Do you or a loved one suffer from mobility issues? Is reaching the toilet on time a dreadful task? Then a bariatric commode will be an absolute lifesaver.
Also called bedside commodes, these are free-standing toilets that can be used to attend nature’s call comfortably.
Bariatric commodes are high-quality devices that are useful for bedridden patients and those suffering from severe body aches.
So, you need to focus on factors such as portability, durability, comfort, and weight while choosing one. Don’t worry, as we’re here to guide you. Our handpicked selection of the best bariatric commodes and their reviews will help you pick the right one.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the details.
What is a Bariatric Commode?
A bariatric commode can be considered as a combination of a toilet and a walker for the elderly. It is a system that is installed beside a bed and looks like a normal toilet.
If you or a relative suffer from health complications and cannot attend nature’s call on time, this device can be used.
Unlike standard bedside commodes, a bariatric commode is designed to offer more comfort and weight support. It has a wide seating area, where extra padding is often included.
Where standard commodes support around 400 to 600 pounds, a bariatric commode can easily support up to 1,000 pounds. They are not too bulky but are ideal for larger individuals. Moreover, some models also come with additional back and arm support.
These toilets don’t come with a plumbing system. So, it can’t automatically clean itself, and you have to do it. That’s why these systems come with a removable toilet pan which you can clear to keep the system clean.
Who Can Benefit From Bariatric Commodes?
Bariatric Commodes are ideal devices for elderly patients or anyone suffering from mobility issues. If you have severe body pain or incontinence issues, it might prevent you from getting up from the bed to reach the toilet. These commodes will save your life in such situations.
People who have been suffering from bladder issues face a challenge every day to get to the bathroom on time. This problem may version when they are in unfamiliar circumstances. Providing them a bariatric commode will make their lives easier.
With such a system, patients can empty their bowels by sitting on the commode. They can also use the commode by standing. Being extremely easy to use, these devices are ideal for people who have recovered from an injury or surgery.
This device can also benefit anyone with weakened joints and balancing issues. So, reaching the toilet can increase the chances of tripping and falling. That’s why doctors and caregivers recommend bariatric commodes.
Bariatric commodes are also useful for individuals suffering from vision problems and any issues that have made them bedridden.
Top 5 Picks For Best Bariatric Commodes at a Glance
- Best Heavy Duty Bariatric Commode: Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode: With an extremely heavy-duty structure and simple assembly, this is a very user-friendly product. It can easily handle up to 650 lbs.
- Best Foldable Bariatric Commode: UltraCommode: If you are searching for the best product for travel and storage, you can’t go wrong with this. It comes with a heavy-duty structure and can support 300 lbs.
- Best Rolling Shower Bariatric Commode: HomCom Wheelchair Commode: A high-quality product ideal for homes and hospitals. Offering waterproof wheels and brakes, this comes with a detachable bowel pan for hassle-free cleaning.
- Best Budget Bariatric Commode: OasisSpace Bedside Bariatric Folding Commode: This is a budget product offering comfortable armrests, adjustable seat height, and excellent portability. The removable seats and commode basket offer efficient cleaning.
- Best Commode with Extra Width: HealthSmart Duro-Med Bariatric Chair: With an extra-wide design and robust structure, this chair can effortlessly handle up to 500 pounds. Coming with a bowel bucket having a removable lid, it’s ideal for any healthcare setting.
Top 5 Bariatric Commodes: Reviews
Anybody suffering from mobility, old age, or incontinence issues will be benefited from a bariatric commode. So, purchasing such an important device requires proper research.
To ease your search process, we have reviewed the best products in the market, which you glanced at in the previous section.
Weighing their pros and cons will help you make a well-informed decision.
Best Heavy Duty Bariatric Commode: Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode
If you are looking for a product that has a durable structure and excellent longevity, this is the one. The Drive Medical Bariatric Commode is designed to support little more weight than most bariatric commodes, offering you more reliability.
It’s packed with excellent features. You can use it as a toilet safety frame or as a standard bedside commode. In addition, you can place this commode on an existing toilet easily. This will be excellent for elderly patients suffering from incontinence and obesity.
To offer you maximum convenience, this excellent product comes with a tool-free assembly which can be completed in three simple steps.
So, you can customize it according to your purposes and install it almost anywhere. The easily removable back makes the configuration simpler.
This stand-alone model comes with a comfortable armrest and plastic seat. So, while sitting on it, you can grab the armrest and get up easily. It makes standing up easier for anyone suffering from balancing issues.
That’s not all! There is a push-button feature that allows you to configure the seat just the way you want.
You can easily adjust it according to your height and use it as a raised toilet seat. It enables you to sit close to the seat and prevent splashing.
So, this product takes care of your convenience, comfort, and hygiene with its top-notch functionalities.
Finally, if you want to take this bariatric commode with you, that’s easy too. As a product easily opens up and folds, transportation and storage are a breeze!
Pros
- Adjustable seat height with convenient button
- Comfortable plastic seat and armrests
- Easily supports 650 lbs of weight
- 3 step tool-free assembly for quick configuration
- Portable design convenient for storage and transportation
- Sturdy steel frame for maximum durability
Cons
- Some users feel the seat isn’t comfortable enough
Best Foldable Bariatric Commode: UltraCommode
This product is specifically designed for users who prefer convenience and customization along with comfort. That’s why medical professionals and caregivers recommend this to patients who want a multi-purpose device.
It is a completely reliable product and is backed by healthcare professionals, nurses, and physiotherapists worldwide. The commode offers you a comfortable seat, armrest, and backrest.
The product is designed using soft PU foam; it’s safe for your skin and feels more comfortable than standard commodes. So, there are no chances of skin rashes or infections while using it.
The seat height is adjustable, and you can modify it according to your preference. The extra-wide seat and armrests offer excellent comfort, where the unique non-slip design prevents possible accidents while sitting down or getting up.
If you want to take it somewhere, this commode can be folded within 60 seconds without any tools. The armrests can be easily folded and positioned back safely for secure transportation and mobility.
The legs can be conveniently folded too. In addition, with these features coupled with its convenient dimensions, you can use this as a shower chair.
What about the construction? You don’t have to worry, as the product is manufactured with a durable aluminum frame and medical-grade plastic. It offers you long-lasting performance and reliability. So, the chair will be free from rust and damages even during transportation.
On top of all this, this year comes with an open front that is not designed like traditional commodes. Therefore, maintaining and cleaning the surface is more convenient. You can push back the armrests for added convenience during the cleanup.
Also, there are not many metal bars or obstructions within the design. So, this will help you while getting up or assisting someone in getting up from the chair.
Pros
- 100% open access design for effective cleaning
- Comfortable seat, backrest, and armrest made of soft PU foam
- Foldable arms and back for convenient transportation
- Adjustable height allows free-standing usability
- It can be folded in 60 Seconds and used as a shower chair
- Includes a non-slip design for better grip
Cons
- There isn’t a lid on it
Best Rolling Shower Bariatric Commode: HomCom Wheelchair Commode
Our next entry is designed in the form of a wheelchair and is very popular among customers. This can be ideal for the disabled and elderly patients for attending nature’s call.
With a user-friendly design and a durable structure, this is going to be an excellent purchase.
This chair offers long-lasting performance due to its heavy-duty design. Manufactured using an aluminum frame and a medical-grade plastic seat, the backrest, armrest, and other important components are also durable.
The product is 100% waterproof so that you can use it easily under a shower. This feature makes the commode for hospitals and homes. Having waterproof wheels and brakes, people of all ages can use the chair comfortably.
When it comes to comfort, this chair doesn’t stay behind. The armrests are comfortable, along with the padded seat and backrest. In addition, the footrests are also pretty neat and have a swing-away design. The design allows anyone to move their feet effortlessly and also get up easily.
Cleaning can be a hassle with bedside commodes. But not with this one, as it offers you a detachable bucket. This large rectangular bucket is positioned under the seat, which you can easily remove with a small handle beside it. You don’t even have to raise the seat!
Besides all these features, it stands out due to its shower compatibility. It consists of waterproof brakes and castors that allow you to move it into a shower easily. Moreover, the compact size allows you to fit this inside any bathroom.
As the chair is covered with a soft PU foam, you can enjoy a non-slip performance. This is an excellent feature for caregivers for bathing elderly or disabled individuals. Also, it is very convenient to store and move this commode.
Pros
- Comfortable backrest, armrest, and seat made of PU foam
- Detachable rectangular bucket for convenient cleaning
- Footrests with flip-away design for maximum comfort
- Waterproof brakes and wheel castors for using under a shower
- Special handbrake to adjust speed and stop the commode chair
Cons
- The seat may be too small for some users
Best Budget Bariatric Commode: OasisSpace Bedside Bariatric Folding Commode
This outstanding product from OasisSpace is targeted at individuals who are unable to reach the toilet on time and want an affordable solution. As most bariatric commodes come with a higher price tag, it gets difficult for some users. That’s why this product offers all the necessary features at a reasonable price.
It has an excellent ergonomic design and a comfortable seat offering a lot of convenience to caregivers and individuals.
The commode has a lightweight and compact design, which easily fits in in any washroom setting. Due to its excellent portability, it is great for hospitals and homes.
Apart from being comfy, the seats are 20% larger than non-bariatric commodes and chairs. In addition, it has a comfortable backrest with a specialized design that does not put extra pressure on your back. So, there are no back pains when using this chair.
This commode also offers you excellent durability at such an affordable rate. The sturdy steel frame and medical-grade plastic used for the seat and backrest make the chair last for years. But, its durability doesn’t come in the way of its portability.
The chair doesn’t stop there and offers you 3 in 1 usability. It means that you can use this chair as a bedside commode, a raised seat above your toilet, or as a frame for toilet safety.
On top of all this, it can comfortably accommodate a weight of 650 lbs.
Seats have a convenient clip-on feature that enables you to remove it and empty the content easily. Also, as the seat has a bit of depth, you get more room for cleanup. It can be placed back again easily.
For extra convenience, the product comes with a handy commode bucket.
Pros
- Adjustable seat height for better accommodation
- High-quality commode bucket with a cover to aid cleanup
- Comfortable seat and armrest made of durable medical-grade plastic
- It can be used as a toilet safety frame and raised seat
- 20% wider seat and comfortable backrest
Cons
- The bowel hole is too small
Best Commode with Extra Width: HealthSmart Duro-Med Bariatric Chair
The last selection of power list is from the popular brand HealthSmart and offers top-class features. Providing you with the utmost reliability, convenience, and usability, this product will be an excellent choice.
Whether your loved one is recovering from surgery or someone is suffering from incontinence, the bariatric commode will suit everyone. You can use it as a raised toilet seat and as a safety frame.
Or, place it beside a bed for taking a wee when someone can’t reach the toilet.
Reducing the distance between the washroom, elderly patients can be hugely benefited from this device. It has an extremely robust structure that can support 500 pounds comfortably. Thus, individuals who are slightly overweight can use it safely.
The arms of this commode are heavy-duty, providing you maximum support while getting up and sitting down. You can also fold the armrests down while moving the chair. So, placing it on a commode or a wheelchair is hassle-free.
The extra-wide design offers maximum convenience and comfort. But that doesn’t compromise its portability. It has such a unique design that it can be placed in a bedroom, living room, or whenever you feel convenient.
When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, this product doesn’t give you a hard time. It has a pail with a capacity of 7 quarts and a removable lid.
This offers the utmost convenience while cleaning the pail contents. Moreover, the pail is also secure, so moving the contents won’t be a mess.
Is that it? Not exactly! This outstanding bariatric commode consists of slip-resistant tips at its legs. So, positioning yourself on the commode or getting up won’t be an issue.
This will be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from poor body balance.
Pros
- Extra-wide construction to accommodate all users
- Its durable metallic structure supports 500 pounds
- Non-slip leg tips for better stability and support
- The seat can be adjusted from 19-23 inches
- Comes with a circular bucket having a 7 quarts capacity
Cons
- The seat could have been more comfortable
Things To Consider Before Buying A Bariatric Commode: A Buyer’s Guide
After checking out all our reviews, some of you might have already decided on the bariatric commode you need. But to make sure that your investment is worthwhile, you need to take a look at some factors.
Below are some important points which can be used as a checklist for selecting the best bariatric commode.
Durability
If you want a bariatric commode that will stay with you for years, you have to take a look at its durability. Not only the overall structure but also check the specific components of the commode.
Anybody using this commode will be applying a significant amount of pressure while sitting or lifting their body. So, a sturdy steel frame will be a perfect choice. Even if plastic seems robust, steel will always be a better option, is it supports more weight.
For the seat, armrests, and backrest, medical-grade plastic will be ideal. Most of the products listed here consist of medical-grade, which is extremely durable. In addition, the bowel pail also needs to be made of plastic.
A combination of metal and plastic mix the commode easy to use and move.
Adjustable Height
As people having different heights can use the commode, the seat height needs to be adjustable. Most individuals opt for a bedside bariatric commode to reduce the discomfort in using a toilet.
This includes reaching the bathroom and sitting on the pan. Therefore, the bariatric commode you choose has to be adjustable, which will provide extra convenience and comfort.
So, try selecting a commode that has a seat height adjustable between 19 to 23 inches.
It will be able to support most users, offering a hassle-free experience. However, the prices may vary according to this feature, so you need to keep your budget in mind.
Removable Bowel Bucket
The bucket is one of the most important components of the bariatric commode. As this is where all the bowel content is stored, it is necessary to clean the bucket frequently. However, training it can get difficult when the bucket is attached to the commode.
That’s why it is recommended that you select a product having a detachable bucket. These buckets may have small handles by the side that will enable you to remove the container easily. After cleaning it, you can put it back with ease.
Also, check if the product offers you a bucket lid. It will prevent the bowel odors from spreading and create an unhygienic environment.
Take a look at the bucket capacity while you’re at it.
Weight Capacity
To offer maximum comfort and convenience to the users, the commode needs to have sufficient weight capacity. Unlike standard commodes, bariatric commodes can support up to 1,000 pounds.
Even if you don’t need that much, a weight capacity of around 700 to 900 will suffice. It will ensure that all types of users having various weights can use the device. So, elderly patients who might be suffering from obesity will be comfortable while sitting on the commode.
A good way to go about this is by checking your or the individual’s weight who will be using the product. That way, you can narrow down the items available and choose one that suits you.
Plus, a commode accommodating a lot of weight will undoubtedly be tough and durable. So, it will be a win-win situation!
Portability
Most bedside commodes are main to be moved around according to the user’s requirements. And this will only be possible when the commode is not too bulky. It also has to be compact enough to fit various spaces.
So, the first thing you need to check is whether the weight of the commode is between 20 to 40 pounds. It will allow you to move the product from the bedside to the washroom conveniently when required.
Next, you need to see if the arms, seat, and backrest can be folded. Some seats have removable covering, which can be placed on to convert the commode into a transport chair.
You’ll also find products with a drop-arm design, where the arms can be easily adjusted. This will enable users to fold their arms down and use the chair in a shower.
Additional Features
Think you know it all? Wait, there’s more. You need to take a closer look at some features that provide greater stability to the bariatric commode. These functionalities will improve the convenience and longevity of the product.
Check whether the commode has a non-slip design with rubber tips at the legs. Bariatric commodes made of PU foam are great when it comes to stability and comfort.
Both these features provide you a better grip when you’re seated or moving up after using the commode. Also, see if the commode has a wide structure, which will add to the user’s convenience.
FAQs
Answer: Yes, they are excellent products and will help any user-facing mobility issues. It will reduce the distance between the user’s bedroom and washroom.
Anyone suffering from incontinence, a weak bladder, weakness, or recovering from surgery and is bedridden; can benefit from this product.
Either you can help the individual, or they can use a commode themselves. These products are sturdy, user-friendly, and provide the utmost comfort. Moreover, they are easy to clean and maintain.
As they are extremely portable, you can use them in a healthcare setting or at home.
Answer: The best way to maintain a bariatric commode is to clean it regularly after each use. You need to empty the contents of the bucket and wash it thoroughly.
You also need to ensure that every part of the commode is cleaned properly, along with the bucket. Along with soap, you can also use sanitization and disinfecting products to keep foul odors away.
Answer: Any bariatric commode must be able to handle around 500 to 1000 pounds. In general, all users’ weights fall in this bracket, so this range will suffice. However, you also need to ensure the commode’s durability in this regard.
The Bottom Line
Bariatric commodes can prove to be life-saving products for the elderly and bedridden individuals. These products are so convenient that they can be used without the help of a caregiver or a doctor.
That’s why we recommend the Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode to be the best option. With a decent weight capacity, quick assembly, and robust structure, bathroom breaks will be more convenient.
If you ever get stuck during shopping, just have a look at our guide to getting sorted!
Continue reading:
How to Find the Best Commodes: Buyer’s Complete Guide