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 8
Best Overall: 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 Multipurpose: Medline Elements Bedside Commode
Offers antimicrobial protection, and a discreet cover, and can be used as a shower chair.
Most Comfortable: UltraCommode Foldable Commode and Shower Chair
Extra comfy, with a sturdy build and soft padded seats, backrest, and armrests.
Best Folding: McKesson Folding Commode Chair
A simple, tool-free assembly that folds easily and supports weights up to 650 lbs.
Best Drop-Down: NOVA Medical Heavy Duty Bedside Commode Chair with Drop-Arm
Great arms drop that allows easy transfer from bed or wheelchair.
Best for Toilet Insert: DMI Bedside Commode Chair
A simple tool that provides strong support when used over existing toilets.
Best for Features: Samson Deluxe Bariatric 3-in-1 Shower, Bath, and 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 Overall: 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 Multipurpose: Medline Elements Bedside Commode
The Medline bedside commode can be used as a shower seat and a discreet potty chair. It features a dark bronze finish and muted colors that easily blend in with the home environment.
You can easily adjust the seat and armrest height to make getting on and off easily. Also, the modern design offers you a flat cover top that discreetly conceals the commode when not in use.
Additionally, you get antimicrobial protection, since the chair is infused with Microban antimicrobial technology that inhibits the growth of stains and odors from bacteria, mold, and mildew. It supports up to 400 lbs.
Pros:
- Can be used as a commode and shower chair
- The seat can be concealed for discretion
- Modern design with nice colors
- Tool-free, easy setup
- Infused with microban antimicrobial protection
Cons:
- The seat may be too high for shorter users
- It may be difficult to clean in between spaces
Most Comfortable: UltraCommode Foldable Commode and Shower Chair
The UltraCommode commode/shower chair comes complete with a soft, padded seat base, backrest, and armrest. The quality seat pad is comfortable, prevents sliding during showering, and is easy to clean.
It is attached with unique armrests that can easily be folded to allow for safer and easier transfers on and off the chair.
The chair can be assembled in seconds without tools and easily folded up for easy travel. It supports up to 300 lbs.
Pros:
- Can be used as a shower chair
- Easy to clean and disinfect
- Comfortable modern design
- Easy setup and folding
- Great for elderly
Cons:
- May need a splash guard to prevent spillage
- May not work well as a toilet insert
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 Drop-Down: NOVA Medical Heavy Duty Bedside Commode Chair with Drop-Arm
The Nova Medical drop-arm commode supports up to 500lb and is ideal for people who need help getting up or standing. Its drop-arm feature allows for easy transfer of your loved one from a wheelchair or bed.
It is easy to assemble and comes with a bucket (with a handle) and a lid. Although the chair is not recommended for the shower, its drop-arm feature makes it easy to get in and out of the bath.
Pros:
- Arms drop for easy transfer
- Easy to clean and assemble
- Strongly built, sturdy chair
- Extra-wide seat width
Cons:
- Small lid that slides off easily
- The seat may require adjustments for shorter users
- Not suitable for shower or bath
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: Samson Deluxe Bariatric 3-in-1 Shower, Bath, and 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 600 lbs and features non-slip rubber foot pads and seat surfaces for maximum safety. It can be used as a shower chair, a bedside commode, and a toilet insert.
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. The seat is padded with soft warm material and the chair is complete with a toilet paper holder.
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’re looking for a bedside commode for your elderly relative or patient, the UltraCommode Commode/Shower chair is comfortable enough and easy to use. Then, 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 2023
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