5 Best Bedside Commodes and Toilet Chairs - [Updated for 2022]

As one of the most commonly utilized durable medical equipment, bedside commodes are often used within the home to provide a portable, free-standing toilet for people who have difficulty getting to the bathroom on their own or with enough time. Also known as portable commodes, toilet chairs, or portable toilets, bedside commodes are generally constructed with a frame, toilet seat, and removable bucket, and can have a wide variety of other beneficial design features to accommodate specific user needs. 

To help you better understand how to choose a bedside commode, we put our collective medical expertise to the test and researched the best on the market. We picked out the five best from our catalog, based on the features we know and love as care-providers, plus the reviews of people just like you who have used them and loved them.

Top 5 Best Bedside Commodes & Toilet Chairs

The Top 5:

Padded Drop-Arm Commode by Medline5) Padded Drop-Arm Commode by Medline

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Bariatric Lumex 3-in-1 Drop Arm Commode Chair by Graham Field4) Bariatric Lumex 3-in-1 Drop Arm Commode Chair by Graham Field

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Elongated Bedside Commode by Rhythm Healthcare3) Elongated Bedside Commode by Rhythm Healthcare

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Etac Swift Bedside Commode Chair2) Etac Swift Bedside Commode Chair

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GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health1) GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health

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#5 Padded Drop-Arm Bedside Commode 

Best on a Budget

Our #5 for the top bedside commode is the Padded Drop-Arm Commode by Medline, thanks to its sturdy design, comfortable padding, and reasonable price point.

The heavy-duty, rust-resistant frame ensures a long life, while the padded seat provides comfortable support through every use. Although it is a mid-priced option, many customers describe the bedside commode as luxurious, adding that the foam padding is very comfortable. 

Although it accommodates up to 300 pounds, the Padded-Drop Arm Commode is lightweight and easy to move from the bedside to the bathroom. The seat height is adjustable from 19" to 23", and customers say that it is versatile and sturdy.

The drop-arm design of this commode makes lateral transfers safe and easy, and the arms drop down with just the touch of a button, making it effortless to ready for transfers. The clip-on seat can be removed for easy cleaning.

Key Features

  • Weight capacity of 300 pounds
  • Large pail capacity of 2.5 gallons
  • Height easily adjusts from 19 to 23 inches
  • Dual drop-arm design for lateral transfers
  • Includes a 2.5-gallon pail with lid and splash guard

Pros

  • Foam padding is more comfortable than other models
  • Clip-on seat can be removed for easy cleaning
  • Can be easily adjusted for comfort and support
  • Crutch tips on the legs ensure the unit will never slip or move while being used

Cons

  • Maybe more functional for female users as some men have trouble with the pail’s positioning

#4 Lumex Imperial Collection 3-in-1 Steel Drop Arm Commode

Best Bariatric 

lumex-bariatric-bedside-commode

Taking the #4 position on our list is the Lumex Imperial Collection 3-in-1 Steel Drop Arm Commode by Lumex. Durable, heavy-duty welded steel construction accommodates a bariatric 600-pound capacity and combines with an extra-wide seat to optimize user comfort and safety. 

Versatile for convenient use as a bedside commode, toilet safety frame, or raised toilet seat, its height-adjustable 3-in-1 design provides customizable functionality to meet a wide variety of unique user needs. The padded arms enhance comfort and are lockable in place to maximize stability, while they drop down below the seat level for easier, more accessible lateral transfers.

The removable back bar facilitates the 3-in-1 transitions of this commode with a release mechanism that’s easy to operate for those living with dexterity challenges. The Lumex Imperial Collection commode is a solid and sturdy option for bariatric users and for those requiring toileting multifunctionality.

Key Features

  • Versatile 3-in-1 design for use as a commode, raised toilet seat, or toilet safety frame.
  • Padded arms lock in place and can drop down out of the way for lateral transfers.
  • Heavy-duty welded steel construction and extra-wide base safely accommodate 600 pounds.
  • Height-adjustable, with an extra-wide seat to optimize user comfort.
  • The release mechanism is easy to operate for those living with dexterity disabilities.

Pros

  • So much sturdier and more stable than other commodes previously used for larger people, won’t tip over, bend, nor shake. 
  • The larger size and wider seat make this commode more comfortable for longer sitting needs.
  • Many users especially appreciate the 3-in-1 design and how easy it was to adjust the commode to use over the toilet. 
  • Simple assembly, with easy height adjustments.

Cons

  • The weight of this commode was a little heavy for some users to move around.
  • One reviewer suggests removing the bucket with two hands to avoid a spill.

#3 Elongated Commode Chair by Rhythm Healthcare

Best Elongated Bowl

We all want to use reliable products. Luckily, the Elongated Commode Chair by Rhythm Healthcare makes that possible thanks to its undeniable high-quality and comfortable design. This commode chair is light enough to be easily moved across rooms at home, and it's quickly assembled in just minutes, perfect for travel. 

Safety always comes first when using the Elongated Bedside Commode by Rhythm Healthcare, it features anti-slip covers on its four feet to ensure your chair is steady even around wet environments. This commode features a convenient elongated seat and bowl to provide more space and comfort to the user even after long periods. That's one of many reasons why this chair is preferred in most hospitals and nursing facilities.

Knowing this device requires constant cleaning, the prestigious Rhythm Healthcare created the Folding Powder Coated Commode Chair with an effortless foldable seat that grants easy access to the bowl for removal and cleaning. This toilet chair comes with adjustable legs and a backrest that allows users of all sizes to change their height according to their needs. 

Key Features

  • Features an elongated seat and bowl to grant you more space and comfort
  • Conveniently ultralight and easy to assemble to move it across rooms or for travel
  • Slip-resistant feet prevent dangerous sliding even in wet conditions 
  • Hospital and nursing quality level makes it suitable for all places requiring an easy-to-clean and portable chair

Pros

  • Integrated toilet paper rack
  • The seat is foldable for easy access and cleaning of the bowl
  • The legs and backrest's height are adjustable to suit all users' size
  • The elongated seat and bowl provide more space and support when sitting

Cons

  • It's not appropriate for users over 300 lbs

#2 Etac Swift Bedside Commode Chair 

Best Discreet

The all-in-one design of the Etac Swift Bedside Commode Chair by Etac earns our #2 spot with its unique and convenient versatility. Use this device as a bedside commode, over-toilet frame, shower chair, or cushioned chair. Its commode pan can be hidden away with its integrated, self-locking lid which attaches to the seat, covering the hygiene opening when it’s not needed.

Its strong, corrosion-resistant construction delivers dependable durability, with sealing, anti-slip ferruled feet and textured exteriors for optimal traction. Height-adjustable legs can be changed independently to ensure the proper fit and to accommodate different heights of flooring, or to use as a shower chair, with two chair legs in the tub.

The Swift bedside commode’s integrated carrying handle and light, 12-pound weight make it easy to transport to other rooms, and it can be assembled and height-adjusted without tools. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.

Key Features

  • The all-in-one design delivers the utmost in versatility and convenience.
  • Strong and durable construction accommodates user weights up to 286 pounds.
  • Legs adjust in height independently to suit uneven flooring or use as a shower chair.
  • Lightweight design with an integrated handle enables easy maneuvering between rooms.
  • Corrosion-resistant and easy to clean and maintain.

Pros

  • Exceptionally sturdy and strong, very well-made product.
  • Remarkably comfortable, ergonomically designed.
  • The ability to hide the commode opening and appear as a regular chair is very appreciated by a number of users.
  • Multiple uses, and individually adjusting legs facilitate safer use as a shower chair.

Cons

  • Arms get in the way of transfers for some users
  • Measure first: some users found this device too wide to fit their bathtub for use as a shower chair.

#1 Platinum Health Gentleboost Uplift 3-in-1 Assist Commode and Shower Chair

Best Overall

 platinum-health-gentleboost

Easily earning the #1 spot in our review with its plethora of beneficial features, the Platinum Health Gentleboost Uplift 3-in-1 Assist Commode and Shower Chair by Platinum Health also comes with an affordable price point. As one of the industry’s safest bathroom mobility aids, this innovative commode integrates a spring-assist system within the seat to raise the user to a standing position, optimizing user safety, independence, and privacy.

Its water-repellent, solid plush polyurethane foam padding provides warm, comfortable support to alleviate pressure, while its lightweight, medical-grade, rust-proof aluminum frame facilitates solid, strong durability for users weighing up to 285 pounds. Height is easy to adjust with the legs to ensure a perfect fit for every user. The wider distance between the padded arms along with the Gentleboost’s several stable leverage points ensure safer, accessible transfers.

Specially configured with the versatile 3-in-1 capability to be used as a bedside commode, over-toilet safety frame, or shower chair, the Gentleboost utilizes a highly visible blue color that’s especially helpful to enhance safety and reduce falls for people living with visual and/or cognitive impairments.

Key Features

  • Simplifies toileting and bathing for people living with cognitive, mobility, and visual impairments.
  • Spring-assist seat provides standing support to optimize safety and independence.
  • Versatile, height-adjustable 3-in-1 design enables use as a commode, toilet safety frame, or shower chair.
  • Plush PU padding alleviates pressure, maximizing user comfort, blue color is highly visible.
  • Rust-proof, water-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain.

Pros

  • Gives users their privacy and independence back, helps people retain dignity as they don’t need to ask for help with toileting.
  • Very good support for users retaining some level of standing ability.
  • Exceptionally well-made, solid, and sturdy construction enhances peace of mind and dependability.
  • Remarkable satisfaction with the Gentleboost compared to other commode customer reviews, with frequent positive remarks such as “game-changer”, “worth every penny”, and “five stars”.

Cons

  • It may not adjust low enough for some users who are shorter than average.
  • Be sure to lock the spring-assist mechanism in place or it can raise you up when you want to remain seated.

Types of Bedside Commodes

Although they’re often used in the bedroom as a close-by toilet for users confined to bed, they can be used anywhere they’re needed as nearby toileting support for people living with mobility challenges. Portable bedside commodes are offered in some basic style types which include padded, drop-arm, bariatric, folding, and all-in-one.

  • Padded Bedside Commode - Padded commodes provide optimal comfort, especially for users prone to pressure sores or skin shearing. Usually just as easy to clean as their non-padded counterparts, padded commodes generally provide a padded seat and may have a padded seat and armrests as well.  
  • Drop-Arm Bedside Commode - Commodes with a drop-arm option are well-suited for users who are transferring to and from the commode with a lift or wheelchair. The arms of the commode drop down and out of the way for more accessible transfer, and can be put back into place for comfortable support once the user is seated.  
  • Bariatric Bedside Commode - Specifically designed to safely and comfortably accommodate larger users, bariatric commode models highlight reinforced frames, bench-style seats, and a larger width between the arm supports, with much higher weight capacities.  
  • Folding Bedside Commode - Folding commodes come in basic, intermediate, or deluxe styles, and conveniently collapse for simpler storage and transport.  
  • All-in-One Bedside Commode - Also known as 3-in-1 commodes, this type of device can be used as a bedside commode, raised toilet seat, and toilet safety frame, with some models also offering the capability to be used as a shower chair. Saving the storage space, cost, and inconvenience of having to use individual products, the all-in-one commodes are a great option for seniors aging in place at home, and for those living with long-term disabilities. 

Important Features to Consider Before Purchasing

Because every user presents their own unique set of needs and specifications for a bedside commode, there are certain features to be aware of that can help fulfill those requirements, such as its weight, its capability to work in conjunction with a toilet, its stability, how it stays in place, the shape of the seat, its pail configuration, and its comfortability. 

  • Product Weight - Bedside commodes designed without casters can sometimes be meant to stay in one place, and will be heavier in weight to suit this more permanent requirement. But if you intend to move your bedside commode from room to room, or want to use it as a toilet safety frame, raised toilet, or shower chair, be sure to choose a model that’s lightweight enough for you or a caregiver to lift and move without risk of injury.  
  • Toilet Accessibility - All-in-one bedside commodes offer versatile use as a raised toilet or over-the-toilet safety frame. It’s important to measure your toilet and the area around it to match up dimensions with bedside commodes that will fit perfectly for your space.  
  • Durability - The best bedside commodes are usually constructed with steel, aluminum, or some kind of tough polymer plastic. Because the safety of the user is so crucial with this equipment, it’s important to choose a model that has a strong and sturdy construction. 
  • Stationary Security - To keep the bedside commode in place, most designs include rubberized feet or some other type of foot design that stops the chair from moving when the user is seated, or when they’re getting up or down from the commode. This is an especially crucial feature when used in slippery environments, like the bathroom.  
  • Seat Design - Available in a standard oval shape or an elongated shape, bedside commode seats can range from 16-36-inch diameters. Some users prefer the elongated shape as it keeps more of their skin in contact with the seat. Padded designs add comfort, and are especially well-suited for more sensitive users prone to pressure sores and skin shear. Open-front toilet seat designs facilitate easier access for wiping intimate areas, but may not be suitable or safe for users with limited lower limb control.  
  • Commode Pail - Although all bedside commodes include a pail or bucket for waste collection, you may have preferences for how the pail slides out, its capacity, and if it has handles for more efficient carrying. Some commode pails will include a splash guard for more hygienic waste control, along with waste bucket liners and lids to manage odors before the waste is disposed of in a toilet.  
  • Comfortability - Because most bedside commodes are designed with height adjustability, this feature can make users more comfortable by adjusting the chair to their height. Other models are designed to be ergonomic, specifically providing support to adjust to the user, while some models add padding to optimize comfort. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

What is a 3-in-1 bedside commode?

A 3-in-1 bedside commode functions as a toilet riser, an over-the-toilet safety frame, and as a bedside commode that can be used in any room. 

Does Medicare cover bedside commodes?

Medicare Part B generally covers bedside commodes when medically necessary, as Medicare classifies commodes as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). If ordered by your doctor, Medicare Part B will generally pay 80-percent of the allowable charges for the commode chair. Your doctor must accept Medicare assignment, and the commode chair supplier must participate in the Medicare program, or Medicare will not pay anything for your bedside commode. 

How do you use a bedside commode?

To use a bedside commode, the first step is to ensure the commode has been assembled correctly and is level and stable before sitting. Put some water in the commode’s pail before using, as this will help with emptying and cleaning later. The commode seat should be in the down position, with the bucket firmly in place below and the lid above open. 

Back up to the commode until you feel the back of your legs touching the frame, reaching back for the armrests, placing both hands firmly on them before sitting on the seat. Lower yourself slowly by bending your elbows, and if able, your knees and hips. When you’re ready to stand up again, push against the armrests, slowly raising yourself from the seat of the commode, bending at the knees if you’re able. 

How to clean a bedside commode?

To clean a bedside commode, dispose of waste in a flushable toilet, and clean the commode bucket and frame with regular, non-abrasive cleaning products like mild soap and water, as bleach may cause cracking or discoloration of the bucket. As mentioned previously, putting some water in the bottom of the bucket before use will make emptying and cleaning easier.

Can bedside commodes be used over a toilet?

All-in-one bedside commodes can be placed and used over your existing toilet when the bucket has been removed. Also known as 3-in-1 bedside commodes, they can be employed as over-the-toilet safety frames or as toilet risers to improve toileting safety and stability.

How to keep a bedside commode from tipping?

The best way to stop a bedside commode from tipping is to ensure the user is as close to the seat as possible, with the back of their knees touching the frame, with both hands on the armrests, applying equal pressure on both sides to prevent tipping in any direction.

Can a 3-in-1 commode be used as a shower chair?

A 3-in-1 bedside commode can be used as a shower chair when it is specifically constructed for that purpose, as some designs are corrosion- and rust-resistant. However, if the bedside commode is constructed with steel, it may be susceptible to destructing corrosion when exposed to the levels of moisture generated by a shower on a repetitive basis. 

Final Thoughts

Our rankings considered the cost, features, and benefits of the best-reviewed, most popular, and most highly rated commode chairs.  

All five of these bedside toilet chairs are very highly recommended – but we have chosen the GentleBoost Uplift 3-in-1 Commode Shower Chair by Platinum Health as the number-one bedside toilet.

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Author:

Co-Founder of Rehabmart and an Occupational Therapist since 1993. Mike has spent his professional career working in multiple areas of Occupational Therapy, including pediatrics, geriatrics, hand therapy, ergonomics and inpatient / outpatient rehabilitation. Mike enjoys writing articles that help people solve complex therapeutic problems and make better product choices.

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