Buying guide for best shower chairs

Written by Lauren Corona

Updated August 2022

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Showering is a simple pleasure that most people take for granted. Bif you can't stand unaided or are worried about slipping and injuring yourself, it might seem like showering is off limits – unless you get yourself a shower chair, that is.

With so many different types available, how do you pick the best shower chair? It can be tough to cut through all the jargon and find the right model to fit your needs. The good news is, we’ve done all the shopping and research to help you know which one will work best for you.

At Vanke, we pride ourselves on helping consumers discover top-notch products. We present all the information you need to make a confident shopping decision in a clear, concise fashion that will aid you in making tough purchasing choices. We test products in our lab and/or out in the field, consult experts, and gather feedback from existing customers who know what it's really like to use these items on a regular basis.

Some shower chairs slide and swivel to offer more maneuverability, which is useful for people with limited mobility.

What is a shower chair?

As the name suggests, a shower chair is a seat that you use in the shower. Some are designed to be used in shower cubicles or wet rooms, whereas others fit over the tub. Shower chairs are traditionally used by the elderly, disabled, or people who are injured and unable to safely stand in the shower. However, simple shower benches are gaining popularity with the population in general as a convenient washroom addition – for instance, as a perch on which to shave one’s legs, an easy-reach spot to place toiletries, or just as a place to sit for a relaxing shower.  

Some shower chairs come with built-in handles that make it easier to get in and out of. We investigate how these handles affect the overall performance for most users.

Freestanding shower chairs are excellent for people who share a bathroom and need to move the chair on a somewhat regular basis, which is something we consider.

Some shower chairs may be built into the shower itself. We do a deep dive into these options to see how easy they are to install and if they offer a certain level of adjustability.

Certain shower chairs may incorporate a unique design that makes them aesthetically pleasing. We research whether these products function as well as they look.

Built-in shower chairs are often the most stable option, as they can’t slide around on wet surfaces, at the cost of being in a fixed position. We weigh the pros and cons of these types of products.

While most shower chairs are designed with heavy-duty plastic, some may be wood or metal. We research how quickly these can dry off to prevent mold and other unwanted growth.

The weight of a shower chair can often affect how functional they are for most users. We look for options that are light enough to lift regardless of your mobility.

Some shower chairs may be used for alternative purposes such as acting as a shelf when not in use as a chair, which is something we consider during our research.

Most shower chairs will include non-slip feet to ensure that they remain stable at all times. We do a deep dive into each product to see if this feature is included.

Shower chairs can cost anywhere from $50-$300 depending on adjustability, installation type, and stability. We assess the performance of each one to determine its value when compared to the price.

Types of shower chairs

You'll find two main types of shower chairs on the market: freestanding shower chairs and over-tub shower chairs.

Freestanding shower chairs

Freestanding shower chairs have four legs and are designed to stand independently in a shower stall, bathtub, or wet room.

Pros:

• Freestanding shower chairs are easy to move in and out of position, which is useful in households where not all the residents need a chair.

• You can find freestanding shower chairs to suit all needs – some are designed for those with limited mobility, whereas others are more appropriate for casual use.

• Freestanding shower chairs are easy to use and generally require little to no assembly.
   

Cons:

• Freestanding shower chairs aren't always as stable as over-tub options – especially those that are anchored in place.
   

Price: Basic freestanding shower chairs start at about $30 to $40. High-end models with extra features are usually priced between $100 and $150.

Over-tub shower chairs

Over-tub shower chairs are designed to be used in a bathtub with a showerhead. Some clamp to one side of the tub and have legs on the other, and some have one pair of legs that sit inside the tub and one pair that sit outside the tub. Other models have no legs and mount to the top of the bathtub.

Pros:

• Over-tub shower chairs tend to be very stable.

• Some over-tub bath chairs are designed to make transfers from wheelchair to shower chair much easier.

• Over-tub shower chairs fit easily in and over a tub, whereas some freestanding models are too wide.

"If some people in the household won't be using the shower chair and space is an issue, look for a portable or foldable model so you can fold it up and move it out of the shower when not in use. "

Cons:

• Over-tub shower chairs are less portable and harder to move once in place, which may be an issue in some households.

Price: You can find budget over-tub shower chairs from around $50. The most expensive models – suited to those with very low mobility – often cost $200 to $300.

Shower chair considerations

Adjustability

Many shower chairs are height-adjustable, and some have adjustable backs and armrests. While this might not be a feature that everyone needs, it can be useful for people who require a lot of support from their chair. Height adjustability helps people who are particularly short so their feet can touch the ground while sitting in their shower chair or tall so their knees aren't bent uncomfortably.

Handles and armrests

Some shower chairs have handles, armrests, or both in order to help people who may have balance issues and need additional support. Look for a chair with armrests that can be moved to make it easier to get into the chair. The ability to move the armrest helps those who find it tough to slide into the chair with an armrest in the way.

Locking mechanism

A locking mechanism is a must-have in chairs that slide or swivel. Sliding and swiveling is beneficial for getting into the shower chair and moving around in the shower, but a chair that slides or swivels when you don't want it to could be dangerous. Look for a shower chair with a locking mechanism that's easy to reach and operate, particularly if you shower independently.

Material

You can find shower chairs in a range of materials, but you should always think about how well the material will stand up to frequent soakings.

Most shower chairs designed for the elderly or the disabled have plastic seats (sometimes with waterproof padding) and rust-proof metal legs. These materials are both water-resistant and easy to clean, which is what makes them such a popular choice.

Shower chairs and benches designed for casual use rather than for use by people with mobility issues are often made from treated wood, with a focus on form over function.

Tips

• Opt for a shower chair with non-slip feet. This helps prevent the chair from slipping and sliding while in use. Some chairs even have suction cups on the bottom of the feet to help them stay in place.

• Find out how much assembly your chosen shower chair requires before you buy it. Some shower chairs require little or no assembly or installation, whereas others need quite a bit of work to get them ready to use. If assembly or installation is a complicated process, be prepared to enlist help from friends, family, or a professional if you're not up to the task yourself.

• Before buying a new shower chair, evaluate the size of your space. Some larger shower chairs are best for wet room use, since they're too large to fit inside most shower stalls.

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• Some shower chairs serve multiple functions. For example, you can find a shower chair with openings in the seat so you have better access to intimate areas while bathing. Some of these chairs can also serve as commodes.

You may find it easier to use a handheld showerhead while seated in your shower chair, as you'll have more control over where the flow of water goes than you will if it is just raining on you from above.

FAQ

Q. Do shower chairs have a weight limit?
A. Yes, shower chairs do have a maximum weight limit, which should never be exceeded for safety reasons. The maximum weight limit varies depending on the make and model, so always check before making your purchase. If you exceed the maximum weight limit of most standard shower seats, consider  buying a bariatric shower chair. This type of chair is designed for larger bodies and has a higher weight limit.

Q. What are the best options if I only want to use my shower chair occasionally or I'm buying it for visiting relatives to use?
A. Some people only want to use a shower seat occasionally, so a fixed or bulky model isn't ideal. If your mobility is at least fairly good, you can opt for a fold-down, wall-mounted model that stays out of your way until you want to use it. If you need something a bit sturdier, look for a compact freestanding model that can be stored in a corner or closet..

Q. Are shower chairs easy to clean?
A. Shower chairs need regular cleaning to prevent a buildup of mold and mildew. Some are easier to clean than others. The easiest models to clean are seamless and made from plastic with no nooks and crevices where dirt can get lodged.