As a parent with special needs children, you know how difficult it can be for your child to sit independently for bath time. The right pediatric bath chair can make bathing easier for the child and the caregiver. We provide a very in-depth guide on the best pediatric bath chairs.
In addition, we cover what to look for when purchasing a bath chair, features, and construction that make these types of aids so beneficial for your home. Special needs bath chairs are designed for a more relaxing and safer bathing experience. The chairs we recommend can easily be adjusted to allow maximum body support when in the tub.
Best Overall
Ultima Stainless Steel Pediatric Bath Chair
Our top choice for the best Pediatric bath chair is the Ultima Stainless Steel Pediatric batch chair. Because of its independently adjustable seat, back, legs, and mesh seat covers, this bath chair makes an excellent choice for your child or loved one.
Learn more about this batch chair and more below on our top pic and four other chairs that made a list.
Score: 
(4.8 / 5)
What is a Pediatric Shower chair?
A pediatric shower chair is designed so that a child can safely and comfortably sit within a bathtub or shower so the child can safely bathe. Parents or caregivers know how difficult bathing can be for children with cognitive challenges. Shower and bath chairs help ease the difficulties of bathing by allowing the child to sit with back and arm support.
These chairs have safety also a built-in mind. Most come with locking wheels, tilting features, cushions, and more that make bathing safe and comfortable for all parties.
Benefits of Using a Pediatric Shower chair
Safety and comfort. These are the main reasons a child who has issues walking or with balance would benefit from using a pediatric device like a shower chair. Falling is a big concern for both children and adults in the shower, and if someone has mobility issues, the chances go up considerably of falling.
It also helps the caregiver make their job easier if they have to help the child bathe. For example, a shower chair gives the caregiver an easier way of keeping the child safe and secure while using a bath or shower. Some of these chairs can be easily transferred into from a walker or wheelchair as well.
Top 5 Pediatric Bath Chairs
| Main Features | Our Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Top Pick |
Ultima Stainless Steel Bath Chair
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Otter Pediatric Bath Chair
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Flamingo Mobile Pediatric Bath & Toilet Chair
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Starfish Pro Size 1 Manual Shower and Commode
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Boris Shower Commode Chair
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Best Pediatric Bath & Shower Comparison Chart
| Specs | Ultima Stainless Steel Pediatric Bath Chair | Otter Pediatric Bath Chair | Flamingo Mobile Pediatric Bath & Toilet Chair | StarFish Pro Size 1 Manual Shower Chair & Commode | Boris Shower Commode Chair |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight capacity: | 130, 160, 180 lbs.(Depending on model) | 60 lbs., 120 lbs., 160 lbs. | 154 lbs. | 265 lbs. | Up to 330 lbs. depending on model |
| Overall Width: | 17″, 18″, 20″ (Depending on model) | Seat width: 14.5″ | Seat width: 10″, 11″, 12.5″, 13″ | Seat width whole seat: 14.8″ Seat width: (Divided seat) 13.6″ -16″ | 21.8″, 23.8″, 24.5″, 28.8″ (Depending on model) |
| Seat Depth: | 11″, 13″, 15″ (Depending on model) | 13″, 13″, 16.5″ | 30″ – 39″ | 11.7″ – 14.8″ | 12″, 14″, 16″ , 18″, 18.7″(Depending on model) |
| Back Height: | 22″, 27″, 31″(Depending on model) | 18″, 25″, 32″ | 14″, 15.5″, 17″, 18.5″ | 17.9″ | 19″, 20″, 21.8″ 23.7″, 25.3″ (Depending on model) |
Best Pediatric Bath and Shower Chairs
Editors Choice
1. Ultima Stainless Steel Pediatric Bath Chair
Our top choice for the best pediatric bath chair is the Ultima Stainless Steel Pediatric bath Chair. This bath chair has durability and comfort, making it an excellent choice for your child’s bath needs. In addition, we love the mesh seating comes in two colors and is bacteria and fungal-resistant.
This chair comes with two positioning belts and has an independently adjustable back seat and leg angles for comfort.
Product specs you should know:
| Specs | Small & Medium | Large | Extra Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width (Overall) | 17″ | 18″ | 20″ |
| Product weight | 20.5″ | 21.5″ | 23 lbs. |
| Weight capacity | 130 lbs. | 160 lbs. | 180 lbs. |
| Length (Flat) | 45″ | 53″ | 61″ |
| Height capacity | 40″ -54″ | 54″ – 68″ | 68″ -80″ |
| Chair Leg Length | 39.5″ | 41.5″ | 44.5″ |
| Seat depth | 11″ | 13″ | 15″ |
| Calf length | 10″ | 13″ | 15″ |
| Back height | 22″ | 27″ | 31″ |
| Floor to seat height | 4″- 15″ | 4″- 15″ | 4″- 15″ |
| Total mass | 16.5 lbs. | 18.7 lbs. | 19.8 lbs. |
Score: (4.8 / 5)
Pros
- Independently angles can be changed for both seat, back, and legs
- Folds flat for easy storage when not in use
- Two positioning belts
- Fungal and bacteria resistant ComfortMesh™
Cons
- Cant be used as a commode
Bottom-line: Those looking for a solid pediatric bath chair that can be adjusted independently from the seat to the leg angles will love this chair. Comfort mesh is lightweight and folds easily when not in use.
2. Three-in-One TriStander 45
The Otter Pediatric Bath Chair is an excellent bath chair for your child or loved one. Both seat and back angle adjustments can be made quickly and easily, making bathing safer and more accessible for both the user and caregiver.
The chair is also height-adjustable, and the fabric can be removed and machine-washed when need be. Available in 3 sizes, there will be a size for almost every child. Two positioning straps are also used to help secure your loved one for safety. This chair folds flat for easy storage when not in use.
Product specs you should know:
- Weight capacity: 60 lbs., 120 lbs. , 160 lbs.
- Seat width: 14.5″, 14.5″, 14.5″
- Seat depth: 13″, 13″, 14.5″
- Seat height: 2″ – 7″
- Back height: 18″, 25″, 32″
Score: 
(4.7 / 5)
Pros
- Adjustments for both back and seat angle
- Lightweight
- Good weight capacity
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Good warranty
- Slip resistant legs
Cons
- Not many complaints here
Bottom-line: Those looking for an easy-to-use, lightweight, and safe pediatric bath chair at a reasonable price will like the otter pediatric batch chair—good features and quality at a fair price.
3. Flaming Mobile Pediatric Bath and Toilet Chair
The Flamingo Mobile Pediatric Bath and Toilet chair make our list because it can be used as a bath chair and a toilet chair. This chair is designed for comfort and the proper washing position when in use.
The backrest is adjustable, and the angle of the backrest pivoting point of the seat ensures the correct angle through the hip joint. This provides the proper head and body support. This chair comes in 4 sizes and folds easily for simple storage.
Product specs you should know:
| Specs | Size 1 | Size 2 | Size 3 | Size 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 24 lbs. | 29 lbs. | 31 lbs. | 33 lbs. |
| Weight capacity | 77 lbs. | 110 lbs. | 132 lbs. | 154 lbs. |
| Back height | 14″ | 15.5″ | 17″ | 18.5″ |
| Seat width | 10″ | 11″ | 12.5″ | 13″ |
| Seat depth | 10.5″ | 12.5″ | 14″ | 16.5″ |
| Seat height | 19.5″ – 23.5″ | 19.5″ – 23.5″ | 19.5″ – 23.5″ | 19.5″ – 23.5″ |
| Lower leg | 7″ – 10″ | 9.75″ – 13.5″ | 11.75″ – 15.5″ | 11.25″ – 16.75″ |
Score: 
(4.6 / 5)
Pros
- Both bath and toilet chair in one
- Available in 4 sizes
- Equal head and body support
- Height adjustable frame
- Fits over a standard toilet
- Folds easy
Cons
- Expensive and customizing it with different options will make the price go higher.
Bottom-line: Those looking for a well-made combination of bath and toilet chairs will appreciate the Flamingo mobile pediatric bath chair’s design and ease of use. It does come with a higher price point than some others, but it’s well made and should last a long time.
4. StarFish Pro Size 1 Manual Shower and Commode Chair
The Starfish pro manual shower and commode chair is made of stainless steel that combines both a shower chair and ta commode. The adjustable back has great postural control, height, and even width of panels. The caregiver can also adjust the tilt and hip angle to better position the bather.
This model can be rolled over a toilet. What separates this chair from others is the ability to adjust. In fact, because of this, your child can grow into this chair. The casters are also great because you can easily roll them on different types of floors.
We know how comfort should be a top priority in any mobility aid. This bath chair uses a pressure-relieving cover over the pads that is watertight and can also wipe clean easily.
Product specs you should know:
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs.
- Product weight: 68.3 lbs.
- Seat width: 14.8″
- Seat width (Divided seat) 14.8″
- Seat depth: 11.7″ – 14.8″
- Back height: 17.9″
- Toilet clearance: 1.6″ -2″
- Recommended use height: 3.9″ – 4’7″
- Number of wheels: 4
- Front wheel size: 4″
Score: 
(4.5 / 5)
Pros
- Can grow with the user
- Excellent product weight capacity
- Very adjustable
- Watertight cover
- Stainless steel build
Cons
- Expensive
Bottom-line: This is a well-built pediatric bath and commode chair that can be significantly adjusted for your child to grow into this chair over time. However, it does come with a higher price point than other chairs.
5. Boris Shower Commode Chair
The Boris shower commode chair can be used by both children and adults who have more complete support requirements when sitting in a chair. The tilt-in-space features will allow the user to adjust the seat at different angles while using the shower.
We love the seat on this shower chair. It is anatomically shaped that offers both superior comfort and support. It is stainless steel with a polyethylene seat with an optional removable cushion.
Product specs you should know:
| Specs | Size 1 | Size 2 | Size 3 | Size 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight capacity | 132 lbs. | 176 lbs. | 220 lbs. | 330 lbs. |
| Overall width | 21.8″ | 23.8″ | 24.5″ | 28.8″ |
| Overall length | 25.3″ | 25.3″ | 25.3″ | 27.3″ |
| Seat depth | 12″ | 16″ | 18″ | 18.7″ |
| Seat angle | 5 – 30 degrees | 5 – 30 degrees | 5 – 30 degrees | 5 – 30 degrees |
| Back height | 20″ | 21.8″ | 23.7″ | 25.3″ |
Score: (4.5 / 5)
Pros
- Comes in 5 sizes
- Weight: Only 35 lbs.
- High weight capacity
- Can be used for children and adults
- Stainless steel construction for high quality
Cons
- Very expensive
Bottom-line: This device can be used for bathing children and adults and is made of high-quality stainless steel construction for years of use. However, while this pediatric chair is built sound and comfortable, it comes with a heavy price tag.
Features To Look For Before Purchasing
Like most mobility aids for children, there are essential considerations you should keep in mind before making a purchase. These factors below are important and should be looked at to ensure the best fit for you and your child’s needs.
Different Levels Of Positioning Supports
The amount of positional support your child needs will depend on how much postural strength they have. If your child needs more help than just padding, you may look for pediatric bath chairs with harnesses or hip belts for the best support.
Type Of Restraints And Or Seat Belts
You will notice that some chairs come with seat belts and restraints while others have to be upgraded to those features. If your child needs more support or a seat belt to stay in the bath chair safely, you will want to make sure you have this on your chair.
What About When Is The Shower Chair Not In Use?
Space might be an issue for you. If so, look for a pediatric bath chair that can fold for easy storing when not in use. This holds for those with more than one child using the same bath or shower. Keep this in mind when looking to purchase a chair.
Ability To Grow Into The Shower Chair Is Important
For children purchasing an expensive mobility aid and only being able to use it for a short period can be stressful. However, finding a child’s chair can grow into for years can be a wise investment. Look for chairs that can accommodate higher weights and are adjustable so your child can grow into the chair over time.
Ease Of Cleaning The Shower Chair
Look for pediatric shower and bath chairs with a removable mesh backing that is machine washable. This will help to ensure that your chair stays clean and bacteria-free.
Commodes And Shower Chair In One
There are options for those that require a commode and a shower chair in one aid. However, these chairs tend to be more expensive simply because they are built with more features and can be a little larger.
Make Sure You Have The Adequate Space
Before purchasing, make sure your shower or bathtub can accommodate the chair you want to purchase. Every char will have a full size from the manufacturer to know precisely how oversized the chair is. Keep in mind that if the chair is a tilt-in-space or reclines, be sure you have room for those reclining angles.
Material Type
The shower or bath chair will get wet and can rust over time if it uses materials prone to rust. However, rust-resistant materials will give you much more time with the chair before it will need to be replaced.
Related Questions
How do you bathe a disabled child? The short answer to this is as follows. First, make sure you have everything you need before you start—towels, soap, etc. Ensure you have a bath or shower chair set up to make the bathing experience easier for both the child and the caregiver.
Will Medicare pay for a shower chair? Probably not. This is because Medicare Part B is typically not covered. So even though they do cover durable medical goods, shower chairs usually get denied. But those that have a supplemental Medicare Advantage plan could get help in paying for the shower or bath chair. If you have this plan, we encourage you to call.
Final thoughts
For kids, bathing should be a positive experience and install positive hygiene at an early age. Bathing a special-needs child may feel challenging when you first think about it, but using the right adaptive equipment can turn bath time into a safe and comfortable experience.
Pediatric bath chairs and shower chairs are expensive pieces of mobility aids that can dramatically turn bath time into a positive experience.
We hope this guide explains what to look for in a pediatric shower and bath chair and what essential aspects to look for when purchasing.
