Bathroom Safety Products Buyers Guide
For elderly individuals and those with mobility or disability challenges, the bathroom can be one of the most hazardous areas in the home. Fortunately, there are bathroom safety products—such as commodes, shower stools, handrails, and grab bars—that can enhance comfort, stability, and independence while reducing the risk of falls.
This guide will walk you through why you may need bathroom safety products, some key factors to consider before purchasing, the different options available, also additional considerations like size and installation, and any funding options here in New Zealand.
Why do I Need Bathroom Safety Products?
Bathroom aids can provide stability, support, and independence for individuals who:
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Experience balance or mobility issues that make standing difficult
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Have limited leg strength or joint pain due to arthritis or injury
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Need assistance sitting down or standing up from a toilet or shower
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Want to reduce the risk of slipping or falling on wet surfaces
Installing the right bathroom aids can help individuals maintain dignity, independence, and safety in their daily routines.
What are the purchase considerations?
1. Intended use
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What specific challenges need to be addressed? (e.g., difficulty standing, unsteady balance, difficulty getting on/off the toilet, limited space…)
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Who will use the product? Ensure the chosen item suits the user's height, weight, and mobility level. If a care giver is required to assist the person and move or operate any equipment used, it will increase the working space needed.
2. Safety and Stability
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Non-slip surfaces: Look for rubber grips, suction cups, or textured surfaces to prevent slipping.
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Weight capacity: Ensure the product can support the user’s weight safely.
3. Space & Installation
- Measure the available space in your bathroom to ensure a proper fit.
- Freestanding vs. wall-mounted: Some aids require installation (e.g., grab bars), while others are portable (e.g. shower chairs).
4. Adjustability and Comfort
Look for:
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Height-adjustable frames for a custom fit
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Padded seating for extra comfort
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Foldable or removable designs for storage convenience
5. Budget
Prices vary depending on the type and features of each product.
Consider durability, ease of cleaning, and long-term use when setting a budget.
What products suit what uses?
There are several types of bathroom safety products, each designed for different needs:
1. Commodes (Portable Toilets)
- For individuals who cannot access a bathroom easily
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Can be placed next to a bed or in another room for convenience
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Available as static commodes, wheeled commodes, or over-toilet frames
2. Shower Stools & Chairs
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Provide seating support in the shower for those who have difficulty standing
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Fixed stools, folding stools, and chairs with backrests available
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Some models have armrests for additional stability
3. Handrails & Grab Bars
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Offer secure hand support for individuals getting in/out of the bath, shower or toilet
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Wall-mounted or suction-based options available
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Angled or straight designs for different grip needs
4. Raised Toilet Seats & Over-Toilet Frames
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Helps individuals who have difficulty bending or sitting on low toilets
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Fixed or removable designs available
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Some include armrests for added stability
5. Bath Lifts & Transfer Benches
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Assist users in getting into and out of the bathtub safely
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Battery-powered bath lifts lower and raise users smoothly
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Transfer benches allow individuals to slide into the tub while seated
6. Non-Slip Mats & Floor Safety Accessories
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Reduce the risk of slipping on wet bathroom floors
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Available as rubber suction mats, adhesive strips, and anti-slip coatings
View the full range of bathroom equipment accessories at Auckland Independent Living stores and our website here – https://ilsnz.org/collections/bathroom-accessories
Key Differences between Bathroom Safety Products
Use the scroll bar below table to move across the table
|
Feature |
Commodes |
Shower Chairs |
Grab Bars |
Raised Toilet Seats |
Bath Lifts |
|
Primary Use |
Toilet alternative |
Seated showering |
Hand support |
Higher toilet position |
Bath entry & exit |
|
Portability |
Portable |
Portable or fixed |
Fixed or suction |
Removable or fixed |
Fixed |
|
Installation |
No installation |
No installation |
Requires installation |
No installation |
Requires installation |
|
Best for |
Limited mobility, no bathroom access |
Individuals with poor balance |
Stability when moving |
Users with difficulty bending |
Safe bathtub access |
Use the scroll bar below table to move across the table.
Other Considerations
1. Ease of Cleaning
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Choose products made of water-resistant materials that are easy to wipe down.
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Removable seats and cushions help maintain hygiene.
Note: Independent Living offers a hospital grade cleaning service for bathroom products: https://ilsnz.org/pages/equipment-cleaning
2. Manoeuvrability & Storage
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Foldable or wheeled models make storage and transport easier.
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Adjustable legs allow customisation for different heights and spaces.
3. Additional Features
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Padded armrests for added comfort
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Drainage holes in shower chairs to prevent water buildup
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Tool-free assembly for quick setup
View the full range of bathroom equipment at Auckland Independent Living stores and our website here – www.ilsnz.org/collections/bathroom
Can I Get Funding?
In New Zealand, funding assistance for bathroom safety products may be available through these following pathways, depending on your eligibility:
1. Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
- Covers bathroom aids for eligible individuals with long-term disabilities.
2. Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC)
- Provides financial support if the need results from an injury.
www.acc.co.nz/im-injured/types-of-ongoing-support/aids-equipment
3. Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
- May offer financial aid for those who qualify under disability or medical grounds.
www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/special-needs-grant.html
4. Charities & Community Organisations
- Groups like the Cerebral Palsy Society and local disability organizations may provide grants or financial assistance.
For more information, visit:
https://ilsnz.org/pages/financial-support#disability-equipment
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right bathroom safety equipment can significantly enhance safety, comfort, and independence for elderly individuals or those with disabilities. Choosing the right product depends on personal needs, available space, and mobility levels.
We're here to help
Whether you need help determining the best bathroom products for you or maybe help with finding and understanding the process of a funding application – we're here to help, with impartial and free advice. We have a huge range of bathroom products at all price ranges: www.ilsnz.org/collections/bathroom
Simply visit one of our stores www.ilsnz.org/pages/contact or call us on 0800 625 100.
Our stores are open:
Monday-Friday: 9am to 5pm
Saturday: 9am to 4pm
And if you would like a professional UV treated cleaning service to Hospital grade, check out our Equipment Cleaning service: https://ilsnz.org/pages/equipment-cleaning