6 Reviewers
Updated onApr. 25, 2022
Best Bathroom Commode Chairs For Safer Toilet Use
It may not be the most comfortable topic to discuss, but the fact of the matter is that as we age, simple, everyday things like going to the bathroom can become difficult.
The physical effects of aging don’t have to stop you from being independent. In this article, we are showcasing some of the best bathroom commode chairs that are sure to make using the toilet safer and more accessible seniors aging in place.
How We Found the Best Bathroom Commode Chairs for Safer Toilet Use
29 Products Considered
8 Hours of Research
5 Products Reviewed
3 Top Picks
Table of Contents
Bathroom Commode Chairs We Reviewed:
Features and Specifications
- Height-adjustable seat and armrest aid getting on and off; Seat adjusts in 0.5″ increments for a perfect fit; Dark bronze finish and style suits most decors
- Elongated seat opening and adjustable contoured backrest ensures roomy comfort; Height of the product leg – 19 inches
- Flat-seat lid cover discretely conceals commode when not in use, elongated seat opening ensures roomy comfort. Can be used over toilet to raise seat, enhancing stability, splash guard included for over-the-toilet use
- Supports up to 400 pounds, tool-free assembly; Commode height can be adjusted in increments of .5” to a maximum of 22.5” tall
- This shower chair is infused with Microban Technology | Microban technology inhibits the growth of stains and odors from bacteria, mold & mildew and keeps your bath safety products cleaner for longer
Pros
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Adjustable height suits individual needs
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Stylish look removes the “hospital” feel
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Sturdy and reliable
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Built with comfort in mind
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Doubles as toilet lift
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Less cleaning time
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Easy to use toilet paper holder
Cons
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Too high for shorter individuals
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Metal bucket rusts after a few washes
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Difficult to clean in some spots
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Higher price point
The Medline Elements Bedside Commode is a great all-around product for seniors in need of a little extra help using the restroom. This bedside commode is made for comfort—an important detail for aging bodies—featuring an adjustable contoured backrest as well as adjustable seat height.
Adjusting in increments of 0.5 inches, you will be able to achieve the perfect height, reducing the risk of strain or discomfort. The convenient armrests make getting up and down a breeze, especially with the textured grips, so there is a lessened risk of falling.
Suited for most decors, the dark design is made to be discrete and blend in. This aspect may be important to seniors who choose to age in their own home. A flat seat lid cover conceals the commode so that it appears as a chair when not in use. This chair is made with style in mind; it differs significantly from the typical white look, making your home feel less like a hospital room.
In addition to being used as a commode, you can also use this product over a toilet to give yourself or your loved one a raised seat for less bending and squatting. The specially designed splash guard works to keep you clean along the way.
Infused with Microban Antimicrobial Technology, this seat actively fights off the growth of bacteria and stains. Because of this technology, you don’t have to worry about mold, odors, harmful germs, or mildew. The protection from this technology allows you to go longer without cleaning, which is more convenient by far.
Our Verdict
This Medline product is reliable, sturdy, and adjustable, making it an excellent choice for those with general needs.
Features and Specifications
- 3-in-1 Commode Chair: Versatile 3-in-1 design enables this model to easily be positioned over a standard toilet; can be used as a portable self-contained commode or a shower chair
- Foldable Frame: Our 350-lb capacity commode chair features fold-up legs for convenient storage and transportation; Seat dimensions: 13.5″ x 15″; Seat height: 16.6″ x 22.5″; Width between arms: 18″, 22.5″ outside
- Easy To Assemble: Achieve the ideal sitting position by adjusting the seat height via built-in push pins; Durable plastic snap-on seat and lid installs without pushing buttons
- Quality Construction: Made from durable powder-coated steel, our portable commode and potty chair for adults is capable of supporting up to 350 lbs and features supportive armrests
- Easy To Clean: Equipped with a convenient carry handle and protective pail cover, our bedside commode bucket is easy to empty; Use commode liners for even quicker clean ups
Pros
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Sturdy construction for reliability
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Easy to fold up
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Easy to store/transport with light weight
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Simple assembly for you or your caregiver
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Highly affordable price
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Adjustable heights to support bending and squatting safely
Cons
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No toilet paper holder
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Narrow seat may be too skinny for some
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Nonreturnable product
Convenience is critical in a world of unstoppable aging. The Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode offers that and more, featuring easy-open and folding technology so you can store and transport your bedside commode without hassle.
This simple product is made from durable, powder-coated steel that is designed to increase strength and last long. Its durable plastic seat snaps on for simple installation without the need for tools or complex instructions, so you can install it yourself or with the help of a caregiver.
Included with this product is a 7.5-quart commode bucket along with a carrying handle, a cover, and a splash shield. Additionally, the plastic arms give not only extra safety getting up and down but extra comfort as well.
The adjustable height makes this chair versatile and customizable so that nearly anyone can enjoy its convenience. You can also use this chair as a toilet lift for use over your toilet.
Our Verdict
This seat is a great choice for a senior who needs it only temporarily or travels a lot since it folds and transports/stores easily; this feature also appeals to caregivers. Additionally, it’s worth it to note that it is better suited for narrower body types.
Features and Specifications
- PORTABLE TOILET provides a bedside commode chair where needed. Easily have a toilet wherever it’s needed whether by the bed, in the living room or for travel as a camping toilet
- RAISED TOILET SEAT has a sturdy safety frame that makes getting up and sitting down significantly easier while providing stability. It also easily positions over existing toilets for enhanced durability while recovering from surgery, for the elderly or…
- BEDSIDE COMMODE CONVENIENTLY ADJUSTS IN HEIGHT from 16.5 to 23.5 inches in 1 inch increments. The extra wide platform maximizes stability and safety. The width between the toilet safety frame arms is 24 inches, the depth is 17 inches and the commode chair…
- STEEL COMMODE HAS PLENTY OF CAPACITY with a 7 quart pail that easily slides out with a removable lid that allows for safe transportation of pail contents
- COMMODE features slip resistant leg tips to make the commode sturdy and safe for weight bearing when sitting or standing. 7 Quart commode bucket with lid and handle included
Pros
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Extra sturdy to support normal to heavier weights
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Adjustable height make standing and sitting easier
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Slip-resistant feet add safety benefits to reduce falls
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Convenient for bedside use
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Doubles as toilet lift
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Easy to remove/clean bucket
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Comfortable seat
Cons
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Does not include a lid cover
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Cushioned seat may tear
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Difficult for some to clean
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Does not include a splash guard
The simple design of this heavy-duty bedside commode offers convenience and reliability to seniors anywhere they reside. The DMI Bedside Commode Chair has a very sturdy frame, leaving nothing up to chance when it comes to supporting you or your loved one. The extra-wide design makes it a comfortable fit for anyone up to 500 pounds.
Easy to move around, this commode is excellent for bedside use and can additionally work over a toilet for more natural positioning and movement. With reliable, sturdy arms, you will feel safe standing and sitting every time, even without the help of a caregiver.
The legs of this bedside commode adjust to accommodate different bending needs and different heights. Set the chair to the proper height to minimize the risk of falls or accidents. The 7-quart bucket slides out for easy waste removal and cleaning.
Our Verdict
Don’t be fooled by the simple design of this chair – it is very sturdy and gets the job done. In fact, the simple design makes it an excellent choice for senior bedside use. However, we regret the fact that it does not include a splash guard or a seat cover.
Features and Specifications
- Tool-free assembly in 3 easy steps. The push button height adjustable legs makes sizing a breeze allowing this commode to be used as an elevated toilet seat
- Easily opens and folds for storage and transportation
- Durable plastic 16 1/2″ deep snap-on seat with lid
- Comes complete with 12 qt commode bucket with carry handle, cover and splash shield
- Overall Dimensions: 18″(L) x 31.75″(W) x 15.5″(H); Seat Dimensions: 16.5″(D) x 13.5″(W) x 15.5-22″(H); Width Between Arms: 24″; Weight Capacity: 650 lbs
Pros
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Very sturdy and wide construction to support bariatrics
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Easy to assemble and hassle-free
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Adjustable height for safe sitting and standing
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Comfortable design
Cons
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No toilet paper holder
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No toilet paper holder
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Too large for small bathrooms
The bariatric design of this folding commode is made to be extremely sturdy, supporting up to 650 pounds. The sleek construction features convenient handles to make sitting and standing easy for seniors, including those of heavier weights. Grips on these handles ensure a non-slip grasp for every use.
With easily adjustable legs, you can customize the height of the Drive Medical Heavy-Duty Bariatric Commode for all sizes on your own. These adjustments are also convenient to use this chair as an elevated toilet seat.
Complete with a 12-quart bucket, a carry handle, a cover, and a splash shield, this commode is comfortable and convenient for older adults. The plastic seat lid snaps on quickly, and you can assemble this chair in 3 easy steps without the use of complex tools or frustrating directions.
In addition to all of its great features, this bariatric chair folds up easily for storage and transportation, hassle-free. Adding a plus to its corner for both caregivers and seniors.
Our Verdict
This chair is very heavy-duty and reliable, making it excellent for bariatric seniors. The sturdy design is safe and functional—just be sure to check the measurements of your bathroom to ensure it fits!
Features and Specifications
- DELUXE COMMODE This deluxe 3 in 1 commode chair has a back rail that removes quickly and easily. 7.5 qt bedside commode bucket, splash shield and cover are included
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE folding steel commode. Bedside commode chair made from durable grey powder coated steel welded construction for durability and strength, snap on toilet seat and lid made from durable plastic for easy cleaning.
- ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT. Adjustable legs allow seat to be raised or lowered in 1 inch increments. Commode toilet seat height range is 15 – 21 inch (38-53 cm), 15 inch (38 cm) seat depth.
- COMFORT AND SAFETY. Bathroom commode toilet seat with handles and safety rails. The plastic armrests of the medical commode provide additional comfort for patients, adults, seniors and disabled.
- EASILY FOLDING commode stool. This folding commode portable toilet seat easily folds and opens. Conveniently folds flat for easy transportation, travel and storage.
Pros
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Easy to set up and take down
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Comes with a funnel to use over toilet
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Adjustable height to increase safety and prevent falls
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Folded size is good for traveling and storage
Cons
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Narrow construction
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Bucket handle gets in the way while emptying and cleaning
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No toilet paper holder
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Seat circumference is a bit small
If you are looking for convenience, secure storage, and easy transportation, the Healthline Folding Bedside Commode Chair is an excellent choice. This bedside commode chair is very easy to fold and open, making it great for temporary use or traveling for seniors and caregivers. Once folded, the commode is flat and much smaller than its open size.
In addition to its convenient folding attributes, this bedside chair is durable and reliable. Made from powder-coated steel with welded construction, it holds up to 250 pounds and features helpful armrests for easy standing and sitting. This reliable construction helps to prevent falling and slipping and can make any older adult feel safe.
With this commode, you also receive the 7.5-quart bucket, a splash shield, and a cover for the bucket. The seat comes equipped with a lid, making it perfect for covering up the seat hole or protecting from splash-back when flushing.
An adjustable height feature allows you to change the height of the seat to suit your specific needs. Bending beyond your body’s capabilities is no longer a concern with this seat. You can also use it over your toilet for more comfortable and easy use.
Our Verdict
For anyone who is consistently on the move or even someone who is in need temporarily, this folding bedside commode is a great option. It functions as any other commode with the added convenience of the folding option. A bit narrow, check the measurements before purchasing.
What is a Bedside Commode?
A bedside commode is similar to a porto-potty, in that it is a moveable toilet that does not use any running water. This product is often used in bedrooms for those who have trouble making it to the bathroom in time or who have a hard time moving, hence its name “bedside.”
The structure of a bedside commode is very similar to that of a chair. In fact, many of them are specifically meant to look like chairs with their covers on to make them more discrete. This particular kind of chair has a container attached to the bottom of it for the sole purpose of catching waste. These containers are removable so you or your caregiver can empty and wash them.
Bedside commodes were made originally for use right next to the bed. However, many products today feature multi-use designs and are also capable of serving as a toilet lift. With several designs showcasing removable buckets, splash guards, and adjustable heights, you can transform your bedside commode and place it over your toilet.
Who Needs A Bedside Commode?
Essentially, anyone who cannot get out of their bed and reach the bathroom in time needs a bedside commode. In most cases, this describes an elderly individual who has a hard time not only moving quickly but holding the urge to relieve themselves.
Seniors may also find that they are having a harder time bending their knees and squatting. In that case, using a commode for over the toilet is great because you can adjust the height to make standing and sitting easier.
While many users are older, sometimes a bedside commode is helpful to younger generations. Even if you can still make it to the bathroom just fine, a surgery or an injury may require temporary assistance in this area. Bedside commodes are excellent for someone who is moving slower due to one of the afflictions above.
Caregivers who are finding it harder to help their loved ones or patients to the bathroom can also benefit from these chairs. They may see it as much easier to help someone out of bed with the commode right there rather than exiting a room altogether.
Helpful Tips For Using A Bedside Commode
Some preparation goes into using a bedside commode, so it is essential to keep some things in mind. Whether you are a caregiver or just someone considering purchasing a commode for personal use, you should always be prepared.
Make sure you have the necessary supplies it takes to use a bedside commode. Some top supplies to have handy include the following:
- Disposable gloves
- Toilet paper or wipes
- Containers and access to warm water
- Soap
- Washcloth
- Towel
- Commode liners/bags
The above items will help you to not only use your bedside commode properly but to make disposal and cleaning easier.
As a caregiver, there are certain things you should remember when helping someone use their bedside commode. Here is a helpful list of key tips:
- Make sure to lock the wheels of the commode before use, if present
- Ensure the container is in place under the seat
- Add a small amount of water to the container before use to make cleaning easier
- Always lend a helping hand to the patient as they get out of bed
- Stay with the individual for safety purposes, or give them a bell to ring
- Offer any necessary assistance when finished, such as standing, cleaning, and getting back in bed
Summary
Everyone needs to use the bathroom; there’s no denying that fact. However, for seniors living at home who find it a little more challenging to get there than it was before, there are great solutions. Bathroom commode chairs are excellent for making your life a little easier and safer.