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Important Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Bedside Commode

So, you’ve decided to buy a bedside commode but are unsure which model is best for you. This article will help you understand which commode to purchase by considering certain factors and features.

Also known as toilet chairs, commode chairs, or portable toilets, bedside commodes are usually made up of a frame, toilet seat, removable bucket, and a wide array of design features beneficial to the user.

By using this freestanding toilet chair near the bed, users don’t have to risk their safety and exert more effort to accomplish their personal toileting. People recovering from a short-term injury or are facing permanent mobility issues can benefit from this portable commode by making toileting easy and safe.

There are several factors to be considered when buying a commode to determine which one is right for you or your loved one.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Bedside Commode

User’s Level of Mobility

In order to get the right mobility aid for yourself or a loved one, it is necessary to consider first the level of immobility of a person who will be using the device. In doing this, you are sure that the commode or any mobility aid meets their needs. 

Weight Capacity

Determining the weight capacity of the commode will ensure the user’s safety while using the device. There are also Bariatric models that can safely accommodate users with much higher weights. For smaller-than-average users, they may require closed-front seats and shorter railings in order to keep their legs in a proper position.  

Adjustability Features

Commodes with better adjustability features help provide safety, proper positioning, and support. Also, this feature allows device customization to cater to the unique needs of each user.

Thankfully, most quality commodes are height adjustable, with some models offering seat width, backrest, and armrest adjustment. The drop-arms can also be a crucial feature since they provide comfortable support to the user while seated. And they drop out of the way to enable better access for transfers from wheelchairs, patient lifts, or other transfer devices.  

User Comfort

Comfort should be at the top of your priority list when buying any mobility device. Commode’s height adjustability feature can make users more comfortable by adjusting the chair to their height. Other commode models are designed to be ergonomic to provide comfortable support. Some have padded seats to provide better comfort. 

Durability

Quality commodes are often made from steel, aluminum, or some kind of tough polymer plastic. The safety of the person using the commode is critical, that is why it is necessary to select a model that has a tough and durable construction. 

Price

Depending on the quality and design features of the device, the price points vary widely with bedside commodes. Nowadays, finding a durable and dependable choice has become easy due to the abundance of options available in the market. Remember that buying commodes with all-in-one designs can save you some bucks by not having to buy three or four separate pieces of equipment. 

Summary

A portable commode is a must for people with limited mobility or those who can’t safely get to a toilet or bathroom. 

Having this device close by them can reduce the risk of injury due to falling on their way to the bathroom. However, before buying a commode, it is vital to know and consider the factors mentioned in this article to maximize their use and optimize safety.

We appreciate you taking the time to read this article! We invite you to visit Doability for more valuable information as you prepare to make your purchasing decisions.