Bath Seats and Boards

Bathing Aids

In a nutshell, bathing aids are pieces of equipment that allow individuals with limited mobility to bath and shower independently. It is also useful for the elderly or for those who have help from caregivers. This equipment falls under the category of bathroom accessibility. 

The equipment is inclusive in nature while catering to specific needs. These units allow users to sit on an elevated surface in the bathtub/shower while using the showerhead to bathe. 

The elevation can prevent slips and can also give caregivers extra support when helping the user. There are also pieces that make the act of getting into and out of the tub easy and safe if full autonomy by the individual is desired.

Bath accessibility equipment

Bath seats

This structure is essentially a seat with rubber and waterproof guarding around the parts that will come into contact with another surface. The legs sit horizontally so that the seat can rest on the sides of the bathtub rather than on the floor of the tub.

Since these units are placed in tubs they are rust-resistant (even when composed of metal) and slip-proof for the sake of safety. Some bath seats will sit above the tub while some can be submerged a few inches. Those that are submerged can allow the individual to soak their lower body while bathing.

The main measurements needed when selecting a bath seat are the width of the tub including the sidewall and excluding the side walls. These 2 measurements are usually a typical measurement as most tubs have a standard size. There should be enough space on the sidewalls of the bathtub for the horizontal legs to rest.

If possible, check the weight that the bath seat is able to withstand. The option of a swivelling seat may be ideal for those who struggle to lift their legs over the sides of the tub. The chair can swivel outwards and be sat in and then subsequently swivelled another 90 degrees, putting the user into the tub with its mechanism.

Bath board

This is a wooden or plastic board resting on the surface of a tub acting as a seat. Apart from the models that rest securely on the tub, some designs can clamp to the outer side of the bathtub. The projected side sits on legs and can fit inside the tub.

Some units have adjustable heights to accommodate users of varying leg lengths. When selecting a model, it’s important to bear in mind the width of the tub. The tub walls are also a factor when choosing a bathboard. 

Since most designs will rest on this surface area the walls of the tub should be flat and have a decent (3-5cm) amount of space for the unit to be placed. This is usually not an issue for accessible bathtubs but there are hacks for tub walls that don’t have such dimensions.

Some models can be clamped on the outer tub wall and have legs that add stability to the inside of the tub. This hybrid model allows a non ADA-compliant bathtub to become an accessible one. This will require knowing the depth measurement of the tub as well as the exact thickness of the outer tub wall.

Often waterflow across the board can become an issue as the water can pool and become cold/uncomfortable. Most models will make use of wooden slats that have thin gaps between them such that no pooling will occur. A timber bathboard, for instance, has this property while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Bath stool 

This structure differs from a bath seat in that the appearance is the same as a conventional chair with the bottom of the legs resting on the floor of the bathtub. This structure is also referred to as a bath chair or shower seat.

It’s important to ensure the unit can fit in the tub. The feet of the chair legs should sit flat against the surface and not on any point of curvature of the bathtub. 

Some units are backless, but it is recommended to select one with back support for ergonomics and support. The chair can also be padded for those experiencing skin breakage/sensitivity and for all-around increased comfort. 

An opening in the middle of the seat can allow individuals to thoroughly clean themselves without needing to elevate their bodies. The shower chair can also come with an adjustable attachment to hold a movable shower head in place to allow both hands to be free when bathing.

Some models can have removable chair arms to further assist in getting up from the sitting position. These can act as makeshift grab bars if they do not exist in the bathroom. The main advantage of a bath stool is its portability and the likelihood that it will fit in any shower or bathtub.

Further Considerations

Creating bathroom accessibility and reducing risk is a top priority for vulnerable homeowners. Other factors work in hand or complement bath seats and boards. 

Installing non-slip surfaces on the floor and bottom of the bathtub will reduce the likelihood of detrimental slips occurring. 

Also, consider adding grab rails to various points of the bathroom such as above the bathtub and in the shower. These accessories can be placed horizontally or diagonally. 

Lastly, installing accessible mirrors and shelving is key. It’s important that they can easily be reached. Aesthetics and functionality truly go hand-in-hand.