Walk in Baths
If you used to enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a long bath, but are now hampered by Mobility difficulties, Sam’s Plumbing Supplies can help. We have the experience to advise you on choosing the right Walk in bath to suit your individual needs. We only recommend reputable dealers to sell and fit your bath.
DISABLED BATHROOMS
If you are afraid of falling or are physically challenged when getting in and out of a conventional bath then a Mobility Bath could the solution you have been looking for. However, for the first-time buyer it can sometimes be confusing and time consuming to find a bath that is right for you and your bathroom.
Here are a few guidelines to help you as you browse through the many walk in baths available:
Access - Entering and Exiting the Bath
The saddleband seat
This consists of a strip of strong fabric, which is stretched widthways across the bath. It is connected to an electric roller mechanism, which is fitted beside the bath. The bather sits upon the fabric and activates the roller mechanism, which lowers and raises them into and out of the bath.
Disadvantages: The bather has to climb over the bath edge and balance on the fabric before being lowered and raised. This is not practical if you are obese or unsteady on your feet.
A bath lift (mechanical or inflatable)
The lift is fitted inside the bath and, if you find it difficult to balance, is a safer option than the bath lift.
Disadvantages: The bather has to climb over the bath edge, which is not practical if you are unsteady on your feet. The height of the lift may lessen the water level, which may mean investing in a deeper bath.
Traverse seats
The bather is lifted over the bath edge in a swiveling seat, powered by an electric motor or handrail.
Disadvantages: The bather has to be able to balance on the seat, especially if pulling one’s weight and may feel unsteady when rising over the bath edge. Also, the lift may not rise high enough for the feet to clear the edge of the bath, however, powered foot raisers can be provided. The seat may lessen the water level, which may mean investing in a deeper bath.
Walk-in bathtubs
This bath has a door, which the bather steps through. The door should be fitted with a latch and a guaranteed hydrostatic seal, which will avoid any leaks.
Comfort and Safety
All Mobility Baths should provide handrails, which give added safety and stability, whilst accessing the bath or drying off.
A molded and fixed seat inside the bathtub makes bathing more comfortable. However, the seat may lessen the water level, which may mean investing in a deeper bath.
Look for baths with a permanent slip-resistant surface, as these are safer and more hygienic than rubber bath mats.
Bathers must remember to consider the design of the taps, controls and door latches, they need to be easy to use with restricted mobility and wet hands.
Installation
It is worth considering the installation of your chosen bath, and if it will fit into your bathroom. Remember to have your new bath supplied and fitted by reputable dealers.
Summary
Remember to consider the following options when choosing your new Mobility Bath:
Ease of access - Consider the best means of access related to the specific mobility difficulty
Guaranteed hydrostatic seal on walk-in bathtubs
Ask which safety features are available:
Handrails for added safety
Fixed seat for bathing comfort
Slip resistant surface
Thermostatically controlled water
Deeper bath if using a seat of bath lift
Shower and tap attachments as standard
Are shower and whirlpool facilities standard or optional?
Research the dealer or supplier – are they reputable?
Keep a checklist to hand when considering all the options.