Additionally, some shower stools and shower benches have metal screws that may be prone to rust. To ensure that you reduce the chances for mold to grow or rust to develop, you are going to want to keep your shower chair clean.

How to Do It

Every time that the shower is used, make certain that the chair is wiped down. One of the best ways to do this is have a shower cleaning kit handy. Antibacterial cloths are available and all that really needs to be done is a simple wipe and dry. The idea is to get as much water off the chair as possible. Germs love to get into small humid places and a moment of your time can prevent this from happening. Be certain that you dry the top and bottom of the seat. If possible, remove the chair from the tub between uses so it can further dry off.

You should make certain that you include the chair as part of your regular bathroom cleaning routine. (Read Steps to Clean Your Shower for more details.) For best results, have a good antibacterial soap on hand and a number of brushes. Germs are able to get into the smallest of places and you need have brushes that will permit you to scrub and clean around screws and between cracks. A cloth will not be sufficient.

Most shower chairs also have drainage holes. You may want to use a bottle brush to be sure you can clean inside those holes.

Cleaning Teak Shower Benches

Teak is often the wood of choice for consumers who want to display a stylish type shower bench or seat in their bathroom. However, it is important that you make certain to follow all of the cleaning instructions that are recommended by the manufacturers. Any brushes or cleansers you use need to be able to kill germs and also be safe for the teak shower seat. Be certain that you do not to use any kind of brush or cleaning product that may leave scratches. Scratches and grooves are ideal germ breeding grounds.

When trying to clean teak do not use any kind of product that is an acid base. This will destroy the finish and may even ruin the wood. This applies to all acid bases including clouding vinegar. If you have a steam cleaner, you can use it to clean the wood, but make certain that the pressure is not so high that is going to damage the surface of the wood.

Shower chairs are going to be prone to germs. If you want to keep them bacteria free, remember to take them out of the shower when you are not using them and to keep them as dry as you possibly can. Proper care and maintenance will lengthen the life of any shower chair.

Various types of shower seats are available that make it much easier for someone who is physically challenged to sit comfortably and safely in a shower.

First, for people who use a wheelchair, shower commode chairs are available. This special type of wheelchair can be made of waterproof PVC or may have an aluminum frame and stainless steel hardware. These chairs also have large wheels so the person in it can get themselves in and out of the shower. What’s more, many are lightweight and can be folded so they can be easily moved.

A commode chair often also has a special hole that permits the chair to double as a toilet. Underneath the chair is a removable container that can be taken out and cleaned as required.

A person who is in a wheelchair may need, or prefer, to have a transfer bench. This is an adapted version of the standard shower seat. The design of the bench allows a person to move from their wheelchair onto the bench and then slide themselves into the shower. Many models allow you to adjust the seat height.

If you are concerned about water getting onto the floor, you don’t have to worry as many of these benches have a feature which allows the shower curtain to be pulled across. These benches are very useful for not only the disabled person, but also their caregiver. With this type of unit in place, the caregiver will have virtually no lifting to do. In fact, many people who are confined to a wheelchair can get in and out of the shower using one of these benches with no assistance at all.

If you are looking at a long-term care situation, you should think about a wall mounted or fold down shower seat. These are extremely convenient and useful. Wall mounted shower seats can be conveniently folded out of the way when they are not needed. Many of these seats are made of a phenolic, which is a very durable long lasting plastic compound. If you plan to get a wall mount, there are a number of different features available, including safety locks, and arms.

A handicap shower seat is ideal for any person who needs assistance getting in and out of the shower or who just wants to have privacy for taking a shower. Replacing or modifying a shower or tub can be very costly, but the addition of the appropriate shower chair can make major renovations or alternations unnecessary. And the range of options for a handicap shower seat enables the physically challenged person to be involved in making their own choice.

The above seats can be purchased at:

• Teak
• Hardwood
• Rubberwood / Parawood.

Teak

A teak shower seat is not only practical, but will add beauty and style to any bathroom. Due to its natural water resistance, a teak stool can be placed directly into either a shower or a bathtub. Teak is a durable hardwood which will last for many years and, over time, take on an attractive grey patina. For both its elegance and quality, there are few shower seats that can compare to one made of teak.

When selecting a teak shower chair you have three basic designs to choose from. There are teak shower stools, corner benches, and folding chairs.

Teak Shower Stools

The most common design is that of the teak shower stool. These square three or four-legged stools can be found with either all teak or aluminum legs. The seat has vents in it to allow water to drain through. Some also come with a basket feature. This permits an individual to store shower items right beside them. You wouldn’t have to stand up or move around if they need to reach the shampoo or conditioner.

Teak Corner Bench

Depending on the size and shape of your shower, you might want to select a teak corner shower seat. This will still give you the benefit of having a chair in the shower, but will take up less room and make getting in and out of a shower much easier.

Not all shower enclosures are square. Many homes have neo angle showers, and the square shape of the standard stool often makes it awkward to use. The triangular shape of the corner stool allows it to fit compactly into this type shower as well as a bathtub.

Teak Folding Chair

For those who want a shower chair they can remove from the bathroom or shower, a teak folding shower chair is an ideal solution. These can be picked up and moved easily. Additionally, a teak folding shower chair can be stored almost anywhere, when it is not in use.

Many people use these for outdoor showers or as part of their backyard landscaping. That’s because of their design and larger size.

Hinged Teak Shower Seat

There are hinged or fold down shower seats made of teak. As with other retractable shower seats, these type seats provide more room in the shower because when not being used they are folded out of the way.

But even when folded up or down, the teak seat will still provide visual interest in the shower, unlike the typical plastic hinged seat. They can also be spruced up by using fancier connecting hardware, such as brass.

For more information read The Difference Between a Fold Down Shower Seat and a Folding Shower Seat

Benefits and Features

The advantage of buying a teak shower seat is that teak is the world’s most water resistant wood. This is why you often see teak used in all kinds of bathrooms and in the construction of outdoor furniture. Teak is such a classic wood that you often only see it stained. It can be painted, but due to the natural beauty of the grain, most people prefer to not alter the color.

For additional information about teak wood, read Shower Seat Materials: PVC, Stainless Steel /
Aluminum, Hardwood, and Mesh.

The price of a teak shower stool or a teak shower chair can range in price from about $45 to $70 and up. However, the cost is minimal when one takes into account that it will last for years and unlike many of its metal and plastic counterparts, teak has a look of elegance.

If you are looking to buy a chair for the indoor bathtub or shower or for your back yard, you should consider getting a teak shower seat. You will be pleased by its comfort, practicality, and attractiveness.

Hardwood

Woods other than teak are also available. These include

• Iroko, a moisture resistant wood from Africa
• Brazilian walnut, known for strength and durability and its resistance to moisture
• Bamboo, a more ecologically friendly choice
• Rubberwood, also called parawood

Rubberwood is typically grown in Southeast Asia. It is a lighter color than teak, but can be stained. It is also water resistant and less expensive than teak. If you want the look and feel of wood, but want something that is ecologically friendly, you may want to consider rubberwood.

Given all these options, why not consider a teak shower seat now?

Click on the following link for teak shower seat.

CLICK HERE FOR Product Comparison Chart

CLICK HERE FOR Product Review Summary

CLICK HERE for Individual Medline Products

Product Comparison Chart

Feature	1. Medline Bariatric Bath Bench without Back	2. Bariatric Heavy Duty Bath Bench/ Chair	3. Heavy Duty Shower Bench Bath Chair by Medline	4. Medline Bariatric Bath Benches (Without Back)	5. Medline Bariatric Bath Benches (With Back)	6. Medline Bariatric Bath Bench with Back	7. Bariatric Bath Bench (With Back)
Weight capacity up to 550 pounds	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Construction
Cross Braces	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Aircraft Rivets	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Drain Holes	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	NO
Integrated Handles	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	NO	NO
Assembly	Required	Completely assembled	Completely assembled	Completely assembled	Completely assembled	Required	Completely assembled
Materials: Blow-molded plastic seat	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Dimensions listed	20.5″W x 15.7″D	20″W x 12″D	None (Typical: 20″W x 12″D)	None (Typical: 20″W x 12″D)	None (Typical for this model is 18″W x 21.5″D)	None (Typical for this model is 18″W x 21.5″D)	18″W x 21.5″D (Back Included)
Seat Height adjusts in 1 inch increments	From 14” to 17”	From 14” to 17”	From 14” to 18”	From 14” to 18”	From 16.5” to 20.5”	From 14.5” to 19.5”	From 16.5” to 20.5”
Legs:
Aluminum	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Suction cups on tips	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Backs / arms	NO	NO	NO	NO	Back	Back	Back
Cost	Under $50 Click here for latest Amazon price	About $60 Click here for latest Amazon price	Under $50 Click here for latest Amazon price	Under $55 Click here for latest Amazon price	About $70 Click here for latest Amazon price	Under $85 Click here for latest Amazon price	About $85 Click here for latest Amazon price
Other	Listed as Model MDS89740AXW	No model # listed	No model # listed	Listed as Model MDS89740AXW	Listed as Model MDS89745AXW Item differs from photo	No model # listed	Listed as Model MDS89745AXW

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Product Review Summary

The following summarizes reviews of Medline shower seats from various online sites.

Positive comments

Negative comments

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Individual Medline Bath Bench Products

Overall note: Different companies may list different sizes for the same model number of shower chair. These differences may be due to data entry errors or different methods of measurement.

Medline Bariatric Bath Bench without Back

What’s Different?

Listed as Model MDS89740AXW

Seat dimensions provided: 20.5″ W x 15.7″ D

Seat height adjusts from 14 to 17 inches

Needs assembly

Cost: Under $50. Click here for latest Amazon price

Bariatric Heavy Duty Bath Bench/ Chair

What’s Different?

Seat dimensions: 20″W x 12″D

Seat height adjusts from 14″ to 17″

Completely assembled

Cost: About $60. Click here for latest Amazon price

Heavy Duty Shower Bench Bath Chair by Medline – Size Bariatric 550 LB

What’s Different?

Seat dimensions not provided (Typical dimensions are 20″ W x 12″ D)

Seat height adjusts from 14 to 18 inches

Completely assembled

Cost: Under $50. Click here for latest Amazon price.

Medline Bariatric Bath Benches Without Back
What’s Different?

Seat dimensions not provided (Typical dimensions are 20″ W x 12″ D)

Listed as Model MDS89740AXW

Seat height adjusts from 14″ to 18″

Completely assembled

Price: Under $55 Click here for latest Amazon price.

Medline Bariatric Bath Benches with Back

What’s Different?

Item may differ from image shown

Listed as Model MDS89745AXW

Seat dimensions not provided (Typical dimensions are 18″ W x 21.5″ D)

Seat height adjusts from 16.5″ to 20.5″

Completely assembled

Price: About $70 Click here for latest Amazon price.

Medline Bariatric Bath Bench with Back
What’s Different?

Seat dimensions not provided (Typical dimensions are 18″ W x 21.5″ D)

Seat adjusts from 14.5 to 19.5 inches

Flat seat

Needs assembly

Cost: Under $85 Click here for latest Amazon price.

Bariatric Bath Bench Size: 16.5″-20.5″ H x 18″ W x 21.5″ D

What’s Different?

Model MDS89745AXW

Dimensions: 18″ W x 21.5″ D (Back Included)

Seat adjusts from 16.5″- 20.5″

Flat seat

No drain holes

Completely assembled

Cost: About $85 Click here for latest Amazon price.

NOTE: Smaller model (without back) Model MDS89740AXW also available on this page
• Dimensions: 20″ W x 12″ D
• Seat height adjusts from 14”-17”

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Remember, bariatric shower chairs are made to help people who weigh over 250 pounds feel safe and comfortable when sitting in a shower.

Seat height: This measurement can be important, especially if you are tall. You want your feet to rest comfortably on the shower floor when you are sitting in your seat. Otherwise you may be off balance. While sitting in a comfortable chair, measure the dimension from the floor to where your bottom is on the chair. This is usually from 14 to 19 inches. Some shower chairs have seats that are adjustable. Make sure the seat can adjust to the height you need.

Legs: You don’t want your shower chair slipping around in the shower. Make sure that the legs have rubber tips or suction cups on them to hold the chair in place when you’re using it in the shower.

Backs and arms: Some models are available with backs and some come with backs and arms. People find that having a back or back and arms provides added support, especially if you are overweight. The back prevents you from leaning too far back in the seat and the arms can help you get into and out of the chair. Attached arms can limit the width of the seat, so if you do want arms, make sure the width of the chair will still accommodate your body.

Fitting in shower or bathtub: These bariatric shower chairs are designed for use in a shower. But remember that they will take up space in your shower. So check the chair dimensions against the dimensions of your shower so you know you’ll have enough space left to get in and out of the shower. Also, if you are going to use these chairs in a bathtub, check its size, as bathtubs are often smaller than showers. What’s more, some tubs are curved on the bottom, making it difficult for the shower chair legs to stay flat. Some people find that they have to turn the chair sideways to use it in their tub, which can decrease your stability when sitting on the seat.

Cost: You will probably pay a little more for a shower seat with bariatric support. But it is well worth it for the comfort and safety. Also, chairs with backs and arms will also cost more. You can find these chairs on Amazon and in local pharmacies or large chain stores. Prices can vary a lot, so be sure you are comparing similar models with similar dimensions and features.

NOTE: Some overweight people use wheelchairs. For you, bariatric transfer benches are available. These transfer benches are long seats that provide extra support legs in the middle. You can then more easily move from your wheelchair to sit in your shower.

These heavy duty shower seats are available for people who weigh over 250 pounds up to about 900 pounds. These chairs are built to provide extra stability, allowing the larger person to enjoy the benefits of sitting while in the shower.

There are a number of factors to consider when you are about to buy one of these bariatric shower chairs. All bariatric chairs are not the same. By matching your individual needs with the considerations below you will be able to find a safe and comfortable chair.

The features you should consider are similar to the ones found in The Benefits and Features of Shower Seats.

• Weight capacity
• Construction and Materials
• Dimensions
• Seat height
• Seat Legs
• Backrests and Armrests
• Cost

Weight capacity

The key feature to consider is, of course, how much weight the chair can hold. Chairs are available that can hold 350, 500, and even up to 900 pounds. This is the first thing to look for when buying a bariatric shower chair. A shower seat that is labeled “bariatric” or “heavy duty” should list its weight capacity. That’s the first thing you should look for.

And when you first get the chair, sit on it before you use it in the shower to be sure it’s stable and the seat legs do not bend in any way.

Construction and Materials

How the seat is put together will give you a clue about how sturdy it will be. Most bariatric shower chairs will have cross-braces going across the legs. This key feature is what helps the chair support the extra weight. If you have to assemble the chair yourself be certain these braces are tightly in place.

You need to consider what material the seats and legs are made of. You want the legs to be made of aluminum, rather than steel. Aluminum is less likely to bend and it will be more rust-resistant. The seats are usually made of vinyl or plastic which helps prohibit mildew.

You also want to know the materials used to hold the chair together. Is it screws, rivets, or all plastic? Screws must be securely tightened. Rivets must be welded properly. And the PVC must be solidly glued together.

Other questions about the assembly of the chair include:

• Does it have drain holes in the seat to let water through, reducing the chances for mildew?
• Is the seat curved or straight? Which one will you feel more comfortable sitting on?
• Does the seat come with other construction options you want such as handles in the seat or padding on the seat?

Dimensions

The size of the seat is important because each of us has a different shaped body. Check the width, length, and depth of the seat. You want the measurements to be large enough to accommodate your bottom.

I recommend actually measuring how much space your bottom takes up when sitting in a chair. Then check to make sure your shower seat is wide enough for those measurements. If you don’t fit comfortably on the shower chair there is a danger of you slipping off, even if it can hold your weight.

Seat height

This measurement can be important, especially if you are tall. You want your feet to rest comfortably on the shower floor when you are sitting in your seat. Otherwise you may be off balance.

While sitting in a comfortable chair, measure the dimension from the floor to where your bottom is on the chair. This is usually from 14 to 19 inches. Some shower chairs have seats that are adjustable. Make sure the seat can adjust to the height you need.

Chair Legs

You don’t want your shower chair slipping around in the shower. Make sure that the legs have rubber tips or suction cups on them to hold the chair in place when you’re using it in the shower.

Backrests and armrests

Some models are available with backs and some come with backs and arms. People find that having a back or back and arms provides added support, especially if you are overweight.

The back prevents you from leaning too far back in the seat and the arms can help you get into and out of the chair. Attached arms can limit the width of the seat, so if you do want arms, make sure the width of the chair will still accommodate your body.

Bariatric Chair Cost

A shower seat with bariatric support will typically cost a bit more than a standard shower chair. The additional cost is for the added bracing used on these type seats. But it is well worth it for the comfort and safety. Also, chairs with backs and arms will also cost more.

You can find these chairs online and in local pharmacies or large chain stores. Prices can vary a lot, so be sure you are comparing similar models with similar dimensions and features.

NOTE: Some overweight people use wheelchairs. For them, bariatric transfer benches are available. These transfer benches are long seats that provide extra support legs in the middle. You can then more easily move from your wheelchair to sit in your shower.

You can purchase bariatric shower chairs here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/augie/219441870/sizes/m/in/photostream/

Built-in Pet Bath

A built-in pet bath, also called a pet shower, is a permanent fixture that has been specially constructed for the area where it is located. If you have the space and money, this pet shower option is actually the more preferred one, since it has numerous practical benefits that make it stand out from the rest.

Although it can cost the most, custom pet showers can be built with tiled walls and floors and a short lip for the entrance so your dog can easily step in and out. By choosing different types of tile, this pet shower can be a visually appealing addition to your home.

The height of the built in pet shower can also be predetermined, meaning you don’t have to build all the walls to the ceiling. You can make the side walls short enough so that you only have to do minimal bending when it’s time to bathe your pets. This planned shower height contributes to the comfort of your knees and back when it’s time to bathe your dog.

With a permanent built-in pet bath you won’t have to think about where you will be giving your dog its bath on a regular basis. You’ll be assured that on any given day, at any given time, you can have a pet tub that will always be there to help make your pets look hygienic and clean. What’s more, your pet will start thinking of the pet shower as its own space, meaning he or she will be less fearful of taking a bath.

Because they can be expensive to build, some people also use these as part of a mud room. If located near the rear of the house, the built-in shower can then also be used to wash off muddy boots and gardening tools. If you already have a mud room with a small shower area, a low cost solution would be to simply attach a flexible showerhead hose to the faucet to wash your dog.

Standard Tub

If however, you choose a regular bathtub for bathing your dog, you have to think about numerous considerations before you do so. You want the height of the tub to be comfortable so washing your dog is not a back breaking job. If you are short, or the side of the bathtub is high, you may want to get a small stool you can kneel on. You’ll be surprised at the strain this can take off your back from bending low into the tub.

Is the edge of the bathtub smooth or are there tracks for sliding shower doors? The tracks can make bending over the edge of the tub very uncomfortable. If this is the case, you may want to put a towel over the edge of the tub.

You should ensure you have a flexible showerhead. Traditional shower heads tend to be very rigid when it comes to the angle and the height that the water comes from. If you do not have a flexible shower head, you might have a hard time ensuring that you are hitting the right spots with water as you bathe your pet.

And make sure you can easily grab the sliding door or shower curtain for when your dog shakes himself off. This will help prevent you and the bathroom floor from getting wet.

Other items to use in a pet tub

Some people swear by tub restraints that hold your dog in place. This can be good for a frisky dog that might try to jump out of the tub right in the middle of his or her bath!

To prevent your dog from slipping around, you may want to use some kind of non-slip mat at the bottom of any tub you use.

Some people put a shower chair or shower seat in their tub. Your animal, especially if it’s large, can rest his or her front paws on the chair to let you reach under him or her. For a smaller dog you can put him or her on the chair so you don’t have to reach all the way down in the tub.

Finally, be sure any pet tub you use has a good drainage system – you’ll probably have a lot of pet hair floating around after you clean your dog off. Tub drain strainers are available to catch all that hair.

Summary

A standard tub and built in tub offer you a low and high end choice when it comes to bathing your pet.

The fold-down seat is attached to the shower wall. The seat can then be lifted up or down and locked into place when you want to use it. When not being used, you again fold the chair down or up. That means that when not in use the seat will lie flat against the wall, taking up little shower space.

This type shower seat is very convenient because it stays in the shower where it’s handy for anyone who needs to use it. But if someone taking a shower doesn’t need it, the seat is out of the way. For more information about the benefits of shower seats, read What Are the Benefits of Shower Seats?

Attachment of the Seat

Since people are going to sit on this type shower seat, how it is attached to the shower enclosure is important. These chairs should NOT be attached to a shower wall enclosure that is only a hollow type surface such as drywall, fiberglass, acrylic, or sheetrock.

These seats need to be attached to a reinforced backing such as wood or steel that is behind the shower enclosure wall. The mounting or anchoring bolts or screws should be appropriate for the type of backing they are being attached to. If you are not comfortable doing this type of construction, consult a plumbing professional.

As an alternative, some fold down shower seats are sold with legs. The legs will provide added support to the person sitting in the chair and fold up with the chair. Some of these legs are also adjustable so the seat can be used by people of different heights. Adjusting the legs also lets you take care of shower floors that slope downward toward the drain in the middle.

Features

Here are some of the key features you should consider when buying a new fold down shower seat.

Weight capacity: Assuming it’s attached correctly, a typical seat can hold about 250 pounds (113 KG). With legs, seats can hold more weight, such as 400 pounds (181 KG). Always check the weight capacity of any fold down shower seat you buy to be sure no one will get hurt while sitting in it.

Seat size: Seats come in different lengths and widths, so be sure to find one that will fit the bottom that’s going to be in it. A typical length is 18 inches (45 cm), while a typical width can be from 16 to 18 inches (40 to 45 Cm).

Seat material: You will have many different options when it comes to the material you choose for your retractable shower chair.

Teak is a stylish and popular option. It’s a brownish wood that is strong and resistant to moisture. It typically costs more than any of the other seat material options.

Rubberwood, also called parawood, is a lighter color than teak, but can be stained. It is also water resistant and less expensive than teak. If you want the look and feel of wood, but want something that is ecologically friendly, you may want to consider rubberwood.

Both teak and rubberwood seats usually have slats in them to let the water drain through.

Phenolic is a water resistant plastic often used in hospital fold down shower seats. It is a hard and strong material. It will also have slats to allow water to drain through.

Some manufacturers offer phenolic seats with padding for greater comfort while sitting.

Hardware: There are also many options for the mounting bracket and hinge materials used for these chairs. In addition to stainless steel, chrome, brass, and brushed nickel are often available options.

With the combination of hardware and seat material you can be sure the fold down seat fits in with the décor of your shower and bathroom.

Be sure the hardware you use has no rough edges so it will not cut anyone using the shower seat. Also, some shower chairs come with covers for the metal hardware.

Other options:

Some fold down seats are sold with backs and arms. A chair with a back offers greater support to the person using the chair. Arms allow people to sit more comfortably. These are especially useful when this type chair is being used by a physically challenged person who requires caregiver help when taking a shower.

Commode type chairs with U-shaped cutouts are also available for handicapped people who need the additional convenience.

Summary

The retractable shower seat is a great solution for a small shower that needs a shower seat. Choose the features you need before buying. When installing, be sure all the hardware is attached securely so the seat can be used without any worries.

Don’t confuse this seat with the folding shower seat which does not attach to the shower wall.

Next, let’s consider what you can do about some other common bathroom elements: showers and bathtubs, sinks, faucets and mirrors, and grab bars.

Showers and Bathtubs

There’s no reason someone with disabilities shouldn’t be able to enjoy a shower. Shower enclosures are available that can accommodate the user with disabilities. Sometimes called a walk-in shower, the ideal accessible shower stall would be at least 4 feet (1.2 meters) square. The opening should be at least 3 feet (.914 meters) wide so a wheelchair or shower commode can get in. The entrance should not have a barrier or lip the user needs to climb over. The floor may have a slight downward slope to allow water to drain to the middle.

Inside the shower you can use a freestanding shower seat for the disabled person to sit on. These shower chairs, in either molded plastic or wood are available in models that can hold heavier people. Instead of a shower seat you can use a shower transfer bench. These units let the person move from their wheelchair to a seat which slides into place inside the shower.

Shower controls should be low enough for a seated person to reach them. A handheld showerhead, with flexible hose, should be no higher than 48 inches (122 cm) above the floor so it can be easily reached. You can also put the showerhead on a vertical bar which allows its height to be adjusted. This means the shower can be used by people both sitting down and standing up.

If a bathtub is going to be in a barrier-free bathroom, it should have a wide tubside seat that will allow someone to sit on and move themselves into the tub. Sliding transfer benches are also available for tubs. These let the handicapped person transfer from their wheelchair to a seat that then lets the person slide into the open tub area. A freestanding shower seat can also be placed inside the tub.

A better tub option might be a walk-in tub . Most of these are built with a small 2-inch high step that many physically challenged people can get over. They can then sit in the seat inside the tub and be surrounded by water. Walk in tubs also take up less space than the standard 5-foot long tub.

Sinks, Faucets, and Mirrors

Sinks in the accessible bathroom should have floor space open in front of them. This will allow a person in a wheelchair to roll under it to reach the sink. Be sure that if there is a hot water pipe leading to the sink it is insulated to prevent burns.

The faucets on the sink should be a lever type or a single handle. If the lever is ADA compliant, it will take less than five pounds of pressure to operate. For extra safety, the faucets should have anti-scald valves to prevent the hot water from causing burns.

There are many options for disabled bathroom mirrors. A full height mirror mounted at the appropriate height is one possibility. You can also mount one of those flexible mirrors that pull out at the right height for a seated person. Another option is installing a mirror that tilts down above the sink. Mirrors are also available that have a pulley system and crank. The mirror normally hangs flat against the bathroom wall until it is needed by someone who is seated. Then, by turning the crank the person can angle the mirror down to where they can see themselves.

Grab Bars

Finally, grab bars should be located throughout any barrier-free bathroom. Grab bars should be on the shower and bathtub walls to help people get in and out of the tub or shower. Grab bars should also be available on both sides of the toilet. Some toilet grab bars can also be swung out of the way when not in use.

Newer style looped grab bars are also available for use on both sides of the toilet. A shorter person can use the bottom loop while a taller person can use the upper ones.

Summary

Physical limitations sometimes make it difficult for some people to use what we consider “normal” bathrooms. By using modern accessibility options you can create a stylish bathroom that will be accessible to all.

Basic Requirements

Basically, handicap accessible shower stalls do away with the high lip entry that is standard in most showers. By getting rid of this step, the shower floor is then either level with the bathroom floor or is at a small slope (about 2%).

This flat or barrier free shower entry allows seniors and people with limited mobility to more easily walk into their shower stall. It also allows caregivers to more easily transfer people in wheelchairs to the shower using a transfer bench or shower seat.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has published standards for this type of shower enclosure. Their standard (4.21.7) says that shower stalls that are 36 in by 36 inches (915 mm by 915 mm) should not have an entry higher than ½ an inch (13 mm). Shower stalls that are 30 inches by 60 inches (760 mm by 1525 mm) should not have any curbs at all.

You can read all the ADA standards by clicking on this ADA link and then selecting the PDF with all the standards.

Other Considerations

There are other considerations for installing a handicap accessible shower. The shower floor should be treated with waterproof material and include a non-skid finish. These precautions can also help prevent falls. Also make sure the water controls are located at a convenient height, especially if the person using the shower will be in a wheelchair. As far as the shower door goes, a large glass door can be difficult to maneuver. Consider having no door or a moveable shower curtain.

Also, remember the location of the shower faucets. Because the person using them will be seated, they must be low enough to reach while sitting. A separate water pipe and faucet can be built in for this low height. Or a flexible showerhead that moves up and down on a vertical bar can be used. This arrangement can also be very convenient for younger children who want to use the shower.

If building or remodeling a shower to accommodate handicap access is too big a deal, think about using a waterproof shower seat, shower chair, or built-in shower bench. For people in wheelchairs, shower commode chairs or sliding transfer benches are available that allow easier access to the shower.

For more information read What Type Shower Seats are Available?

Using a handicap accessible shower can provide seniors, the disabled and physically challenged people the safety, freedom, and comfort they want when taking a shower.