Shower Seat Options: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Bathroom
When designing an accessible bathroom the aim is to create a space that prioritises safety, convenience, and comfort for individuals with diverse mobility needs. One item that helps to achieve this goal is a shower seat. They offer a range of benefits such as enhancing accessibility and providing a more enjoyable bathing experience for users. Whether it's for seniors, individuals with disabilities, or anyone seeking added support in the shower, shower seats help promote independence and overall well-being.
Why you should add a shower seat to your adapted bathroom
The purpose of a shower seat in an accessible bathroom is providing a secure and comfortable place for individuals to sit while showering. One of the key benefits is enhanced safety. Shower seats reduce the risk of slips and falls by providing stable and supportive seating, allowing users to shower with confidence and peace of mind. They can help individuals with balance issues by enabling them to maintain a steady posture throughout their showering routine.
Another advantage of shower seats is that they increase accessibility in the bathroom. By incorporating a seat into the shower area, individuals who find it difficult or tiring to stand for extended periods can still enjoy showering. Shower seats accommodate a range of users, including older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those recovering from surgeries or injuries. They ensure that individuals can access the shower independently and comfortably. Additionally, for individuals who require the assistance of a caregiver, a shower seat facilitates the caregiving process by offering a stable platform for showering assistance.
Types of shower seat
Wall-mounted shower seats
Wall-mounted shower seats are a popular choice for individuals seeking a space-saving and versatile seating solution in their shower. These seats are securely attached to the shower wall, offering stability and support during showering. One advantage of wall-mounted shower seats is that they can often be folded up against the wall when not in use, creating more space in the shower area. This feature is especially beneficial for smaller bathrooms or showers with limited space. Wall-mounted shower seats often have a sturdy construction meaning they can support a high load, providing a safe and comfortable seating option.
Shower Stools
Shower stools are a practical and versatile seating option for individuals seeking additional support and stability during showering. These compact and portable seats provide a convenient solution for those who may need intermittent or temporary seating in the shower. Shower stools are typically lightweight and easy to move. They can be moved around within the shower area so you can place them exactly where you need them. Shower stools will usually have non-slip feet or rubber tips on the legs to prevent them slipping on wet surfaces. Their portability also makes them a convenient choice for individuals who travel frequently or need a shower seat that can be easily transported.
Corner shower seats
Corner shower seats are a great addition to any bathroom with limited floor space or for those who prefer a compact shower design. These seats are specifically designed to fit into the corner of the shower, and therefore by utilising the corner area, these seats allow for efficient use of the shower space, leaving more room for movement. They provide a convenient place to sit and relax, making showering a more enjoyable and accessible experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. Additionally, some corner shower seats feature built-in shelves or compartments to keep shower essentials within easy reach, so they can also serve as a practical storage solution.
Transfer benches
Transfer benches are an essential aid for individuals who require assistance with transferring in and out of the shower safely and comfortably. These are used for bathrooms that have a combined bath and shower, so they help the user move into the bath without having to step over the side. Transfer benches consist of a long, sturdy seat that extends beyond the edge of the bathing area, with one end placed outside the shower and the other inside. The user can sit on the bench outside the shower, then slide across the seat to enter the bathing area without the need to step over the tub ledge. This eliminates the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Bariatric shower seats
Bariatric shower seats are specifically designed to accommodate individuals with larger body sizes or higher weight capacities. These shower seats are built with reinforced frames and wider seat dimensions to ensure stability and durability. The sturdy construction of bariatric shower seats provides a secure and comfortable seating option for individuals who require extra support during showering. These seats often feature heavy-duty materials such as reinforced plastic or steel, capable of withstanding higher weight loads. The broader seat surface and reinforced structure of these seats ensures that individuals of all body sizes and abilities can enjoy a safe and comfortable showering experience.
Purchase a Bariatric Shower Seat
Height adjustable shower seats
Height adjustable shower seats are a versatile and adaptable product. These seats are designed with an adjustable mechanism that allows the user to customise the seat height to their desired level. The ability to adjust the height of the seat provides several advantages. Firstly, it ensures proper alignment and positioning for comfortable and safe showering, accommodating users of different heights or those with specific mobility requirements. Secondly, height adjustability enables individuals to find their preferred seating position, enhancing overall comfort and relaxation as they shower. Additionally, wheelchair users will benefit from a height adjustable shower seat because it facilitates transfers to and from the shower seat. However, this benefit will only be experienced with an electric height adjustable seat, as you can independently raise and lower the seat. A manual seat can’t be adjusted when the user is seated, making this process more difficult.
There are also some seats that can be adjusted horizontally using a track on the wall. This aids movement into the shower area in a wetroom environment and can be beneficial to carers, so that they can be in the best position to assist the individual.
Purchase an Adjustable Shower Seat
Luxury shower seats
Luxury shower seats are an excellent choice if you would like a seat that combines functionality and aesthetics. There is a greater focus on design, meaning they seamlessly blend in with your bathroom, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. With their stylish appearance, luxury shower seats help to create a space that doesn't feel like a typical adapted bathroom but instead a space that you are happy to spend time in. It is important to realise that they can be more expensive compared to a standard shower seat, but the investment is worth it for those seeking to increase accessibility without compromising on style.
Traditional care shower seats
Traditional care shower seats prioritise function over aesthetics. While they may not have the same visually appealing design as luxury shower seats, they serve their purpose effectively. These seats are often more affordable, making them a practical choice for those looking for an economical option. For individuals who aren’t as concerned about aesthetics in their bathroom, traditional care shower seats offer a reliable and cost-effective solution to creating an accessible showering experience.
Purchase a Traditional Care Shower Seat
Additional Features
Some seats have cushioning or padding for added comfort during showering sessions, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive skin or those who prefer a softer seating surface.
Swivel motion
Other shower seats rotate or swivel, allowing individuals to turn and access different areas of the shower without straining or twisting their bodies.
Horseshoe Seat
The horseshoe cut-out design of the shower seat helps to enhance personal hygiene by facilitating easier cleaning, this is both for the user if they shower independently and for caregivers providing assistance.
Purchase a Horseshoe Shower Seat
Armrests
Armrests provide additional support and stability for users when showering, enhancing safety and comfort. They can also aid the individual when sitting and standing, making it simpler for the user to transfer onto and off the seat.
