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Written by Mike Price, OT
Welcome to your introduction to bedside commodes. They are useful tools for anyone who spends a lot of time in bed and is unsteady on their feet. Independently managing toileting without having to walk to the bathroom greatly reduces the risk of a fall as well as dependence on a caregiver.
For helpful information that will assist you in choosing a bedside commode, read How to Choose the Best Bedside Commode.
A bedside commode looks like a chair or a bench and is set up near a bed. Also known as a portable toilet, a toilet chair, or a commode chair, a bedside commode has a seat similar to a toilet seat. It has a detachable basin under the seat that collects urine and feces that is emptied after use.
People who are recovering from an injury or surgery, who have permanent mobility challenges, or who need help getting to the bathroom in a timely manner can all benefit from easier and safer toileting provided by a bedside commode. Since maintaining as much independence as possible is beneficial for overall well being, devices like bedside commodes are valuable tools that contribute to a higher quality of life.
A 3-in-1 bedside commode is used as a bedside commode, a toilet safety frame which can be used on a standard toilet for balance and leverage while using the bathroom, and it can also be used as a shower chair for safe bathing.
Using your walker, back up to the bedside commode until you feel it behind your knees. With both hands, reach back to the rails on the bedside commode then slowly lower yourself onto the seat. When you’re finished, push up from the rails or seat, and stand. Make sure you get your balance before reaching for your walker, and when you have your walker in hand, proceed away from the commode.
First, make sure the bedside commode wheels are locked and the detachable basin is under the seat. Put a small amount of water in the container, which will make it easier to clean after it’s been used. Assist the user out of bed and onto the commode, and stay with the user or provide a bell or way for them to signal when they’re finished or need assistance. Wearing disposable gloves, help the user to stand and get clean then dry with toilet paper, wipes, or soap and water. Assist the user with handwashing if they need help. After getting the user back to bed, return to the commode to remove the detachable basin and take it to the bathroom. Put the toilet seat up and empty the contents of the commode container into the toilet bowl. Flush the contents and clean the basin with a toilet brush, anti-bacterial cleanser, and water. Rinse well and replace the container under the commode seat.
 | GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health View Product |
Rehabmart ranks the GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health as the best bedside commode. This versatile piece of equipment simplifies toileting and bathing with its self-powered stand-assist function that facilitates seat entry and exit. This feature also helps users maintain their mobility and independence, with assistance coming from the commode, rather than a caregiver. It can be used as an over-toilet commode, bedside commode, or a shower chair.
Real customer reviews include:
I had to use toilet risers up to 4 inches high and still needed help getting up from the toilet. The GentleBoost gave me back my independence and I don’t need ANYONE to help me when I’m using it.
We take it with us so we can feel comfortable in hotel rooms again when we travel. I feel it’s given me back my independence.
It’s easy to set up and goes up to 25 inches high. It’s really comfortable and the built-in spring assist really helps a lot when it comes to getting up from the seat.
To review our other top choices, check out our 5 Best Bedside Commodes and Toilet Chairs.
If you’re wondering if a bedside commode will be helpful for you or someone you love, this introduction has hopefully answered your questions about what these devices are and how they can contribute to accomplishing personal toileting activities.
Thank you for taking the time to read about bedside commodes and who they benefit. Check out the bedside commodes and bathing & toileting products section of our website for more information and product listings.
We invite you to visit Caregiver University for helpful articles created to equip you to confidently make informed purchasing decisions.
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.
