Make Bathing Easier With the Best Shower Transfer Benches
Do you or your loved one need help to get in and out of the shower? If so, investing in a quality shower transfer bench might be a good idea. A transfer bench, also known as a shower chair, is designed to help those with limited mobility move safely and easily from a wheelchair or bed to the shower and back.
But choosing the right product from such a huge variety of options can quickly become overwhelming. That said, we’ve reviewed some of the highest-rated shower transfer benches of 2023 to make sure you or your loved one can shower in comfort and safety. So, without further ado, let’s get shopping!
Buying Guide: Shower Transfer Bench
No matter, if you’re recovering from an injury or looking for assistance for your elders, choosing the right type of shower transfer bench, is essential for added safety. But how can you know which type of shower bench is ideal for your needs? We’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you pick the perfect shower transfer bench for your needs.
How to Choose a Shower Transfer Bench
Height adjustability
When it comes to height adjustability, look for a transfer bench that can be set in at least four different increments. This allows you to customize your seat to the perfect height and comfort level. Make sure the model you purchase has an easy-to-reach lever that locks firmly into place when tightened. Also, check to make sure that the legs can accommodate your desired height without the need for further modification or adjustments.
Weight capacity
Shower transfer benches are designed to hold a certain amount of weight, so confirm the weight capacity of your shower bench to ensure it fits your needs. Generally, most benches feature a weight capacity range between 250 and 425 pounds. While more is always better, be sure to choose a model that’s rated for at least as much weight as you expect it to hold.
Comfortable seating position
A comfortable seating position is key for ensuring maximum comfort during bathing sessions. Look for shower transfer benches with contoured seats that are ergonomically designed to fit the body’s natural curves and provide optimal support throughout use. Additionally, padded armrests will help support your arms and torso throughout use for added comfort and stability.
Supportive backrest
For extra comfort, choose a transfer bench with a supportive backrest. Not only does this ensure maximum comfort while seated, but it also helps minimize strain on the back and shoulders while transferring in and out of the tub or shower stall. Furthermore, most backrests are adjustable and can be moved or angled depending on user preference and comfort level.
Secure and stable design
To ensure maximum safety and stability while using your transfer bench, look for models with sturdy construction and secure attachment points that don’t easily shift or sag under pressure. Additionally, check the bench’s stability by pushing down on the seat while the legs are extended outward. If there’s any wobbling or instability noticed in this process, opt for another model instead.
Ease of use
Looks for models with removable legs, allowing easy transport and storage when not in use. Additionally, many models offer foldable legs, which allow you to collapse the transfer bench down into a more compact shape for easier maneuverability and storage.
Materials
Shower transfer benches come in both metal and plastic construction materials. When choosing what type of material you want your bench to be made from, consider factors such as durability, portability, aesthetics, and flexibility.
Both metal and plastic designs offer excellent strength and reliability. But plastic models may offer a few extra features, such as slip-resistant surfaces, which may appeal to certain users who want extra peace of mind while using their shower benches.
Ergonomic design
When shopping for shower transfer benches, look for models with ergonomic designs that are specifically built with comfort in mind. This includes contoured seating surfaces and armrests/backrests shaped specifically to follow the body’s natural curves, providing optimal support during transfers in and out of tubs or stalls.
Additionally, check out models with built-in padding specifically chosen or designed with safety and comfort in mind. These features will ensure maximum comfort level throughout use and proper positioning/alignment during transfers into/out of bathing areas.
Comparing the Top-Rated Shower Transfer Bench of 2023
Platinum Health Shower Transfer Bench
– Best Overall
The Platinum Health Shower Transfer Bench is an ideal product for those requiring assistance when entering or exiting the bath or shower. This premium padded bath and shower chair is designed to provide safety, convenience, and comfort, making it an attractive choice for consumers needing such a product. This bench is made of a professional-grade material that provides effortless sliding and pivoting for safe and easy transfers. To add to its durability, the seat, back, and armrests are all specially padded with medical-grade, closed-cell molded polyurethane. It’s not only very comfortable to the touch but also easy to clean and disinfect.
Additionally, the special blue color on the chair distinguishes it from its surroundings, making it more visible, especially for vision-impaired users. What really sets this shower transfer bench apart from other products is its swivel seat that provides greater mobility and a more comfortable experience than a standard fixed seat. With its durable construction and comfortable padding this shower transfer bench is our top pick.
- Easy-to-access buttons and levers
- Non-slip surface for added stability
- Space-saving design for storage
- Height isn’t adjustable
Guardian Shower Transfer Bench
– Most Durable
If you’re looking for a product for those who require assistance getting in and out of the tub, you can never go wrong with the Guardian Shower Transfer Bench. It provides maximum support while helping individuals with limited mobility maintain their independence and confidence. The non-slip feet and strong structure ensure a secure experience for people with limited mobility. It’s easy to assemble, and you can adjust the height from 18.5 to 22.5 inches in 0.5-inch increments, accommodating people of all heights.
This shower transfer bench also features wide suction cup feet, giving the user more stability and safety even when bathing. The reversible backrest allows it to fit into any bathroom configuration, and the plastic seat is thoughtfully designed to make cleaning a breeze. This bench can hold up to 400 pounds, so it’s suitable for individuals recovering from surgery. With its tool-free assembly and easy use, you can be sure that you’re up and running in no time at all.
- Modern design takes up minimal space
- Easy-to-understand instruction manual
- Suction cups provide stability
- Can be wobbly if not properly assembled
Carex Shower Transfer Bench
– Budget Friendly
The Carex Shower Transfer Bench is an excellent choice for individuals who require assistance while allowing them to maintain independence. The adjustable seat height makes it simple to find the perfect height for your needs, as no tools are necessary to make adjustments. Plus, you can easily disassemble this shower transfer bench for easy transportation or storage. With its oversized slip-resistant tips, this shower transfer bench offers increased stability. This product works with most bathtubs and showers, so you don’t need to worry about compatibility issues.
Additionally, it features a reversible seat back for left or right-handed entry and a non-slip texture on the bench and backrest, making it both safe and comfortable to use. It holds up to 300 pounds and weighs only 11 pounds, making it a great combination of strength and convenience. With all of these features combined in one product, this shower bench is sure to keep you safe while providing comfort and independence.
- Adjustable height legs for customization
- Includes hand bar for extra security
- Gripper feet keep the bench from sliding
- Not ideal for narrow tubs
MedMobile Shower Transfer Bench
– Most Convenient
The MedMobile Shower Transfer Bench is an ideal solution for those looking for a lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant option. With a spacious and comfortable seat, this shower bench seat makes transferring a senior or injured person from a wheelchair to the bath seat a breeze. Also, the five levels of seat height adjustment make it highly flexible, with each increment being one inch, allowing you to customize the height for your needs.
The chair is lightweight and durable, so you can rest assured that your product will last you for years to come. The sure-grip legs provide added safety and stability, ensuring your peace of mind when using the product. The backrest can be assembled for left or right-hand applications and installation is optional. It’s exceptionally lightweight yet still very strong and durable, making it perfect for use in any bathroom or shower. Its versatility and flexibility allow users to customize their seating preferences without compromising safety or stability.
- Durable aluminum frame lasts longer
- Adjustable height for added convenience
- Rust-resistant and durable
- A bit difficult to assemble
Healthline Shower Transfer Bench
– Best Design
Need extra support while bathing or showering? The Healthline Shower Transfer Bench is the ideal choice. This lightweight medical bath and shower chair provides a stable and comfortable place to sit with its A-frame construction. The durable gray plastic seat is made to withstand wet conditions. The seat is also non-slip for extra safety, and the backrest can be reversed to fit any size tub or shower.
The shower chair is designed with adjustable height settings, from 17.5 inches to 21.5 inches, so it can be easily customized to the needs of people from any age group. It has a maximum weight capacity of 325 pounds, making it a great option for elderly or disabled individuals. The wider leg design provides increased stability, while the seat’s width of 26 inches offers plenty of room to sit comfortably. The shower transfer bench comes with tool-free assembly, making it convenient and easy to assemble to start using it right away.
- Easy assembly with instruction manual
- Backrest provides additional safety
- Handy Grip Bar for extra support
- Side support can’t change levels
People Also Asked
A: A shower transfer bench is a special type of bath chair that is designed to help people who have difficulty standing safely transfer from a wheelchair to the shower. It usually comes with elevated legs and arms so that it can be securely placed over a tub or shower stall, allowing the user to slide along the bench into their shower without navigating steps or unsteady surfaces. This makes them much safer and more comfortable than regular bath chairs, which often lack the security or stability needed for easier transfers.
A: Yes, a shower transfer bench is safe to use in the shower or tub as long as it’s properly installed and secured in place. You should adjust the legs of the bench to ensure they are at the perfect level against the floor and properly secured with non-skid pads or mounting screws. It’s also important to choose a bench that has a textured surface to prevent slipping, as well as an anti-slip base for added stability.
A: Yes, standard-sized shower transfer benches will fit in most bathrooms, but you should always measure your particular space before making a purchase. Most benches measure between 16 to 22 inches wide and are usually adjustable in length and height. So, check your specific space dimensions before selecting a bench to ensure proper fit.
A: To install a shower transfer bench securely into your bathroom space, you’ll need to adjust the legs of the bench, so they are snugly against the floor and wall and then secure them with non-skid pads or mounting screws into studs in your walls if necessary.
A: Regular maintenance isn’t required for a shower transfer bench. You should regularly inspect for any signs of wear or damage, such as loose screws or hardware, cracks in the plastic seat covers, etc. Also, carry out any necessary repairs promptly to ensure user safety.
