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Best Bathtub Lifts For Seniors (2022): 10 Top Bath Lift Reviews

By kbeveridge

Best Bathtub Lifts For Seniors

Our Top Recommendations

1

Best Price

Drive Medical Whisper

Drive Medical 477150312 Whisper Bath Lift Chair, Blue

2

Easy to Install

ShowerBuddy BathLyft

Showerbuddy Lightweight Power Charged Reclining Bath Lift Chair | Battery Operated Remote Control | Backrest Reclines 45° Support | 2.5 Hour Recharging Time | 300lb Weight Capacity (Orange)

3

Comfortable

Mangar Bathing Cushion

Mangar Bathing Cushion

Getting in and out of the bath can be nerve-wracking if you lack strength and have suffered falls before. Thankfully, bathtub lifts can make the process a lot safer and more comfortable. So, how do you know which model to choose?

The overall best bathtub lift for seniors is the ShowerBuddy BathLyft. It is one of the safest options on the market, with user-friendly controls for smooth transitions. The bath lift also needs minimal installation to work.

This guide discusses the best bathtub lifts for seniors. We discuss all you need to know about these devices and how you can find the perfect model for your needs.

What Is a Bathtub Lift?

Bathtub lifts are electric or hydraulic devices that lower and raise you out of a bath. Most models are electric, and they have handheld controls that you use to change the positioning of the lift.

A bath lift sticks to the bottom of your tub with suction cups. It also usually has flaps that assist you in transferring to and from the device. Some models may recline or include swivel seats so that you can maneuver in and out more quickly.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Bathtub Lifts?

There are a few advantages and disadvantages of using bathtub lifts.

Pros

  • Bathtub lifts can allow you to bathe yourself more safely. This is essential because falls in and near the bathtub are more common in people aged 85 or older. Bathroom falls are also more likely to cause injury than in other rooms of the house.
  • They allow you or your carer to lift and lower the mechanism so that you don’t have to stand up or sit down by yourself.
  • Bath lifts are generally comfortable, with many models including supportive backrests and sometimes swivel seats.
  • They can reduce strain on your carer’s back. This is essential because transfers are one of the leading causes of lower back pain in care workers.
  • You can enter the bath with a lift before or after it fills with water.
  • They are usually more affordable than walk-in baths.

Cons

What Are the Best Brands of Bathtub Lifts?

These are some of the most reputable bath lift brands:

  • Drive Medical: Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare (Drive Medical) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and distributors of medical equipment and services.
  • Neptune: Neptune is a brand that belongs to Mountway, one of the Drive Medical brands. It focuses on bathroom assist devices.
  • Invacare: Invacare is another huge company with a wide range of products and distribution worldwide. It focuses on innovation, value, and high-quality healthcare.
  • Pro Bath: Pro Bath is a brand of the Safe Bathtub Inc company. It focuses solely on bathtub lifts and accessories.
  • Bathmaster: Bathmaster belongs to Performance Health. This company focuses on rehabilitation products across the US and worldwide.
  • Aquajoy: Aquajoy is another one of Drive Medical’s brands. It is renowned for its high-quality bath lifts.
  • Molly Bather: Molly Bather is a family-run UK business that focuses entirely on its bath lift. It is designed and manufactured in Britain but has a presence in other parts of the world.
  • Mangar: Mangar Health focuses on bathing, moving, and handling equipment. It has been operating since 1981 and focuses on the European, Australian, American, and Asian markets.
  • Ameriglide: Ameriglide is an American company that designs, manufactures, and distributes various lifting products. It focuses on affordability and innovative design.

At a Glance: Best Bathtub Lifts for Seniors

Image

Name

Height

Width

Depth

Weight Best For Header
Drive Medical 477150312 Whisper Bath Lift Chair, Blue

Drive Medical Whisper Bath lift

18.8″

13.7″

20.5 lbs

Affordable

Showerbuddy Bath Lift

Showerbuddy Bath Lift

3″ to 19″

15.5″

23.5 lbs

Easy to install

Drive Medical 477200252 Bellavita Bath Lift Chair, White

Drive Medical Bellavita

2.4″- 18.9″

13.7″

20.5 lbs

Heavy duty plastic

Mangar Archimedes Bath Lift

Mangar Archimedes Bath Lift

2.5″ – 17″

15.5″

22lbs

Back support during bath
Mangar Bathing Cushion

Mangar Bathing Cushion

15.75″

23″

4.5 lbs

Simple & Lightweight

Lumex Splash Bath Lift with Ultra-Compact Design and Remote Control, 5033A-1 Lumex Splash Bath Lift

22.8″

13″

14.3 lbs

Ultra-compact design

Bathmaster Deltis Bath Lift, Motorized Bath and Shower Seat with Comfortable Blue Cover, Backrest, Transfer Flaps, Waterproof Hand Controller, and Rechargeable Batteries, 309 lbs Weight Capacity

Bathmaster Deltis Bath Lift

2-¾” to 18″ 14-¾” 15 lbs Optimizes user mobility
Bathmaster Sonaris 2 Bath Lift 2.6″ – 18″ 14.7″ 16 lbs Injured & pregnant
Aquatec Powered Reclining Bath Lift Aquatec Powered Reclining Bath Lift 2 1/2″ – 17″ 15″ 26 lbs Suction cup feet prevent slips
Molly Bather Bath Lift 18-23″ 33″ 8″ 19 lbs Unique luxury ‘slip-cushion’

Best Bathtub Lifts for Seniors

1. Drive Medical Whisper Bath Lift 

Drive Medical 477150312 Whisper Bath Lift Chair, Blue

Drive Medical Whisper Bath Lift

Price

$367.99

Seat Height

18.8″

Seat Width

13.7″

Seat Weight

20.5 lbs

Finding a bath lift that will fit most bathtubs and still be affordable can be quite the task. Fortunately, the Drive Medical Whisper bath lift checks all the right boxes as it’s not very expensive but still designed to fit most tubs.

This bath lift is fairly easy to install and, thanks to high-quality construction and the durable plastic it’s made of, it will last a long time. Also, it has a weight capacity of 300 lbs, making it ideal for most people.

There is no limit to who can use this bath lift — it’s suitable for the elderly, injured patients, the disabled, and anyone else who may need assistance when taking a bath. The ergonomic design will also ensure that users are always comfortable.

The bathtub lift is height-adjustable and can recline up to 50 degrees to make your bathing experience a good and safe one.

Thanks to anti-slip suction cups located on the bottom of the lift (that are also quick-release), the safety of users is ensured.

With bright, easily accessible buttons and a design that ensures it floats in the water, the waterproof bath lift control is easy and convenient to use. At the press of the buttons, the lift will lower, recline, or raise.

One drawback of this bathtub lift is the vinyl seat and the back covers. Because of how they’re designed, it’s quite difficult to clean behind them. This means water could collect and lead to mildew and mold.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Anti-slip suction cups
  • Waterproof control
  • 300 lbs weight capacity
  • Durable and sturdy design

Cons

  • There is no reverse option

What Makes This Model Different?

The ease of installation of this bathtub lift is what makes it stand out. Add to that the safety features such as the suction cups, and it’s easy to see why this is a popular choice with people everywhere.

2. Showerbuddy Bath Lift

Showerbuddy Bath Lift

Showerbuddy Bath Lift

Price

$395.85

Seat Height

3″ to 19″

Seat Width

15.5″

Seat Weight

23.5 lbs

If you’re looking for a bathtub lift that is super easy to install and can handle up to 300 lbs in weight, you should definitely consider the Showerbuddy. It doesn’t require any special tools to install and using it is just as easy. And, as you might have guessed, it has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs.

The backrest can recline up to 30 degrees, and the lift itself is able to lower all the way down to three inches. This may be good enough for most, but some folks might want a lift that goes even lower. With a padded seat, comfort is all but guaranteed.

This powered bath chair can reduce your risk of falling and also lowers the strain put on your body as you take a bath. It also comes with side flaps for safety and a little bit of extra comfort. These flaps give users a comfy surface to transfer from and to. They fold up as you’re lowered into the bathtub.

The waterproof control is designed to float in the tub, and it’s powered by a battery that can easily be recharged. You should always ensure that the battery is charged, and you can expect 35 lifts from this model per charge.

If the battery is too low to raise the lift once it’s lowered, a safety switch will prevent the lift from lowering in the first place.

Pros

  • Very easy to install
  • Comfortable design
  • Easy to use
  • Waterproof control
  • Reliable suction cups
  • Safety switch in case of a low battery

Cons

  • Some users might prefer a lift that lowers further

What Makes This Model Different?

The Showerbuddy offers comfort and security thanks to its design. With six suction cups, and a sturdy frame and base, you can bathe knowing the lift won’t move around. The seat and back are padded too, for better comfort.

3. Drive Medical Bellavita

Drive Medical 477200252 Bellavita Bath Lift Chair, White

Drive Medical Bellavita Bath Lift

Price

$499.99

Seat Height

2.4″ – 18.9″

Seat Width

13.7″

Seat Weight

20.5 lbs

Although this is a very lightweight bathtub lift, it is strong, durable, and reliable. It is able to handle a weight capacity of up to 300 lbs with no problems. The design ensures that this lift can be installed in just about any type of bathtub.

The high-quality materials like aluminum and plastic used to make this lift, along with its superb construction help to ensure that you’re safe while using it. Using it won’t be uncomfortable because the seat and backrest are well-padded.

The seat is height adjustable, and can even recline up to 50 degrees to ensure an enjoyable bathing experience. It lowers down to 2.3 inches, which is low enough for people who really love taking baths and don’t want it to feel unnatural because they’re suspended in the air.

The lift’s control is made to float in the water and comes with color-coded and large buttons to make using it easy. The lift is able to raise up to 18.8 inches, so it works well for deep bathtubs too.

Installing and removing the lift is quite easy, so it’s a good fit for households where multiple people use the bathtub, but not everyone needs to be lifted.

However, this lift has suction cups that do not work on textured surfaces, so it might not be ideal for everyone.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Very lightweight
  • Easy installation
  • 300 lbs weight capacity
  • Lowers to 2.3 inches
  • Comfortable and durable design

Cons

  • Suction cups don’t work on textured surfaces

What Makes This Model Different?

The lightweight design of this bathtub lift is what makes it stand out. At only 2.1 lbs, this is easily the lightest model you’ll find on the market today. With that said, it’s still a highly durable and robust bathtub lift that is able to support a weight up to 300 lbs.

4. Mangar Archimedes

Mangar Archimedes Bath Lift

Mangar Archimedes Bath Lift

Price

$529.00

Seat Height

2.5″ – 17″

Seat Width

15.5″

Seat Weight

22lbs

The Mangar Archimedes bathtub lift was designed with comfort and safety in mind. That much is clear from how it works. There are several safety features, such as an emergency stop on the controller added to the lift that ensures the user is always secure and won’t be at risk of injury.

Suction cups at the bottom of the lift also help to keep it securely in place so the user is safe while taking a comfortable bath.

The design ensures that the user’s back is supported while they are bathing and the lift sits further back than similar models to offer more leg room. Its controls are completely waterproof and very easy to use.

The lift should be able to fit into most bathtubs thanks to its universal design. However, it will not fit an oval Roman tub.

Despite being quite light at 22 lbs, this lift has a maximum weight capacity of 364 lbs.

Pros

  • Good safety features
  • Easy to use
  • 364 lbs weight capacity
  • Easy to install
  • Reliable suction cups

Cons

  • Won’t fit in an oval Roman tub

What Makes This Model Different?

It’s the ease of use that makes this bathtub lift really stand out. On top of that, it’s very easy to install as well. Because it’s so easy to use, people with arthritis find it to be the perfect bathtub lift for them.

5. Mangar Bathing Cushion Bathtub Lift

Mangar Bathing Cushion Bathtub Lift

Mangar Bathing Cushion

Price

$532.00

Seat Height

15.75″

Seat Width

23″

Seat Weight

4.5 lbs

With a design focused on comfort as well as functionality, this is a great bathtub lift for anyone who wants a safe but dignified bathing experience. This is a lightweight model that is able to securely support a weight of up to 336 lbs. It’s easy to use as well.

Thanks to its design, users can enjoy their bathtub in all its glory. There is no width or length limitation because it deflates completely. To ensure the safety of users, this bathtub lift will only be lowered if there is enough battery power to raise it once again.

The adjustable air pressure lets you control your bathing experience for improved comfort. The suction feet provide extra safety and security, but only work on smooth surfaces, unfortunately.

Although this is a pretty versatile bathtub lift, it won’t fit in round or oval bathtubs.

Pros

  • Very easy to use
  • Allows full use of bathtub
  • 336 lbs weight capacity
  • Lightweight but durable

Cons

  • Won’t fit in round or oval bathtubs
  • The suction feet only work on smooth surfaces

What Makes This Model Different?

Installing this bathtub lift only takes a few moments and removing it is just as easy and fast. Because it’s so lightweight, it’s ideal for weaker users but can still handle a good amount of weight.

6. Lumex Splash Bath Lift

Lumex Splash Bath Lift with Ultra-Compact Design and Remote Control, 5033A-1

Lumex Splash Bath Lift

Price

$621.96

Seat Height

22.8″

Seat Width

13″

Seat Weight

14.3 lbs

If you’re looking for a bathtub lift that has an unobtrusive and unimposing design, you should look no further than the Lumex Splash Bath Lift. It is designed to discreetly blend into any bathroom and when stored in its lowest position, it is hardly even noticeable.

At only 14.3 lbs, this is a fairly lightweight bathtub lift with a design that ensures it fits close to the back of bathtubs. It also promises quiet and smooth movement while being stable and solid enough to be secure. Despite being so light, it can support up to 280 lbs with ease.

Thanks to the fixed-back design, users get a lot more legroom to make their bathing experience more comfortable and natural. The lift is able to lower quite deep into the tub and the control is waterproof and easy to use.

Unfortunately, many users have reported that the charger is faulty and that it doesn’t charge the battery as it should.

Pros

  • Attractive design
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight but robust
  • Offers a natural bathing experience

Cons

  • Charger appears to be faulty

What Makes This Model Different?

The design of this bathtub lift makes it quite unique — it is white to blend into most bathrooms, has a sleek and slim look, and will give your bathroom a modern feel when noticed. On top of that, it’s easy to use and quite durable and stable.

7. Bathmaster Deltis Bath Lift

Bathmaster Deltis Bath Lift, Motorized Bath and Shower Seat with Comfortable Blue Cover, Backrest, Transfer Flaps, Waterproof Hand Controller, and Rechargeable Batteries, 309 lbs Weight Capacity

Bathmaster Deltis Bath Lift

Price

$724.95

Seat Height

2-¾” to 18″

Seat Width

14-¾”

Seat Weight

15 lbs

This bathtub lift ensures a safe and secure experience thanks to its innovative and durable design. It comes with large side transfer flaps that will make using it easy and convenient while also being safe.

The powerful motor allows users to smoothly lower or raise themselves with a waterproof controller that is easy to use and designed to float in case it’s ever dropped into the water.

The contoured seat will keep users comfortable as they enjoy their bathing experience, and the backseat is able to recline to add to the overall comfort. Thanks to four non-skid feet, there is no risk of the lift slipping or moving around.

Installing the lift is quite easy, and taking it apart for storage is just as straightforward. Although this is a lightweight bathtub lift, it is able to support a weight of up to 209 lbs. Some users may be confused while charging the battery though, as the light doesn’t remain on, making it look like it’s no longer charging.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Powerful motor
  • Contoured seat
  • Non-skid feet
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Charging process may confuse users

What Makes This Model Different?

The motor of this bathtub lift is impressively powerful and waterproof. Because it works with lithium-ion batteries, charging is made fast and easy as well. The battery and motor are both designed to be durable and last for many years.

8. Bathmaster Sonaris Bath Lift 

Bathmaster Sonaris Bath Lift

Price

$989.21

Seat Height

2.6″ – 18″

Seat Width

14.7″

Seat Weight

16 lbs

Sturdy construction and a weight capacity of up to 375 lbs make this a bathtub lift that can be used by a wide range of people. The safety mechanism built into the lift ensures that it will not be lowered if the battery is too low to raise it again once the user is done bathing.

Installing this bathtub lift is fairly easy and straightforward, and works with a strong battery-powered motor. When not in use, it can be stored away as it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Comfort is ensured thanks to the recline and height functions that can be controlled completely by the user. And to keep users safe, the controller is waterproof. Although this lift will work well in most baths, it isn’t compatible with baths that have textured surfaces.

Pros

  • Easy to install and use
  • Controller is waterproof
  • 375 lbs weight capacity
  • Comfortable design

Cons

  • Not compatible with textured baths

What Makes This Model Different?

The sturdy construction of this bathtub lift is what makes it stand out. It’s able to support up to 375 lbs with ease and is made from high-quality materials. Investing in this bathtub is something you won’t regret because it will last a long time.

9. Aquatec Powered Reclining Bath Lift

Aquatec Powered Reclining Bath Lift

Aquatec Bath Lift

Price

$1,094.95 

Seat Height

2 1/2″ – 17″

Seat Width

15″

Weight

26 lbs

The Aquatech bathtub lift is a reliable, sturdy, safe, and comfortable option that is able to support up to 300 lbs with ease. It rises high enough to make getting into your tub easy and then goes low enough for a nice bathing experience. The lift can go down to 2.5 inches above the surface of your tub.

Thanks to the mesh-like material used for the lift, slipping is prevented and the suction cup feet also help to keep the lift securely in place. The backrest is able to recline up to 40 degrees so you can wash your hair comfortably and safely.

This lift has a safety measure in place that will prevent it from lowering if there isn’t enough battery power to raise it back up. The controller is also designed to be safe and is waterproof and will float should it fall into the water.

Unfortunately, there is no charge level indicator to let you know exactly how much longer the battery has to be charged until it is full.

Pros

  • Reliable and safe design
  • Easy to use
  • 300 lbs weight capacity
  • Reclining backrest

Cons

  • No charge level indicator

What Makes This Model Different?

Ease of use and safety are the most important features of this bathtub lift. It can be used by most people with no difficulties, and its design ensures that users are as safe as possible while bathing.

10. Molly Bather Full Soak Bath Lift

Molly Bather Bath Lift

Price

$1,945.00

Seat Height

18-23″

Seat Width

33″

Weight

19 lbs

This is a sturdy, no-nonsense bathtub lift with a weight capacity of 300 lbs and an impressively powerful battery. When fully charged, the battery is able to power roughly 20 bath lifts with no problems.

The design of this bath lift allows for a full soak in the bathtub and the handset is easy to use and waterproof for safety. However, it doesn’t have a backrest, which might make it unsuitable for some people.

Installing and removing the Molly Bather Full Soak Bath Lift is fairly straightforward and effortless. The suction attachment helps to ensure that the lift stays securely in place.

Pros

  • Sturdy, reliable design
  • Easy to use
  • 300 lbs weight capacity
  • Powerful battery

Cons

  • No backrest

What Makes This Model Different?

This bathtub lift is really easy to use and quite sturdy. It is made of the highest-quality materials and designed to last many years. The battery is relatively powerful too, and easy to charge.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bathtub Lift for Your Needs

What Is the Price Range of Bathtub Lifts?

You can find a budget bathtub lift for as little as $500. However, most models cost around or upwards of $2000. More expensive models may include sophisticated settings like a reclining and swiveling seat and high-quality electronics.

Are Bath Lifts Covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not classify bath lifts as durable medical equipment. Therefore, it cannot subsidize or cover the entire cost of the device. Regardless of if you have a doctor’s prescription for this device, Medicare will not cover it.

We recommend checking with your private health insurance for potential coverage. Otherwise, you may want to consider buying a secondhand model to reduce some of the costs.

Bath lifts can be expensive, but they don’t need to bankrupt you if you research and purchase them wisely.

Tips for Buying the Best Bathtub Lift for Your Needs

You should consider these factors when choosing a bath lift:

  • Support: A sturdy bathtub lift with a supportive back section can keep you more comfortable and stable during your transfers. This feature could be vital if you are worried about falls.
  • Swivel seat: A swivel seat can be an excellent addition if you struggle to lift your legs independently. It can assist you in getting in and out of the bathtub by moving your legs across the top.
  • Recline: A reclining seat can make you more comfortable in the bath and relieve any back strain. However, make sure that your bath is large enough for you to recline without hitting the edges.
  • Mode of operation: Most bathtub lifts are electric, allowing you to control the machine while sitting on it. Some are manual hydraulic, which a caregiver will need to operate, usually with a pumping action.
  • Weight capacity: Ensure that your chosen bath lift can support all of your weight. Otherwise, you risk breaking it, which could cause an accident or injury, or simply waste the money you’ve spent.
  • User-friendliness: Some bath lifts include ergonomic hand controls that are specially designed for arthritic fingers and wrists. This feature can be essential if you struggle to use small buttons or handle tiny items.
  • Price: You can spend less than $5000 or more than $4000 on a bathtub lift. You should evaluate your budget and check which models can meet all of your needs. The most expensive option isn’t necessarily the best, so consider your circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pro Bath Chair Lift is the overall best bathtub lift for seniors. This premium model is safe, user-friendly, and easy to install. It has a smooth lifting and lowering mechanism and decent battery life.

Bath lifts are excellent tools that can reduce the risk of bathroom accidents. They lift and lower you into your tub, preventing you from slipping and falling. They can also reduce strain on your caregiver.

When choosing a bathtub lift, think about your physical limitations, past injuries, and comfort level. By investing in the correct model, you can get many years of pain-free use and enjoy your baths in the long term.

Sources:

Durable medical equipment (DME) coverage

The new Neptune bath lift from Mountway

Choosing a portable powered bath lift

Bath Lifts Vs Walk-in Baths – Which is Best?

Nonfatal Bathroom Injuries Among Persons Aged ≥15 Years — United States, 2008

Circumstances and outcomes of falls among high risk community-dwelling older adults

Bath Lift or Bathing Aid?

Understanding and Prevention of Low Back Pain in Care Workers

What Is A Bath Lift And Why Is It An Ideal Choice For Bathroom Accessibility?

Drive Medical US Site | Homepage

About Us – Homecare, Long-Term Care – Invacare

Home page | Performance Health

About Mangar Health | Reducing Strain & Injury for Carers

AmeriGlide About Us

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