Best Walk-in Tub Shower Combinations
Kohler won our top spot for the best walk-in tub-and-shower combo thanks to its 3-inch step-in, hydrojets and gooseneck showerhead.
Our team of senior tech and fall-prevention experts compared and reviewed the best walk-in tub brands and narrowed down the list to our top walk-in tub-and-shower combinations.
How We Researched Walk-In Tub-and-Shower Combinations
To help you find the right tub, we researched and compared over 20 walk-in tub brands. We narrowed down the list to our top picks by evaluating the factors below.
- Price: Walk-in bathtubs can be expensive — especially when you add shower features — so we selected brands at a range of price points that offer solid value. We considered tub costs, installation costs and ways to save.
- Ease of use: A walk-in tub needs to be easy to use, even if it has extra bells and whistles. We evaluated each brand’s ease of use based on customer reviews and features.
- Comfort: Tub-and-shower combinations are designed for comfort and relaxation. We evaluated the features each brand offers to elevate the experience for older adults.
- Extra features: From massage systems to shower wall designs, there are various extra features to customize a walk-in tub-and-shower combo to your needs. We evaluated each company’s extra features and customization options.
- Step-in height: A walk-in tub’s step-in height must be low so it’s easy to enter and exit without injury. All the tub-and-shower combos on our list have a step-in height of 4 inches or less.
- Shower setup: Some brands claim to offer walk-in tub-and-shower combos, but they’re just walk-in tubs with a handheld shower wand. We looked for brands that offer unique designs to allow for standing or seated showers, with enough enclosure to keep the rest of your bathroom dry.
- Warranty: A solid warranty is essential for keeping your walk-in tub in tip-top shape. All of the companies that made this list offer lifetime warranties.
Why Trust Us?
Our team of tech experts tries the latest products and devices for older adults each year. We’ve logged hundreds of hours reviewing walk-in tubs and shower accessories from dozens of brands. In addition to our hands-on research, we work alongside experts with decades of experience working with seniors.
SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines
- 3-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $2,000
- Lifetime warranty
- 4-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $2,500
- Lifetime warranty
- 4-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $3,500
- Lifetime warranty
- Several safety and luxury-focused styles
- 6-inch step-in
- Unique Features: Lifetime warranty
Contents
We spent over 100 hours researching and comparing the best walk-in tub-and-shower combos, evaluating them based on price, overall value, comfort, ease of use and safety features. Kohler is our top pick, offering competitive pricing and one of the lowest step-in heights among well-known brands.
The Best Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combinations in 2025
Comparing the Best Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combination Brands
|
Kohler
|
Safe Step
|
Ella's Bubbles
|
American Standard
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5 | 4.0 | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| *Starting price | $2,000 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $5,700 |
| Lifetime warranty | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Step-in height | 3 inches | 4 inches | 4 inches (varies by model) | 3 inches (varies by model) |
| Tub-and-shower combo models | 1 | 1 | 4 | 4 |
| Water therapy features | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Standing shower head available | Yes | Yes | Yes, with some models | Yes, with some models |
| Wheelchair-accessible models | No | No | Yes | Yes |
*Based on our research and estimates. Does not include the cost of labor and installation.
-
1. Kohler - Best for low step-in
See Pricing Links to KohlerWhat we like most
- 3-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $2,000
- Lifetime warranty
KohlerSee Pricing Links to KohlerOverview:- Step-in height: 3 inches
- Water capacity: 50 gallons
- Standing showerhead: Yes
- Door style: Inward swinging
With over 150 years in business, Kohler is a trusted name in home appliances. They have competitive prices and are an obvious choice for walk-in tub-and-shower combos. Kohler offers only one model, while providers like Ella's Bubbles and American Standard offer far more options. However, Kohler lets you customize the look of your walk-in tub and shower with unique wall colors, patterns and textures.
Kohler sells the walk-in tub by itself or with the shower package to get the best of both worlds. The tub is notable for its 3-inch step-in height, which is an inch lower than the comparable model from Safe Step. We found that the gooseneck or standard showerhead option makes it comfortable to bathe or shower while seated or standing, which is great for households with people of varying ages and mobility. Plus, Kohler's walk-in tub-and-shower combo features bubble-massage air jets, fast-drain and fast-fill technology, and a heated backrest for extra comfort.
» Our Full Review: Kohler Walk-In Bathtub Review
Pros & Cons:Pros About Kohler
- Ultra-low 3-inch step-in for enhanced safety
- Heated neck and back surfaces to keep you warm while the tub fills
- Fast-drain and fast-fill features save you time
- Adjustable handheld showerhead for easier bathing
- Many customization options during the installation process
- Lifetime limited warranty
Cons About Kohler
- Only one walk-in bath model
- Not available in all states
- Only has an inward-swinging door
- Awkward placement of the grab bar
- Expensive wheelchair accessibility options
Summary:Pricing and Installation
Exact pricing varies by location, customization options, and the labor required for installation. We've gotten recent quotes starting at $2,500, which includes the base walk-in bathtub model and the shower package add-on.
Based on our research, installation typically ranges from $2,500–$10,000. Kohler frequently runs deals to cut installation costs as well.
Current Deal: You can get $1,000 off your walk-in tub shower combo, plus 12 months of no-interest financing by getting a free quote through Kohler's website.
Safety Features
Compared to providers such as Safe Step and American Standard, Kohler is somewhat lacking in safety features. We love its 3-inch step-in, which makes it easy to get in and out, even for seniors with mobility issues. That feature is particularly important considering over half of senior falls occur at home, and the majority happen in the bathroom.1
The Kohler walk-in tub-and-shower combo also has a grab bar, but it's small and somewhat awkwardly positioned. It may not be easy for some older adults to feel secure when sitting down and standing up.
Kohler's wider door options for wheelchair accessibility also cost a lot more to add (though Kohler doesn’t offer exact pricing for wheelchair access). Since Kohler offers only one tub-and-shower combo and their customization options are costly, older adults who use wheelchairs or have difficulty getting in and out of a seated position may be better off with a tub from Safe Step, Ella's Bubbles, or American Standard.
-
2. Safe Step - Best built-in therapy features
See Pricing Links to Safe StepWhat we like most
- 4-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $2,500
- Lifetime warranty
Safe StepSee Pricing Links to Safe StepOverview:- Step-in height: 4 inches
- Water capacity: 70 gallons
- Standing showerhead: Yes
- Door style: Inward swinging
Safe Step is aptly named, creating walk-in tubs with user safety in mind. The company uses American-made parts, and at least 50 employees work on each tub before it hits the market. Like the other providers on this list, Safe Step walk-in tub-and-shower combos come with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Safe Step offers multiple walk-in tub models, but, like Kohler, it offers only one hybrid walk-in tub and shower. The 70-gallon tub is packed with therapeutic water jets, MicroSoothe Air therapy, a heated seat and backrest, chromotherapy with multiple light settings, and even aromatherapy via essential oils. It’s like an entire spa built into your bathroom!
» Our Full Review: Safe Step Walk-In Tubs Review
Pros & Cons:Pros About Safe Step
- Built-in air, water, temperature and aromatherapy features
- Antislip tub, seat and floor
- Antiscald technology
- LED electronic keypad accessory for easy control
- Lifetime warranty
Cons About Safe Step
- Only one tub-and-shower hybrid to choose from
- Lack of pricing transparency
- Up-front fees required before installation begins
- Tub step-in is not the lowest on the market
Summary:Pricing and Installation
Unlike American Standard, which lists prices for most models online, you won’t find any prices for Safe Step’s walk-in tub-and-shower combo online. Much like Kohler, Safe Step requires you to ask for a quote, which requires a phone call and an evaluation of your bathroom based on photos.
Once you have a quote, you may need to pay for the majority of your purchase before the installation can begin. Even if you choose to finance your purchase, you'll have to pay certain fees and minimums up front.
Based on recent nationwide estimates, prices for Safe Step's walk-in tub-and-shower hybrid usually start at $10,000 or more, depending on options and installation. Installation provided by Safe Step typically starts at $4,000, but can be higher depending on your location and the labor required.
Current Deal: Safe Step occasionally offers promotions such as $1,500 off a walk-in tub and a free toilet. Contact the provider or check their website for the latest deals.
Safety Features
Safe Step lives up to its name, with excellent safety features. Its 4-inch step-in is higher than Kohler's, but it's still the industry standard for walk-in tubs and safe for most older adults. One of our favorite features is the antislip texture on nearly every surface of the tub, which can greatly reduce the risk of falls.
Safe Step's walk-in tub-and-shower combo also features two conveniently placed grab bars, but those are common for walk-in tubs. Some unique safety features you won't find with products from Ella's Bubbles or American Standard are Safe Step's antiscald technology and antimold coating. The former ensures that water temperatures never reach unsafe levels, while the latter prevents the growth of mold or harmful bacteria in your tub. All those features make Safe Step one of the best options for older adults who are primarily focused on safety and comfort.
» Helpful Guide: Walk-In Tub Buyer's Guide
-
3. Ella's Bubbles - Best for couples
See pricing Links to Ella's BubblesWhat we like most
- 4-inch step-in height
- Estimated starting price: $3,500
- Lifetime warranty
Ella's BubblesSee pricing Links to Ella's BubblesOverview:- Step-in height: 4 inches
- Water capacity: Up to 85 gallons
- Standing showerhead: Yes, varies by model
- Door style: Outward and inward swinging
Ella's Bubbles is another American-based manufacturer that focuses on high-quality walk-in tubs and showers. Unlike Kohler and Safe Step, which offer only one model each, Ella's Bubbles offers four categories of models: stainless-steel tubs, outward-swing-door tubs, two-seat tubs and wheelchair-accessible tubs. Within each category, you can choose from various styles and size options. Just remember that not every walk-in tub model available through Ella's Bubbles can be converted into a walk-in tub-and-shower combo.
We like that Ella's Bubbles offers unique solutions for couples and people who use wheelchairs. The two-seat walk-in tub models allow two adults to bathe or shower simultaneously, which reduces the risk of falls and increases the response time by having a partner close by. Additionally, the wheelchair tubs are great for older adults who can no longer walk or have limited mobility, featuring wider doors, more interior space and special grab bars for greater leverage.
FYI: Roughly 1 million older Americans are hospitalized due to falls every year.2 In addition to walk-in tubs, we recommend medical alert systems. Check out our list of the best medical alert systems to learn more.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Ella's Bubbles
- Models for couples and adults who use wheelchairs
- Variety of tub sizes and models to choose from
- Dual-drain tech for efficient drainage in less than two minutes
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Luxury features available with select models
Cons About Ella's Bubbles
- Not all walk-in tub models can be converted to tub-and-shower combos
- Must contract a third party to install or self-install your tub
- Brick-and-mortar stores are limited to the Chicago area
- Some models can be pricey and pricing isn’t available online
Summary:- Step-in height: 4 inches
- Water capacity: Up to 85 gallons
- Standing showerhead: Yes, varies by model
- Door style: Outward and inward swinging
Ella's Bubbles is another American-based manufacturer that focuses on high-quality walk-in tubs and showers. Unlike Kohler and Safe Step, which offer only one model each, Ella's Bubbles offers four categories of models: stainless-steel tubs, outward-swing-door tubs, two-seat tubs and wheelchair-accessible tubs. Within each category, you can choose from various styles and size options. Just remember that not every walk-in tub model available through Ella's Bubbles can be converted into a walk-in tub-and-shower combo.
We like that Ella's Bubbles offers unique solutions for couples and people who use wheelchairs. The two-seat walk-in tub models allow two adults to bathe or shower simultaneously, which reduces the risk of falls and increases the response time by having a partner close by. Additionally, the wheelchair tubs are great for older adults who can no longer walk or have limited mobility, featuring wider doors, more interior space and special grab bars for greater leverage.
FYI: Roughly 1 million older Americans are hospitalized due to falls every year.2 In addition to walk-in tubs, we recommend medical alert systems. Check out our list of the best medical alert systems to learn more.
-
4. American Standard - Best customization options
What we like most
- Several safety and luxury-focused styles
- 6-inch step-in
- Unique Features: Lifetime warranty
Overview:- Step-in height: 4 inches
- Water capacity: Up to 80 gallons
- Standing showerhead: Yes, varies by model
- Door style: Inward or outward swinging
American Standard makes freedom of choice its biggest selling point. It has dozens of unique models of walk-in tub-and-shower combos to choose from, and we love that you can see prices on the website without having to call anyone. American Standard is the only provider on this list to offer that kind of pricing transparency. That said, American Standard's prices tend to be high. Fortunately, they have so many models to choose from that you can probably still find something in your price range.
Since there are so many models, the features can vary based on what you’re looking for. You can get things such as adjustable back massage, hydrojets, and varied door and showerhead styles. American Standard’s walk-in tub-and-shower combinations strike a good balance between comfort and ease of use. The prices can get high, though, especially if you want all the bells and whistles.
» Our Full Review: American Standard Walk-In Tubs Review
Pros & Cons:Pros About American Standard
- Dozens of unique walk-in tub models and features to customize your purchase
- Transparent pricing on the company’s website
- Slip-resistant tub floor
- Easy-touch controls
- Free quote and in-home evaluation
- Professional installation by a licensed professional
- Lifetime warranty
Cons About American Standard
- More expensive than most other walk-in tub providers
- Not as easy to find specific features without contacting customer support
- Step-in height can vary by model, with some as high as 6 inches
- Not all models come with a showerhead for standing showers
Summary:Pricing and Installation
Ella's Bubbles doesn't offer transparent pricing or installation services, but American Standard does both. They give you the full price of most models on their website, with the cheapest models starting around $5,700.
They aren't as transparent about their installation fees, but, as with any provider, they can vary greatly based on your location and the labor required. Like Safe Step, installation generally starts around $4,000, but it could be higher.
» Compare Providers: Safe Step vs. American Standard
Safety Features
Even though American Standard gives customers plenty of ways to customize their purchase, every model comes with standard safety features you would expect. That includes grab bars, textured floors, and step-in heights as low as 3 inches. That is lower than the industry average, but most models have step-in heights of 4 inches or more, so Kohler is still our top pick for older adults concerned about safely getting in and out of the tub.
Did You Know? Approximately 42 percent of adults over the age of 65 with impairments lack the assistance or equipment needed for bathing and toileting.3
What Is a Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combination?
A walk-in tub-and-shower combination takes the convenience and safety features of a walk-in tub and adds a full or partial enclosure and (usually) a separate showerhead. That allows for both seated baths and standing showers.
The combination better accommodates the needs of older adults, and it makes the bathroom more accessible to large households with people of all ages.
FYI: Falls in the shower can happen to anyone. The group with the highest risk of falling in the shower is adults between the ages of 41 and 60.4
Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combination Costs
The cost of a walk-in tub-and-shower combination varies by provider and location. Adding shower features to an existing walk-in tub can cost between $500 and $2,000.
That means you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000 for a walk-in tub-and-shower combo, plus an additional $3,500 to $12,000 for installation. Installation costs are hard to predict, and many providers offer discounts if you get the tub-and-shower combo installed through them.
» Ways to Save: Senior Discounts
Tips for Choosing the Best Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combo for You
Below are our tips to help you get the best walk-in tub-and-shower combo for your needs.
- Understand your mobility: Your mobility is a major factor to consider, especially when walk-in tubs have different step-in heights and grab-bar configurations. Know your mobility and limitations so you can pick a tub that will work for you.
- Set a budget: For most older adults, a walk-in tub-and-shower combo is no small investment. Make sure to set a budget early on so you don’t spend more than you can afford.
- Know your space: The installation process could be delayed or cost more if you purchase a tub that doesn’t work for your bathroom. Know the measurements and make sure to communicate that information to the tub provider and installers.
- Consider the most important features for you: Walk-in tub-and-shower combos usually come with several features, so you’ll need to decide which ones are essential for your needs. Also consider the ones you’d like to have, even if they’re not necessary (as long as they can fit in your budget!).
- Contact multiple providers: Research and reach out to multiple walk-in tub-and-shower combo providers before making a purchase. You could find that one offers a much better deal on the walk-in tub-and-shower of your dreams.
FAQs About Walk-in Tub-and-Shower Combinations
-
Are tub-and-shower combos worth it?
For older adults with limited mobility, tub-and-shower combos could be a lifesaver. They are also great for households that have multiple people with varied bathing and showering requirements.
-
What are the disadvantages of a walk-in tub-and-shower combo?
The only disadvantages of a tub-and-shower combo (compared to a standard walk-in tub) are that it may have a higher sticker price and could cost more to install.
-
Will Medicare pay for a walk-in tub-and-shower combo?
No. Medicare generally does not pay for walk-in tubs or walk-in tub-and-shower combinations.
-
Is it better to have a regular shower or a walk-in shower?
If you can afford the extra expense, a walk-in tub-and-shower combo is far superior to a regular bath or shower. It can offer advanced therapeutic features, safety features, greater versatility and more peace of mind.
-
National Library of Medicine. (2021). Bathroom Modifications Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults Who Experience Falls in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study.
-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Facts About Falls.
-
National Library of Medicine. (2021). Unmet Need for Equipment to Help With Bathing and Toileting Among Older U.S. Adults.
-
National Library of Medicine. (2019). Falls in the Bathroom: A Mechanism of Injury for All Ages.
