Walk-In Tub Sizes: Standard Dimensions and Space Requirements

Standard walk-in tub dimensions

Standard walk-in tubs are generally between 52 and 60 inches long, 28 to 32 inches wide and 38 to 39 inches high. For comparison, the typical dimensions of a traditional bathtub are 60 inches long, 30 inches wide and 14 to 16 inches high.

Sizing considerations for walk-in tubs

The extra height of a walk-in tub is due to the built-in seat, which enables users to sit upright while bathing.

You’ll also need to consider which type of door your tub has. There are two main types of doors for walk-in tubs: inward-swinging and outward-swinging. The best choice depends on the size of the bathroom and the user's specific needs.

• Inward-swinging doors are ideal for smaller bathrooms because they don't require extra space for the door to open. However, a person with mobility issues may find one difficult to use since they must shift their legs inside the tub to open the door.
• Outward-swinging doors are much easier to access, especially for those who use a wheelchair or other mobility aids. This option, however, does require a larger bathroom with sufficient clear space for the door to swing open without hitting a toilet, cabinets or walls. For example, if the door is 17 inches wide, you'll need to ensure there are no obstructions in its swing path.

As Thomas Borcherding, owner and lead designer at Homestar Design Remodel in Des Peres, Missouri, said, “It's best to triple-check that your new walk-in tub will not ding your drywall or be obstructed by your toilet.” Regardless of which type of door you choose, you'll need plenty of clear space to move around the tub safely.

Walk-in tub dimensions by brand

*Sizing varies based on walk-in tub model and design

Customization options for walk-in tubs

When it comes to customizing your walk-in tub, there are plenty of beneficial features to choose from. Walk-in tubs come in a variety of sizes to suit your space and offer a number of luxury and safety features.

Some of the most popular features include:

• Built-in grab bars
• Hand-held showerhead
• Heated seats and neck rests
• Quick-drain system
• Hydrotherapy jets
• Low-entry threshold (two to three inches high)

The drain position, whether on the left or right side, is a critical factor to consider when selecting a walk-in tub. According to Borcherding, your home's existing plumbing layout will help you determine the drain position you need.

“Selecting a specific drain position will consequently alter the tub's door positioning, as well as the seating arrangement,” Borcherding said. “You may fall in love with a particular walk-in tub only to find that its drain positioning does not work with your home's current plumbing layout.”

Before purchasing a tub, it's best to consult with your plumber to ensure it's compatible with your plumbing system. Borcherding also said, in some cases, a plumber may be able to modify the plumbing to accommodate a different drain location.

Space requirements and installation tips

Installing a walk-in tub takes more than checking the tub’s size. You’ll also need to plan for the space around it, plumbing connections and room to get in and out of the tub, especially if your bathroom needs to be wheelchair accessible.

Follow these steps to ensure you get all the key measurements you’ll need:

1. Gather bathroom dimensions: Measure the entire bathroom floor area, particularly the space where the tub will be installed. Compare these measurements with the specifications of the walk-in tub model you are considering.
2. Measure your current tub or shower space: Measure the length, width, and height of your current tub or shower. This will help you find a walk-in tub that fits neatly into the existing alcove.
3. Measure access routes: Measure all doorways, hallways and stairwells that the tub will have to pass through to get to the bathroom. This is a critical step to ensure the tub can be physically moved and installed in the space. Compare these measurements with the width, length and height of the new tub.
4. Check clearance for mobility: Measure the clear floor space needed around the tub for a person to maneuver a mobility aid, such as a wheelchair or walker. Ensure there is enough space for transfers and safe, comfortable access. A standard recommendation is at least 30 inches of clear space in front of and around the tub.

Types of walk-in tubs and their dimensions

There are four primary types of walk-in tubs: soaker, whirlpool, bariatric and two-person. Each is designed to meet specific bathing needs.

• Soaker: These tubs are deeper than a standard bathtub and allow for full-body immersion.
• Whirlpool: These tubs are similar in size to soakers but include water jets for a therapeutic massage.
• Bariatric: These tubs are wider than standard soakers, providing more space but requiring a larger bathroom for installation.
• Two-person: These tubs are the largest option, with two seats across from each other to accommodate two bathers.

While each type of tub is designed to meet different preferences, they also vary in size, which directly impacts the space needed for installation. Larger models, such as a two-person tub, may not be suitable for a small bathroom.

Size ranges for common walk-in tubs

The typical dimensions of each type of tub are as follows:

Accessibility and ADA compliance for walk-in tubs

If you want your walk-in tub to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, it must include:

• A minimum of 30 inches of clear floor space must be available beside the tub
• A seat height of 17 to 19 inches from the floor.
• Grab bars or rails 33 to 36 inches from the floor that must be mounted in specific locations to assist with safe entry and exit.

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