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What is a Transfer Bench used for?

Transfer benches are extended seats with armrests which are used to provide a safe and comfortable bathing experience for those who are elderly and frail, ill or bariatric. A bath transfer bench has an extended length which is used to straddle the side of the bathtub with two legs of the chair outside and two sitting inside the tub. The user is moved from a wheelchair and made to sit on the bench portion that is outside the bathtub. At HPFY there are multiple options in bathtub transfer benches including aluminum transfer bench, commode transfer bench, shower transfer bench, bariatric bathtub transfer bench, padded transfer bench and more.

Who should use Bath Transfer Bench?

Transfer chair is a bath safety product that provides necessary stability while bathing. It can be helpful for those:

• With poor balance 
• With weakness in the legs 
• Who have a high risk of falls 
• Who gets tired easily

How does a Tub Transfer Bench work?

With Transfer benches the user gently slides over into the tub pulling one leg over and then the other. This ensures the movement is gentle, there is no jerking and the patient does not need to step over and risk a fall. Transfer tub benches can be used as a bath seat or bath chair which means the user need not get up from the bench, thus reducing chances of any slip and fall during bathroom transfers. There are two types of transfer benches within this range – one is the stationary transfer bench and another is the sliding transfer bench with a seat that glides over polished, high-strength aluminum tubes.

Types of Transfer Chairs

• Aluminum Transfer Bench: Aluminum transfer benches are light, strong and sturdy. The aluminum framework is rust-proof hence aluminum bathtub transfer benches can be safely used in the bath. The frame provides additional stability and durability. There are aluminum bathroom transfer benches with replaceable cut-out seats to make available personal washing option. 

• Commode Transfer Bench: Commode bathtub transfer benches have a user-friendly combination of bath and commode design to reduce the stress of lifting and transfers. These bathroom transfer benches have multi-functional purpose and can fit over a standard commode for toileting and then moved into the bathtub for bathing.  

• Shower Transfer Bench: Shower transfer benches are ideal for bathing and independent living needs. There are shower transfer benches which have a removable back and arm, hand shower holders and for both left and right hand showers. Bathroom transfer benches with suction feet make them safe and stable for heavy-duty or elderly users. 

• Bariatric Transfer Bench: Bariatric transfer benches are built extra strong to support higher weight capacity going up to 600 lbs. Extra wide seats and large locking suction cups provide additional security on wet surfaces. A strong, lightweight and corrosion-resistant frame makes bathtub transfer benches safe and durable.  

• Padded Transfer Bench: Padded transfer benches have cushioned seats to provide additional comfort during transfers in the bathtub. This is especially important for patients with pressure sores. These individuals need extra care during transfers and a transfer bench with padded seat will ensure gentle sliding so as to minimize discomfort and pain. 

• Sliding Transfer Bench: Sliding transfer benches feature a seat that glides the patient over polished, high-strength tubes from outside the bathtub and into it. There is no need for lifting and no stress on the caregiver or the patient himself. Sliding transfer benches are usually larger in size, have a fixed frame and provide secure and easy transfers.  

• PVC Transfer Bench: PVC or plastic transfer benches are made from durable, healthcare grade blow-molded plastic. The advantage of PVC is that it uses stabilizers that inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. The molded plastic seat allows hygienic, sanitized and hassle-free cleaning. 

• Folding Transfer Bench: There are transfer tub benches that can be folded and stored away or carried on a travel. These folding transfer benches can be folded flat for transport or storage in simple, easy steps. The backrest, handle and soap dish can also be removed.

Benefits of a Shower Transfer Bench

A tub transfer bench helps enhance the bathroom’s safety and simplify the showering experience for seniors and those with mobility challenges. Here are some other benefits of a tub transfer bench:

• Prevents injuries in the bathroom
• Eases the process of getting in and out of bathtubs
• Helps seniors maintain balance
• Provides support for people with mobility issues
• Makes showering a more comfortable experience

Things to consider while buying a Tub Transfer Bench

Weight capacity: Always check the weight capacity of the transfer bench to ensure that it can safely support the user's weight. Most standard transfer chairs have weight capacities between 250 and 300 pounds, while bariatric transfer benches can support up to 500 pounds.

1. Size

Take into consideration the transfer chair's seat measurements for safe and comfortable transfers and sitting experience. Measure your backside's width when sitting on a flat surface to determine the best seat width for you. The seat should be at least 6 inches wider than this measurement.

Also, make sure to measure your bathtub or shower and the space around the tub to ensure the product will fit and there will be enough room for the user to stand and sit in front of the transfer bench safely.

2. Height adjustability

Although fixed legs are cheaper, transfer benches with height-adjustable legs are convenient for many reasons. People come in all heights, and the range of heights available with an adjustable transfer chair allows it to accommodate the height of the user.

The height adjustability feature also allows the user to adjust the legs inside and outside the tub so that the bench is level and secure.

3. Back vs. No Back

Transfer chairs are available with or without backrests. A transfer chair with a backrest is a little more expensive than one without, but having a back on a tub transfer bench significantly improves the comfort and safety of the user and reduces the risk of falls while bathing.

4. Padded vs. unpadded

Padded transfer benches are comfortable and ideal for those who are thin and boney or those who like to take long showers. Unpadded transfer benches are less expensive and easier to scoot when transferring in and out of the tub. However, the unpadded benches can be uncomfortable to sit on for long periods.

5. Suction feet vs. Padded feet

Suction cups help completely secure the bench to the tub or floor and prevent it from slipping. If you choose padded tips, ensure they are non-slip to prevent the bench from moving.

Where to buy a Transfer Bench online?

Health Products For You carries a vast collection of shower transfer chairs from top-selling manufacturers like Performance Health, Columbia Medical, Nova-Ortho Medical, Drive Medical, etc., at the best prices. Place your order today!