Table of Contents
- Who Should Use a Bathtub Lift?
- How To Choose The Best Bathtub Lifts
- What is the Best Bathtub Lift?
- Drive Medical Whisper Bathtub Lift Chair
- Mangar Archimedes Bathtub Lift Non-Slip Suction Cups for Elderly
- Graham-Field Lumex Splash Bath Lift for Elderly with Remote Control
- Drive Medical Bellavita Bathtub Lift
- Invacare Aquatec SRB Bathtub Lift Battery-Operated with Recline
- Invacare Aquatec XL Bariatric Bathtub Lift 375lbs Load Capacity
- How Does A Bathtub Lift Work?
- Bathtub Lift Installation Guideline
- How to Use A Bathtub Lift?
- Benefits of Having a Bathtub Lift
- — Safety Tips
- Conclusion
- Recommended Based On Your Shopping
A bathtub lift is an essential addition to the bathroom when you have an elderly person in the house. This product makes it comfortable and easy for the elderly to have a bath. Besides this, the unit can be used by the disabled and injured folks. That said, the bathtub lifts are adjustable to multiple heights; hence the user can lower or raise the height to suit their needs. Still, some of the bathtub lifts have reclining positions for additional comfort.
What is a bathtub lift? This is a unit designed to aid in lowering an elderly to the bathtub plus raising him back out again. The bathtub lifts make it easy and safer for the elderly to get in and out of the bathroom with no problem.
Who Should Use a Bathtub Lift?
A bathtub lift is a versatile product that can be used by most folks on wheelchairs or who cannot walk.
Elderly – First and foremost, they are designed to aid the elderly feel comfortable when getting in and out of the bathtub.
Disabled – For the disabled who cannot walk, you must get a perfect bathtub lift to reduce the chances of injuries when getting in and out of the bathtub.
Folks with Injuries – When suffering from a leg, thigh, or back injury, you may experience a lot of challenges when walking plus getting in and out of the bathtub. Such a person will need the aid of a bathtub lift.
How To Choose The Best Bathtub Lifts
Below are the key factors and features you should consider when making the order;
Quality Construction: How strong and safe is the bathtub you need to buy? Find a high-quality bathtub lift, which is carefully built from robust and durable material. For instance, get a bathtub made using a high-quality aluminum alloy frame or strong plastic. That said, it should be covered in a waterproof material to keep it safe for shower application. For better stability on the bathroom floor, make sure the unit is fitted with self-releasing suction cups.
Size and Weight: You don’t need something that is going to occupy the whole space in the bathroom. For better performance, get a bathtub lift that will optimize the legroom space. You should, therefore, consider a high-quality product with an ergonomic design. For instance, products with 18.8-inches by 13.7-inches will serve best. Again, consider a lightweight lift that you can comfortably transport. Lifts with detachable parts tend to be lightweight to transport and easily clean.
Weight Capacity: You are never going to buy a bathtub lift without considering the load capacity. Depending on the brand, these lifts differ in the maximum weight load. Due to this, consider the ultimate piece that will accommodate the weight of the user. A lift with 300lbs to 375lbs will function best for the elderly.
Height Adjustable: This is another vital consideration when you need the best bathtub lift. For reliability and convenience, go for a perfect bathtub lift that allows you to adjust the height. You may consider units that are adjustable from 2.5-inches to 16.5-inches. Again, find a lift, which is battery-powered and has built-in safety features. Such a bathtub lift makes it a breeze to raise or lower the height. Still, the adjustable lifts are appropriate for all types of bathtubs and will serve all heights.
Portability: Not every time you will need to use the bathtub lift. Due to this, find a suitable bathtub lift that has a lightweight and portable design. The portable products are great for traveling and easy to store. Get a unit that you can easily disassemble into two or three parts for carriage and storage when needed.
Recline Option: For comfort needs, the unit should not only be adjustable but also reclines. Just like the adjustability and weight capacity, the lifts will recline to different angles depending on the brand whereas some have no recline positions. For example, you may consider a product that can recline to 40 degrees or 50 degrees to guarantee amazing comfort.
Mode of Operation: We have two types of bathtub lifts based on the mode of operation. First, it is the manual hydraulic type of bathtub lift and an electric bathtub lift. The electric products are automated and you can regulate the operations on your own. They are fitted with floating hand controls on the arms while some come with remote controls. For the manual hydraulic, you will need a helper to lift and lower the unit; hence consider a unit that is automated for simple operations.
Safety: To add more, the bathtub lift you need must always be 100% safe. For such a bathtub lift, make sure that it features anti-slip suction cups at the base. This will prevent it from slipping on the bathroom floor. Secondly, the bathtub should have a high back and integrated neck support to keep you safe from injuries. Lastly, it should be fitted with anti-pinch bath flaps to keep it safe from pinching the user.
What is the Best Bathtub Lift?
The best bathtub lift will depend on the key features and functionality. We have carefully selected high-quality and top-rated products on the market you may try out.
Drive Medical Whisper Bathtub Lift Chair
Drive Medical bathtub lift is a fantastic selection when looking forward to buying the product. This unit is designed to guarantee both comfort and stability. The height adjustability allows you to raise or lower the chair to suit your demands. Besides this, the chair also reclines to 50 degrees for amazing comfort. With a total weight load of 300lbs, this product is a favorite for adults plus young users. The versatile lift is recommended for folks with injuries, the disabled, and the elderly.
More interestingly, the Drive Medical bathtub lift has floating hand controls so you get to regulate the functions of the unit. The color-coded buttons make sit a breeze to adjust and control it. Moreover, the lift is produced from sturdy and durable plastic material to guarantee an extended lifespan. This also ensures the safety of the user. It has dimensions of 13.7-inches in width and 18.8-inches in height. The base support is wider and never slips on the floor; thus an exceptional unit to try out.
Product Features:
- Ergonomic floating hand controls
- 300lbs maximum load capacity
- 7-inches by 18.8-inches lift size
- Highly durable and sturdy plastic construction
- 50-degree recline and adjustable design
- Accommodates all ages of users
- A very sturdy and stable lift for extended use
- Comfortable seat plus backrest
- Not identified
Mangar Archimedes Bathtub Lift Non-Slip Suction Cups for Elderly
The safety of the bathtub lift interested in buying is a vital factor to have in mind. Here is a top-notch product from Mangar Archimedes designed with the safety of the user in mind. The product has four anti-slip suction cups that will offer great stability and support. Due to this, it doesn’t slip off the floor. Secondly, the lift is fitted with a battery-powered hand control system. This will allow for simple operations and since it is 100% waterproof, it is safe for application in the bathroom. Also, the bath lift has an ergonomic compact design that ensures it fits all sizes of bathrooms.
The bathtub lift has detachable parts you can disassemble to allow for faster cleaning and storage. Featuring anti-pinch flaps, the seat will keep the skin safe from pinches when using it. The construction is done using premium and durable material, which means that it guarantees prolonged use and stability.
Product Features:
- Fully waterproof battery-powered hand control
- Anti-pinch bath flaps
- Detachable easy-cleaning parts
- Premium and durable material construction
- Four non-slip suction cups
- Perfect and safe on every floor
- Easy and faster to clean and maintain
- Elementary to regulate the operations
- Relatively pricey
Graham-Field Lumex Splash Bath Lift for Elderly with Remote Control
In case you need a perfect bathtub lift for the elderly, here is a nice selection you never want to miss. This bathtub lift features an unimposing, subtle, and un-obstructive design. Because of this, it ensures top-notch comfort for the user. Again, it has been finished in white color that will nicely blend with the bathroom. The fixed-back design of the bathtub lift will perfectly optimize the legroom. It has a lightweight compact design to allow for simple portability and convenient storage.
The unit is built from high-quality and waterproof material, making it excellent for bathroom use. The rugged construction also ensures that it supports the weight of the users. Graham-Field bathtub lift also features an open design plus limited crevices allowing for simple cleaning and maintenance. Lastly, the lift comes with 2-button remote control for better functionality.
Product Features:
- Open footprint design with limited crevices
- Slim fixed-back design
- Ergonomic 2-button remote control
- Lightweight and ultra-compact design
- Durable and waterproof material built
- Simple to clean and maintain
- Perfectly optimizes the legroom
- Easily portable and convenient to store
- The smart charger may malfunction sooner
Drive Medical Bellavita Bathtub Lift
This is another top-rated bathtub lift chair that you will get suitable for the elderly. The product is built from high-quality aluminum frames and covered in waterproof plastic material. Because of this, it will withstand years of service and suits perfectly in the bathroom. More interestingly, it has a load capacity of 300lbs, which suits it for all ages. The lift can be used by the disabled, elderly, and anyone with an injury. Still, the unit has been designed to allow for simple height adjustability. You can, therefore, choose to raise or lower the height plus reclines to 50 degrees guaranteeing great comfort.
Drive Medical is equipped with anti-slip suction cups at the base to ensure it doesn’t move unnecessarily on the floor. This unit has a padded seat and a longer backrest to guarantee great comfort. Moreover, the handle features floating controls that allow for simple regulation of the functions.
Product Features
- 300lbs maximum load capacity
- Floating hand control features
- Durable aluminum and plastic materials built
- Four anti-slip suction cups
- Adjustable height and 50-degrees recline
- Provides the ultimate comfort
- Easy and faster to clean and maintain
- Sturdy and stable for prolonged use
- None
Invacare Aquatec SRB Bathtub Lift Battery-Operated with Recline
For the ultimate bathtub lift for the elderly, Invacare Aquatec is a unique piece to consider. The bathtub lift offers amazing comfort thanks to the reclining capability. Secondly, the unit is designed to accommodate up to 300lbs; hence a great option for all elderlies. This lift is easy to use and with the detachable parts, you can always transport and store it. The bathtub lift has a compact ergonomic design, which allows it to perfectly fit in the bathroom. Additionally, it features self-releasing suction cups that offer great stability on the floor.
Invacare Aquatec is produced from high-quality and durable materials to offer prolonged use and stability. To add more, you can always use the unit whether it has washable covers or not. The lightweight design implies that you can easily transport and store. It has an integrated neck support and a high back for additional comfort.
Product Features
- 300lbs maximum load capacity
- The powerful battery-powered lift system
- Adjustable lift with 40-degrees recline position
- The ergonomic floating hand control
- An integrated back neck and high back support
- Simple to transport and clean
- Suitable for all kinds of users
- A very safe and stable bathtub lift
- It may produce a grinding noise
Invacare Aquatec XL Bariatric Bathtub Lift 375lbs Load Capacity
This is another reliable and unique product from Invacare. The unit is equipped with a battery-operated lift that allows for simple and easy operations. Second, to this, the bathtub lift features ergonomic floating hand controls, which allow the user to undertake all the operations. With a maximum load capacity of 375lbs, the unit is suited for all ages. Additionally, you can always disassemble the product into two parts. Because of this, you can easily transport and clean it.
To add more, the Invacare bathtub lift features integrated neck support and a high-back design. Due to this, you will find it very comfortable for your needs. Still, it can recline to 40 degrees and is adjustable to multiple heights ranging from 2.5-inches to 16.5-inches. The unit is built from premium quality and durable material, which guarantees extended use and stability.
Product Features
- 375lbs maximum load capacity
- 5-inches to 16.5-inches adjustable height
- Integrated neck support with high back design
- Built-in safety features
- Robust frames with a reinforced lifting mechanism
- A breeze to use and transport
- Very strong and sturdy bathtub lift
- Easily adjusts to multiple heights and reclines to 40 degrees
- You may experience grinding noise in some lifts
How Does A Bathtub Lift Work?
First and foremost, to use a bathtub lift, you should get into the seat of the lift. You can choose to sit when it is outside the tub then slowly swivel the seat facing forward. Once on the lift, remember to lift the legs above the rim of the tub. For the elderly who cannot lift their legs, use a bathtub safety rail.
Now, the lift will function by lifting you slowly into the tub. They are battery-powered and with a powerful engine, it will automatically lower you down. The electric units are equipped with control features or come with a remote system. Once you are at the desired level slowly get out of the lift and it will adjust upward to get from the bathtub.
To get out of the bathtub, it will slowly get down, sit on the lift then it will raise over the bathtub. For the manual lift, you will need a helper to manually operate it.
Bathtub Lift Installation Guideline
Installing a bathtub doesn’t need drilling, altering bathroom fixtures, or screwing. Because of this, it is faster and simpler.
To install, you should attach the suction cups right at the bottom of the bathtub. The suction cups will hold firmly on the floor for better stability and ensure that the bottom is completely flat.
The size of the base should never be on any sloppy point since this will compromise the stability. For the removal of the lift, just lift it slowly though some tend to be heavier; hence get someone to help. No need for an expert to install the lift in the bathroom since it is a DIY procedure.
How to Use A Bathtub Lift?
Using the bathtub is simpler and easy even for the disabled and injured folks. Fitted with floating handle controls or a remote system you need to switch the button needed to raise or lower the height.
Begin by comfortably sitting into the seat, which may be swivel; hence you can change the direction irrespective of the side you sit from.
Once on the seat, press the button to raise the height. When in the bathtub, get out slowly and leave the lift to return to its position.
To get out of the bathtub, lower the lift to the preferred position, get to the seat and it will raise you out of the bathtub.
Benefits of Having a Bathtub Lift
- Safety
The main reason why you will be buying a bathtub lift is for safety purposes. The bathtub lifts are designed to guarantee not only the safety of the elderly but also disabled and injured people. Getting in and out of the bathtub will be challenging for the seniors. However, with the aid of a bathtub lift, they can get in and out of the bathtub without slipping or getting injured.
- Privacy and Independence
When you need someone to always get you out of the bathtub, you lack both privacy and independence. You can now have your privacy when you pick on the ultimate bathtub lift. This will safely lower you and raise you from the bathtub without someone being around you. Through this, it also gives you the chance to be independent and get to the bathtub anytime you need.
- Comfortable
Apart from safety, the bathtub lifts will offer great comfort when getting in or out of the bathtub. This is because they have a high-back plus an integrated neck-rest that will keep you very comfy. Besides this, the units have thick padded and waterproof seats for great comfort. Still, some of the lifts recline to allow you seat in the desired position. The lift will also ensure you continue having a great time in the bathtub.
- Simple to Operate
You are not going to need the aid of a helper to operate an electric bathtub lift. Since they are fitted with floating hand controls while others come with remotes, they are a breeze to regulate. You can raise it or lower it with just a press of the button.
- Saves you Money
When you have a bathtub lift, you don’t need to install or alter the bathroom to accommodate the seniors. Besides this, no need for hiring someone to help the elderly have a bath in the bathtub. Once you invest in the product, expect years of service; hence save cash.
— Safety Tips
- You should never use the lift in case it doesn’t fit your bathtub accordingly, wobbling, or is unstable.
- Secondly, you should not use the bathtub lift when alone at home. At times you may need the aid of someone.
- Make sure that the lift is installed in a very clean bathtub with no debris and obstructions
- Ensure that you charge the battery for 24 hours before operating the lift for the first time.
Conclusion
The bathtub lifts will offer a helping hand to the elderly and ensure that they gain their independence. The units are very safe and convenient since one can operate them without the aid of a helper. That said, they are very safe and simple to clean. When thinking of getting started with a bathtub lift, we have picked out the ultimate products on the market you may consider. Still, you also get a complete and detailed buyer’s guide to aid in making a better decision.
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