Best Over the Toilet Commode Chairs

Within the realm of personal stand-up aid equipment, there exists a vast array of tools designed to assist seniors and individuals with disabilities. We previously provided an overview of the most prevalent types of toilet standing aids, and among these, we highlighted over-the-toilet commode chairs.

In this article, we’ll focus on over-the-toilet commode chairs, and discuss the type of support they provide and who they’re designed for. We’ll guide you through the selection process and, finally, offer an overview of the three best options currently available in the market.

Who needs and when to choose an Over the Toilet Commode Chair ?:

Over-the-toilet commode chairs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather, they are most useful under specific circumstances.

The over-the-toilet commode chair is a versatile, movable device that can serve a multitude of needs, particularly beneficial for individuals such as the elderly and those with mobility impairment.

The commode chair is especially useful for people recovering from significant medical procedures like knee or hip replacements, leg or back surgeries, or any other type of operation that may temporarily or permanently impact mobility.

However, if the primary need is for minor assistance with balance while sitting down or standing up, safety rails or grab bars may be a more appropriate, less intrusive solution. ( grab bars can be better for those who have smaller bathrooms where space is a constraint ).

If you wonder about choosing wheter raised toilet seats or over-the-toilet commode chairs. Know that the latter are equipped with a commode bucket and can be conveniently relocated to any room, so the risk of tripping is reduced. This is particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic weakness or who are at a heightened risk of falls because it can significantly reduce the distance they need to travel.

How to Select an over the toilet commode chair:

Selecting an over the toilet commode chair involves carefully considering various factors that influence its functionality and comfort. Here are some aspects to consider when making your selection:

1. Comfort The seat should be wide enough to accommodate the user without constriction, while also being padded to provide cushioning. The backrest should offer enough support to allow the user to rest comfortably. Armrests should be padded and at a height that suits the user’s natural arm position to aid in both sitting and standing.

2. Adjustability It should be adjustable to different users or different toilet heights. Some chairs even offer adjustable armrests and footrests, allowing for a more personalized setup that fits the user’s specific body proportions and mobility needs.

3. Commode Cover: The existance of a commode cover is a significant factor to consider. It helps maintain a semblance of normalcy and discretion when the chair is not in use. This also ensures hygiene and privacy during the transportation process for emptying the commode.

4. Sturdiness and Durability: The chair must be sturdy enough to support the user’s weight and endure regular use.

Typically, materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or hardened plastic are recommended due to their strength and durability. Aluminum is lightweight yet robust, stainless steel offers unmatched durability, and hardened plastic can provide a good balance between weight and stability. These materials also resist corrosion, which is excellent in a moisture-prone environment like a bathroom.

Although chairs made from these high-quality materials may be more expensive, they’re a worthwhile investment for long-term or permanent use. For short-term needs, you have to find a balance between the price and the quality of materials.

5. Size: Primarily, the seat width and depth should be adequate to comfortably accommodate the user, it should provide enough room for movement without causing discomfort.

The chair should not be too narrow that it’s uncomfortable to sit on, or too wide that it fails to provide necessary support.

Then, the overall dimensions of the chair should be such that it fits well within the available space in the bathroom or wherever it is intended to be used. If the chair is too large, it may restrict mobility in the room or become a tripping hazard.

Best Over The Toilet Commode Chairs:

1. Bariatric Commode By Vive

This over the toilet commode by Vive offers a versatile solution for those in need of a portable commode. The chair can be used at the bedside, as a toilet safety rail, or as an elevated toilet seat. Constructed with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel frame, this commode can support up to 500 pounds. Its six-quart commode pail fits standard liners and comes with a lid and splash guard.

Pros:

• Supports up to 500 pounds.
• Stainless steel construction.
• Affordable

Cons:

• SecureMounts for installation are not included and need to be purchased separately.
• May not fit in all bathroom styles or setups.

2. Folding Bedside Commode By Medline

This 3-in-1 commode design by Medline can be used at the bedside, as a raised toilet seat over a regular toilet, or as safety rails around a regular toilet. Constructed with high-strength, durable grey powder-coated, steel-welded construction, this commode can support up to 350 pounds. It comes with a 7.5 qt commode bucket with a carry handle, cover, and splash shield. The chair also features a simple, custom height adjustment with a push-button design.

Pros:

• Supports up to 350 pounds.
• Easy to assemble and clean.
• Height adjustable with push-button design.

Cons:

• Wider and heavier than expected ( for some customers) .
• Lid of the seat is thin and not very sturdy.
• Bucket fitting can be unstable.
• Does not fit in a regular bathtub.

3. Over the Toilet commode chair by Drive Medical

We selected this one because it’s a best seller at Amzon. This 3-in-1 versatile commode chair can be positioned over a standard toilet, used as a portable self-contained commode, or even as a shower chair. The foldable frame allows for convenient storage and transportation, while the powder-coated steel construction ensures durability, capable of supporting up to 350 lbs. The chair comes complete with a 7.5 quart commode bucket, carry handle, cover, and splash shield, making it easy to clean and maintain.

It stands out due to its affordability, which is making it a best seller on Amazon.

Pros:

• Supports up to 350 pounds.
• Powder-coated steel construction.
• 3-in-1 versatility (can be used as a standard toilet, portable commode, or shower chair).
• Compact and foldable for easy storage and transportation.
• Easy to clean with a 7.5-quart bucket.
• Best seller on Amazon, known for its affordability.

Cons:

• The seat might be too small for some users.
• Although adjustable, might not fit all toilet sizes and types.

Wrapping It All Up:

We hope this guide about over the toilet commode chairs has been helpful in your search for the perfect one. Do not forget that beyond over-the-toilet commode chairs, there are many other assistive devices designed to help seniors at home. For example, grab bars provide additional support when sitting down or standing up, while seat lifters can make the use of the toilet easier.

If you or your loved one is having difficulty moving around the bathroom safely, safety rails could also be a practical solution. Many other toilet aids can be helpful as well.

And of course, should the individual need help beyond the bathroom, devices designed to help seniors stand up from chairs or beds can be an excellent investment.