Where to Find a Used Bedside Commode

By Maurice

Thousands of Americans who are confined to their bedrooms or spend most of their time in bed due to a disability, illness, or old age, use bedside commodes to make it easier and more convenient to use the restroom. They are especially helpful for people who are weak and unsteady and are at a higher risk of falls.

Insurance may cover part or the full cost of a bedside commode if you obtain a doctor’s note that states you or a loved one is confined to a bedroom. But if your health insurance provider denies coverage for a medical commode, you don’t want to wait for the approval process, or you just need one temporarily due to an injury or medical condition, you might be inclined to just spend the money and buy it yourself.

New medical commodes typically cost about $40 on the low end, up to several hundred dollars for more high-end models. If you’re not looking to spend hundreds of dollars, buying gently used medical equipment is a good idea to consider, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But where to find the good deals and quality equipment can be the tricky part.

In this article, we’ll explain where to buy used bedside commodes and how to get a good deal.

What Is a Bedside Commode?

First, let’s explain what a bedside commode is. Bedside commodes are essentially portable toilets. They resemble a chair with a toilet seat and have a bucket underneath that can be removed and cleaned after each use.

Where to Buy a Used Bedside Commode

You can buy a new bedside commode at most pharmacies, including popular chain pharmacies across the country such as CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Big-box stores such as Walmart, Target, and Home Depot also list selling bedside commodes on their websites.

But if you’re looking to save a few bucks, we’ve found some companies and organizations where you can buy gently used bedside commodes at affordable prices.

eBay

Founded in 1995, eBay is one of the most popular and successful e-commerce sites on the internet. It allows sellers to post items for sale. Buyers can either buy the products for face value, submit a price, or bid on items in an auction-type format. eBay has more than 50 used bedside commodes listed for sale with a price range of about $20 and up. Look for bedside commodes that come with free shipping to get the best deal possible.

Goodwill Industries

Founded in 1902, Goodwill has more than 4,000 stores across the United States, so there’s a good chance you have a location in your area. Goodwill sells gently used toys, clothes, furniture, electronics, and medical equipment at reduced prices. Call your local Goodwill store to find out if they sell medical equipment, including bedside commodes, and whether they have any in stock. Click here to find a Goodwill store near you.

usedHME.com

usedHME.com is a free listing service that allows people to buy and sell used home medical equipment, including hospital beds, walkers, wheelchairs, and bathroom aides. You can insert your zip code and search within a certain mileage range for people in your area who are selling used bedside commodes.

DOTmed

DOTmed is an online platform that allows people to buy new and used medical equipment and parts, including bedside commodes. Founded in 1999, the site features more than 700,000 items on any given day. You can register for the site and browse and read ads for free. One of the reasons so many people use this site is because the ads provide detailed information about prices, dimensions, and conditions of the equipment. Sellers are properly vetted to ensure all of the items on the site are high quality.

Medical Equipment Liquidation Sales

Some hospitals and healthcare facilities have liquidation sales where they sell used equipment they no longer need through a consignment service. You’ll need to search your local newspaper, perform an online search, or contact healthcare providers directly to see if they’re having an upcoming liquidation sale.

Also, pay attention to news of any hospitals or medical facilities closing or opening near you. During moves, facilities may upgrade equipment and sell used equipment such as medical commodes the facility no longer needs.

A Local Lending Program

Local lending programs loan medical equipment and assistive devices for short-term, long-term, or indefinite periods. These items are donated by people who no longer need them and lent out to people in the community. Search online to see if there is a local lending program in your area, or contact your area’s agency on aging for more information.

Easterseals

Easterseals is a non-profit organization that provides support to seniors, military families, children, and those with special needs and disabilities. They accept gently used medical equipment, including bedside commodes, and donate it to people in need. If you’re struggling to make ends meet and need assistance purchasing a bedside commode, consider contacting Easterseals.

Salvation Army

Like Goodwill Industries, the Salvation Army is a non-profit organization with thousands of stores nationwide. The Salvation Army accepts gently used medical equipment. Contact your local Salvation Army store to find out if it sells medical commodes.

Will Medicare Cover Bedside Commodes?

Bedside commodes are considered durable medical equipment (DME) and are typically covered by Medicare Part B. To have your bedside commode covered by Medicare, you typically need a doctor’s note stating you require a commode because you’re confined to your bed or bedroom for all or most of the day.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one needs a bedside commode, there are plenty of resources available to buy gently used commodes in your area. Just be sure to properly research the product and check its condition before making a purchase.