Ultimate Guide to Walk-in Tub Sizes: Tub Sizes to Meet Your Bathroom Space

Walk-in Tub Sizes vs. Traditional Tub Sizes: What is the Difference?

One of the differences between a walk-in tub and a traditional tub is how each tub is built. A walk-in tub is built upright, so it appears higher but not too long. 

Traditional tubs are measured by the number of people that can fit, which are usually two. Walk-in tubs on the other hand are measured by length and width. It’s important you choose a walk-in tub size that fits your measurements to avoid any problems with installation.

The main difference between these tubs in terms of size is the length. A standard tub is usually about 60-inches long while walk-in tubs are normally 60 to 70 inches long, enough for the largest person to fit with room to spare.

Another difference between traditional and walk-in tubs is depth. The average depth of a traditional bathtub is around 13-14 inches but the most commonly used depth for walk-in tubs is 40-48 inches. This may be because of the therapeutic benefits of having deeper water to soak in. This also allows you to fit multiple people at once, like couples who want to enjoy a romantic bath.

The Dimensions of a Standard Tub vs. Walk-in Tub

Below are the key differences between the dimensions of these tubs.

Width

Walk-in tubs generally have the same width as that of a standard tub. The width of the average walk-in tub is about 30-32 inches. You can also get smaller ones of 20-30 inches wide made to fit in smaller bathroom spaces. There are also those made to fit multiple bathers which can go up to 38-42 inches.

Height

If you’re looking for a walk-in tub that comes in smaller sizes, then you’ll find that the height of these units is also much lower, about 30-38 inches. However, for tubs made for larger people, the height can go up to 50 inches tall, carrying up to 100 gallons of water.

Standard walk-in tubs come with a height of about 30-38 inches, while standard bathtubs can be up to 60 inches tall. The width is generally the same, measuring about 30-32 inches.

Walk-in Tub Bariatric Model Sizes

There are also longest walk-in tubs going up to 60 inches long. Walk-in tubs made for bariatric patients and seniors weighing 300 pounds and above come with a width of 40 inches wide. They also feature a wide bariatric walk-in bathtub seat measuring up to 30-inches. 

Walk-in Tub Seat Width and Height

Walking bathtubs feature a seat width of 21 inches and a height of 17 inches. While this seat is perfect for people with average height and weight, it can be customized to two inches lower or higher depending on your height.

For heavier people (more than 300 lbs.), bariatric seat sizes are available, measuring 30-inch wide.

Tub Door Width

Another factor worth considering when it comes to walk-in tubs is the tub door width. The doors come in different options, including 16, 18, and 22 inches. The 16-inch door is best for walk-in tubs that are 30 inches or smaller.

Standard walk-in tubs feature a standard door width of 17-18 inches, while bariatric models have a 20-inch wide door opening. There are also bigger and wider wheelchair-accessible doors measuring up to 32 inches.

What are the Dimensions of a Walk-in Tub? Common/Standard Walk-in Tub Sizes

Walk-in tubs come in different sizes, with the standard ones measuring 32 inches in width, 52 inches in length, and 38 inches in height.

Top Rated Walk-in Tub Manufacturers and Their Standard Sizes

Manufacturer	Standard Dimensions (W x L x H)	Seat Size
Boca	30” x 51” x 36”	17”
Kohler	32” x 60” x 39”	17”
American Standard	30” x 52” x 40”	22”
Safestep	32” x 52” x 40”	17”

Here are some of the most common walk-in tubs and their measurements.

Standard Walk-in Tubs

These are the most common walk-in tubs, which feature the golden sizes of walk-in tubs. The tubs come with 52 inches length and 32 inches width, and 38 inches height. The seat size for these tubs is usually 21 inches.

Deep Soaking Tub

These are usually made for much taller people. They come with the same length and width as the standard tubs of 52 and 30, respectively. However, they vary from the standard ones in height, which goes up to 46 inches.

Large Walk-In Tub

These tubs are made for weighing more than 300 pounds. These tubs are 40 inches wide, with their length and height being the same as that of standard tubs, 52 inches, and 38 inches, respectively. These tubs also feature wider and more comfortable seats measuring 30 inches. If you have these models, you’ll need to upgrade the hot water tank to suit the size.

Getting the Right Size for Your Bathroom/ How to Measure for Your Walk-in Tub

Before you buy a walk-in tub, you need to measure your bathroom carefully. Make sure that the installation area of the walk-in tub is large enough for it to fit in comfortably. You also need to consider how much space can be left between the wall and your new bathtub so as not to disrupt the plumbing system.

Most older and smaller homes come with standard alcove tubs, which usually measures 32 inches wide, 60 inches long, and 18 inches deep. This is perfect for people that are petite in size. 

There’s also the inner basin that varies depending on the thickness of the surround. The top of the basin measures 52 inches by 24 inches, and the bottom measures 45 inches long by 22 inches wide.

For those with much smaller bathrooms, their tubs are a few inches smaller. Some people prefer smaller walk-in tubs even when their bathrooms can accommodate the standard sizes. They prefer to leave enough room for bathroom essentials such as a towel rack and a toilet.

Also, before buying a new tub, you need to measure your height and weight. This is important as you’ll need your walk-in tub to be customized for these factors.

If you can’t take the measurements all by yourself, you can fill up our form, and one of our professionals will come to your home and take measurements of your bathroom and yourself. Getting professional measurements will be much more accurate. We will also give you a free estimate depending on the outcome of the measurements.

What Size of a Water Heater Should I Get for My Walk-in Tub? Sizing Your Water Heater

If your water heater is too small, you’ll experience problems such as scalding, and the water temperature will be affected. If your water heater is too large, you’ll waste a lot of energy and money. So, how do you know if your new heater is the right size?

The first thing to consider is how much hot water does your walk-in tub use at one time. In most cases, a standard tub uses around 20-30 gallons of water per minute. The right-sized heater should be able to handle this amount without having to work overtime. We recommend you get at least a 50-gallon water heater. This will enable you to fill at least two-thirds full of hot water and have a comfortable bath.

Walk-in Tub FAQs

What is the smallest size of a walk-in tub?

A walk-in tub that can accommodate a person with a height of around 5’2″ is the smallest. It has a standard length and width of 52 and 32 respectively, but it features a small seat that measures 19 inches.

What is the biggest/largest size of a walk-in tub?

The biggest size of a walk-in tub is one that can accommodate a person of around 6’7″. This tub is 52 inches long and 30 inches wide. It also has a seat that measures 35 inches and is deep and comfortable enough to accommodate the needs of tall people.

How much space do you need for a walk-in tab?

A standard size walk-in tub requires about 70 inches of space. This is usually enough to fit in most bathrooms without compromising the functionality of other parts of the bathroom, such as the shower and toilet.

Summary

Walk-in tubs are great for older people, people with mobility issues, and those who want a comfortable bath experience. Regardless of your situation, you need to get the right size to fit in your bathroom and accommodate your height and weight.If you don’t know how to measure the dimensions of your bathroom, our professionals are here to help you out. Feel free to fill our form and get a free estimate for a perfect walk-in tub. We’re here to ensure you get the best prices. All you have to do is book a free consultation here.