How Does a Bath Lift Chair Work?

Many older people with mobility concerns or those immobilized by a medical condition may find cleaning themselves or having a bath immensely challenging. In many cases, this otherwise simple act can also be dangerous, if not life-threatening, if the right assistive equipment isn’t used.

Fortunately, this is where having bath lifts can be an immense help for people who find it difficult to get out of the bathtub. 

In this article, we’ll look at how a bath lift chair works, the various types of bath lift chairs, and their benefits.

Generally, a bath lift chair or a bath lifts work by helping to lower an individual and rise them out of a bathtub safely and comfortably.

In the UK, most bathtubs have a low height and can often be pretty slippery, which is made even more dangerous when you consider that it is filled with soap and water. This makes getting in and out of it (the bathtub) highly challenging for people with mobility issues, if not downright dangerous. 

Most bath lifts are available in many different styles, and then there are ones for various types of bathtubs. Many, including the ones we sell, include several features like secure straps and suction cups to help keep the individual in place, an anti-slip base, and some are even motorized.

The bath chair works using battery power by lowering the individual into the bathtub comfortably and safely later, lifting them out without strain on the caregiver.

A typical bath chair lift seat is made out of mesh, which means it can be used in water without significant wear and tear taking its toll on the chair. The chairs have two wings that extend over the tub's edges when they are raised. Once the individual is safely in the bath lift, they can easily be lowered to sit flush with the tub’s base.

After the individual has finished bathing, the seat is raised to help the person out of the bathtub. This means that the user enjoys having a bath without worrying about slipping or falling when exiting.

Bath lift chairs are designed to be used with most traditional bathtubs and allow individuals to bathe themselves without assistance. The use of bath lift chairs and an inflatable bath lift is often combined with other forms of assistive bathroom technology like wall grab bars and transfer benches. These can further ease an individual’s time in the bathroom. 

Today, it isn’t hard to find a bath lift chair, but the features they offer can confuse most people. Fortunately, you don’t need to buy a bath lift chair with every feature under the sun. All you need are some useful features to enjoy your time in the bath. Plus you will want a bath seat that's comfortable.

Below are a few things worth considering when buying a bath lift chair.

A battery-powered bath lift chair can be convenient in various situations. The most significant benefit over a traditional electrically powered version is that it is less expensive and does not require an electrical connection or transformer. This makes battery-powered bath lifts safer but they have certain limitations.

The battery is hidden inside the lift chair and can typically provide a maximum of 20 lifts. The number of lifts varies based on battery condition and user weight. As the battery gets older, the portable bath lift will have to be charged more frequently.

Depending on the model you choose, you should select a battery-operated bath lift chair with a seat width that matches the width of your bathtub. Some battery-powered models even have side flaps that fold in when you lower them. This makes transferring to and from the bathtub easier.

It is worth buying a battery-powered bath lift chair with hand controls designed to fit individuals with varying degrees of dexterity. This feature makes the chair easier to use and adjusts the seat's position.

A wall-mounted bath lift chair makes transfers between a bed and bath easier. These can be installed on several walls and post locations, making them the best option for people who do not want to remodel their homes. However, some models require professional installation.

Inflatable bath lifts are also an option worth considering if space is an issue.

The Swivel feature assures the user’s safety and independence while in the tub. This chair is equipped with an integrated swivel seat that allows you to pivot from a seated to a standing position quickly. The seat can be used alone or with other bath boards and grab rails. The removable arms and seat can be positioned over a bath shower or a bathtub. All models are equipped with a non-slip surface to ensure safety and comfort for added stability while enjoying a warm bath.

The swivel seat attachment is designed to provide a 360-degree range of motion and is placed on the seat. The seat can swivel over the edge of the bath for easier sitting and transfer. Some have suction cups that hold the seat in place making independent bathing more secure.

One of the benefits of a bath lift chair is allowing a bather to slide and swivel onto it. A rotating disk can make this transfer much easier. Additional accessories such as a Padded Height Adjustable Headrest and Postural Belts can provide extra head support and positioning.

Generally, it would help if you bought a bath lift chair that is comfortable and easy to operate both in bath water and outside it. Moreover, make sure to check the weight capacity and level of support. Your doctor or occupational therapist should also be able to recommend a bath lift chair based on their understanding of your mobility issues.