A bariatric bedside commode is a portable toilet that can be conveniently placed next to a bed or somewhere within a room where it can be easily assessed.
Finding the best bedside commode for yourself or a loved one can be a very daunting task, so we have rounded up the best ones below to help you find the one that best suits your needs.
Our Top 5
Best Multipurpose: Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode
A large steel frame that carries up to 650 lbs and is easy to set up and fold.
Best Folding: McKesson Folding Commode Chair
A simple, tool-free assembly that folds easily and supports weights up to 650 lbs.
Best for Toilet Insert: DMI Bedside Commode Chair
A simple tool that provides strong support when used over existing toilets.
Best for Features: GreenChief Bariatric 3-in-1 Commode Chair
A great commode that can be used as a shower chair, bedside commode, and toilet insert.
Best Heavy Duty: McKesson Bariatric Commode Chair
A simple drop-arm commode that can carry up to 1000lbs
You may need a bariatric bedside commode if your weight makes it difficult for you to visit the restroom or if you’re recovering from surgery, injury, or illness.
A bariatric commode is sturdy and built strongly to support body weights of 300 lbs – 1000 lbs. It is easy to clean and does not require any installation.
They also come complete with a small detachable bucket that is attached to the bottom and can be manually removed to empty out contents.
Because it’s essential to find a commode that fits your unique circumstances, we’ve rounded up the best ones to meet a variety of your needs.
Here are the best bariatric commodes on the market today.
Best Multipurpose: Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode
The Drive Medical heavy-duty bariatric bedside chair is complete with an armrest to make sitting and standing up easier. It will provide you with a 12-quart bucket that has a splash guard and a 16.5″ deep seat and lid.
In addition to its large steel frame, this commode provides you with a push button that will help you adjust the chair height and fit it easily over a toilet seat. You can also set it up and fold it up without tools, allowing for easy travel and transportation.
Pros:
- A large steel chair that can hold up to 650lbs of weight
- 12-quart pail capacity
- Easy open and fold
- Push-button to easily adjust the height
- Can be used as an elevated toilet seat
Cons:
- The plastic seat and lid may need replacement over time.
Best Folding: McKesson Folding Commode Chair
The McKesson’s folding commode chair is built with a sturdy steel frame that supports up to 650 lbs. The frame assembles easily in three simple steps and folds up compactly, making it durable for travel.
It comes complete with a removable 12-quart bucket, a splash guard, a cover, and a push-button to adjust chair height. Also, it is made with non-skid feet to prevent slips on smooth, hard flooring.
Pros:
- Folds up easily for storage and travel
- Easy to clean up
- Non-skid feet to prevent slips
- Strong welded steel frame
Cons:
- May not be suitable for baths as the material corrodes easily
Best for Toilet Insert: DMI Bedside Commode Chair
The DMI bedside commode doubles as a toilet safety frame that positions safely over toilets. It has a strong steel frame that supports up to 500 lb and is made with slip-resistant rubber tips.
Its strong steel arms will make it easier to get up from and down to the toilet. It comes complete with a 7-quart bucket and lid that easily slides out for emptying.
Pros:
- Adjustable seat height
- Slip-resistant rubber tips
- Durable and easy-to-clean steel frame
- Large steel handle
Cons:
- No splash guard to protect against spillage
- No lid to cover the commode opening
- Backrest may be uncomfortable
Best for Features: GreenChief Bariatric 3-in-1 Commode Chair
The Samson Deluxe 3-in-1 commode/shower chair will help to make toileting and bathing easier, safer, and more comfortable than ever.
It supports up to 700 lbs and is equipped with an 18.7”×14.4” extra wide seat, which is 20% wider than other commodes, providing a spacious seat to sit. Plus, there is an additional soft padded cushion gifted to keep you from the rock-hard seat and cold especially in winter, adding more comfort.
The commode’s extra-large seat features a cut-out that allows for easy access to the perineal area for proper cleaning without the need for standing up. It is complete with a removable bucket and backrest that allows users to customize chair based on specific preferences.
Pros:
- Great for the elderly and people with disability
- Tool-free easy assembly
- Easy cleaning
- Adjustable seat height
- Strong shower handles
Cons:
- The bucket does not come with a handle
- No extra lid to cover the bucket
Best Heavy Duty: McKesson Bariatric Commode Chair
The McKesson’s bariatric bedside commode is built with powder-coated, steel tubing that maximizes strength and durability to support up to 1000 lbs.
It is designed with a 12-quart commode bucket (with handle), cover, splash shield, and a snap-on seat to provide you with extra space and comfort.
Also, the chair’s drop-arm design is ideal for wheelchair users and people who need help standing up.
Pros:
- The chair is very sturdy and wide
- Easy assembly
- Drop-arm design
- Adjustable seat height
- Supports up to 1000lbs
- Easy folding
Cons:
- The seat may dislodge if not properly secured
What to Look for When Buying a Bariatric Commode
Stability
When you’re ready to buy a bariatric commode, get one that is sturdy and designed with rubber foot pads to help prevent sliding or falls.
Also, ensure that the commode has strong handrails that will support you when sitting down and getting up.
Material
Buy a bariatric bedside commode that is designed with good-quality materials. Ensure that the frame is built with steel – to provide you with maximum comfort and durability.
Also, check that the seats (for those with seats) are made of strong plastic or rubber material that can withstand your body weight.
Removable bucket
Bariatric bedside commodes include small 7 or 12-quart plastic buckets for easy disposal and sanitizing.
Ensure that the commode you choose has a handle and can be easily removed for cleaning.
In addition, check that the bucket fits securely to the commode hole to avoid splashes, or find one that comes with a splash shield.
Adjustable height
To make it easy for you to get on and off your bariatric bedside commode, opt for one that can be easily adjusted to fit your height. So that it won’t be too tall or short for you.
FAQs
Yes, Medicaid usually covers bedside commodes along with Medicare. As long as it is proven medically necessary, Medicare will cover about 80% of the approved price for a bedside commode. However, check with your insurance provider and confirm coverage to find out any restrictions or limitations they may be.
To clean and prevent odors, make sure you regularly clean every part of the commode several times a week. After each use, you can clean the removable bucket with soap and water, and then sanitize it with disinfectants.
Doing this regularly will keep the commode clean and prevent odors.
To hide a bedside commode from view, put a few cushions on it and buy or make your own “dignity cover”. Secondly, you can use a curtain or folding screen to create a private area.
The bottom line
A good bariatric bedside commode will save you or your loved one a lot of stress – and even fasten recovery.
For an all-around reliable bariatric commode, the Drive Medical Folding Steel Commode will provide you with the essential features you need. If you prefer a heavy-duty commode or weigh more than 600 lbs, McKesson’s Drop-arm Bariatric Commode will provide you with extra comfort and durability.
Also, check our detailed review of The Best 6 Bariatric Bathroom Scales (350 lbs+) in 2024.
