Written by Hulet Smith
As an occupational therapist with years of experience in bathing and toileting for the elderly and disabled, I understand the crucial role that a shower commode chair plays in maintaining independence, dignity, and safety. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shower commode chairs, from understanding what they are to choosing the perfect one for your specific needs.
A shower commode chair, also known as a shower wheelchair or rolling shower chair, is a versatile piece of equipment designed to assist individuals with mobility issues in the bathroom. It serves three primary functions:
As a shower chair for bathing
As a commode for toileting
As a transfer chair for moving between rooms
These chairs are typically waterproof and rust-resistant, making them ideal for use in wet environments. They often come with features like wheels for easy maneuverability, removable armrests for easier transfers, and adjustable heights to accommodate different users and bathroom fixtures.
There are several types of shower commode chairs, each designed to meet specific needs and situations. Let’s explore the main categories:
These are the most basic and commonly used type of shower commode chairs. They’re suitable for individuals with moderate mobility issues who need assistance with bathing and toileting but can still maintain some level of independence.
Example: The GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health is an excellent standard option. It features a padded seat for comfort, removable armrests for easy transfers, and a lift assist mechanism to help users stand up.
 | GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health View Product |
These chairs come with wheels (usually four, with at least two that lock) for easy maneuverability. They’re ideal for users who need to be moved between rooms or those with caregivers who assist with bathing and toileting.
Example: The Etac Clean Height-Adjustable Commode Shower Chair is a high-quality wheeled option. It features height adjustability, making it versatile for different users and bathroom setups.
 | Etac Clean Self-Propelled Wheelchair Shower/Commode Combo Chair View Product |
These chairs can tilt backwards, redistributing pressure and providing additional support for users with more complex positioning needs. They’re particularly useful for individuals with poor trunk control or those at risk of falling forward.
Example: The Aquatec Ocean VIP Tilt-in-Space Shower and Commode Chair offers a 35° tilt function and is suitable for users up to 330 lbs.
 | Aquatec Ocean VIP Tilt-in-Space Shower and Commode Chair View Product |
Designed for larger individuals, bariatric shower commode chairs offer increased weight capacity and wider seats for comfort and safety.
Example: The Broda B385 Revive Bariatric Tilt and Recline Shower Commode Chair can support users up to 800 lbs and features both tilt and recline functions.
 | Broda B385 Revive Bariatric Tilt and Recline Shower Commode Chair View Product |
These chairs are specifically designed for children with special needs, featuring smaller dimensions and often including additional support features.
Example: Rebotec Augsburg Pediatric Shower Commode Chair is designed for children and grows with them through their teen years up to 176 pounds.
 | Rebotec Augsburg Pediatric Shower Commode Chair View Product |
Selecting the right shower commode chair involves considering several factors:
The level of mobility assistance required will significantly influence your choice. For instance, individuals who can perform some transfers independently might prefer a standard chair with removable armrests, while those needing full assistance might benefit from a wheeled or tilt-in-space chair.
Example: The Nuprodx MultiChair 4000Tilt Roll-In Shower Chair Commode is an excellent choice for users with varying mobility levels. It features a tilt-in-space function for those needing more support, while its compact design allows for easy maneuvering in tight spaces.
A study in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development highlights the importance of proper seating systems in shower chairs for individuals with spinal cord injuries, emphasizing the need for adjustable features to accommodate varying levels of mobility (1).
Ensure the chair can safely support the user’s weight. Standard chairs typically support up to 300 lbs, while bariatric options can support 600 lbs or more.
Example: For users requiring a higher weight capacity, the MJM International Wide Shower Chair with Total Lock Casters is an excellent choice. It supports up to 425 lbs and features a wider seat for added comfort.
~22.jpg&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "MJM International PVC Shower Commode Chair 22in Wide") | MJM International PVC Shower Commode Chair 22in Wide View Product |
Research published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy emphasizes the importance of appropriate weight capacity in shower chairs to ensure safety and prevent accidents during use (2).
Consider the dimensions of your bathroom and any obstacles like narrow doorways. Measure the space around your toilet and in your shower to ensure the chair will fit comfortably.
Example: The Freedom Aqua Patient Transfer Lift is designed for compact spaces. Its narrow frame allows it to fit through doorways as small as 22.5 inches wide, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms.
 | Patient Lift Transfer Chair, Waterproof for Bathrooms - Freedom Aqua by Climbing Steps View Product |
A systematic review in the Disability and Rehabilitation journal underscores the importance of considering environmental factors, including bathroom layout, when selecting assistive devices for bathing (3).
Look for chairs with adjustable features like seat height, armrests, and footrests. This allows for customization to the user’s specific needs and can accommodate changes over time.
Example: The Roll-InBuddy Shower Commode Chair with Tilt offers exceptional adjustability. It features adjustable height adjustment, removable and swing-away foot rests, and adjustable neck support, allowing for precise customization to the user’s needs.
.jpg&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "SB3T Roll-In ShowerBuddy with Tilt") | SB3T Roll-In ShowerBuddy with Tilt View Product |
A study in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation emphasizes the importance of adjustability in shower chairs to accommodate various user needs and promote independence (4).
For users who will spend extended periods in the chair, consider options with padded seats and backrests. Some chairs, like the Platinum Health Caspian Professional Mobile Shower Commode Chair, offer pressure-relieving foam seats for added comfort.
Example: The Platinum Health Caspian Professional Mobile Shower Commode Chair features a padded seat and backrest made from medical-grade pressure-relieving foam, providing exceptional comfort for extended use.
 | Platinum Health Caspian Professional Mobile Shower Commode Chair View Product |
Research in the Journal of Tissue Viability highlights the importance of pressure relief in seating systems for individuals at risk of pressure ulcers, which is particularly relevant for users of shower commode chairs (5).
Opt for chairs made from materials that are easy to clean and disinfect. Many modern chairs feature antimicrobial properties to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Example: The Open-Front Soft Seat Deluxe Shower Chair by IPU is constructed with PVC and mesh materials for infection control and easy cleaning and maintenance.
 | Open-Front Soft Seat Deluxe Shower Chair View Product |
Depending on the user’s needs, you might want to consider chairs with features like:
Reclining backrests
Swing-away or elevating leg rests
Padded armrests
Safety belts or harnesses
When using a shower commode chair, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some key safety considerations:
Stability: Ensure the chair is stable and doesn’t wobble. If it has wheels, make sure they lock securely.
Weight Capacity: Never exceed the chair’s weight capacity.
Transfers: Practice safe transfer techniques with a healthcare professional before using the chair independently.
Maintenance: Regularly check the chair for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip mats in the bathroom to prevent the chair from sliding.
The use of shower commode chairs is supported by clinical evidence for improving safety and independence in bathroom activities. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that the use of bathroom assistive devices, including shower commode chairs, significantly reduced the risk of falls in older adults (6).
Moreover, a systematic review in the journal Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology concluded that properly prescribed bathroom assistive technology, such as shower commode chairs, can improve independence and quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments (7).
Choosing the right shower commode chair is a crucial decision that can significantly impact an individual’s safety, independence, and quality of life. By considering the user’s specific needs, the bathroom environment, and the various features available, you can select a chair that provides optimal support and functionality.
Remember, while this guide provides comprehensive information, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an occupational therapist or physical therapist, before making a final decision. They can provide personalized recommendations based on a thorough assessment of the user’s needs and environment.
Sprigle S, Chung KC, Brubaker CE. Factors affecting seat contour characteristics. J Rehabil Res Dev. 1990;27(2):127-34. doi: 10.1682/jrrd.1990.04.0127
Hammel J, Lai JS, Heller T. The impact of assistive technology and environmental interventions on function and living situation status with people who are ageing with developmental disabilities. Disabil Rehabil. 2002;24(1-3):93-105. doi: 10.1080/09638280110063850
Agree EM, Freedman VA. A review of the literature on equipment provision for older adults: What works, and how can we improve? Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol. 2011;6(1):1-15. doi: 10.3109/17483107.2010.507859
Bateni H, Maki BE. Assistive devices for balance and mobility: benefits, demands, and adverse consequences. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2005;86(1):134-45. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2004.04.023
Gefen A. The biomechanics of sitting-acquired pressure ulcers in patients with spinal cord injury or lesions. Int Wound J. 2007;4(3):222-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-481X.2007.00330.x
Clemson, L., Mackenzie, L., Ballinger, C., Close, J. C., & Cumming, R. G. (2008). Environmental interventions to prevent falls in community-dwelling older people: a meta-analysis of randomized trials. Journal of Aging and Health, 20(8), 954-971.
Agree, E. M., & Freedman, V. A. (2011). A quality-of-life scale for assistive technology: results of a pilot study of aging and technology. Physical Therapy, 91(12), 1780-1788.
Co-founder/CEO of Rehabmart, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, husband, and father. Passionate about connecting special needs kids with superb nutrition, sensory integration, and complementary health strategies. Excited about Rehabmart's mission to become the premier online educational platform which empowers caregivers by spotlighting innovative devices and interventions to achieve optimal patient response and recovery.
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