Inclusivity and Innovation: The Benefits of Shower Toilets in Adapted Bathrooms
What is a shower toilet?
A shower toilet, also referred to as a bidet toilet or washlet, is a toilet with an integrated water jet to enhance cleanliness and convenience. Upgrading your toilet to a shower toilet can be a clever choice for many reasons, from improved accessibility to sustainability. In the following section, we will explore the factors that make a shower toilet an excellent addition to your home.
What are the benefits of a shower toilet?
Accessibility
One of the key advantages of a shower toilet is its ability to promote independent living. Shower toilets are particularly valuable for the elderly or individuals with limited mobility, as they may usually require assistance after using the toilet. Unlike traditional toilet paper, the need to reach around the body is eliminated when using a shower toilet. There is a built-in nozzle that sprays water upwards, so that the user can remain seated comfortably while ensuring cleanliness. Although the act of using the toilet may seem like a mundane part of the day, relying on assistance for this task can significantly impact an individual's sense of privacy and dignity. By transitioning to a shower toilet, the level of support required to use the toilet is reduced and this can allow the user to maintain, or for those with long-term restricted mobility, regain their independence. This can have a profound impact on their daily lives, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
Hygiene
In various aspects of our daily lives, water is a crucial component when it comes to cleaning. For this reason, it makes sense that using water to clean after using the bathroom is more hygienic than just relying solely on toilet paper. Similarly, a shower toilet takes this concept a step further by offering hands-free functionality. This reinforces the sanitary aspect of using a shower toilet, ensuring a more thorough and hygienic cleansing process.
Comfort
Incorporating a shower toilet into your bathroom can significantly improve your bathroom experience by making it more comfortable. If you frequently experience irritation and discomfort resulting from toilet paper use, switching to a shower toilet can provide a more delicate way of cleaning after using the toilet. By utilising a water jet for cleaning purposes, a shower toilet presents a much gentler solution, minimising the potential discomfort associated with toilet paper usage.
Sustainability
In the current climate crisis, integrating a shower toilet into your bathroom can be a meaningful step towards creating a more sustainable household. By opting for a shower toilet, you reduce your consumption of toilet paper, resulting in less waste ending up in landfill. This eco-conscious choice not only translates into cost savings for you, but notably lessens your environmental impact, meaning that your household is playing a part in decreasing waste generation.
Space
In the UK, unlike in many Asian countries, parts of Europe, the Middle East and South America, having a separate bidet in the bathroom is rare. However, if you like the idea of cleansing with water after using the toilet, but lack the space for a separate bidet in your bathroom, then a shower toilet offers an ideal solution for you. The water jet component gives you the functionality of a bidet without the need for additional space in your bathroom. By integrating the features of a bidet into the toilet itself, a shower toilet allows you to make use of the benefits of water-based cleansing even if you have limited bathroom space.
If you are considering purchasing one of our shower toilets for commercial installation, it is important to note that the location must be WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approved.
Products
At Independent 4 Life, we sell a variety of shower toilets:
Closomat Palma Vita
The Closomat Palma Vita shower toilet offers washing and drying functionality, accompanied with a one-year warranty. This can be extended to five years if you wish. A unique point of the washing function is that it is seamlessly integrated with the flushing mechanism, meaning that only a single touch is required to operate the toilet. This convenient feature is activated by pressing the elbow pads located on either side of the cistern. However, for individuals who are unable to use the elbow pads, a touch-sensitive hand/foot switch that only requires light pressure can be used. Alternatively, for those with little or no grip, a proxy switch with a sensor can activate the unit. If none of these options sound as if they would work for you, there is also a remote control for those who require assistance from a caregiver.
To ensure maximum support, there are two optional support arms on the sides of the toilet that can be folded down when needed. These can be covered with sleeves for added comfort and improved hygiene.
Additionally, it is also possible to adjust the height of the shower toilet, on installation. There are concealed plinths that can raise the height by 25, 50, 75 and 100mm; these are discreetly covered by a skirt in the base of the toilet. In cases where pipework inhibits the shower toilet from being located against the wall, there is the opportunity to use an infill panel. The infill panel is available in various thicknesses (25, 50 and 75mm) and can be customised by cutting it from the bottom to suit the desired toilet height.
For soft seat upgrades, there are a variety of options for the Closomat Palma. These include the junior, adult, and adult open fronted. The soft seats are supplied in a dark blue colour to aid the visually impaired, and are supplied with a white toilet seat cover.
When ordering a Closomat the douche arm must be specified. There are three variations:
- Standard douche arm
- Extended single spray douche arm — designed for larger users
- Extended twin spray douche arm — suitable for female users
Purchase: Closomat Palma Vita
Closomat Bariatric Palma Vita
This is the same shower toilet as the Palma Vita, but supplied with a Big John bariatric seat, that increases the maximum load of the toilet to 362kg and measures 19" wide.
Purchase: Closomat Bariatric Palma Vita
Closomat Palma Vita Life
This is the same shower toilet as the Palma Vita, but it has ten-year annual servicing and maintenance cover, guaranteeing that your purchase maintains its high-quality condition throughout its usage period.
Purchase: Closomat Palma Vita Life
Closomat Lima Vita
This shower toilet is identical to the Palma Vita, but it is wall-hung. The installation process is straightforward, requiring only four bolts to securely mount it in your bathroom. However, it is essential to ensure that your wall is strong enough to support the toilet or that you take steps to strengthen the wall where you intend to hang the shower toilet. Opting for a wall-hung shower toilet rather than mounting it on the floor not only simplifies installation, but it can create a sense of spaciousness in your bathroom, making it an ideal choice for smaller bathroom spaces.
Purchase: Purchase Closomat Lima Vita
Geberit AquaClean Mera Care
This floor-mounted shower toilet offers washing and drying capability backed by a five-year warranty. It features a flush button on the top of the cistern or alternatively, you can use the included remote control for flushing. The remote control has a magnetic wall-mounted holder for easy access and is included in the price of the shower toilet. Additionally, a lateral control panel is provided for easy operation of the shower toilet functions. For added convenience, there is an app that allows you to control the toilet directly from your smartphone. During installation, you have the flexibility to adjust the height of the toilet seat, which will then be fixed in place.
The spray arm, incorporating WhirlSpray technology, has been thoughtfully designed to deliver a comfortable cleaning experience whilst conserving water. The spray arm moves back and forth during the cleaning process, and its position can be adjusted as needed. For female users, there is an extendable spray nozzle within the main spray arm. To maintain hygiene, the shower arm undergoes automatic cleaning before and after each use. The fully extendable dryer arm offers an unlimited programme duration, allowing you to use it for the length of time that suits you. The shower toilet is programmable and you have the ability to add up to four user profiles. If desired, additional profiles can be added through the app. Another benefit of the app is that it allows you to use any Geberit Mera toilet and it will function with your personal settings.
The water for the washing function is heated in a similar manner to a typical electric shower, which means that there is no limitation on the duration of warm water available, ensuring that it never becomes cold mid-wash. The water can be adjusted within a range of 34°C to 40°C, so that you can select the ideal temperature for you.
Purchase: Geberit AquaClean Mera Care
Geberit AquaClean Mera Comfort
This product is a wall-mounted version of the Mera Care. It puts you in control of your comfort due to its adjustable water and dryer temperatures. Using the included remote control, you can easily set the water and dryer temperature to your preferred level. The customisable nature of this shower toilet extends to an adjustable oscillating spray, a feature that allows the water spray to move back and forth, providing thorough cleansing. The toilet seat has a rapid heating function to avoid discomfort and this can also be adjusted in temperature. Designed with individual needs in mind, there is a dedicated lady shower nozzle for female users. The toilet seat’s soft-closing lid offers touchless opening and closing, promoting a hygienic bathroom environment.
Additionally, the functions of the toilet can be modified using the remote control. Its intuitive interface allows you to easily adjust the settings to personalise your experience according to your preferences.
Purchase: Geberit AquaClean Mera Comfort
Toilet Lifter
A toilet lifter is a device designed to assist individuals with mobility issues or disabilities in using the toilet. The main benefit of a toilet lifter is that it helps to reduce the strain and effort required to sit down and stand up from the toilet, especially for those with limited leg strength or joint mobility. Additionally, by raising the height of the toilet seat, it minimises the distance for the transfer onto the toilet seat, making it easier and more comfortable for the user. Overall, a toilet lifter promotes independence, enhances accessibility and provides greater comfort and convenience for individuals with mobility challenges.
Pressalit SELECT Toilet Lifter
The Pressalit SELECT is a height-adjustable toilet lifter. It is a versatile solution that offers added support and adaptability for individuals with varying needs. It features side profiles that can accommodate support arms, providing extra stability and assistance during toilet use. The lifter's height adjustability is a key feature, allowing for regular adjustments to cater to different requirements. There are two versions; one has an electrically-powered mechanism with a wired hand control, and the other has a crank handle, helping offer a wide range of height adjustment. This provides flexibility and ensures optimal comfort for users. The toilet lifter is compatible with a floor outlet waste system and requires a wall-hung toilet pan or a shower toilet, along with a seat and lid. For those who require additional back support, the Pressalit PLUS Backrest is available as an optional extra. Additionally, the toilet lifter is available in different colours, allowing users to choose an option that best suits their bathroom aesthetics.
Purchase: Pressalit SELECT Toilet Lifter
VitrA V-Care Essential
This product is another example of a wall-hung shower toilet. The water temperature and water pressure intensity can be personalised according to your preferences, and it features a heated air dryer for maximum comfort, eliminating the need for additional drying methods. For added convenience, the shower toilet is equipped with a night-light feature. There is also an energy-saving mode that helps reduce energy consumption, promoting sustainability and efficiency.
Purchase: VitrA V-Care Essential
VitrA V-Care Comfort
This is a wall-mounted shower toilet, with both washing and drying features. The toilet is an excellent choice if you are looking for a toilet that offers customisable settings to suit your individual needs. For example, you have the freedom to adjust the jet position, water pressure and the water, dryer and seat temperature.
In terms of hygiene, the shower nozzle is not only self-cleaning but also removable, allowing for easy maintenance. Additionally, an air purifier is integrated into the toilet for deodorisation and the toilet pan is rimless, minimising areas where dirt and bacteria can accumulate.
Purchase: VitrA V-Care Comfort
VitrA V-Care Prime Toilet
The VitrA V-Care Prime is available as a wall-hung or floor-standing model, offering versatility in installation options. It incorporates automatic sensors to deliver a hands-free experience, including opening and closing the seat. It is simple to use, with settings controlled by remote control, buttons on the toilet or via the app. An additional innovative feature is its voice control capability which further enhances the user experience. Similarly to the other VitrA toilets, the water pressure and temperature can be easily adjusted to fit your needs, and the position of the oscillating showering nozzle can also be altered to customise your experience. The shower toilet has a deodorisation feature that provides added hygiene and comfort by eliminating unpleasant odours.
Purchase: VitrA V-Care Prime Toilets
All the VitrA toilets can be easily mounted on a lifter, such as the Pressalit SELECT toilet lifter, allowing you to create a height-adjustable toilet to fit your specific needs.
Geberit AquaClean Tuma
This product is available in two models: the Tuma Classic and the Tuma Comfort. While both models feature WhirlSpray shower technology and a rimless design, the Comfort offers additional features to elevate your comfort and overall experience.
Both shower toilets allow users to customise their own profile, adjusting parameters such as water spray pressure, temperature and the spray arm position. With soft-closing lids, a descaling function and an economy mode, these shower toilets provide convenience and efficiency. The shower toilet settings can be easily controlled via an app on your mobile device.
The Tuma Comfort boasts several additional features to enhance your comfort. These include odour extraction, seat heating functionality, and a warm air dryer, providing a pleasant user experience. Additionally, the shower toilet includes a separate lady shower nozzle, catering to specific needs. The Comfort can also be controlled using a remote control, which may be a more convenient option for you.
Both models can be purchased as complete toilet solutions, which can be wall-hung or floor-standing. Alternatively, they can be used as an enhancement option, allowing you to add a shower toilet seat to your pre-installed ceramic toilet, providing a versatile solution for you.
Purchase: Geberit AquaClean Tuma's
Geberit AquaClean 4000
The AquaClean 4000 is a seat ring and soft-closing lid that can be added to your existing toilet, providing a convenient and cost-effective solution. It is perfect for individuals who only require the basic functions of a shower toilet, offering simplicity and practicality. There are five different shower pressure settings and the water temperature can be toggled on or off, providing flexibility. An additional feature of the AquaClean 4000 is its economy mode, which helps to reduce the overall energy consumption of the shower toilet, making it an eco-friendly solution.
Purchase: Geberit AquaClean 4000
