Everything You Need to Know About Shower Chairs!

An Overview of Shower Chairs for Mobility Bathrooms

For anyone with limited mobility or chronic conditions, standing in the shower can be difficult or unsafe. That’s where shower chairs come in, a practical and reliable solution for safe and comfortable bathing.

Whether you’re using a disabled shower or exploring shower cubicles for disabled individuals, the right shower chair can make a huge difference.

In this guide, we’ll look more into shower chairs, what they are and how they can benefit those looking for more accessibility in their bathroom.

Let’s get started! 

Accessible Age Care Bathroom featuring a walk-in shower, wall-mounted sink, toilet with grab bars, blue and green walls, towel rack, mirror, and framed pictures for a comfortable and stylish wet room environment.

What is a Shower Chair?

A shower chair is a waterproof stool or seat specifically designed for use in a shower environment. Unlike standard household furniture, shower seats are purpose-built to provide safe and stable seating in wet conditions.

They range from simple stools to more supportive models with backrests and armrests, and some can be wall-mounted or foldable for convenience.

Using anything other than a proper shower chair, like a plastic garden seat, is dangerous. These alternatives are not designed for wet environments and can slip, tip, or even damage your shower tray.

Purpose-made shower seats are built with non-slip grips (ferrules), rust-resistant materials, and safe construction for peace of mind.

What Types of Shower Chairs are Available?

Now we know what shower chairs are, and their purpose, let’s explore the different options that are available…

Multipurpose Shower Chairs 

Some shower chairs double as commodes, with removable sections and pans for toileting needs.

These are ideal for individuals who require comprehensive support with bathing and toileting, offering a cost-effective, space-saving solution.

Fixed Shower Chairs

Wall-mounted shower seats fold away when not in use, saving space.

They usually include drop-down legs for added support and are only suitable if your bathroom walls are strong enough to support their use, so keep this in mind when thinking about installing a shower chair in your bathroom. 

Main Reasons Why Shower Chairs are Required

A shower chair is helpful for anyone experiencing:

  • Balance problems or dizziness
  • Pain or weakness in the legs
  • Difficulty standing or bending
  • Chronic back pain
  • Breathlessness

Shower chairs are often included in full disabled shower installations to provide a safer, more manageable washing experience for elderly or disabled users.

What to Consider When Looking for a Shower Chair

When choosing a shower chair for your bathroom, consider the following:

  • Stability – Look for non-slip feet (ferrules) and anti-tip designs
  • Size & Fit – Adjustable height and wide seat options are helpful
  • Drainage – Quick-drying materials prevent mould and puddles
  • Support Features – Armrests, backrests, or headrests improve comfort
  • Tilt Functionality – For carer-assisted bathing
  • Durability – High weight capacity and rust-resistant materials
  • Ease of Cleaning – Simple surfaces that are hygienic and easy to wipe down

A top-down view of a completed mobility bathroom renovation, showcasing a light brown, slip-resistant safety floor that is completely level and flush with a central chrome drainage grate. The flooring has an integrated coved skirting that runs up the base of the marble-effect wall panels to create a watertight seal. The layout also includes a white close-coupled toilet, a wall-hung washbasin, and a wall-mounted folding shower seat with grey padding.

Want to Know More About Shower Chairs? 

At Age Care Bathrooms, we have over 30 years of experience in designing and installing accessible bathrooms. 

Our team of experts can provide further information about shower chair options, benefits and any other bathroom requirements you may have. 

Please get in touch with us today, we’re here to help and provide comfort, independence and support to your day-to-day life. 

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