Walk In Baths

There are a few extra things to consider when buying a walk-in bath, particularly around the door, filling and draining, and installation. Here are the main things worth knowing before you choose.

 

How does a walk-in bath work?

A walk-in bath has a door built into the side, so you can step in through a lower opening rather than climbing over the edge of a standard bath. Once you're inside, the door is closed securely before filling the bath.

When you've finished bathing, the water needs to drain before you open the door again. The exact door, locking and drainage setup varies between models, so check the product details before buying.

 

Do walk-in baths leak?

The access door is fitted with a watertight seal designed to keep water inside the bath when it's properly closed. Always make sure the door is fully shut before filling the bath and follow the manufacturer's instructions for using and looking after the seal. Correct installation is also important, so the bath should be fitted according to the supplied instructions.

 

Do I have to stay in a walk-in bath while it fills and drains?

With most walk-in baths, you'll need to get inside and close the door before filling it. You'll then need to wait until the water has drained below the door before opening it to get out.

Some models include twin wastes or other drainage features that can help empty the bath more quickly. Fill and drain times will also depend on your water pressure and plumbing setup.

 

Can a plumber install a walk-in bath?

Installation requirements vary depending on the specific walk-in bath and the existing bathroom. A suitably qualified plumber or bathroom fitter can assess the space, pipework and drainage and fit the bath according to the manufacturer's instructions. Check the installation requirements before ordering, particularly if the bath includes electrical or powered features that may need additional specialist work.