If you or a loved one have mobility trouble, one of the things you should look into is upgrading your bathtub to a walk-in tub. Walk-in bathtubs simplify bathing by eliminating the need to step over the edge of the tub. You just open the door and walk in or out of the tub with no lip to step over. It's completely sealed around the door so that it doesn't leak, and its design makes it much easier to handle bathing tasks independently, even with physical limitations. Here are a few things to consider that can help you make the most of your walk-in bathtub upgrade.

Invest In A Heat System

One of the drawbacks of a walk-in bathtub is the fact that you have to get in and close the door before you can fill it, and you have to drain it completely before you can get out. That can leave you prone to a chill if you're not careful. You can avoid that by installing a heat system in your bathroom.

Start with a heat lamp installed in the ceiling directly over the tub. The heat lamp will radiate heat downward when you turn it on, helping to heat the tub area. You can also add radiant heat around the tub, in the flooring. As an alternative, heat fans will help to keep the bathroom warm.

Another way to heat things up is to install steam jets. You can turn on the steam jets while you're waiting for the tub to fill, and the steam will help to keep you warmer. Then, you can shut them off while you bathe and turn them back on again while you wait for the tub to drain.

Consider A Detachable Shower Head

If you prefer to shower instead of bathing, you can install a detachable shower head in your walk-in tub. That way, you can still sit on the stability bench while you're showering and you'll have full control over where the water goes. For those with inflammation or muscle pain as part of their mobility issues, a shower head with massaging settings can be a welcome investment, too.

Ask About Gasket Cleaners

The watertight gaskets that are usually attached to the door on a walk-in bathtub can get moldy or develop mildew because of the water and moisture accumulation around the gaskets. Using the wrong cleaning product to prevent this can actually cause the gaskets to deteriorate, leading to leaks. Ask your walk-in tub installation contractor to help you choose the right cleaning product for your tub's gaskets. That way you can keep them clean without worrying about causing unnecessary damage.