A quick look at the best shower chairs and benches
- Best for in-out transfers: Glacier Bay Tub Transfer Bench and Bath Seat
- Best higher weight limit: Medline Bariatric Transfer Bench
- Most affordable: Drive Medical Shower Bench
- Best adjustable: Vaunn Medical Deluxe Spa Shower Chair
- Best lightweight shower chair: Dr. Kay’s Adjustable Height Bath and Shower Chair
- Best for people with low vision: Platinum Health ComfortAble Deluxe Padded Shower Chair
- Best wall installed shower seat: Clevr Teakwood Modern Folding Shower Bench
- Best for 360-degree rotation: Healthline Bath Bench Round Stool
- Most stylish: ToiletTree Deluxe Wooden Bamboo Shower Seat
- Best for people with paralysis: Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat
Falls in or near the bathtub are frequent and lead to a large number of emergency department visits each year, according to the .
Although anyone can slip while showering, the chance of falling in or near the tub rises with age. One effective way to lower this risk and improve steadiness is using a shower chair, sometimes called a bath chair. These seats let you sit while washing, providing added stability and safety.
Shower chairs are constructed from waterproof, rust-resistant materials like plastic and aluminum. Quality designs include slip-resistant seating surfaces and nonskid foot caps, making them safer on wet floors. Some models include lift features and backs and armrests for more support. Others are tailored to assist with getting into and out of a tub.
Most insurers, including Medicare, don’t consider shower chairs to be durable medical equipment (DME). Still, a reliable shower chair can help you stay balanced and steady in the tub, substantially lowering the chance of injuries such as bruises, concussions, and fractures.
How we chose shower chairs
The shower chairs featured here come from reputable, transparent makers known for safety. We excluded models that show many customer complaints about durability, safety, or lifespan.
Healthline’s picks for shower chairs
Best for in-out transfers
Glacier Bay Tub Transfer Bench and Bath Seat
- Price: $$
- Material: plastic and aluminum
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 300 pounds (lbs.)
- Height: legs adjust from 16 to 20 inches (in.)
This bath bench is made to help with transferring in and out of a tub. One side of the bench lets you slide into the tub and onto a nonslip seat fitted with a back and armrest. The back can be positioned on either side of the seat, accommodating right- or left-sided transfers.
Customers report it feels very stable and supports up to 300 lbs.
The legs adjust between 16 and 20 in.
Assembly is required, but buyers say it’s light and straightforward to assemble.
Shop now at Home DepotBest higher weight limit
Medline Bariatric Transfer Bench
- Price: $$$
- Material: aluminum
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 550 lbs.
- Height: 16 to 18 in.
This heavy-duty transfer bench weighs about 11 lbs. and can support up to 550 lbs.
It features six legs with cross-base supports for extra strength. The feet are equipped with suction-cup grips.
The bench back is removable and there’s no armrest. A white plastic clamp on the rear can hold a shower hose or bottle. There’s also a space between the transfer bench and seat where a shower curtain can be placed so water doesn’t soak the bathroom floor.
Shop now at AmazonMost affordable
Drive Medical Shower Bench
- Price: $
- Material: aluminum and plastic
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 300 lbs.
- Height: adjustable between 14 and 19.5 in.
The maker says this lightweight aluminum bath chair supports about 300 lbs., though some reviewers suggest the real limit may be lower.
The seat, back, and legs snap together for quick setup and takedown. No tools are required.
The legs are flared outward for better stability and adjust in 1-in. steps up to 19.5 in.
The contoured seat includes drainage holes to reduce slipping.
Each side of the seat has a built-in grip for security and comfort.
Shop now at AmazonBest adjustable
Vaunn Medical Deluxe Spa Shower Chair
- Price: $$
- Material: polyethylene, heavy duty anodized aluminum, and rubber
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 250 lbs.
- Height: adjustable between 16 and 21 in.
Want a back today but prefer it off tomorrow? Need to change height for multiple users? The Vaunn Deluxe Spa Shower Chair can handle that.
This chair is built from heavy-duty anodized aluminum with a protective oxide coating for strength. It weighs 8.5 lbs. (6 lbs. without the back) and holds up to 250 lbs.
Padded, elevated armrests provide extra support and help when rising to stand.
The antibacterial polystyrene seat is contoured and includes drainage holes for safety.
Legs adjust in 1-in. increments from 16 to 21 in.
Shop now at AmazonBest lightweight shower chair
Dr. Kay’s Adjustable Height Bath and Shower Chair
- Price: $
- Material: medical grade aluminum
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 300 lbs.
- Height: adjusts from 12.5 to 18.5 in.
Weighing just 4 lbs., this backless seat is extremely light and compact, suitable for shower stalls and smaller tubs.
It supports up to 300 lbs.
Built-in side handles and drainage holes are featured in the contoured seat. A crossbar under the seat adds strength.
The height adjusts from 12.5 to 18.5 in, making it a good pick for shorter users.
Assembly is required. Some buyers find setup easy, while others note it can be tricky.
Shop now at AmazonBest for people with low vision
Platinum Health ComfortAble Deluxe Padded Shower Chair
- Price: $$$
- Material: commercial grade polyurethane foam and aluminum
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 310 lbs.
- Height: 19-in. adjustable legs
The bright blue accents on this seat act as visual markers for people with low vision.
It supports up to 310 lbs.
The chair features an ultra-padded polyurethane foam seat and back, plus heavily padded, load-bearing armrests. The upholstery is soft and designed to be gentle on fragile skin.
The adjustable 19-in. legs come with nonslip rubber tips.
Assembly is required. The chair includes a lifetime warranty.
Shop now at AmazonBest wall installed shower seat
Clevr Teakwood Modern Folding Shower Bench
- Price: $$$
- Material: teakwood
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 400 lbs.
- Height: based on how high it’s installed on the wall
This teak bench is an attractive space-saving choice. Professional installation may be advisable. When mounted correctly it can support up to 400 lbs.
While the seat height can’t be changed after installation, you can install it at the most comfortable height for the main user. Other users can fold it up when it’s not needed instead of bringing a chair in and out of the shower.
A stainless steel frame and brackets fasten the solid Burmese teak slats, creating a long-lasting seat — a key point given the higher price.
Shop now at AmazonBest for 360-degree rotation
Healthline Bath Bench Round Stool
*Note that the manufacturer Healthline has no relation to Healthline Media.*
- Price: $
- Material: not advertised
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 350 lbs.
- Height: adjustable between 17 and 21 in.
Being able to swivel in your shower seat to reach a bottle behind you can be extremely helpful. This round stool stands out by offering 360-degree rotation plus a storage shelf under the seat so you can grab items below.
The blue tone might not suit everyone, but it can aid people with low vision in locating the seat. Its lower price also makes it one of the more budget-friendly picks here.
Shop now at AmazonMost stylish
ToiletTree Deluxe Wooden Bamboo Shower Seat
- Price: $$
- Material: bamboo
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 220 lbs.
- Height: 21.6 in.
This bench-style bamboo seat is attractive enough for use throughout the home, not only the shower. It also includes a matching footstool as a bonus.
Although the height is fixed, there’s a storage shelf beneath the main seat for items you’ll need during your shower.
The bamboo construction provides durability, and rubber-grip feet help prevent wobbling on wet floors. If you prefer not to assemble it yourself, expert assembly is available for an extra fee.
Shop now at AmazonBest for people with paralysis
Carousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat
- Price: $$$
- Material: commercial grade polyurethane foam and medical-grade aluminum
- Assembly required: yes
- Weight limit: 300 lbs.
- Height: adjustable between 19 and 23.5 in.
This model swivels and pivots, making it simpler to enter the shower and reposition once seated. It also includes a seat belt to reduce chance of slipping from the chair.
It’s expensive, but it’s a professional-grade unit with padded seat, back, and armrests for comfort. The blue trim also helps users with low vision locate it more easily.
The manufacturer states assembly is straightforward, though expert setup is available if preferred.
Shop now at AmazonComparison table
NamePriceMaterialBest forWeight limitHeightAssembly requiredGlacier Bay Tub Transfer Bench and Bath Seat$$plastic and aluminumin/out transfers300 lbs.adjustable from 16–20 in.yesMedline Bariatric Transfer Bench$$$aluminumhigher weight limit550 lbs.16–18 in.yesDrive Medical Shower Bench$aluminum and plasticaffordability300 lbs.14–19.5 in.yesVaunn Medical Deluxe Spa Shower Chair$$polyethylene,heavy duty
anodized aluminum, and rubberadjustability250 lbs.16–21 in.yesDr. Kay’s Adjustable Height Bath and Shower Chair$medical grade aluminumlightweight chair300 lbs.12.5–18.5 in.yesPlatinum Health ComfortAble Deluxe Padded Shower Chair$$$ commercial grade polyurethane foam and aluminumpeople with low vision310 lbs.19-inch adjustable legsyesClevr Teakwood Modern Folding Shower Bench$$$teakwoodwall-installed shower seat400 lbs.based on how high it’s installed on the wallyesHealthline Bath Bench Round Stool$not advertisedrotating 360-degrees seat350 lbs.17–21 in.yesToiletTree Deluxe Wooden Bamboo Shower Seat$$bamboostyle220 lbs.21.6 in.yesCarousel Sliding Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat$$$commercial grade polyurethane foam and medical grade aluminumpeople with paralysis300 lbs.19–23.5 in.yes
What to look for in shower chairs
Your height, weight, and level of mobility should guide your choice of shower chair. Also watch for these features:
- Will the chair remain stationary or need to be moved? Decide whether you want a chair that stays put in one spot or a portable model that can be used in various places.
- Check the chair’s dimensions: Measure your tub to know what size seat it will fit.
- Do youneed extra bench space to transfer onto the chair? Getting in and out of a tub can be tricky. Some chairs include attached transfer benches, offering more stability. If you have a walk-in shower stall, a transfer bench may be unnecessary.
- Ergonomics and seat height: Many shower chairs offer height-adjustable legs. Choose a chair with a seat height that lets your feet rest flat and stable on the floor. If you’re 5 feet or shorter, a seat height of 12 to 16 inches may be most comfortable. If you’re 6 feet or taller, look for 18 to 20 inches.
- Would a back, arms, or handles help? Decide if you benefit from back support or handles for pushing up. Some models include arms, while others have built-in grips to help you lift yourself.
- Stability: Rolling bath chairs exist, but they may not be stable enough for people with mobility problems. If stability is a concern, choose seats with large nonslip suction-cup feet.
- Comfort: Seats may be contoured or flat; some include padding and padded backs. Trying several styles helps determine what suits you best.
- Storage options: If you only need the chair temporarily, consider storage when not in use. Some models disassemble easily for compact storage.
An alternative to shower chairs
A common reason people fall in the shower is the lack of secure handholds when they lose balance. Reaching instinctively for a towel bar or curtain can make a fall worse if that item isn’t secure.
If you prefer standing or lying while bathing, consider installing bathtub grab bars. These can be mounted inside and outside the tub and are a good alternative to seats for people at lower risk of falling.
Frequently asked questions about shower chairs
How much do shower chairs cost?
Shower chairs typically range from about $25 to $300 or more. Price depends on type, weight capacity, and extra features.
Where can you buy shower chairs?
Shower chairs are available from online sellers like Amazon and Walmart, at big-box retailers such as Home Depot, and from medical supply stores. Some pharmacies carry them as well.
Does insurance cover shower chairs?
Most insurance plans won’t cover shower chairs bought for home use. If a chair is used in a facility like a nursing home or hospital, your insurer might cover that expense.
Does Medicare cover shower chairs?
Original Medicare doesn’t list shower chairs as medically necessary DME, so it doesn’t pay for them or for other tub-safety items like grab bars.
Is it a commode chair?
Medicare does cover commode chairs intended for toileting. Some commodes are waterproof and may double as shower chairs. If you plan to use a commode in the shower, confirm its durability, nonslip features, and weight capacity to ensure it’s safe for that use.
Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may pay part of the cost of a shower chair. If you have Part C, check with your plan to learn what they cover.
The takeaway
Shower seats can lower the risk of injury in and around the bathtub.
When selecting a shower seat, evaluate its durability and slip-resistant features, along with your own height, weight, and mobility.
Before buying, measure your tub to ensure the chair will fit properly.
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