1. Bath Boards & Support Seats
When sitting down in the bath is a problem, there's a simple solution: sitting up on a bath board or support seat. There are a considerable number of different types and models available (more than you might expect) but before you decide it's a good idea to consider the following:
Type of bath
Steel/enamel baths are fine for most types of board or seat. Plastic, polythene and poly/carbonate baths don't usually suit seats that are wedged into place as the sides of the tub won't provide sufficient rigidity and strength. In this case bath boards that sit across the bath are more suitable.
Size of bath
Most boards and seats are adjustable or are available in different sizes so bath size isn't normally a problem. However unusually large, narrow or oval baths may limit your choice.
Some boards and seats have a semi-circular cut-away at the front to make personal hygiene simpler. While additional features may include arm rests, integral handgrips and soap dishes.
For a better understanding of the features and benefits of bath boards and support seats, see our detailed buying guide to choosing a bath board or seat.
2. Shower chairs and stools
Enjoy the efficiency, convenience and economy of a shower while comfortably seated - that's what this section is all about. Ranging from basic platforms to contoured chairs, you'll find a wide variety of simple installations to build your confidence and make a daily shower safer and more secure.
Before choosing a shower chair or stool consider what shower area you have; do you have a standard shower or a walk in wet room? You will need to measure the area carefully to ensure the seat will fit comfortably. Also you need to consider the tray or floor of your shower. This is because plastic trays may crack under-weight concentrated onto four legs - think of the damage stiletto heels can do to flooring and you'll appreciate the problem.
However, to fully appreciate what's available, see our buying guide to choosing a shower chair or stool.
Choosing a bath board or support seat
Making a material difference
Before deciding on your selection it's important to consider what your board or seat is made from as this determines strength, comfort and ease of use.
Moulded polymer
Lightweight, easy to clean and resistant to damage.
Wooden - polished, painted and plastic coated top
Warmer to the touch and offering greater stability. However as the polish can wear away with frequent use, regular checking is advised.
Wooden - cork top
Comfortable and anti-slip, this can be both an advantage and disadvantage. Although a cork surface adds security, sliding on and off, when getting in and out of the bath is not so easy.
Coated metal top
Stronger and therefore suitable for prolonged use, the smooth surface makes sliding across this type of board easy. On the down-side the weight of metal boards and seats means they are less easy to manoeuvre and place in position.
Padded tops
Provides extra comfort especially if you are thin or in pain.
Slatted and perforated tops
Allows the water to drain efficiently and are less slippery to sit on. However, this type may not be generally as comfortable as a solid-topped board or seat.
Choosing a shower chair or stool
The safer and more comfortable alternative to standing in the shower, purpose-made chairs and stools are very reassuring when balance, fatigue or slippery shower trays pose a problem.
Shower stools
Simple and straightforward and perfectly adequate when only moderate support is required. Although they don't tend to have back rests, many stools have hand grips or side handles often in the form of basic tubular arm rests. Many also feature height adjustable legs. If extra assistance is required then there are a variety of perching stools which feature slightly sloping seats that make it easier to manoeuvre on or off the stool; convenient if bending is a problem due to hip injuries.
Shower chairs
More comfortable and more supportive than stools, shower chairs feature higher backs and arm rests. Ergonomically contoured or fitted with padded upholstery (waterproof, of course) they often feature a cut-away section at the front to facilitate personal washing.
Free standing or fixed folding?
Whether you decide a seat or a stool is right for you, there's one more decision to make: free-standing or fixed folding.
Free standing seats and stools
These lift in an out of the shower as required and therefore may need the assistance of a helper. However they are easy to remove when not in use and are portable.
Fixed folding seats and stools
This type is usually fixed to a wall within the cubicle and has legs that fold down to rest on the floor. The folding facility saves space and means the shower is easy to use for other members of your family.