By Tamara Jude Updated January 26, 2024
Join the 6,755 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days
Join the 6,755 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days
- Top Walk-In Tub Shower Combos
- What Are Walk-In Tubs with Showers?
- What Is ADA Compliance?
- Walk-In Tub with Shower Features to Consider
- ADA Compliance and Safety
- Shower Add-On Options
- Therapeutic Amenities
- Benefits and Drawbacks of Walk-In Tub Shower Combos
- How Much Do Walk-In Tub Shower Combos Cost?
- How to Reduce Costs On Your Walk-In Tub with Shower Project
- Our Recommendation
- How We Chose the Top Walk-In Tub Brands
All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Walk-in tubs are a safe and accessible bathing option for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. With features such as doors, low step-ins, and handrails, your loved ones can enjoy their bathing experience while maintaining their independence. Adding a shower increases your tub’s versatility and allows switching between relaxing baths or invigorating showers. However, finding the right option for your next bathroom remodel may be challenging. We’ll review the best walk-in tub shower combinations and offer shopping tips for finding the best model.
Top Walk-In Tub Shower Combos
What Are Walk-In Tubs with Showers?
Walk-in tubs with showers are specially designed bathtubs with showerheads that offer a safe, versatile bathing experience for individuals with limited mobility. These tubs have accessible features such as a low-entry step, safety handrails, nonslip floors, and a functioning tub door. Many walk-in tub companies have ADA-compliant seats and accessible controls for an improved bathing experience.
Walk-in tubs are typically taller than traditional tubs to accommodate seated bathing. As such, these tubs take longer to fill and drain. Tub manufacturers often include fast-fill and dual-drain features to reduce wait times. However, most walk-in tubs don’t require additional bathroom space and fall within the dimensions of traditional bathtubs. Walk-in tubs offer therapeutic upgrades, such as water jets, hydromassage, heated seats, and LED lightings.
Upgrading to a walk-in tub shower combination expands your bathing options and gives customers more flexibility. These upgraded tubs are safer than walk-in showers and include more therapeutic features. Walk-in tub combos often have a rainfall or a traditional showerhead high enough for standing or seated bathing. Walk-in tub combo kits vary by manufacturer and may include adjustable showerheads and enclosure options.
Boca
- Price range: Available upon request
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- ADA-compliant: Yes
Benefits and Drawbacks of Boca
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
|---|---|
Adjustable height and included attachments for handheld wand | Only one showerhead option |
Rainfall showerhead provides a soothing, spa-like bathing experience | Shower add-on doesn’t not include protective shower door |
Showerhead easily attaches to the tub and wall paneling | Showerhead easily attaches to the tub and wall paneleing |
What we like: Boca offers several customizable walk-in tubs with standard features including an ultralow 2-inch step, pillow and seat cushions, and a fast draining system. Its nonslip flooring and grab bar ensure a safe entry and exit. Boca uses fiberglass with a marine-grade gelcoat to extend the tub’s life. Homeowners can customize their walk-in tubs to create a more luxurious and therapeutic experience. Upgradeable tub features include jets, an aromatherapy system, heated seats, and faucet finishes.
Homeowners can also add a rainfall showerhead to accompany the included handheld wand. This type of showerhead delivers evenly pressured water flow to mimic a soothing rain shower. Users can switch between the faucet and showerhead options while bathing, similar to a standard shower setup. The Boca showerhead has an adjustable height to make seated showering more convenient. Boca offers only one showerhead option and does not include shower door options.
Ella’s Bubbles
- Price range: $2,500 to $10,000*
- Warranty options: Limited lifetime
- ADA-compliant: Yes
Benefits and Drawbacks of Ella’s Bubbles
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
|---|---|
Adjustable showerhead positioning for seated or standing showers | No handheld shower or hose included with the kit |
Four-fold tempered glass shower door for added protection | Shower only works with walk-in tubs with either a two-or five-piece faucet set |
Stainless-steel rainfall showerhead can adjust up to 7 feet | Showerhead and door must be purchased separately |
What we like: Ella’s Bubbles offers the largest variety of walk-in tubs with more than 20 models in its catalog. The company sells a variety of tub styles, including bariatric, two-person, and wheelchair-accessible models. Ella’s Bubbles models have different door configurations, such as U-shaped, L-shaped, and inward- and outward-swinging doors for better accessibility. To create a more enjoyable bathing experience, choose models with heated backrests, a 360-degree swivel tray, and chromotherapy (or light) features.
Ella’s Bubbles provides one of the best shower upgrade kits available. The company has a stainless-steel rainfall showerhead with a height adjustment of up to 7 feet. The shower add-on is wall-mounted and connects to your existing deck-mounted faucet. The oversized showerhead tilts to accommodate a seated or standing shower configuration. The showerhead column includes a handheld shower attachment to keep the accessory within reach.
The company also sells a four-fold tempered glass shower screen to accompany the shower or bath. The adjustable screen offers a three- or four-panel configuration, making customization easy. The rust-proof aluminum frame is durable and coordinates with the showerhead’s chrome finish. Homeowners have to add each accessory separately to complete their shower upgrade.
Free quote: Get your quote from Ella’s Bubbles today
*All cost data in this article is sourced from Home Advisor and Angi.
Kohler
- Price range: $4,000 to $12,000
- Warranty options: Limited lifetime
- ADA-compliant: Yes
Benefits and Drawbacks of Kohler
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
|---|---|
Extended gooseneck design to accommodate seated showers | Fixed showerhead with no adjustability |
Partial one-piece bath screen included in the kit | Only one showerhead option |
Three traditional showerhead options | Showerhead requires a wall installation |
What we like: Though Kohler only offers one soaker tub model, it has excellent safety features including extra-wide doors, handrails, a low step-in, and a nonslip floor. Additional features include quick-drain technology, a multifunction hand shower, and an easy access control panel. For a more luxurious experience, activate the hydrotherapy whirlpool jets, heated backrest, or air jets. Customize your Kohler walk-in bath with two faucet finishes, two bathtub colors, and eight wall finishes.
Kohler’s shower package includes a wall-mounted gooseneck showerhead and bath screen. Homeowners can choose between a regular or extended shower arm which allows for sitting. The frameless bath screen is attached in one solid piece and covers only half of your walk-in bathtub. This traditional showerhead kit has three attachment styles: traditional, modern, and contemporary. You can also choose between brushed nickel and polished chrome finishes to coordinate with your tub.
Read more: Kohler Walk-In Tubs Review
Free quote: Get your free quote from Kohler today
Safe Step
- Price range: $2,500 to $10,000
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- ADA-compliant: Yes
Benefits and Drawbacks of Safe Step
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
|---|---|
Dedicated walk-in tub shower model | No customizations for showerhead installation |
Shower extension can be adjusted for height and positioning | Only one walk-in shower model available |
Convenient handheld shower attachment included | Showerhead requires additional wall mounting for stability |
What we like: Safe Step provides a fully customizable walk-in tub with ADA-compliant features. Its walk-in tub includes a 4-inch step-in, antislip surface on the floor and seat, and two grab bars for added safety. The company also has antiscald technology in its faucets to prevent unnecessary burns. Homeowners can use aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and soothing jets with microbubble technology. These bubbles have soothing and exfoliating properties, creating a relaxing experience. Additional features include a water-resistant remote control, a built-in towel rack, an LED electronic keypad, and a bidet.
The company offers a unique combination walk-in tub shower combo, the Hybrid Walk-In Tub. This stand-alone model includes a rainfall showerhead attached to the tub. The shower extension provides an attachment for the included handheld shower to keep it conveniently close. The shower extension is adjustable, offering height and showerhead maneuverability.
What Is ADA Compliance?
For a tub to be considered ADA compliant, it must meet or exceed standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These guidelines include specifications for grab bars, tub size, wheelchair-accessible doors, and seating.
Walk-In Tub with Shower Features to Consider
Most walk-in tub combos are offered as an upgrade to existing walk-in tub models. Keep this in mind as you shop, as options are limited. If a shower upgrade is a must for your tub, you’ll need to compare brands offering both the shower option and the features you need. This includes safety, therapeutic, and customization options. Here are some factors to remember while researching walk-in tub shower combos.
ADA Compliance and Safety
Look for walk-in tubs that offer your preferred safety features and upgrades. Not every tub manufacturer offers ADA-compliant options such as wheelchair-accessible tubs, so check the product details for this designation. ADA-compliant tubs must be larger, which usually means a higher price tag. If you need a walk-in tub for someone with mobility limitations, check its design for low-threshold steps, ergonomic controls, and grab bars.
Shower Add-On Options
Most shower kits include either overhead or traditional showerhead options. With a traditional shower, you’ll need to consider additional costs for installation and plumbing. Furthermore, the kit may only work with certain walk-in tub models. Shower doors or screens aren’t always included, so consider the additional costs needed for these features. You may have to install a separate shower curtain rod or retractable shower doors for added privacy.
Therapeutic Amenities
Many homeowners choose walk-in tubs for their therapeutic and relaxing options. Tubs with more advanced features such as aromatherapy, heated seats, whirlpool jets, and LED lights have a higher price point than a basic walk-in tub. Unless you opt for a fully customizable walk-in tub, you may not find all the features you want. Remember this as you search for walk-in tubs with shower upgrade options.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Walk-In Tub Shower Combos
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
Enhanced bathing experience with shower and tub options | Homeowners could pay additional plumbing and installation costs |
Excellent alternative for individuals that can’t use handheld showers | Shower kits vary and may offer limited features |
More safety features than walk-in showers | Walk-in tubs with showers are not available from every manufacturer |
Are Walk-In Tub Shower Combinations Worth It?
Investing in a walk-in tub with a shower improves your bathing experience and creates a relaxing spa-like environment. Although handheld showers are convenient, they can become hard to grip and may pose a problem for someone with dexterity limitations. Upgrading to a shower-tub combo offers an extended hands-free bathing alternative than can be experienced while sitting or standing.
These combos offer more safety features than a traditional tub or walk-in shower, reducing the chance of slips or falls while bathing. Although adding a shower to your walk-in tub will increase your installation cost, the added safety, comfort, and independence can be worth the investment.
How Much Do Walk-In Tub Shower Combos Cost?
Walk-in tubs cost $2,500 to $6,000 for the tub itself. Adding a shower kit increases that range to $4,500 to $12,000. Your walk-in tub shower combo costs could increase if the installation requires additional plumbing, which potentially adds $350 to $1,800. Consider a larger bathroom remodel if your new walk-in tub is larger than your current traditional tub.
The surrounding housing market could impact your walk-in tub’s return on investment (ROI). For example, if you live in an area with a large community of elderly people or homeowners with disabilities, a walk-in tub will make your home more desirable. Adding high-end walk-in tub models, such as a whirlpool tub, will increase your home’s value and could be considered a lavish home upgrade
How to Reduce Costs On Your Walk-In Tub with Shower Project
Though walk-in tubs with showers are often more expensive than nonshower options, you can reduce the cost with the below tips.
- Choose durable walk-in tubs: Invest in models with excellent durability to reduce the need for frequent future repairs.
- Compare shower kits: Search for shower kits from multiple manufacturers and select options with the basic functions and features you need.
- Consider financing options: Look for walk-in tub manufacturers that offer financing options or installment payments.
- Limit the luxury features: Opt for a basic walk-in tub model with a shower kit if you’d prefer practical features over more luxury ones.
- Pick a smaller tub: Look for smaller tubs with shower kits to reduce your budget. Don’t overspend on a two-person tub if it’s not necessary.
- Request multiple quotes: Most walk-in tub manufacturers and retailers offer free quotes. Request at least three quotes to find the best deal.
Our Recommendation
Walk-in tubs with showers provide a more convenient, relaxing bathing experience. Homeowners benefit from the tub’s safety features while enjoying the convenience of a shower. Not all tub manufacturers offer walk-in shower combos, so you’ll need to weigh your options when making a final choice.
We recommend Boca as our top choice due to its relaxing, adjustable rainfall shower. Consider Ella’s Bubbles if you need an all-inclusive shower with a showerhead and adjustable screen. Kohler is another good choice if you prefer a wall-mounted showerhead with more customization options.
When shopping for your walk-in tub, request at least three quotes from manufacturers to compare features and shower options.
Best Walk-In Tub Shower Combination FAQ
Can you have a walk-in tub shower combo?
Yes, you can have a walk-in tub shower combo in your home. Most shower options are available as an upgrade or a separate kit added to your tub purchase. Check the manufacturer for its shower upgrade availability, as not all brands offer this feature.
Is a walk-in tub and shower combo worth the investment?
Yes, a walk-in tub and shower combo is worth the investment. It improves your bathing experience and has better safety options than a standard or walk-in shower. Walk-in tub shower combos offer convenient, hands-free bathing options for people with disabilities and mobility issues.
Does a walk-in tub with a shower devalue your home?
No, adding a walk-in tub with a shower will not devalue your home. Depending on the local housing market, adding a walk-in tub shower combo could boost your homeu0026#8217;s appeal to elderly home buyers. You could also position your walk-in tub shower as a luxury bathroom upgrade, adding a broader buyer appeal.
How much does a walk-in tub and shower cost?
Walk-in tubs with showers cost an average of $4,500 to $12,000. This pricing depends on the showerhead type, chosen accessories, and customization options. You’ll incur additional plumbing and installation charges if you choose a wall-mounted model.
Does Medicare cover the cost of a walk-in tub with shower combination?
No, Medicare does not cover the cost of a walk-in tub with shower combination. Typically, a walk-in tub is not considered a medical necessity. However, some state Medicaid and private insurance companies may help with a walk-in tub purchase.
How We Chose the Top Walk-In Tub Brands
We researched and analyzed dozens of walk-in tub brands. Then, we created a rating system based on each brand’s tub designs, safety features, and luxury options. We also analyzed each brand’s warranty options to ensure they offered comprehensive limited lifetime warranties on more than just a few parts.
We visited each company’s website and spoke directly to representatives to learn if the brand provides fully customizable walk-in tubs and how the installation process works. We then closely compared each provider’s offerings to see which brand offers the most customizable and comprehensive walk-in tub selection with an eye toward luxury.
