Safe Step vs. American Standard
Safe Step offers a few walk-in tubs to choose from, while American Standard has a larger selection of high-end tubs and features.
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Key Takeaways: Safe Step vs. American Standard
- Safe Step is best for those looking for just a few options but plenty of discounts to help save money.
- American Standard is best for anyone looking for many buying options, including luxury features and a higher-end tub.
If you’re thinking of buying a walk-in tub, you’ll need to carefully consider not only your budget but the features that are most important to you. Safe Step and American Standard manufacture some top-quality walk-in baths, but there are some key differences between the two. We’ve done the research — highlighting the essential information about each tub and brand, the installation process, and the costs — so you can choose the best walk-in tub for your home.
A Side-by-Side Comparison of Safe Step and American Standard
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| Starting price | Requires a quote | Requires a quote |
| Installation | 1-2 days | Not specified |
| Financing offered | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| In-home quote required | Yes | Yes |
| Website |
See Pricing
Links to Safe Step
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Types of Walk-In Tubs
Safe Step
Safe Step walk-in tubs
Safe Step manufactures two walk-in tubs, both of which have a 4-inch step in height. The traditional tub includes many standard features and has a handheld shower wand.
The Hybrid Tub gives you more bathing options and combines tub and shower features. Like the traditional tub, it includes a handheld showerhead. However, the Hybrid also includes a mounted showerhead, so you can sit underneath it for a shower or simply soak in the tub. Up to 10 hydrojets are available. For comparison, you can get 13 to 39 jets with an American Standard tub.
FYI: The Arthritis Foundation has granted Safe Step’s tubs the Ease of Use certification. This means the tub makes life easier for those living with arthritis or other limitations.
Notably, Safe Step offers a lowest-price guarantee on installation costs. The guarantee applies to the work specified during your in-home consultation. If you find a lower price available within 30 days of your written agreement, Safe Step will refund you the difference plus $100.
Head to our Safe Step review to learn more about this brand.
American Standard
American Standard combo massage walk-in tub
American Standard offers three different walk-in tub models at different price points, so buyers with various budgets are likely to find a tub that works for them.
The base model, the gel coat entry series, is made of fiberglass, slip-resistant to help prevent falls, and includes a hand shower. It has no jets or heater.
FYI: For expert advice on balancing a budget on a fixed income, check out our comprehensive guide.
If you step up to the gel coat premium series, the tub includes 13 to 39 jets, as well as a heater. Like the entry series, the premium series is also made of fiberglass and includes a hand shower.
The acrylic luxury series includes more specialty features. In addition to 39 jets and acrylic construction, the luxury series also includes a heater and chromotherapy, or color therapy. While there’s little scientific proof about the effects of it, chromotherapy was used for healing as early as 2000 BC!1
American Standard was founded in 1872, making it one of the oldest bathtub manufacturers in business today. Aging-in-Place Specialists, who are certified by the National Association of Home Builders, work with the American Standard team to help older adults continue to live safely in their homes. Like Safe Step, American Standard also builds walk-in tubs that are arthritis-friendly. That’s particularly important because studies have found that people with arthritis who participated in warm-water exercise programs two to three times a week had up to 40 percent less pain.2 You can visit our American Standard review for a more in-depth look at the company.
From the Pros: Water has therapeutic effects that can help to relieve pain, but it’s just one of many options. Learn more about physical therapy for seniors and what’s involved.
Tub Features
Safe Step
Safe Step’s tub is designed to be easy to use. Its 4-inch step-in height allows for easy entry and exit; plus, its no-strength locking handle means those with arthritis or limited grip strength can still lock and unlock the door. A built-in tower wand and floating remote control simplify the tub’s use. It also features 10 hydro massage jets and a handheld shower wand. Upgrading to the hybrid tub gets you all of these features plus the mounted showerhead.
The tub also has essential safety features, like two built-in grab bars for extra security when standing up, sitting down, or maneuvering in or out of the tub. The tub also features an anti-slip floor for enhanced grip. Anti-scald technology allows you to enjoy a warm, soothing bath without allowing the water to reach dangerous temperatures. Note that Safe Step tub doors swing inward, which is helpful for navigation in small bathrooms but might not be ideal for people who use a wheelchair.
American Standard
American Standard’s 52 tub models are available in numerous variations, so features like the number of jets also vary depending on the specific tub you order. The base model doesn’t include any jets, whereas Safe Step’s tub comes standard with 10 jets. These variations in American Standard’s tubs mean you can probably find a tub that has the specific features that you want — without overpaying for a tub with features that you won’t use.
The tubs feature easy-touch push-button controls for simple operation. A fast-fill faucet and rapid draining system saves time. According to American Standard, the draining pump drains the tub in just two minutes. The built-in seat is contoured to maximize the space available, and most tubs feature a neck rest for comfort.
There are many safety features, too. The floor is textured for maximum grip, while a built-in safety grab bar provides a secure hand hold and helps to minimize the chance of you slipping. American Standard doesn’t publish the height of the entry but calls it a low threshold.
From the Pros: The risks of slips and falls are high in bathrooms. Learn how to make your home safer for aging adults.
In terms of extra luxury features, you can choose from a great selection of options. Upper-level models come equipped with a chromotherapy light system at the bottom of the bath to create an extra peaceful experience. Water jets and an in-line heater deliver a soothing experience, and many tubs feature a legs-only massage feature. You can also order a tub with the ozone self-cleaning sanitation system to help keep the tub clean and hygienic.
Overall, American Standard offers a wider variety of features and customization than Safe Step. If you’re looking for a basic tub with a low step-in height, we’d recommend Safe Step. But if you want all the bells and whistles, or just want to hand-select the best features for your needs, American Standard is our top choice.
Safe Step vs. American Standard Pricing
Many walk-in tub manufacturers don’t provide specific tub pricing before you complete a personalized quote process. Safe Step and American Standard provide free in-home quotes, but quotes are not available by email or phone. A company representative will evaluate and measure your bathroom in person to identify any evident plumbing or electrical installation needs and determine the best tub size for the space.
To schedule an in-home evaluation for a quote, you can complete a free quote request form on the Safe Step website or call a sales agent at the number on the website. American Standard also has an online quote request form, or you can call them.
Pro Tip: Don’t fall for online scams – read our guide to protecting yourself from identity theft.
Safe Step doesn’t publish walk-in tub prices online, but American Standard is more up-front about pricing. The gel coat entry series tubs start at $5,400, and higher-end luxury tubs can start as high as almost $15,000. For a current example, a gel coat premium 32” by 52” tub with air jets and a left-hand drain costs just over $12,000, and note that that price does not include installation. The acrylic luxury series 32” by 60” tub with 26 air jets, a right-hand drain, push-button controls, contoured seat, and a handheld shower wand is available for $14,883.
Buying a walk-in tub can require a significant investment, but both Safe Step and American Standard offer financing so that you can start enjoying your tub. (Note: You might need good credit for financing approval.) They also offer several discounts.
If you or someone in your house lives with arthritis, nerve problems, diabetes, sciatica, or other health issues, you might qualify for a Safe Step Helping Hands Rebate. Your household can get up to two $750 rebates for up to $1,500 off the cost of your tub.
Safe Step also offers many other discounts:
- Discounts, coupons, and credits from partners like AARP
- Special pricing for military veterans and seniors
- U.S. Department of Agriculture offers, rebates, and discounts
- Grants for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs
Installation
It’s common for walk-in tub manufacturers to exclude installation costs from their tub prices. Safe Step and American Standard calculate your installation costs based on the specifics of your bathroom. The company representative can give you more information about installation costs during your in-home quote.
The Safe Step website states that certified installers will arrive at your home and install your tub. According to Safe Step, 95 percent of walk-in tub installations are completed in less than one day.
American Standard’s website reports that factory-trained and certified specialists perform the company’s walk-in tub installation. The installation team will also remove and discard your old tub.
With some lower-cost companies such as Universal, AmeriGlide, or Endurance, you’ll need to pay for installation on your own, which can be expensive. And it might also end up costing more out of pocket in the long run if the contractor you use for installation doesn’t guarantee their work. For another example, Universal, an affordable brand sold at Home Depot, specifies that any product defects must be reported within five days of receiving the tub. Unless you’re confident you have a licensed tub installer ready to go, it might be less stressful choosing a walk-in tub company that takes care of installation for you.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Safe Step
Safe Step has a 3.1 rating on Trustpilot, which is significantly higher than American Standard’s rating (although American Standard’s rating reflects many different kinds of products, not just walk-in tubs and showers). Many online reviewers describe a very positive installation experience with Safe Step. They often praise the installers for their attention to detail and effort to completely clean up after themselves. However, there are a few negative reviews about the installation, including one reviewer who said the process was rushed. In addition, that reviewer didn’t understand how to use the tub after the installer left. Another negative review described confusion that resulted when they were offered a free shower during the quote process, but were charged for it during the installation.
Many reviewers praised the quality of the tub and its overall ease of use. Jacqueline from Newport News, Virginia, writes, “It’s hard for me to step over and get in and out of tubs. So, the walk-in tub is really great, so that I can take a bath. I can play my music. It has Bluetooth and the jets where you can have the water spiraling around. I feel my skin is soft. I can feel the difference in my skin.”
From the Pros: To increase peace of mind when aging in place, review our list of the best medical alert systems in 2025.
American Standard
For comparison’s sake, Safe Step is rated 4.23 out of five stars on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and has an A+ rating, whereas American Standard’s BBB rating is a B-. The BBB notes that American Standard’s rating is due to a lack of response and resolution to posted customer complaints. American Standard has several very poor reviews on Trustpilot and a rating of just 1.8 out of five stars.
Many reviewers describe the installation process with American Standard as taking between four and five hours. While reviews of the installation process are largely positive, one negative review detailed several issues after a tub was installed, including leaks that caused electrical problems. A repair person did not arrive for a scheduled repair, and, at the time of the review, the homeowner was still waiting on a resolution.
However, many overall reviews of American Standard are positive. While many reviewers feel that the price of the tubs is a bit high, they often praise the tub’s ease of use, overall quality, and comfort. Nancy from Bonfield, Illinois, writes, “The tub is a great-quality product. It’s easy to get in and out of, and that’s what I wanted. The price was a little steep, but we knew it was going to be expensive. But when you think that it’s a lifetime guarantee, then you’re really getting a good-quality product.”
Safe Step and American Standard vs. the Competition
Overall, we appreciate that American Standard is a venerable bath product manufacturer with a long history of providing well-made tubs and showers. There are numerous models and features to choose from that allow seniors to customize their bath to their specifications, whether they want a bare-bones accessible tub and shower wand or a luxurious spa-style walk-in with wellness features. American Standard has more than 50 walk-in tubs to choose from and makes models specifically for right- or left-handed people, tubs with doors that swing outward or inward, and bariatric tubs.
Like American Standard, Safe Step offers a lifetime warranty on their products. Although they don’t offer as many different tub models as American Standard, Safe Step prioritizes safety, with anti-scald technology, a no-strength locking handle, antislip surfaces throughout each tub, and an ADA-compliant tub seat (American Standard’s tub seats are also ADA-compliant). Safe Step also offers therapeutic features such as a dual hydrotherapy massage system and hydrojet therapy. Safe Step tubs likely will not drain as quickly as American Standard walk-ins, which drain in about two minutes, however.
Did You Know? There are 3 million emergency room visits each year due to older adults falling. Learn about fall risks and prevention at the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.3
Safe Step and American Standard vs. Kohler
In comparison, Kohler offers many customization choices, such as the tub color, fixture finish, and an optional bath wall, a design feature some might appreciate. You can also choose from three showerhead styles and two showerhead lengths, and Kohler’s 3-inch step-in height is one of the lowest in the industry. Note, however, that Kohler, doesn't offer a wheelchair-accessible walk-in tub like Safe Step and American Standard do (Ella’s Bubbles and MediTub also make wheelchair-accessible walk-ins.), if that’s a consideration. In addition, Kohler walk-in tubs don’t have ozone cleaning systems that keep tubs working smoothly, like tubs from Safe Step, Ella’s Bubbles, and American Standard do.
>> Expert Advice: Not sure if aging in place is for you? Learn all about assisted living options with our expert’s guide to finding the right assisted living community to suit your needs.
Safe Step and American Standard vs. Boca
Boca walk-in tubs have a step-in height of only 2 inches. Boca tubs also offer a safety feature like Safe Step’s anti-scald technology: Warm & Safe displays the water temperature and sounds an alarm when it reaches 100 degrees. A Boca tub with that option would be a good choice for people who experience numbness in their legs or feet while seated and might not realize the bath water has heated to dangerous levels.
As you compare walk-in tub brands, be sure to review warranty information in detail. American Standard’s lifetime warranty might cover only certain aspects of the tub for five to 10 years. Safe Step’s lifetime warranty is pretty comprehensive but some parts, such as caulking, are only under a two-year warranty. (Learn more about Safe Step’s warranty here.)
Our Methodology
Because walk-in tubs are such a big investment, we thoroughly research the market to make sure older adults who would benefit from a walk-in tub or shower understand their options before making a purchase. Our team of experts spent 100 hours evaluating Safe Step and American Standard walk-in tubs, considering multiple criteria including:
- Design: We look for pleasing aesthetics, comfort, and ease of use in walk-in tub design. Durability is also extremely important, so we investigate whether tub doors close easily and effectively keep water out. We also test whether detachable showerheads are easy to use and that seats and headrests are safe and comfortable. We also appreciate features that make using walk-in tubs and showers luxurious, such as therapeutic jets and aromatherapy and aerotherapy features.
- Costs: Walk-in tubs and showers can cost tens of thousands of dollars, so we do our best to find current pricing information on tubs, features, and installation so older adults know what to expect. We also look for seasonal discounts, military veteran discounts, and financing options.
- Safety features: We look for design elements and features that help older adults avoid injury and enjoy a relaxing bathing experience, such as low step-in height, antislip surfaces, sturdy grab handles, and antiscald technology.
- Customization options: For some people, multiple options for tub elements and features may be essential. We look for quality products for any taste and budget, whether someone wants to keep costs low or would rather splurge on a customizable walk-in tub or shower with luxury add-ons.
- Industry awards and recognition: We research the history and background of companies we review and take note of any awards they’ve earned for customer service, design, or safety features.
- Installation: We research customer experiences with installation, noting whether appointments are easy to schedule and technicians leave bathrooms in clean, working condition when they’re finished. We read as many online customer reviews as possible to give an accurate picture of the process.
- Warranty: Each company’s warranty is important to consider when evaluating overall value, as equipment warranties can make a big difference in long-term costs.
Our Final Thoughts on Safe Step vs. American Standard
Both Safe Step and American Standard walk-in tubs are quality solutions ideal for anyone who has difficulty getting into and out of a standard tub. Safe Step offers a walk-in tub and a tub-and-shower hybrid option, so the ordering process is relatively simple. However, Safe Step doesn’t give you as many options in terms of luxury add-ons and jets as you’ll enjoy with American Standard.
Safe Step offers more discounts, though, making it an appealing choice if you’re working on a tighter budget. If you’re ready to indulge in luxurious features, then you may enjoy the many options you have with American Standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Medicare cover the cost of a walk-in tub?
No, walk-in tubs are not considered durable medical equipment (DME) so are not covered by Medicare.
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How much does a walk-in tub cost?
The price of a walk-in tub varies greatly and depends on the type of tub you want and whether major electrical or plumbing work would need to be done in your home in order to install one. But expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000 (or even more) to install a walk-in tub in your home.
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Is installation included in the price of a walk-in tub?
Installation costs are usually not included in the base cost of a walk-in tub. But some companies, such as Safe Step and American Standard, charge installation fees to send their technicians to professionally install their walk-in tubs and hybrid showers in your home. With some other companies, you must install the tub yourself or hire your own contractor for the job.
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Do Safe Step and American Standard make bariatric walk-in tubs?
Both companies make walk-in tubs designed for larger bathers.
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Are Safe Step and American Standard walk-in tubs wheelchair accessible?
Safe Step and American Standard both manufacture walk-in tubs that are appropriate for people who use a wheelchair.
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National Library of Medicine. (2005). A critical analysis of chromotherapy and its scientific evolution.
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Arthritis Foundation. (2024). Heat Therapy Helps Relax Stiff Joints.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Facts About Falls.
