By Kerry Hale

How to Choose a Shower Seat

  • Monday 7 October 2024
  • 3 minute read

A shower seat is key to staying safe in the bathroom. But there’s a lot to consider before buying your shower seat, from size to materials and adjustability. 

Choosing the right shower seat depends on your needs and preferences. Our guide to finding the right shower seat has everything you need to know before investing.

What is a shower seat?

A shower seat is a freestanding stool, chair or bench designed for use in the shower, offering comfort and security while bathing.

Why do you need a shower seat?

A shower seat is one of the best bathroom aids for accessible bathrooms. You might need a shower seat if: 

  • You experience leg or back pain or weakness, as sitting in the shower allows you to reach awkward areas (like your feet) without excessive bending.

  • You have balance issues, breathlessness, dizziness or tire easily, as a seat offers stability. 

  • You have a high risk of slipping or falling, as sitting provides confidence for independent bathing.

 

Fitting a shower seat is one of the best bathroom adaptations for the elderly.

Types of shower seat

Before buying anything, you should know which type of shower seat best suits you.

Shower stools

Shower stools are small, lightweight and mobile. They’re ideal for those who need minimal support and can get on and off a chair without armrests. 

Shower chair

Shower chairs offer more stability. They come in various designs, including those with backrests and armrests. Choose a shower chair if you tire easily or need extra support.

Wall-mounted shower seat

Wall-mounted shower seats are fixed to the wall and provide a permanent seating solution. A wall-mounted shower seat is sturdy and perfect for long-term use. 

Shower seat considerations

Now that you’ve found your ideal shower seat type, there are various considerations to bear in mind, from choosing the size to comparing materials.

Shower seat size

Consider the available space in your shower. The seat should fit comfortably without overcrowding the shower and provide ample seating space. 

Shower seat adjustability

Seats with adjustable height settings let you customise your seat’s height. Some seats offer tilting or angled positions for better comfort and support. 

Shower seat weight capacity

Check the maximum weight capacity specifications to ensure the seat can safely support your weight.

Shower seat materials

As the seat will be exposed to water, choose materials like plastic, aluminium and stainless steel that won’t rust or degrade. Ensure the seat has a non-slip surface to prevent accidents when wet. 

Shower seat features

For an improved showering experience, consider these shower seat features: 

  • Try a seat with backrests and armrests for added comfort and stability. 

  • Look for seats with drainage holes to prevent water pooling. 

  • Consider whether you need suction cups (for freestanding seats) or padded feet (for wall-mounted seats) to ensure the seat is in place. 

  • Opt for a foldable seat that’s easily stored when not in use if space is limited. 

 

The Mira Select Flex is an advanced mixer shower designed with a focus on accessibility and user-friendly features. It’s the only mixer shower with RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) Tried & Tested accreditation. It is inclusively designed, with user-friendly controls and an ultra-ergonomic and visually optimised design.

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