Bathtub Steps for Elderly: Types, Brands & How to Choose

By Maurice

Bathtub Steps for Elderly

As you grow older, you will start to notice the need for assistance in various areas of the home. One of the main areas you will notice this need is in your bathroom. Not only do these accessories help in your daily hygiene and life, but they also help keep you safe in the process. One of the accessories you may find increasingly useful is a set of bathtub steps. Before you run out and buy a set, there are a few things you should know so you choose the right set for you.

What is a Bathtub Step?

The first thing you need to know before buying a set of bathtub steps is what they actually are. Bathtub steps can range from portable or folding steps to built in stair-styled steps with safety bars. The purpose of the bathtub step is to make sure you can step up into the bathtub slowly and safely. The steps are usually built to move flush against the side of the tub. Once in place, a secure flap, strap, or stair is placed over the lip of the tub. Most of these steps have a handrail as part of the design. This handrail offers added safety and security.

Types of Bathtub Steps

Bathtub steps come in several designs. The simplest and most portable of the designs is a plastic step that resembles a stepping stool. The steps are wider and longer, allowing for more of a foot hold. These steps may have one or two platforms, depending on the height of your bathtub. The steps can be easily transported for travel and use in hotels or guest homes. They are usually made of a durable plastic or plastic and metal mix. They can also be placed under a cabinet, bathroom chair, or slide between a sink and bathtub area for easy storage.

The most common forms of bathtub steps consist of three or more levels of steps made from a durable and easy to clean plastic. There is a grip on each stair to ensure your foot does not slip, causing a fall. In addition to the durable steps, you will also have a grab bar or rail to help you balance as you move up the steps and into the bathtub. These are often coupled with wall grab bars located on the tub or bathroom wall. The steps are moved close to the wall to add stability to the steps and to your footing.

Best Brands & Models of Bathtub Steps

You may be wondering what brands or models to consider when it comes to the right bathtub step for you. There are several depending on the style of step you are looking for. If you are looking for an affordable and portable style of bathtub step, the ideal option is by Reizen.

Reizen is a US-based company that produces and sells products made for the elderly. One of their top sellers and highest-ranking products on consumer review sites is the bathtub step. The step is designed to add 4 inches to your step, giving you a larger area to move when you are stepping up and into the bathtub. The steps also have a rubberized foot grip to keep them stable and textured steps for stronger footholds.
Platinum Health Adjustastep also has high rankings with consumers. This bathtub step has a double rail attachment that gives a sturdy hold on both sides of the steps. The step, which also acts as a footstool, can be adjusted to a height that is good and comfortable for you. This is also ideal if you have more than one elderly person in the home who needs the security the steps provide. These steps are equipped with strong grips to keep them safely in place while in use.
Jobar International makes one of the top ranking steps with the most portability and adjustable solutions. This step has a rail on one side and the ability to be placed near or against the side wall of the tub area. This allows you to use a wall mounted hand bar in addition to the rail on the steps themselves. The Jobar step is portable and can be safely stored out of the way when not in use. It also has a durable base that allows the steps to remain in place on most bathroom floors and finishes.

Where to Buy Bathroom Steps

One of the leading places to find bathroom steps online is through shipping warehouses such as Amazon. If you are looking online, Amazon will offer the most variety and possibly the quickest shipping times for your area. However, there are other options for purchasing your bathtub steps.

For example, if you like the sound of the Reizen step, the product is available for purchase through medical supply stores such as Maxiaids and Hearmore. You can also find bathtub steps at your local drug store or medical supply outlet. In some cases, your doctor may be able to direct you to a local medical store that has more customizable options for bathtub steps.

How to Choose a Bathtub Step for Your Needs

The easiest way to choose the right bathtub step for your needs is to consider what your needs are. That may sound like common knowledge, but many people do not think about what their needs actually are. For example, consider if the step is for your use or for yours and your loved ones’ use. This could narrow down your options to only ones with adjustable steps. Do you need more than one hand grip? If this is the case, you may want to find a step that has an attached hand grip and can work with an already installed shower or tub bar.

Look for upgrades to the steps that suit your needs and your budget. Also, consider your space. Do you need something that can stay in place without being in the way? Maybe you need a step that is more portable. Asking these questions will narrow down your options considerably.

When you know what types of steps there are, how to choose them, and how to find the steps that fit your bathtub design, you will be able to choose the right one for you.