to aluminum door systems with auto locks. We have Walk in Tubs to fit all applications and it is our duty to ensure that we fit the right tub to the individual clients needs without any high pressure or intrusive sales people.