The previous article about accessibility described modifying bathroom entrances, flooring, and toilets to create a barrier-free environment. As you recall, the goal is to create an unrestricted, comfortable environment for both disabled and non-disabled people.

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.

Tub and shower combination units do exactly what the name implies – they provide you with the benefits of both a tub and a shower in the same floor space.

If you feel like soaking away the stress of the day by surrounding yourself with hot water, fill up the tub and relax away. If it’s the morning and you’re rushing to get ready for work, hop in the same space, turn on the showerhead and take a quick shower.

If the space saving and convenience benefits appeal to you, here are some things to think about when considering a combination tub and shower.

Construction: Traditional Ceramic

Traditionally, a tub shower combination was created by building a ceramic tile shower enclosure around an existing tub. The ceramic tile forms three walls of the shower. An opening for a showerhead is built into one of the walls. The original tub sits below the ceramic tiled walls.

Traditional ceramic tile requires ongoing maintenance and care to prevent mildew and leaks.

Construction: One piece combination units

As the name implies, a one piece tub and shower combination unit includes either all three walls that surround the tub or all three walls and the tub. Fixtures are usually part of the combination including the tub faucets and showerhead. Ledges for holding soap and shampoo may also be built into the unit.

The one piece units are made of acrylic or fiberglass and tend to be heavier and bulkier than the traditional ceramic combination units.

Because of its size, you must measure to be sure the unit will fit through the doorway in an existing bathroom. For new construction, you can build in the one piece combination unit, then build your bathroom around it.

Construction: Sectional combination units

To address the size issue, a third type of tub shower combination unit is available. This unit comes in sections that can be put together inside the bathroom. The tub is one piece that is usually placed in first. It can be acrylic, fiberglass, or even porcelain. The walls, made of acrylic or fiberglass, are then place around the tub. As with the one piece combination, fixtures are usually part of the wall pieces.

This type unit provides the benefits of the combination unit while getting around the problem of weight and size.

Sizes

Bathtub shower combinations offer size options depending on the available space in your bathroom. The standard option is a regular sized tub, which is five feet long. But if space is an issue, units are available in smaller sizes, such as a four foot tub. There are also units built to fit into a corner to which you can add a built-in shower seat.

Frames

For the above described options, we’ve been talking about three-sided combination units. But frames are available that can rest on the tub. You can install sliding glass doors inside the frame to provide a fourth wall so water from the showerhead doesn’t get all over the floor. The glass doors also provide visual privacy when you’re sitting in the tub.

Many finishes are available for these framed enclosures with brushed nickel and chrome being two of the most popular.

Clawfoot tub shower combination

Some people, who prefer a vintage look for their bathrooms, install a clawfoot tub as part of their décor. But here too, combination kits are available that allow users to add a vertical showerhead riser and shower curtain ring above the clawfoot tub. This gives you the option of taking an old-fashioned soak in your tub or standing in the tub for a standard shower.

Summary

If you can’t decide between a tub or a shower, a tub shower combination lets you have the best of both worlds. You can either sit in the bathtub or stand in the shower while saving space at the same time.

A grab bar in your shower or your bathtub can greatly reduce the risk of you ever falling on the slippery surface. Not only is water slippery, but the soaps that you use have a tendency to build up on the shower floor, causing a very slimy residue that can become incredibly slick when it’s wet. A slick and/or wet floor poses a danger when you enter or leave the shower as well as when you move around in the shower. Having a grab bar to hold on to can greatly reduce the risk of slipping and falling. This is especially important for adults over 65. For them, falling is the leading cause for emergency room visits.

There are two primary types of grab bars: the wall mounted and the portable.

Wall-Mounted Grab Bars

The wall mounted grab bar is a cylindrical bar that is permanently screwed into the shower or bathtub wall. It will help you remain steady while you get into and out of the shower and when you move around in the shower. It will also allow you to raise and lower yourself should you use a shower seat or built-in shower bench.

In the U.S., the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) has published minimum standards for grab bars. These include:

Grab bars are available in various lengths and with many finish options including stainless steel, brass, and powder coating. There are also grab bars available for people who weigh more than 250 pounds.

When installing your permanent grab bar, be sure it is solidly attached to the studs in the wall and is well caulked to prevent water from getting inside your shower wall.

Portable Grab Bar
The portable grab bar is a suction or clamp on-type bar. Most have a release lever on both ends that you allow you to easily attach and remove the grab bar. These are ideal for glass shower enclosures and people who live in apartments where you are not permitted to drill into the shower wall.

This type of grab bar is intended for steadying yourself when you get into and out of the shower. It is not intended for raising yourself up or lowering yourself onto a shower seat.

Before attaching the portable grab bar make sure the enclosure surface is smooth, non-porous and free of oils, dirt, or anything else that would prevent a tight fit. Then press firmly down and make sure the release levers are locked in place. Test the bar to be sure it can keep you steady before actually using it.

If the suction cups on these types of grab bars are made of mostly natural rubber, they can be incredibly strong. As long as you prepare the surface properly prior to installation, you should be easily able to use the bar to keep yourself stable when getting in and out of the shower.

Summary
Everyone can benefit from using grab bars in the shower or bathtub, not just seniors or people with disabilities. Using a grab bar can save you a trip or two to the chiropractor, and possibly even the emergency room.

If you are elderly, physically disabled, or handicapped, getting in and out of the shower can often times be a real hassle for you, or at other times, almost completely impossible. The good news for you is that there are now solutions to this problem, as more and more shower basin manufacturers are investing time and money into producing shower stalls that you can more easily get into. They understand the difficulties that you have because of your age or disability, and know that you require a more convenient shower entry option.

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.

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.

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, sliding transfer benches are available that allow easier access to the shower.

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.

Whether you spell it showerhead or shower head, installing a new one can do more for you than just fixing that slow running, or even leaky shower head you have been using for the last few years. How many times have you tried to remove the buildup that grows around the exit of the shower head, only to have the same grime come back just a few days later? Once your shower heads have gotten to this point, replacing them can save you the time and frustration of removing those calcium and hard water deposits over and over again.

Or maybe you are doing a bathroom remodeling or upgrade and have gotten around to thinking about the kind of shower you want.

In either case, when considering a new shower head, you should think about three key things:

1. Do I want fixed or hand held?

2. Do I want single or multiple showerheads?

3. Where do I want to mount the showerhead or heads?

Let’s look at each of these in more detail

Fixed or handheld showerhead?

The fixed shower head is the type that attaches directly to the water pipe that comes out of the shower wall. Some fixed shower heads sit on a neck that lets you make some small adjustments to the position of the head. The water coming out of the head is typically adjusted with separate hot and cold water taps or you can install a special valve that lets you move a lever to adjust the hot and cold water.

Fixed shower heads are available that let you adjust the type of spray. These can include a regular, massage, or pulsating spray.

The hand held shower head is simply a shower head attached to a flexible hose. The hose sits in a connection that is attached to the pipe in the wall. Using the flexible hose you can direct the water to different parts of your body as needed. The head part of the unit can also be bought with adjustments for different types of spray.

The handheld showerhead is preferred if you use a shower seat or shower chair in your shower because it lets you direct the water where you want it while remaining seated.

Installing either a fixed or hand held shower is usually a do-it-yourself job that can be done quickly.

Single or multiple showerheads?

Your typical shower has a single shower head that screws into the water pipe. The single head can be a standard head with the usual water pressure. But other options are available.

For example, the rain showerhead is very popular now. With this type shower head, the water pours down on you as if you were standing in the rain. There are also shower heads that deliver a fine mist in which to shower. Of course, there are also the adjustable heads that let you choose different types of water flow such as massage or pulsating.

What makes the difference is varying the number of nozzles in the shower head and their size. Changing these two things varies the pressure and the amount of water that gets through. This creates water effects such as a rainfall or a high pressure massage-type shower.

But if you are remodeling or upgrading your shower, you may want to consider multiple shower heads. This can be done by having two or more water lines installed or by having two heads come off of one pipe. With two separate pipes you can locate the shower heads on two different walls or overhead. Each head can be stationary or each can be hand held.

Multiple shower heads can provide a whole new showering experience. What’s more, each shower head could be different such as a rain head on one and a massage head on the other.

If you’re a parent, one advantage of multiple shower heads is that you can wash two kids at once, saving time and getting them both clean. Two adults can also take advantage of dual shower heads, especially if each likes a different water temperature. And, of course, there are the romantic possibilities.

Where to mount the showerheads?

Most shower heads come out of the water pipe located along one shower wall. But other options for mounting shower heads are available. For example, we’ve already mentioned having a shower head above you. Combine this with a rain type shower head and you can feel like you’re taking a shower in the great outdoors.

Another option is to mount the shower head in a vertical track so it can slide up and down. Since the height of the head can be adjusted, the shower can be enjoyed by people of different heights.

You can also mount the tracks on opposite walls. This creates a criss-cross water stream. Just turn yourself around and enjoy your 360 degree shower.

Summary

The next time you’re in the shower, think about the kind of experience you’d like to have in it. Then decide the type of shower head you want, how many you want, and where to place it within the shower. Making these choices will make your future showers much more enjoyable.

Shower seats, chairs, stools, and benches come in many different shapes and sizes with a wide range of features.  Three key features to consider when purchasing a shower seat include:

• Seat shape, dimensions, and capacity
• Seat height and legs
• Seat backrests and armrests

Seat shape, dimensions, and capacity

Shower seats, chairs, and stools come in two shapes: flat and curved.  Shower benches are usually only flat.

The flat seat, as its name says, is the same height from side to side. The curved (also called dish- or saucer-shaped) seat has slightly raised sides and curves in the middle. This type chair tries to match the shape of the seat to your bottom.

Flat seats may have a horseshoe-shaped cut-out at the front to allow easier personal cleaning.

Both shapes usually have holes in the shower seat to let the water drain through.

You will also see shower chairs with padded seats, which can add more comfort when you’re sitting. The padding provides a softer surface that allows you to sit longer.  It’s also good for sensitive skin.

The padding is usually made of foam so that it can dry more easily.  You may read about cushions made of “closed cell foam.”  Closed cell foams are generally denser, helping to prevent the seat from absorbing water.  Another feature of a padded seat is the amount of padding.  This is usually measured in inches.

Seat dimensions are an important consideration when you are buying a shower seat.  It can be tricky, but use a flexible tape measure to take a measurement of your bottom when sitting in a chair.  Then check this measurement against the seat width and depth (W and D) of the shower seat you want to buy.  If the seat is not large enough for your bottom, your shower seat may tip over.

Another important consideration is the weight capacity of the seat.  Different seats can hold different weights, depending on the strength of the seat and legs.  Be sure that the maximum weight capacity of the chair you choose can hold you.  Be aware that heavy duty models are available should you need it.

 
Seat height and legs

Since you do not wear shoes in the shower, the height of shower seats is usually lower than the typical chair you sit in.  So be sure, when you are considering a shower seat, that you will be able to sit comfortably with your feet on the shower floor supporting you.  If your feet are not solidly on the shower floor when you are sitting, you will be less stable and can slide out of your chair.  And remember to consider the additional height that a padded seat can add.

For this reason, many shower seats come with adjustable legs.  These are usually aluminum legs with holes in them that let you adjust the seat up or down.  The holes can be at different increments such as ½ inch or 1 inch.  Allowing different increments means the shower seat can be used by different family members.  If each of the legs is adjustable, you can get the right seat height, even on showers that have an irregular surface, such as one that slopes down toward the drain.

Shower seat legs will typically have rubber, or suction type devices on each of the feet. This helps prevent the shower seat from slipping or sliding around once in place.

Make sure that the height of the shower chair allows you to reach the shower controls without having to stand up.

You should also consider height when a shower bench is being attached to the shower wall.  Don’t measure from where the holes go in the wall to hold the bench – instead measure the distance from the top of the bench to the shower floor.

Seat backrests and armrests

Some shower seats offer backrests and armrests that are either fixed in position or are removable.

Backrests provided added comfort as they support your lower back. Some chairs use padding, a non-slip textured finish, and/or a curved or contoured shape to ensure you can relax while taking your shower.  These features also contribute to your safety by helping to keep you in place in the seat.

Like backrests, armrests can also be padded, contoured, or textured. Armrests help make it easier to sit down or get up because you have something to hold on to.  On some shower seats the armrests swivel back independently, enabling easier side transfers for people who need help getting in and out of their shower seat.

Keeping these key features in mind when purchasing a shower seat will ensure that you get a seat that fits you just right!

A shower seat allows you to sit while you take a shower.  Although we normally think of standing to take a shower, sitting during your shower offers a completely different experience.

Shower seats are also called shower chairs, shower stools, and shower benches, which are seats built into the shower.  Shower seats offer many benefits.

1.  Stability.  A shower seat can provide support if you have a permanent disability that requires lower extremity support when bathing.  Or, if your legs are weak because of a temporary injury, a shower seat will allow you to maintain balance and feel secure when taking a shower.

2.  Safety.  When leaving a bathtub you have to raise yourself up and step over the bathtub edge.  Because some bathtub edges are high and/or deep, there is the danger of slipping when trying to climb over the edge.  Standing up from a shower chair and walking out of a shower is often easier, and thus safer.  Additionally, some people get dizzy or weak when they have to stand for some time in a shower.  Sitting in a shower chair also helps these people.

3.  Caregiver aid.  If a caregiver must help someone bathe in the shower, it is often easier to reach them if they are seated.  Chairs for children with special needs are also available.  These are often adjustable to make the child more comfortable and make it easier for the caregiver.  Shower stools that rotate also allow a caregiver to more easily maneuver the bather’s body. Keep in mind, though, that stools usually do not have back support.  This could be a safety hazard for someone who has trouble maintaining their balance.

4.  Relaxation.  If you find yourself tired or stressed out at the end of the day, why wait for the tub to fill?  Turn on the shower, sit down, and allow the warm water to beat down on you.  You’ll be amazed at how it can calm you down.

5.  Luxury.  Showers in newer homes are often larger and have glass enclosures.  A shower bench adds the impression of depth to the shower and provides additional visual interest. Teak shower seats, with their rich dark brown wood tones can also add a sense of elegance to your shower.

6.  Storage.  Some shower chairs have a top that lifts up.  The space underneath can be used to store shampoo, sponges, razors, and even kids’ toys.  Shower benches also offer a place to gather these items.

7.  Footrest.  Ladies, why should you have to bend all the way over if you want to reach your legs?  A shower seat is a great place to rest your foot when you want to shave your legs. 

All these benefits should give you some reasons to consider buying a shower seat.