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Shower benches aren’t only for seniors and those with limited mobility. Shower benches offer a more modern look than chairs, and nowadays, there are many stylish options to make showering more comfortable.
The best shower benches are durable and comfortable. Made with security in mind, they are safe to use and feature designs that dry readily and are easy to clean. Read on for the best shower benches to turn your shower into a safe and relaxing oasis.
- BEST OVERALL: ToiletTree Products Deluxe Wooden Bamboo Shower Bench
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Drive Medical Safety Shower Bench
- BEST WALL-MOUNTED: Moen DN7110 Folding Shower Seat
- BEST CORNER SEAT: AquaTeak The Original Kai Corner Bench with Shelf
- BEST SMALL: EcoDecors Satori Shower Stool
- BEST LARGE: Decoteak Harmony Teak Shower Bench
- BEST BAMBOO: Bambüsi Bamboo Shower Bench
- BEST FOR SENIORS: Vaunn Medical Shower Bench with Removable Back
- BEST TRANSFER BENCH: Moen DN7105 Transfer Bench
- BEST ADJUSTABLE: Dr Kay’s Adjustable Height Shower Bench
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Shower Bench
Shower benches come in a wide range of styles; some are created for those with medical needs, and others designed with style in mind. Before shopping, consider the main purpose of the shower bench (for example, is the bench for relaxing or for helping someone with limited mobility?). Some factors to consider include the bench type, size, weight capacity, material, safety features, and optional storage space.
Type
Shower benches come in a range of styles and shapes. The most common type is the freestanding bench, which is easy to move around the shower and doesn’t require any installation (other than assembling the bench).
Wall-mounted benches are also a stellar choice. These need to be properly installed to the shower wall to ensure their safety. This bench type is often chosen for its style: wall-mounted benches offer an elegant, floating look to elevate the shower. Fold-up versions can also save space.
Bench shape is another factor to consider; rectangular, square, or corner benches are all available, and the right choice depends on the shower size and shape.
For those with mobility limitations, consider a shower bench with additional safety or features. These can include transfer seats, adjustable legs, armrests, and nonslip surfaces to add an extra degree of security to the bench.
Size and Weight Capacity
Size and weight capacity are among the most important features when considering shower bench ideas. A shower bench should be large enough for you to sit comfortably, without overwhelming the entire shower space. When considering size, also consider the weight of the chair. A good shower bench should have some weight to it to ensure it stays in place but should also be easy to move around as needed.
Weight capacity is a necessary factor to consider when it comes to safety. It’s worthwhile to double-check this specification to ensure the chair will hold up to daily use. Many high-quality shower chairs can comfortably hold over 250 pounds.
Material
The best shower benches are made from high-quality, durable, and water-resistant materials. The shower is a moist space where mold and mildew can take hold in the wrong materials.
Waterproof materials like plastic are often the best choice since they won’t absorb any moisture and will dry quickly. However, these options are often less stylish. Low-quality plastic can also crack or snap, so it’s prudent to look for a well-rated product from a reputable brand if shopping for a plastic waterproof shower stool.
Some shoppers opt for treated water-resistant wood (usually bamboo or teak) or metal materials that offer a more elegant look that still withstands the shower environment. Wood and metal are both durable and come in a range of stylish designs. Regardless of the material, look for a well-draining design. Good drainage will go a long way in preventing water damage or rust.
Height
Shower benches vary in height, but most measure between 16 and 20 inches tall. A shower bench should feel comfortable to sit on. If the bench is either too short or too tall, it can pose a safety risk. A height-adjustable chair offers more flexibility, which can benefit seniors, limited mobility users, and short or tall users.
Height-adjustable benches usually feature metal legs with a mechanism to make the bench legs shorter or taller. They might look a bit less sleek than other versions, but the adjustability is valuable for those who need it.
Safety
The shower looks unassuming, but it’s one of the most common places to slip and fall. Safety is of the utmost importance when shopping for a shower bench, especially for seniors or those with limited mobility.
Well-built shower benches and shower chairs for elderly users will feel secure and sturdy during use. A well-designed bench won’t wobble or slide (and should only be placed on areas with even flooring to prevent any teetering). Rubberized or nonslip feet are an essential feature to ensure the bench doesn’t slip on wet shower floors.
Shower benches can boast a range of additional safety and convenience features, which are a necessity for some users. These safety features can include nonslip materials, a backrest, armrests, handle grips, restraints, additional grab bars, and adjustable designs.
Storage
When it comes to shower benches, there are two ways to look at storage. The first is applicable to those who don’t want to always keep the shower bench in the shower (for example, if it’s for temporary use or if some household members prefer to shower without the bench in the way). Consider size and any additional features that make it easier to store the bench when not in use, such as removable armrests or backrests.
For those who want the bench to be a permanent fixture in the shower, consider options with built-in storage. These shower benches can have shelves, hooks, or pockets to organize soap, shampoo and conditioner bottles, and other shower accessories. Built-in storage can keep the shower neater and keep important items within close reach.
Our Top Picks
Whether for assisting with mobility or purely for relaxation, a shower bench is an affordable and useful addition to the shower. The best shower benches ahead are comfortable, durable, and safe.
Best Overall
ToiletTree Products Deluxe Wooden Bamboo Shower Bench
Shower in style and comfort with the deluxe bamboo chair from ToiletTree. This comfortable chair features a bamboo build with a slightly curved seat for extra comfort. Not only does the bamboo look nice, but it is a durable pick that holds up nicely to wet conditions. A glossy lacquer finish protects the bench from water seeping into the wood.
This bench has a few extra features for safety and comfort. It can support up to 220 pounds safely. Rubber feet protect the shower floor and prevent the bench from slipping. A lower shelf provides a place to store soaps, shampoos, or other shower accessories. As a bonus, this bench includes an additional angled footstool, which can be used for shaving or soaping up your legs.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 19 by 10 by 18 inches
- Weight capacity: 220 pounds
- Material: Bamboo
Pros
- Attractive design
- Water- and mold-resistant
- Includes a footstool
Cons
- Seat slats may feel uncomfortable to some users
Get the ToiletTree shower bench on Amazon, Wayfair, Overstock, or ToiletTree.
Best Bang For The Buck
Drive Medical Safety Shower Bench
The Drive Medical Safety Shower Bench squeezes several attractive features into an affordable package. While this shower bench isn’t the most stylish pick, it’s budget-friendly, safe, and comfortable. The bench features a slightly curved and ergonomic seat made from recycled plastic materials. Supporting the seat is a durable and corrosion-proof aluminum frame that can hold up to 300 pounds.
To help with drainage and safety, the plastic seat has several small drainage holes that won’t affect the seat comfort. Handles reduce the risk of slipping as users get in and out of the seat. For even better safety, this bench has height-adjustable legs with suction-style tips to provide extra grip and stability. Getting this seat together is simple: it snaps together, no tools needed.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 19.25 by 11.5 by 15.5 to 19.5 inches
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Plastic and aluminum
Pros
- Affordable
- Adjustable height
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Less attractive design
Get the Drive shower bench on Amazon or The Home Depot
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Best Wall-Mounted
Moen DN7110 Folding Shower Seat
Wall-mounted shower seats up the luxury factor. The Moen DN7110 Folding Shower Seat is a stylish choice that can elevate any shower while providing a safe place to sit. This elegant shower bench features a teak seat and backrest. The thick planks provide a comfortable seat while also allowing for drainage to prevent pooling.
The wood seat is supported by a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame with a warm brushed-nickel finish. Like many wall-mounted benches, this seat holds up to 400 pounds. When not in use, the chair folds up and out of the way so users can take full advantage of their shower space. Combining beauty and functionality, this bench is a stellar choice for those who want a tasteful permanent shower bench.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 20.5 by 16 by 15.5 inches
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Material: Wood and aluminum
Pros
- Elegant design
- High weight capacity
- Folds up when not in use
Cons
- Professional installation recommended
- Expensive
Get the Moen shower seat on Amazon or Wayfair.
Best Corner Seat
AquaTeak The Original Kai Corner Bench with Shelf
A corner seat is a good choice for small showers: they have a compact footprint and keep out of the way when you’re standing. The AquaTeak corner bench is an attractive choice that also adds more storage space to a cramped shower.
This corner bench is made from 100 percent solid teak wood, which has a lovely natural finish and excellent water resistance. The spa-style design features wooden slats to improve drainage. When not used as a seat, this corner bench can be used as a perch for shaving or as a storage shelf with its two-level design. Stainless steel noncorroding hardware and adjustable rubber-grip feet help this bench hold up to shower conditions, preventing rust, damage, and slipping.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 15.5 by 15.5 by 18 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Material: Teak
Pros
- 100 percent solid teak
- Upscale design
- Built-in storage shelf
Cons
- Small seat
Get the AquaTeak corner bench on Amazon, The Home Depot, or AquaTeak.
Best Small
EcoDecors Satori Shower Stool
Looking for an extra-small shower stool? Measuring 14 by 10 by 15 inches, the EcoDecors Satori Shower Stool is a very compact pick. Designed for sitting or perching a leg for shaving, it’s a stylish stool for tight spaces. The stool is made of teak wood that is protected with a coating that works to both protect the wood from moisture and bring out its natural grain, displaying the beauty that teak has to offer.
Although small, this stool doesn’t skimp on comfort with a slightly contoured seat and a sturdy build. In case there are slightly off-level floors, this stool features foot leveling pads to make sure it isn’t wobbly in the shower.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 14 by 10 by 15 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Material: Teak
Pros
- Solid teak build
- Adjustable foot levelers
- Good weight capacity for small size
Cons
- Lacks drainage slats/holes
- Very small seat
Get the EcoDecors shower stool on Amazon, Wayfair, Overstock, or Ashley Furniture.
Best Large
Decoteak Harmony Teak Shower Bench
A large shower bench provides even more space to relax while in the shower. This wide shower bench from Decoteak measures 30 inches wide, giving the user plenty of room to move around. A slightly curved seat provides a comfy resting place, while flared arms make it easy to move the bench or to help users sit and get up. The extra-wide dimensions also provide a larger shelf, which is ideal for storing shower accessories.
Though made of teak, this bench has an elegant black finish that lends to a modern look. Foot leveling pads offer the necessary stability to keep the bench flat and safe, while the slatted planks prevent water from pooling in the seat or on the storage shelf.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 30 by 14 by 18 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Material: Teak
Pros
- Wide and comfortable seat
- Black finish is modern and clean
- Comfortable handles
Cons
- Pricey
Get the Decoteak shower bench on Wayfair or The Home Depot.
Best Bamboo
Bambüsi Bamboo Shower Bench
A bamboo shower bench is a budget-friendly alternative to teak that still offers an attractive wood look. The Bambüsi Bamboo Shower Bench is a functional and appealing pick. This bench features a supportive slatted seat along with a slatted storage shelf. A slightly tapered build makes this bamboo bench look more high end than some other versions while still coming in at an affordable price.
A few additional features add to the utility and safety of this bench. While it doesn’t have handles, it does have slightly concave edges to offer a place to rest your hands while using the bench or carrying it around. Rounded corners prevent bumps and pokes, while nonslip feet keep the bench in place in wet bathrooms.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 19 by 10 by 18 inches
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Bamboo
Pros
- Comfortable seat
- Smooth edges for safety
- Built-in storage shelf
Cons
- Lacks leveling feet
Get the Bambüsi shower bench on Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best For Seniors
Vaunn Medical Shower Bench with Removable Back
Seniors need to take extra care in the shower, and a suitable shower bench can help reduce slip hazards. A medical shower seat, like the Vaunn Medical Shower Bench, is an ideal choice for many seniors.
This medical shower bench is a standout choice for a few reasons. It features an extra-large seat with a comfortable curve. Contoured handles help seniors get in and out of the seat, while a removable backrest helps users stay propped up while seated.
This shower bench also features adjustable legs with grippy rubber bottoms. Adjustability can help with safety since the bench can be set at the right height. The suction-style legs help to keep the bench in place.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 17.5 by 19 by 14.5 to 21 inches (excluding backrest)
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Material: Plastic and aluminum
Pros
- Removable backrest
- Wide, contoured seat
- Sturdy handles
Cons
- Medical appearance lacks style
Get the Vaunn Medical shower bench on Amazon or Walmart.
Best Transfer Bench
Moen DN7105 Transfer Bench
Transfer benches are useful for those who find it challenging to get in and out of a tub-style shower. These extended benches sit with two legs inside the tub and two legs outside so users can sit on the bench and slide into the shower. While most have a very medical appearance, the Moen DN7105 Transfer Bench smooths out its design to look more at home in a residential bathroom.
This transfer bench features a spacious seat with rounded edges that lend to its unique design and also simplify transfers. With three height-adjustable legs instead of the four on most transfer benches (each with anti-slip rubber feet), this bench maximizes stability. An easy-grip support handle and ergonomic backrest help users sit comfortably and pull themselves into and out of the bench.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 33 by 18 by 16.5 to 21 inches
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Material: Plastic and aluminum
Pros
- Several comfort and safety features
- Stable design
- Good weight capacity
Cons
- Difficult to store due to large size
Get the Moen transfer bench on Amazon or Wayfair.
Best Adjustable
Dr Kay's Adjustable Height Shower Bench
A lightweight shower bench is the best choice for temporary users since it’s easy to take into and out of the shower. Weighing just 4 pounds, Dr Kay’s Adjustable Height Shower Bench is a light and portable choice. Its lightweight design doesn’t mean it isn’t stable: this bench has a sturdy build and holds up to 300 pounds.
Height-adjustable aluminum legs can adjust from 12.5 to 18.5 inches in height. The X-frame design and nonslip rubber feet keep this seat sturdily in place. A curved plastic seat provides a cozy place to sit while showering. Ergonomic handles assist users into the seat and make it a cinch to remove from the shower when they’re done.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 17 by 10 by 12.5 to 18.5 inches
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Plastic and aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight but sturdy build
- Easily portable
- Adjustable leg height
Cons
- Relatively narrow seat size
Get Dr Kay’s shower bench on Amazon.
Our Verdict
With a shower bench and small footstool included, ToiletTree shower bench is a stylish and functional pick for most bathrooms. For those more concerned with price than style, the Drive shower bench is a budget-friendly shower bench with several safety features.
How We Chose the Best Shower Benches
It’s important to choose a high-quality and durable shower bench, designed with safety in mind. When choosing the best shower benches, the main criteria we looked for was a well-made and functional design.
Features we looked for included adequate drainage and waterproof or very water-resistant materials that are easy to clean. While some benches feature simpler, more stylish designs, we also included options on this list with additional safety features, like handles, removable backrests, and transfer seating.
For many, a shower bench is a necessity, so we included several affordable options on this list. Others choose a shower bench to upgrade their shower routine. Since style is important for these shoppers, we also kept aesthetics in mind, choosing several attractive and modern options that are a far cry from a medical shower seat.
FAQs
Whether they’re a necessary device or a luxurious addition, a shower bench can add comfort and safety to any shower routine. Are you still considering whether a shower bench is right for you? Read on for some frequently asked questions and answers on choosing a shower bench.
Q. Should a shower bench be sloped?
Shower benches sometimes have a minimal slope which helps water drain off the surface. A slope is not always necessary, as long as the bench has a design that encourages drainage and drying (for example, if it is made of waterproof material or has a slatted design).
Q. Are shower benches worth it?
If you’re considering buying a shower bench, it is most likely worth it. A shower bench has many benefits and a low entry cost for freestanding options, making them a worthwhile buy for most shoppers.
Q. Why do people put benches in the shower?
Reasons to install a shower bench range widely; some users may require a bench because they need a place to sit while bathing, while other users add a bench simply so they can relax during a shower.
Q. What size shower do I need for a bench?
The shower should be large enough to accommodate the bench with room to stand and sit down, move around and bathe without hitting the shower walls, and get up and out of the shower comfortably. Shower bench sizes vary, so there should be a suitable option for most showers.
Q. How much weight can a floating shower bench hold?
It depends on the bench, but many will hold up to 400 pounds.