Transfer Benches
Transfer benches are designed to help individuals get safely in and out of bathtubs and showers. There are many types of models on the market including models with swiveling or sliding seats.
Transfer benches that can also double as bath seats once you're in the tub. Some transfer benches sit in the tub while others are designed to mount onto the tub itself. Most sliding models span across the rim of the tub or shower - with half inside and half outside. Models like this allow you to sit on the chair outside of the tub and slide the seat into the tub. You still need to lift your legs into the tub, but you can do this while sitting on the actual transfer seat.
Transfer benches come in assorted sizes, shapes, colors, designs, materials and weight carrying capacities. Some transfer benches have padded seats and some have plastic seats. Additional side arm seat handles, contoured backrests and commode seat openings are some of the comforts found in modern transfer benches.
Most transfer benches are adjustable and so you can enter and exit the seat or tub from the left or right side. They also come with different seat heights, widths and depths and can be adjusted according to your body. Transfer benches with unpadded seats have multiple small holes in the seat to help the water drain properly.
Transfer benches typically have anti-slip rubber tips or suction cups on the bottom of the legs to help stop the bench from slipping and sliding in the water. Safety belts, soap dishes and hand held shower holders are also commonly found, so you may want to check out a few styles and designs to find out which model best suits your physical needs and requirements.
You need to feel comfortable with your transfer bench and know it is durable and safe enough for you. Make sure it is sturdy and can handle your body weight and size. Some transfer benches come assembled and some don't. Keep in mind that a cheaper transfer bench might have to be assembled by you.
