Let’s be real — the bathroom can be one of the riskiest places in the house for seniors.
Slippery tiles, tight spaces, and awkward transfers? Recipe for injury. That’s where a good shower commode comes in — combining a toilet chair and shower seat into one supportive, easy-to-use solution that’s built to reduce falls, make hygiene safer, and keep your dignity intact.
Whether you're helping someone you love or looking for yourself, this guide has everything you need to know about shower commodes — what they are, how they work, who they help, and how to pick the right one.
What Is a Shower Commode?
A shower commode is a multi-purpose mobility aid designed to help people with limited mobility bathe and use the toilet more safely. Think of it as a wheeled chair with an open or padded seat — it can roll straight into the shower and position over a toilet, or be fitted with a removable pan for use anywhere.
Most models are made with rust-resistant aluminium or stainless steel frames, padded waterproof seats, lockable castors, and ergonomic armrests for comfort and control.
Common Shower Commode Features:
- Open seat design for hygiene and easy toileting
- Waterproof, padded seat (with various cut-out shapes for user needs)
- Removable commode pan for use outside the bathroom
- Swing-back or flip-up armrests to simplify transfers
- Lockable wheels for added safety during use
For a breakdown of design types, check out this GTK guide on shower commodes — it's a great explainer.
Who Benefits from a Shower Commode?
Shower commodes are ideal for:
- Seniors with reduced mobility or balance issues
- People recovering from surgery or illness
- NDIS participants or individuals with disability
- Carers seeking safer transfer tools and hygiene support
If standing in the shower feels unsafe, or getting to the toilet is a challenge, a shower commode could be a game-changer. It helps users stay independent while reducing the physical strain on carers and reducing the risk of falls or overexertion.
Different Types of Shower Commodes
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all commode — and that’s a good thing. Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone you care for, choosing the right style makes all the difference in safety, comfort, and confidence in the bathroom.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types — and why you might choose each:
1. Attendant-Propelled Shower Commode
These commodes are fitted with smaller wheels and rear handles, making them ideal for use with a carer or support worker.
Best for: People who need full assistance during transfers or bathing.
Why it works: Reduces manual lifting, keeps movement safe and smooth, and typically has lockable castors for added stability.
2. Self-Propelled Shower Commode
Built with large rear wheels, this type allows users to manoeuvre themselves independently — just like a manual wheelchair.
Best for: People with upper body strength who value independence.
Why it works: Encourages self-directed mobility in the bathroom and helps maintain dignity and confidence during personal care routines.
3. Tilt-in-Space Shower Commode
These high-support chairs tilt backwards in one movement, helping redistribute pressure and making transfers easier.
Best for: Users with high-care needs, including those with limited trunk control or who spend extended time in the chair.
Why it works: Reduces risk of pressure injuries, makes hygiene tasks easier for carers, and improves user comfort during extended use.
For more clinical insight, check out GTK’s guide to tilt-in-space shower commodes here.
4. Static Shower Commode
These no-wheel designs are stable, sturdy, and perfect for homes with fixed bathroom layouts.
Best for: Occasional use, short transfers, or where mobility isn’t a concern.
Why it works: Less to maintain, budget-friendly, and solid as a rock in tight spaces.
Need help matching the right chair to your situation? We love Mobility Caring’s Buyer’s Guide for a practical comparison.
How Shower Commodes Keep Seniors Safe
Bathroom falls are one of the leading causes of injury in seniors. A shower commode can:
- Reduce risky transfers by combining seating, showering, and toileting
- Offer safe positioning and postural support
- Minimise fatigue for users who can’t stand for long
- Promote independence, confidence, and hygiene
RehabMart also highlights how smart accessories (like seat belts, calf straps, and headrests) can enhance safety and comfort even more.
How to Use a Shower Commode Safely
- Get everything ready first — towel, soap, clothes, etc.
- Position the chair in the right spot, and lock the wheels.
- Use the armrests and brakes during transfers.
- Shower and toilet as usual, with support as needed.
- Dry and disinfect the chair after use.
- Store in a dry place to prevent rust or mould.
Need a visual how-to? This JB Medical blog has practical guidance for carers and users alike.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Your commode lives in a wet environment — and like any equipment, it needs a little love to stay in good shape.
✔️ Wipe down the seat and frame after every use
✔️ Clean underneath the seat and around the wheels weekly
✔️ Check for rust, mould, or any loose bolts regularly
✔️ Make sure brakes are working and armrests move freely
✔️ Inspect the seat for cracks or wear in the padding
Things to Think About Before You Buy
Before adding a commode to your bathroom setup, ask yourself:
- Will this be used daily or occasionally?
- Who’s using it — and do they need help?
- Is independence important, or will it always be carer-assisted?
- Is the user at risk of pressure injuries or fatigue?
- What’s the bathroom layout — will the commode fit comfortably?
- Does the user qualify for funding support like NDIS or HCP?
Can You Get Help Paying for a Shower Commode?
Yes! Many of our customers access commodes through funding programs including:
- NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
- Home Care Packages (My Aged Care)
- DVA RAP (for eligible veterans)
- State-based aids programs like SWEP (VIC) or MASS (QLD)
- CAPS (Continence Aids Payment Scheme)
Not sure if you’re eligible? Our Funding Programs page walks you through the options.
Ready to Upgrade Bathroom Safety?
Shower commodes can be the difference between dangerous and dignified — and at Mobility Hub, we’re here to make choosing the right one easy.
Explore our range of attendant-propelled, self-propelled, and tilt-in-space shower commodes online, or get in touch if you’d like help comparing models or prepping for a quote.
Call us: 1300 60 44 99
Let’s make bathroom time better — for you, or the person you care for.
