Shower and Tub Transfer Bench

Handicap Bathroom, Handicap Equipment

A tub transfer bench is perfect for anyone who has trouble getting over that bath tub edge. It is even better for wheelchair users because it creates a bridge for easy wheelchair to tub transfer. The wheelchair individual lifts themselves onto the edge of the bench and slowly slides across until they are in the tub. A handicapped bathroom would not be complete without one.

The transfer bench also eliminates that dangerous first step into the tub for anyone with limited mobility or recently had knee or hip surgery. The danger comes from the slippery wet floors in a bathroom. Did you know that at least 1/3 of seniors commonly fall? That number is increased in a wet bathroom floor environment.

Bathtub Safety

Stability and safety are the two things that the tub transfer benches provide for the user. If you are unable to stand for long periods during a shower, then use the bench as a tub shower chair. The bath transfer benches are height adjustable with non-slip rubber feet capable of holding up 300 pounds. Some unique shower benches offer a split in the design of the seats for you to insert the shower curtains. These benches are also helpful for someone with split shower doors as long as it fits. This prevents water splashing outside of the tub. Most have holes in the seats to allow drainage of water.

They can sit down and use a detachable shower head installed nearby for washing. Increase the safety around and in the tub by adding bathtub handicap grab bars and/or bathtub rails for transfers and stability. Make sure the tub transfer bench has at least one arm for positioning yourself.

Tub Transfer Bench Costs

Since there are no permanent modifications to the tub or bathroom, these benches are relatively cheap compared to other options like a handicap shower. For someone who is living in an apartment and are unable to make changes to their surroundings, the cheaper shower transfer bench is the perfect solution. The installation requires nothing more than placing the transfer bench into place. Some may require initial construction, largely consisting of, snapping and screwing items together.

Consider your own needs when purchasing a tub transfer bench. Prices can range from $35 to $400 for the higher model bath transfer benches that include more options.

• Weight – Most bath benches are capable of supporting 300lbs but there are bariatric bath benches that can support up to 850lbs. If you require these bariatric benches, they will be more expensive than the standard brands.
• Material – The most common benches are made of teak, metal and plastic material.
• Size – Measure the height of the bathtub curb and the width of the tub. Bathtub widths should be at least 17 to 22 inches to accommodate most benches. Transfer seat heights are adjustable and are usually from 17 to 21 inches high.
• Options – Custom your own shower transfer bench with a backrests or attached handrails for more safety measures.

Tags: Shower Bench, Transfer Bench