Adding seats in a shower room can bring a lot of change in a bathroom space. That additional accessory can improve accessibility, add storage, and increase the relaxation potential of a shower pod.
For those planning to add a seat in their bathroom, the best shower room seats to consider are a shower stool, shower chair, hanging/folding chair, rolling chair, transfer bench, and built-in seat. With any of these, a person can enjoy the freedom to shower without pain, fear, or exhaustion.
Read this guide to learn which of these seats can suit a bathroom space the best!
What Are The Best Shower Room Seats?
Homeowners renovating or giving their bath shower cabin or pod a makeover can add any of these shower seats to their bathroom essential list: standard shower stool, standard shower chair, hanging/folding chair, rolling shower chair, transfer chair, and built-in seats or bench.
These are the best types of shower seats in the market that can increase the comfort and relaxation levels of any shower room. Unfortunately, choosing between these shower seats can be difficult. The best way to decide, however, is to learn more about each one in better detail:
#1 Standard Shower Stool
A standard shower stool is perfect for a small shower enclosure or steam shower cabin! It offers a small footprint, helping homeowners maximize a small and limited bathing space.
These free-standing shower stools are often lightweight and backless, which makes them ideal to move around while showering and store away when not in use. This seat is primarily for people who need little support and have little to no mobility problems.
#2 Standard Shower Chair
The standard shower chair is in the same category as the shower stool, though this one offers more support and balance than the latter. This chair is typically budget-friendly and provides excellent slip and fall prevention.
The shower chair looks similar to a standard chair — with a back and four standing legs. Often, they have hand grips to make it easier to lower down or stand back up.
This chair is better suited for people with mobility issues that require support when showering. It, unfortunately, consumes more space than a stool, making it unsuitable for a small steam cabin or shower pod.
#3 Hanging or Folding Shower Chair
A folding or hanging shower seat is fixed onto the wall, making it a space-saving option. It is semi-permanent, therefore needing proper planning and tools to attach and install them properly in a bathroom. As they are wall-mounted, these chairs must be installed during the building process or renovation of the shower.
These seats come in various shapes, types, and styles. Some are just a single plank of wood attached to the wall, while others have actual backrests.
There are versions of these seats that you can fold and flip up when unused to have more space in the shower stall.
#4 Rolling Shower Chair
These chairs have wheels on the bottom, making them flexible and versatile in the bathroom. It best suits people with little to no mobility problems.
Aside from letting them bathe in peace and with ease, the shower chair can also give them a sense of independence since it allows them to go in and out of the shower enclosure.
The price for rolling shower chairs varies greatly and will depend primarily on the style and material.
#5 Transfer Bench
A bathtub shower combo or bath cabin is not ideal for people with mobility problems or lower body impairments. Investing in a transfer bench should make it easier for them.
A tub transfer bench is a well-known staple for adaptive bathing. Its primary purpose is to provide a safe transfer surface for a person so they can move into the tub.
This tool saves a person from taking a dangerous or precarious step over the slippery tub edge. It is also highly beneficial for people who use wheelchairs.
This bench is available in many styles, including sliding, standard, and wall-mount!
#6 Built-in Shower Seats
The final option for a shower seat is a bench-style seat, which is a built-in ledge in a shower. Unlike most options, it is the type of shower seat a person cannot fold, store, or move. Although, this one is wider and offers more seating room than the others.
Aside from being used as a seat, a built-in shower seat is also spacious enough to hold toiletries. However, given that it is built-in, the installation of this seat needs to be during the same time as the building process of the bathroom and not after.
Why Buy A Shower Seat?
It is best to remember that some people cannot enjoy a full-time showering or bathing experience. Some have certain health conditions that affect the strength of their lower body, thereby restricting their mobility. There is also the fact that bathing can be a hazard for seniors and elders who have balance issues.
Other people struggling with showering are those recovering from injuries or having trouble moving around due to an illness or disease. For these people, falling and slipping are a real dangerous risk. Standing for a few minutes to shower can be too much work or effort for them. Shower seats are one of the best ways to overcome this particular challenge. By providing accessible seating, they can enjoy their daily showers and worry less about pain, aches, or potential slips!
However, even without mobility issues, a person can still enjoy the luxury of shower seats. After all, a shower seat can make bathing and showering much easier and safer.
What To Consider When Choosing A Shower Room Seat?
Once someone decides that a shower seat is an excellent addition to their bathroom, the following train of thought should be the factors to consider when buying one. Some shower seats are not cheap, so considering each factor carefully and thoroughly is crucial to not waste money and time.
- Weight Capacity: Since this is a seat, it is gravely important to consider the weight capacity to ensure that it can support the weight of those who will use it. Generally, a shower seat can support anywhere between 250 to 400 pounds.
Though, that will depend on the type. Smaller seats, like stools, have lower weight capacities.
- Size: Not all shower seats are the same size. There are benches, chairs, and stools, after all. Do some measuring to ensure that the seat fits the shower or tub. If the shower has a door, measure the opening as well.
- Materials: Materials matter in this instance. Be sure to purchase a seat that can withstand long and constant exposure to water. Seats with rust-resistant features are great options, like aluminum, steel, and plastic.
Chair Style: Consider the person’s needs and the bathroom space when buying a shower seat. If they require more support, purchase one with handrails or grips and a backrest. If the space is small, consider a compact stool that is easily moveable.
Final Thoughts
Shower room seats are great accessories for any bathroom. Not only can they make bathing easier, but they can also offer support and help prevent slips and falls. With seats in a shower room, a person can get more enjoyment and relaxation out of their shower cabin!
Currently, there is a large market for shower seats, offering a vast pool of choices containing various types, styles, and shapes. To decide on the best shower seat, it will come down to the person’s needs and the available bathroom space.
