Types of Shower Seats: Built-in, Freestanding, and Wheeled or Shower Commode
Whether you are looking for a luxurious addition to your shower or you are physically challenged, you have many different shower seat options to choose from. Three general categories include:
- Built-in
- Freestanding
- Wheeled / Shower Commode
Built-in
Built-in shower seats are seats that are permanently installed in your shower. This includes shower benches that stick out, like a bench, from the shower wall, and chairs that are fixed to the shower wall with brackets. Another possibility is a corner shower bench. This is triangular seat that is built into a corner of the shower wall.
Shower benches often run the entire length of the wall they are attached to providing plenty of space for sitting and storage of bathroom items. They can be covered with tile to match the shower enclosure or with granite or marble for that touch of elegance.
Chairs and seats that are attached to the shower wall usually have legs that rest on the shower floor. This provides added support to the user. These legs are often adjustable to accommodate more than one user.
Built in shower seats can also be hinged or retractable. Depending on the type of hardware used, they can be lifted up or pulled down when you’re ready to use them, then raised or lowered when you are done. Because it can lie flat against the shower wall, this type chair provides more space in the shower. If you are considering this type of shower seat, be sure it is attached solidly and can easily hold your weight. Also use hardware with rounded edges that will not cut or nick your body.
Freestanding
These are shower seats that sit on the floor of your shower and are not fixed in any way. This means you can move the seat in and out of the shower. Some allow folding so they can be put away when not being used. Portability, then, is a key feature of this type of shower seat.
Freestanding seats are made of various materials including PVC, steel, aluminum, teak, or a combination of these.
Typical features include adjustable legs with anti-slip feet, backrests, and armrests. Purchase considerations include seat shape, dimensions, and capacity.
Wheeled / Shower Commode Chair
Wheeled shower seats are for those needing assistance getting in and out of the shower. They are also referred to as shower commode chairs. They let the user get in the shower themselves or be helped in, avoiding the need to transfer from a wheelchair to a separate seat. A commode chair allows for the user to easily move to and from the toilet and shower.
The wheels are usually large swivel casters with safety locks. Larger wheels provide less rolling resistance so that a caregiver can more easily move someone across a floor. Other features to consider include backrests and armrests, and the ability to tilt the seat frame so the user or caregiver can shower more easily.
Obviously, the entrance to the shower should be flat to allow the wheels to roll smoothly into and out of the shower.
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