Shower chairs and benches

Makers describe a shower chair as a seat that goes inside the shower or tub, and a tub transfer bench as a seat that sits across the tub wall, so you can sit down outside the tub and move across. The National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus says to sit on a bath chair or bench when taking a shower (MedlinePlus). Which one suits you depends on how you get in and out, so ask an occupational therapist: How to find an occupational therapist.

In a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study of bathroom injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments in 2008, 37.3% happened while bathing, showering or getting out of the tub or shower. The report said adding grab bars both inside and outside the tub or shower might help prevent bathroom injuries.

It varies by model, so we show each maker's own weight rating. Use the weight filter on this page to see only chairs rated for your weight or more. If a maker doesn't list a rating, we say "Not listed".

Each product shows the seat height range the maker lists, measured from the floor the chair stands on. For a chair inside a tub, that's the tub floor. The right height depends on the person, so an occupational therapist can help: How to find an occupational therapist.

No. Medicare's equipment list (NCD 280.1) lists bathtub seats as a comfort or convenience item, not primarily medical, so Original Medicare denies them. More in does Medicare pay for shower chairs? A Medicare Advantage plan may offer extra benefits, so ask your plan. You may also be able to borrow one first through your state's loan program.