Choose International Shipping at Checkout!
Written by Mike Price, OT
Falls are a real risk for people with mobility, strength, and balance issues. That risk is heightened in the potentially slippery environment in a bathroom.Shower chairs make showering safer for people with mobility challenges, and allow them to maintain dignity and independence while bathing themselves by providing a stable and secure in-shower platform to sit on and bathe without the fear of falling in the shower.
Shower chairs, also known as tub chairs, shower seats, shower benches, shower stools, and sometimes commode chairs, are water resistant seating solutions that go inside a shower or tub to provide people who have difficulty standing in the shower a safe seat so they can bathe in comfort and confidence.
The stability provided by a shower seat is appropriate for people who have significant balance issues, tire easily, have leg weakness, and are at a high risk of slipping and falling.
Every shower chair is designed to reduce the risk of a bathroom fall and help users maintain the highest possible level of independence. But with different shapes and sizes of people (and bathrooms) and different levels of mobility to consider, there are a number of types of showers chairs to choose from.
 | Bonn Shower Commode Chair with Wheels by Rebotec View Product |
A shower commode chair has an open seat for use in the shower or it can be positioned over the toilet. These seats are designed to assist people who have difficulty transferring on and off a toilet safely and standing for long periods in the shower. Remodeling a bathroom to accommodate a disability can be avoided with a shower commode chair that fits the tub or shower and can be rolled over the open toilet bowl. We invite you to read The 5 Best Shower Commode Chairs for more information on the top shower commode chairs we offer.
 | Inno Swivel Shower Chair View Product |
A shower chair with a back provides extra stability for the user. This protects the person in the shower from falling over backwards and generally provides a more supportive option than a backless seat. This type of shower seat also typically comes with removable arm rests and a grip handle on the backrest. Generally, a shower chair with a back is recommended for anyone.
 | Lightweight Adjustable Height Shower Chair (With or Without Back) by Karman Healthcare View Product |
For users who don’t need as much support, and just need a place to sit, a shower chair without a back will work fine. Shower seats without backrests are less cumbersome to position and provide a more open bathing environment.
 | McKesson Aluminum Shower Stool View Product |
Stools are more compact shower seating options, which means they fit well but are more narrow and don’t have backrests. A popular feature of a shower stool is that it swivels, which can make it easier to get into position for safe transfer in and out of the tub.
 | Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat by Platinum Health View Product |
Although technically not a shower chair, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, and a shower bench is sometimes called a rolling shower chair or a transfer bench. Shower or transfer benches are designed to straddle the tub with two legs inside the tub and two outside. They are definitely bulky, but they provide great support when entering and exiting the tub. Shower chairs can only offer support once you are inside the tub. Allowing people to independently bathe helps users maintain their independence as long as possible. Rehabmart has separate articles on 5 Best Bathtub Transfer Benches and Top 5 Best Bath Benches with Cutout to help you be as informed as possible when making your purchasing decision.
 | Post-Op Hip Surgery Bath Shower Chair - Apex by Platinum Health View Product |
People who are recovering from hip surgery need to limit excessive hip flexion while they heal, and they need to be able to take care of their personal care needs without putting too much strain on their healing joint. Post-op surgery patients can get a shower chair with an adjustable seat angle that facilitates ease of egress and also limits hip flexion to support healing.
 | Deluxe Shower Chair with Arms by Platinum Health View Product |
For people with low vision who benefit from contrasting colors to distinguish shapes, brightly colored shower chairs that don’t blend in with the shower stall walls make it easier to see and gett settled into a shower chair.
 | Narrow PVC Shower Commode Chair for Pediatrics or Small Adults View Product |
Pediatric shower chairs have the same benefits as their adult-sized counterparts. However, the chairs built for children are designed to adjust and expand to match the child’s growth, extending the service life of the chair before it is outgrown. For more information on the top pediatric shower chairs, read Top 5 Best Rolling Pediatric Shower Chairs.
 | Calypso Height-Adjustable Bath and Shower Chair by ArjoHuntleigh (FULLY ASSEMBLED) View Product |
Tall people often have challenges in finding clothes, furniture, and medical equipment that is appropriately sized. Shower chairs with tall, adjustable legs will provide the comfort and security that a smaller, uncomfortable chair will not provide for taller users, making the bathing experience more relaxed and enjoyable.
 | Etac Swift Shower Chair View Product |
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, standard height for a shower chair ranges between 17 and 19 inches. The can be purchased with a height range of 14 to 17 inches, and the actual appropriate seat height is achieved when your knees are bent at 90 degree angles and your feet are flat on the floor.
~1.jpg&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "ProBasics Bariatric Bath Chair with Back") | ProBasics Bariatric Bath Chair with Back View Product |
A standard shower chair can accommodate users up to 400 pounds. Bariatric models can accommodate users up to 900 pounds, although most common among bariatric models are in the 500-600 pound weight capacity range. See our Bariatric Shower Chair list for products in this category.
 | Platinum Health Laguna Reclining Shower Chair View Product |
A reclining shower chair is also known as a recumbent shower chair or a tilt shower chair. The back and leg supports tilt in unison and recline separately from the leg support to provide a wide variety of positions for safety and comfort. They provide secure support for persons with weaker legs and/or lack upper body strength. In a tilted position, the patient can feel more secure about their body position and safety. This design also helps a caregiver find the optimal position for efficient assisted bathing.
 | Platinum Health Revolution Swivel Shower Chair View Product |
Shower chairs and stools that have swivel seats provide transfer assistance in and out of the shower or bath. There is no scooting or twisting required, and it is helpful for people who bathe independently or have the assistance of a caregiver.
 | Etac Clean Self-Propelled Wheelchair Shower/Commode Combo Chair View Product |
Shower wheelchairs, also known as bathroom wheelchairs, make hygiene maintenance easier for those who can’t walk to the bathroom. They feature an opening in the seat so users can independently use the toilet without getting out of the chair. When transferring to a shower, unless it is a lipless shower, caregiver assistance will be required to get the chair in and out of the shower.
 | Mobile Shower Chair Walker by Mor-Medical View Product |
This kind of shower chair is useful for people who can self-propel using their feet. Users are supported and have access for bathing with the added benefit of the independence that comes from being able to propel themselves into and out of the bathroom.
 | Shower Chair with Backrest View Product |
Shower chairs with arms provide convenience to hang things like washcloths, the opportunity for easier transfers with arms for leverage and positioning assistance, and they usually have the option to remove the arms if they impede the user in any way.
Side handles also provide some space to hang washcloths to keep them within easy reach during bathing. They also provide a grip space without the additional height and mass of arm rests.
 | Liberty Folding Shower Chair with Swivel Seat by Platinum Health View Product |
Portability is a convenient feature when you take along a shower seat while traveling or if you want to get it out of the way when it’s not in use. This is especially helpful when there are other people using the same shower and the chair needs to be moved out of the way and then put back into the shower or tub.
| Alenti Height-Adjustable Bath and Shower Chair by ArjoHuntleigh (FULLY ASSEMBLED) View Product |
An electric shower chair is as much a benefit to a caregiver as it is to a user. With maximum flexibility of positioning without physical strain, a single caregiver can safely perform all bathing tasks safely.
 | ActiveAid Padded Shower Commode Chair with Back | Model 202 View Product |
Pressure on skin from prolonged sitting in one position can lead to uncomfortable and potentially dangerous pressure ulcers. A padded shower chair can alleviate pressure and redistribute body weight for more comfort and less risk of skin issues.
 | Teak Wall Mounted Fold Down Shower Bench with Slats View Product |
A wall mounted shower bench eliminates the need to place a shower chair, remove it when not in use, and put it back in the shower or tub when it’s needed. Some wall mounted shower chairs and benches are supported by adjustable legs while others are supported only by the wall. They are available in plastic, wood, or metal seats with stainless steel frames. View our list of Wall Mounted Shower Benches for similar products.
.jpg&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "Etac Edge Shower Stools for Corner Shower") | Etac Edge Shower Stools for Corner Shower View Product |
A triangular corner design saves space in the shower, and it can be turned to allow a corner to face forward for greater stability. This design helps relieve pressure on the hips for people recovering from hip surgery. They often tilt slightly to make it easier to stand from a seated position.
 | HydroSlide Swivel Seat Shower and Bath Chair by Platinum Health View Product |
Legless shower chairs attach security to the sides of the bathtub. They have a smaller footprint and there is no need to worry about foot slippage. The user sits on the chair while it faces outward, then swivels around to face the tub, bringing the legs into the bathtub.
 | Soft Seat Rolling Shower Chair View Product |
PVC is a popular material for shower chairs because it’s durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. It won’t rust, so it holds up well in wet environments.
 | Tranquilo Electric Reclining Bath Lift by Platinum Health View Product |
A powered bath lift is an adaptive device that delivers independence and convenience for people who struggle with mobility issues. These electric lifts allow users to enter and exit the tub while also providing stability during baths and showers. The user retains the privacy, dignity, and independence that comes from handling one’s personal bathing. For information on the best power lifts available with information on how to choose the best option for your situation, read The 5 Best Power Bath Lifts.
 | Teak Shower Bench with Drop Down Legs - ADA Compliant - by TeakWorks4U View Product |
ADA compliant shower benches are universally accessible, allowing easy entry into a shower. They fold up against the shower wall, and when folded down they provide a safe and secure shower seat. They are required in most facilities, and are suitable for home use as well. Read more about the listings in our ADA Compliant Shower Benchcategory to see similar products.
 | Medline Momentum Shower Chair with Microban Antimicrobial Protection View Product |
Maintaining hygiene is one of the most important factors of creating and maintaining and healthy environment. Because many disabled people are immunocompromised, this becomes even more important. Shower seats that are made with materials that have antimicrobial properties keep germs at bay and foster a cleaner environment.
 | Open-Front Soft Seat Deluxe Shower Chair View Product |
An open-front shower chair facilitates efficient bathing. With full access, it’s easy to get clean in the shower or bath without any barriers to washing personal areas.
The materials that go into a piece of equipment that will be used in a wet environment need to be water resistant, rust proof, and durable. Choices for a frame are usually between aluminum and plastic. Aluminum tends to cost more than plastic. Some of the seats are made of hard plastic, some have mesh upholstery, and some are upholstered in antimicrobial materials. The main considerations are that the chair fosters a clean environment by being easy to clean and that it holds up when wet.
Users with low vision will appreciate contrasting colors to distinguish shapes. Many shower chairs are bright blue to make them easy to see and lower the risk of a fall from not being able to find the shower seat.
Shower chairs are available in a variety of sizes. Standard chairs have a weight capacity of a between 250 pounds and 400 pounds. For users who weigh more than that, bariatric models are available serving users weighing up to 900 pounds.
Shower and bathing chairs come in different sizes, to accommodate not only users, but differing tub and shower sizes. It is imperative to measure your bath/shower space before choosing a shower chair, and keep in mind not every model will fit every design. Some chairs are narrow, some have wheels for walk-in showers, and some are wall or tub mounted.
To foster skin health, it’s best not to sit in pooling water. Many shower chairs have drainage holes so water drains during the shower. Eliminating standing water also makes the shower seat easier to dry off and keep clean and hygienic.
Size and shape of a shower chair is about comfort but also about proper support. For people who are recovering from hip surgery, a triangular shape and/or an available tilt will help take the pressure off the healing hip joint. If a seat is too narrow or not deep enough for a user to be stable while seated, it is not only uncomfortable, but also unsafe. The seat needs to be the proper shape, size, and height to provide the stability and support to keep the user balanced and confident while bathing.
Bathing is about cleanliness, and any accommodation for maximum cleanliness should be considered. A perineal cut out in a shower chair gives access to body parts that would be hard to easily wash while seated in a standard chair without a cut out.
Not every shower chair has adjustable legs, but most do. To ensure a customized and secure fit, measure the height you need and make sure the chair you choose can accommodate the height range you need.
Different users need different levels of support. Backrests, arm rests, hand holds, foot rests, and straps that keep a user properly positioned are all options for support to provide a safe and secure bathing experience.
Feet options include suction cups, rubber pads, or locking casters. No matter what option you consider, the feet should always be checked prior to the user getting on the shower chair to make sure it won’t slip and hasn’t changed positions between uses.
A padded seat can reduce pressure on skin, decreasing the risk of developing pressure ulcers. For users who are at a high risk of developing pressure wounds from sitting in one position for extended periods, purchasing a ROHO Shower Commode Seat Cushion can defend against pressure ulcers.
A: Medicare Part B defines Durable Medical Equipment as devices that must be used to meet a specific medical necessity, and shower chairs are not generally covered for home use. Using a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, which is required to provide at least the same Part A and Part B coverage as Original Medicare, might include additional benefits at little to no extra cost. Certain Medicare Advantage plans may offer over-the-counter allowances that can cover some items, like a shower chair, so review your plan benefits to see if a shower chair is covered. Also, if you use a shower chair in a facility, your insurance company may cover that cost.
A: Discount medical supplier Rehabmart has a comprehensive catalog of quality Shower Chairs and Bathing & Toileting Products, and all come with free shipping.
A: For home use, a simple shower chair starts at less than $40 and ranges to about $300, while shower transfer chairs that are suitable for professional medical environments for people with severe disabilities or mobility challenges can range up to $7000.
A: To accommodate a variety of body types, heights, and weights, shower chairs come in a variety of sizes. Generally the weight capacity ranges from 250 to 400 pounds.
A: This guide outlines the most important questions you should consider when purchasing a shower chair, including weight capacity, construction materials, area needed to accommodate the chair, portability, amount of back support needed, and any extra features like a commode option.
A: It depends on where the shower chair will be used and who will be using it. Almost all of them have adjustable leg rests and backrests for an individual fit, and they have rubber footing to minimize the chance of slippage in a wet bath tub. They usually have drainage holes in the sesat to keep standing water from pooling. If getting on and off the toilet is difficult, a shower chair with a commode seat can be rolled right over the toilet with the user sitting on it. For people who have greater support needs because of limited mobility and stability, options include power bath lifts that caregivers can use to help the user transition to bathing.
A: Since falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and because bathrooms can have wet and slipper surfaces, and are small spaces where mobility aids don’t always fit, bathing, showering, and transferring in and out of the tub present a high risk for a fall without the support of a shower chair.
As a way to reduce the risk of a dangerous bathroom fall for people with mobility challenges, shower chairs provide safe and comfortable support to facilitate bathing. This can contribute to independence and overall life satisfaction, by allowing people to take care of their personal bathing needs without the fear of a fall. More articles, Shower Chairs and Bathing & Toileting Products, will provide more useful information as you consider your purchasing options.
Main factors to consider include the overall size and the seat dimensions, weight capacity, height adjustability, what it’s constructed with, style (chair, stool, bench, with or without backrest and arm rests), type of feet, padded or unpadded seat, and swivel or sliding motion.
Thank you for reading our guy on choosing the best shower chair. For more articles on how to make the best product choices for your situation, visit Caregiver University.
Co-Founder of Rehabmart and an Occupational Therapist since 1993. Mike has spent his professional career working in multiple areas of Occupational Therapy, including pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, ergonomics and inpatient / outpatient rehabilitation. Mike enjoys writing articles that help people solve complex therapeutic problems and make better product choices.
