Transfer Benches

A transfer bench is a bathing aid that lets a person slide from outside the tub to inside without stepping over the tub wall, reducing the risk of slipping or falling. Transfer benches straddle the edge of the bathtub and provide a stable seated surface throughout the entire bathing process.

Transfer benches are designed for people who have difficulty stepping over a bathtub wall due to limited mobility, weakness, balance problems, or recovery from surgery or injury. Older adults, stroke survivors, and anyone using a wheelchair or walker often find transfer benches essential for safe, independent bathing.

Start by positioning the transfer bench so two legs sit inside the tub and two legs sit outside, then sit on the outer seat and slide across into the tub while remaining seated. Always lock or verify the bench is stable before shifting your weight, and keep a handheld showerhead nearby for easier rinsing.

A transfer bench with arms includes one or two side rails that give the user something to grip while sliding across the seat, which adds stability during the transfer. A transfer bench without arms may be easier to slide across but offers less support, making it better suited for users with stronger upper body control.

Choose a transfer bench by first measuring the width of your bathtub opening and confirming the bench legs adjust to fit both inside and outside the tub at the correct height. Most transfer benches have adjustable legs to accommodate standard tub heights, but checking the product's height range and weight capacity before purchasing is important.

Yes, a transfer bench can be safe for someone who cannot stand, because the design allows the user to remain seated throughout the entire process of getting in and out of the tub. For users with very limited mobility, choosing a transfer bench with armrails and a back rest provides additional support and stability.

No, a transfer bench is specifically designed to bridge the wall of a standard bathtub and is not intended for use in a walk-in shower. For shower use, a shower seat or shower chair is the more appropriate and safer option.

Knocked down transfer benches ship disassembled so the packaging is smaller and easier to transport or store, and assembly is typically straightforward with no tools required. The assembled bench functions identically to a pre-assembled transfer bench, making the knocked down design a practical choice for home delivery.

Clean a transfer bench regularly by wiping down the seat, frame, and legs with a mild soap and water solution, then dry the bench thoroughly to prevent rust or mildew buildup. Check the rubber tips on the legs periodically for wear and replace them if they become cracked or lose their grip, since worn tips increase the risk of slipping.

A transfer bench differs from a regular bath seat because transfer benches extend over the tub wall to allow a sliding entry from outside the tub, while a regular bath seat sits entirely inside the tub and requires the user to step over the wall to sit down. For anyone who cannot safely step over the tub edge, a transfer bench is the safer choice.