A tub transfer bench is a showering bench that helps people get in and out of a bathtub. The benches are typically placed inside the bathtub and often consist of an armrest, backrest, wide seat, and four legs– two of which stay outside of the bathtub. These benches are similar to a shower chair, but the extended seat assists with transferring in and out of the tub.
While bathing is a necessity, it can often be one of the more dangerous tasks for someone with an injury or limited mobility. Tub transfer benches help facilitate climbing over the edge of the bathtub and prevent life-threatening injuries due to falls in the bathroom. They are a great option for folks who may not be able to install a shower tub, or are using it temporarily.
For safety, transfer tub benches can be used with a removable hand-held shower head. Consider one with an extra-long hose for the most convenience.
Choosing the right tub transfer bench for your needs is important. Pay special attention to sizing and make sure the bench will fit your bathroom before you purchase.
Following our review, we included a buying guide with tips on how to find the right tub transfer bench for your needs.
The Best Tub Transfer Benches
Giantex Tub Transfer Bench
The Giantex Tub Transfer Bench is made with a heavy-duty, durable aluminum frame and a polyethylene seat. We love that there are suction-cup tips on all four legs for added safety and stability. The legs are also adjustable, so you can easily customize the seat to your preferences.
We also love that this bench comes in white, has drainage holes on the seat and is quick and easy to assemble. There are 10 levels of seat height adjustments, and suction-cup tips provide a safe and customizable bench.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- 10 levels of seat height adjustments
- Heavy-duty and durable aluminum frame
- Backrest direction can be adjusted
Cons
- Suction cups may not be as large as some others in this review
Key Features
- Seat height adjustments from 18.5? to 22”
- Suction cup tips on all 4 legs
- Aluminum frame, polyethylene seat
- 30 drainage holes on the seat
- Easy to assemble with assembly instructions
- Non-toxic and odorless HDPE seat
Specifications
- Brand: Giantex
- Shipping Weight: 12.099 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300lbs
- Product Dimensions: 32″ (W) x24.5″ (D) x32.5″-37″ (H)
- Seat Dimensions: 26.5″ x 16″
Carex Tub Transfer Bench
The Carex Tub Transfer Bench is made of strong plastic and aluminum. The legs are flared to provide stability, and extend to adjust the seat height from 16? to 20?. The backrest is reversible, making it easy for left or right side entry. Both the seat and ergonomic backrest have a textured, non-slip surface.
We love that the feet are flared to help provide stability when bathing. The feet of the bench have a non-slip rubber grip to help prevent slipping.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Anti-slip flared feet
- Easy setup
Cons
- The seat may not be wide enough for some
- Holes and pushbuttons may be problematic for some
Key Features
- Aluminum legs
- Molded plastic seat
- Adjustable bench height
- Reversible backrest and handle
- Tool-free assembly
Specifications
- Brand: Carex
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Seat width: 31 inches
- Seat Height: 16″ to 20″
HydroGlyde Premium Heavy Duty Sliding Bathtub
The HydroGlyde Premium is a great option for individuals looking for a bit more than just a bathroom bench. This transfer tub bench is made with a stainless steel frame and glides across the width of the bench for ease of entry. The seat comes with a belt for added security.
We love that this product comes in a bright blue color, making it easy to see for those with visual impairments. The removable cutout makes cleaning super convenient, and the legs adjust at 1/2” increments, instead of 1? making for a solid base. The bench has a weight capacity of 420 pounds, making it the highest from the products we reviewed.
Pros
- Legs adjustable at .5” increments
- Cushioned end grip and hand grips
- Large weight capacity
- You can return it after you open it
- Comprehensive 2-year warranty
Cons
- Seat depth may be too shallow for some
- The cutout may fall out of place for some
Key Features
- Gliding seat
- Safety seat belt
- Cutout seat with insert
- Padded hand grip
- Latex-free
- 2-year warranty
- Adjustable legs
Specifications
- Brand: Platinum Health
- Weight capacity: 420 lbs
- Seat width: 31 inches
- Seat Height: 16″ to 20″
Swiveling and Sliding Bathtub Transfer Bench and Shower Chair
This swiveling and sliding bathtub transfer bench comes with all the bells and whistles! The seat is equipped to swivel 360 degrees and locks on each 90-degree angle. The seat slides the width of the chair, 15 inches, which is longer than many transfer benches. The specially designed sliding rings help to securely lock the seat at the end of each sliding rail.
We love that the easy to use swivel and slide chair can provide a sense of independence for some users.
Pros
- Swivel and slide seat makes it super easy to get in and out of the tub
- Can provide a sense of independence for some users
- High weight capacity
Cons
- Non-returnable once opened
- Swivel is not locked in place while gliding– may be problematic for some
Key Features
- Swivel and slide seat
- Adjustable seat belt
- Rubber anti-slip tips
- Latex-free
- Height-adjustable bench
- Longer sliding distance than most transfer benches on the market
Specifications
- Brand: Eagle Health Supplies
- Base Length: 39.5″-40.5″
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Seat Size: 17.75?” x 14.75″
- Seat Height: 18.75″ – 23″
- Max Tub Clearance: 18.5″
- Sliding Distance: 15″
Our Best Tub Transfer Benches Guide
A tub transfer bench is useful for seniors with limited mobility or those with an injury. Often times the bench will provide a sense of autonomy, making it easier to maneuver into the bathtub independently. Because the benches deal with personal hygiene, they are oftentimes not returnable. Make sure you do your research before making a purchase and keep the following in mind.
Size
Make sure to not only measure your bathtub or shower, but also the space around the tub, to ensure the product will fit. Consider the wall of the tub and if different heights are needed for the inner and outer legs.
Make sure the product will fit the customer. If needed, go to your loved one’s doctor or therapist and ask them to help you with exact measurements to ensure the bench will meet their needs.
Keep in mind that you may need to install grab bars in larger baths for additional safety.
Assembly
While most of the tub transfer benches in our review advertise tool-free assembly, you want to make sure you are confident in your skills to ensure safety for you or your loved one. Consider asking a neighbor or loved one for help if you are having trouble, or look into Amazon’s home services feature.
Safety
The bathroom is always a high-risk area for those with limited mobility, and the likelihood of injury in the bathroom can increase with age. Look for products with non-slip surfaces and grip bars for added safety. If you are not planning to move the tub transfer bench, consider a product with suction cup feet for added stability.
