Whether you just had a surgery or you’re taking care of an aging relative, a bedside commode is essential when mobility is impaired.
And, depending on your needs, you can choose from a wide variety of commodes. There are
- Steel Frame Commodes
- Folding Bedside Commodes
- 3-in-1 Bedside Commodes
- Bariatric Bedside Commodes
- Drop-Arm Bedside Commodes
- Heavy-Duty Bedside Commodes
Many of these commodes can be used as a pure bedside commode, a raised toilet seat, or toilet safety rails. Some frames can even be used as shower benches.
The number of choices can be overwhelming. So, we’ve analyzed a wide variety of different commodes in order to help you choose. And we’ve chosen the best for each category, depending on your needs.
Overall, there are a lot of good bedside commodes and folding commodes out there. You just have to choose the one best fitted for your needs.
Confidence at Home is a member of the Amazon Associates Affiliate Program. We may receive a commission if you purchase through links in this article. This does not impact our unbiased review process.
| Image | Category | Product | Price |
1  | Best 3-in-1 Bedside Commode | Drive Medical Heavy Duty Bariatric Folding Commode | |
2  | Best Heavy-Duty Bedside Commode | McKesson Bariatric Commode Chair | |
3  | Best Drop-Arm Bedside Commode | Medline Heavy Duty Padded Drop-Arm Commode | |
4  | Most Mobile Bedside Commode | HOMCOM Accessibility Commode Wheelchair | |
5  | Most Comfortable Bedside Commode | UltraCommode Foldable Commode/Shower Chair | |
6  | Best Value | Drive Medical 11148-1 Bedside Folding Commode |
Best 3-in-1 Bedside Commode
This 3-in-1 bedside commode from Drive is about as traditional as they get. The product isn’t necessarily fancy, but the design is a classic and trusted favorite. With a wide base (an impressive 31.75”), this product is perfect for support. You can be sure that it won’t tip over one way or another, and you can feel comfortable that it will hold every time you sit down – it can support 650 lbs.
This product is essentially a more affordable bariatric commode. It sells for around $100, and the manufacturer wants to make sure that the average user feels safe trusting the commode. There is also plenty of space between the arms (a full 2 feet), and the legs are fully adjustable, with the seat going from 15.5” to 22” off the ground.
As a 3-in-1 product, this commode chair is perfect for elderly users. The bucket is easy to remove from the chair, even coming with its own handle and lid. This makes the product ideal for use as a raised toilet seat. In addition, you can easily remove the seat as well, creating sturdy toilet safety rails.
This product is not too heavy, but it isn’t light at 19 lbs. On the other hand, it is foldable, so transportation and storage may be easier than you think. The Drive Heavy Duty Commode also comes equipped with an impressive 12-quart bucket that includes a carrying handle, a lid, and a splash guard.
While this product is very versatile, it does have its downsides. Overall, the hard plastic of the seat is probably not as comfortable as some other products on the market. And because the seat is built like a normal toilet seat, this means it doesn’t have an opening on the front. As you will see with other products, the opening can make all the difference when cleaning, maneuvering a certain way, or removing the bucket. It can also make use difficult for larger male users.
And while the structure of the product may be sturdy, many users found the plastic seat to be more fragile than expected. With some larger users, it may be easier to crack or break this seat than say the seat on the McKesson Heavy Duty Commode (bench seat). In addition, the hard plastic seat does have the potential to pinch or cut some users. The purchase of a seat cushion may be necessary in some instances.
Best Heavy-Duty Bedside Commode
Our pick for the best heavy-duty commode is the McKesson Bariatric Commode. When it comes to heavy duty commodes, you don’t want to mess around with weight capacity. And the McKesson Bariatric Commode Chair blows the competition away.
It supports an impressive 1000 lbs., and the space between armrests is unmatched by competitors. There is almost two full feet (23”) between the arm bars, compared to about 18 in. in smaller chairs.
One of the more helpful features is the bench seat. It is not padded, but the wide surface area of the seat makes it more comfortable for larger users. In addition to the drop-arm feature, the bench seat is very helpful in the shower as well, making it easy for users to slide on and off of the bench even if it is wet. Compared to a traditional 3-in-1 toilet with a round seat, this commode’s wide bench seat and removable arms make it ideal for wheelchair bound users.
One of the downsides of this product is that it does not come with a seat cover. The removable bucket itself has a cover, but it must be removed and replaced once the bucket is removed from the commode. On the other hand, the bucket itself is a full 12 quarts and comes with a carrying handle.
Another downside is that the product is non-folding, so storage may be difficult. However, assembly is easy.
This product is a little pricey. And it is on the heavier side as well, weighing a full 25.8 lbs. when assembled. But if you’re looking for the sturdiest bedside commode on the market, you don’t want to skimp on price or be concerned about its weight.
Overall, this product is the safest bet if you’re looking for a heavy-duty bariatric chair. McKesson is a reputable vendor, so you can be comfortable with the quality of your purchase.
Best Drop-Arm Bedside Commode
Many of the commodes that we review here are drop-arm commodes. But most of them don’t have the reliability that this product does. With the Medline Heavy Duty Padded Drop-Arm Commode you can get a product that provides comfort, sturdiness, and ease of use all in one.
This Medline commode comes equipped with a steel frame and arms that are covered with slip-free foam grips. The arms drop down and completely out of the way. In addition, the padding is thick and comfortable, with the ever-important opening in the front of the seat.
Notably, the seat is very high quality, carrying a reliable steel frame. Much like other bedside commodes of its type, it holds up to 350 lbs., but with the quality of this product you can be sure of that promise.
Also, unlike a lot of other multi-use commodes with back rests, this product can actually fit over a toilet. Of course, it’s not made for every type of toilet, but once you remove the backrest (which can be removed relatively easily) the product should fit over most standard traditional toilets.
In addition, the product comes with a large, 12-quart bucket, equipped with a splash guard and carrying handle.
One of the most important features is the ease with which you can drop either arm. This function allows the product to be used in a variety of different ways. It can be placed alongside the bed with one arm released down for easy transfer during the night. It can also be used as a transfer chair. The user can be moved from one side to the other with relative ease as both arms can be dropped.
If you’re going to go with this high-quality product, then be advised that the cost will likely be a little higher than other commodes. The product typically sells for in excess of $100 online. But with a steel frame and padded seat and backrest, the reliability and comfort can be worth it.
Most Mobile Bedside Commode
Mobility isn’t always something that you are looking for in a bedside commode. However, in specific instances it can be a primary concern. If the commode user is, for instance, unable to walk at all or maneuver easily, mobility can be key in determining which chair to purchase.
The HOMCOM Accessibility Commode Wheelchair looks like the best choice when it comes to mobility. This product contains four swivel wheels equipped with breaks. In addition, there are swinging foot rests for easy maneuverability when standing up and sitting down. The chair is also a drop-arm, meaning that side entry is always a possibility if you’re in a tight area.
This product is perfect for showering too. It comes complete with waterproof padding and locks on the wheels to keep it from sliding when in a wet environment. Additionally, the chair comes with a removable center-pad that is stable when sitting in the shower and can be removed for bathroom use. The waste bucket is rectangular instead of round, which can allow for easy use without having to maneuver in the seat. Because of the drop-arm capability as well as the waterproof nature of the product, this bedside commode can also transform into a well-functioning transfer bench.
Once the center-pad is removed, the seat is also an open front – something that is invaluable to a lot of users and allows for easy cleaning as well as easy use. Once the center-pad is removed, the chair can also be placed over most traditional toilets, allowing it to be used purely for transportation to the toilet without the use of the bucket (if the buyer so desires).
As far as measurements go, the seat ranges from 19.25” to 21.25” in height and is adjustable. Like most other commodes, there is a small, but suitable 17.5” between armrests. The product itself is on the heavier side, though, weighing 32.8 lbs. For some caregivers, this extra weight can be a burden when moving the product around a house. The weight capacity, while not that of some bariatric commodes, rivals most other bedside commodes at a respectable 300 lbs.
When it comes to downsides, this product doesn’t have many. But up front, we will say that the HOMCOM is more expensive than other stationary bedside commodes. It comes in at over $250, much higher than even many other heavy-duty bariatric commodes on the market. And while it is padded, some users find the padding to be more firm than comfortable. In addition, some users may also find the seat back to be a bit stiff, with many reviewers stating that they wish it could recline more in the shower.
Overall though, if you’re willing to spend the money, this is the best choice when you’re looking for a commode that allows for mobility. It is designed for shower use, so in addition to being used at bedside and over a traditional toilet, it doubles as a comfortable shower chair as well – something most commodes lack.
Most Comfortable Bedside Commode
If you’re looking for the most comfortable, versatile bedside commode on the market and price is not an obstacle, then look no further than the UltraCommode Foldable Commode/Shower Chair from Platinum Health.
This product is unsurpassed in the comfort and ease of use. It has soft-touch padding lining the seat and backrest, allowing any user to experience comfort and warmth during use. Once you sit on this product, you will be completely relieved to find that it supports 300 lbs.
With the padded backrest and armrests, you’re not going anywhere once you sit down. And while the padding is soft enough to provide an adequate cushion, it’s also firm enough to prevent any unpleasant pinching or cutting by the hard structure of the product underneath.
The UltraCommode is relatively spacious with a 16”x16” seat, with 20” of space in between the armrests. It also comes with an open front, allowing for ease of access while cleaning or removing the bucket.
While this versatile product can be used alone, it can also be placed over a commode and used in a shower. The padding is fully waterproof, so it works great as a shower chair. In addition, this product folds like a lawn chair, so it is easy to take with you if you are travelling.
On the downside, however, some users may find the UltraCommode to be difficult to fold. This, combined with its relatively heavy weight of 20 lbs. could make this product difficult to store or travel with for some elderly patients without a younger caregiver.
One major benefit is that the UltraCommode is adjustable in height. The legs can be easily adjusted, raising the seat from a low of 19” in height up to 23”. And, in addition to all its other attributes, this commode is also a drop-arm. The arms easily fold down with the touch of a button.
This product isn’t without its faults though. The first of which is the size of the actual opening. It’s about 6 inches at its widest, which some patients find to be rather small, especially compared to a normal toilet. Along with that, there is some space between the waste bucket and the seat, which could allow for some spillage (especially for male users).
In addition, while many users use this product over a traditional toilet, it is not necessarily advertised as such. Unlike many other 3-in-1 commodes, the UltraCommode has a pretty sturdy (and large) back rest. While comfortable, the design of this chair doesn’t necessarily allow it to easily fit on every toilet. Some users find that it works fine on their toilet, but it’s not a guarantee.
Besides these flaws though (which don’t affect every user the same), this is one of the more versatile commodes on the market. It is definitely the most comfortable choice, and the design is, without a doubt, superior to most products. The opening in the front is a must for a lot of male buyers, and the UltraCommode comes through on that front.
If you’re looking to find a good deal though, don’t look here. This product is well over $200 – a price many users may feel is too high, even if the comfort is unsurpassed. But you don’t have to look hard to find a lot of happy customers who are glad to pay the higher price (just look at Amazon reviews and reviews on the Platinum Health website).
Best Value
If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, then you can’t go wrong with the Drive Medical 11148-1 Bedside Folding Commode. It’s extremely affordable, selling for around $30. And it has the most ratings and reviews of any bedside commode on Amazon. In fact, it is Amazon’s Choice for bedside commodes by Drive Medical.
The product is a standard 3-in-1 folding commode with a removable bucket. If you’re purchasing this commode, make sure that you or the actual user are the intended customer. The majority of bad reviews seem to result from a misunderstanding about the weight capacity and size of the commode. This folding commode is on the smaller side, with 18 inches between the arm rests. In addition, the weight capacity is 350 lbs.
If the dimensions are perfect for your intended use, however, you’d be hard pressed to find a commode that delivers more value for the money you spend. At only 13 lbs., the product itself is pretty easy to move and store. It is also completely foldable with a removable 7.5 qt. bucket that comes equipped with a splash guard and a handle.
The assembly for the commode requires no tools. And the 3-in-1 features allow for versatility. The bucket can be easily removed, the legs can be raised or lowered, and the seat can be removed as well if you want to use the rails alongside a traditional toilet.
Additionally, this product comes with a seat cover that serves as a back rest when raised. Finally, it’s easy to forget that this product can fold flat for easy storage. That’s hard to beat when you have company coming over or if you want to take it with you when travelling.
On the downside, there have been complaints about the small seat size as well as limited space between the arm rests. As a result, this commode seems to be best fit for smaller women, as men and larger individuals find it difficult to use the smaller seat and frame.
And while this product is sturdy, it is not a drop-arm commode. So, entry from the side is not possible.
Overall though, for under $40 you can get a sturdy, portable commode that is reliable and versatile.
How to Use a Bedside Commode
For adults caring for their elderly parent, someone recovering from an injury, or someone who has trouble getting in and out of the bathroom, a bedside commode is an essential piece of equipment that can help make an individual’s life easier. Getting a bedside commode can be one of the most effective ways to prevent falls in your home.
A bedside commode is a movable toilet that sits next to a person’s bed. It is utilized for someone who has difficulty getting to the bathroom, is unsteady, is at risk of falling, or becomes short of breath when walking to use a toilet. It does not use a water source and has a removable bucket so that it can be cleaned after use.
Common Types of Bedside Commodes
There are several different types of commodes. The best option for the person will depend on the physical needs and condition of the user. and a physician or therapist will recommend which is best for that person.
The 3 basic types are:
- The Stationary Bedside Commode – This is often referred to as the standard commode and is best for short-term use. It can come with a swing arm to make it easier for the patient to bump from the bed to the chair.
- Folding Bedside Commode – This is best if you have a small space or temporarily use it. It is an excellent choice for someone visiting or only with you part-time. It can be folded and put away.
- 3-in1 Bedside Commode – This has a wider frame that can be used for leverage or balance, and can be used bedside, over the toilet, or as a shower chair. It can come equipped with locking wheels and a swing arm.
Helping a Person Use a Bedside Commode
- Make sure the commode is positioned next to the bed.
- Place the bucket under the commode-or slide it into its position.
- Put a small amount of water in the commode or use a commode liner in the bucket.
- Help the person get out of the bed onto the commode chair.
- Make sure you use the technique that the therapist or company that sold you the chair showed you to keep the person safe you are helping.
- Stay with the person for safety, or if they can safely have privacy, give them a small bell to ring when they are done.
When They are Done
- If the person can wipe themselves, give them toilet paper to complete the task.
- If they cannot wipe themselves, put on disposable gloves.
- Help the person stand up.
- If they cannot stand up, remove the bucket and set it aside.
- You will have to reach under the bedside commode to wipe the person.
- Use toilet paper, wipes, or soap and water and gently wipe from front to back.
- Towel dry – A moist genital area can cause skin breakdown.
- Help the person wipe or wash his hands.
- Then help the person back into bed.
How to Empty a Bedside Commode and Keep it Clean
Keeping the bedside commode clean and empty are important to keep your home odor free and clean.
To complete this task, make sure you wear gloves, take the bucket into the bathroom, pour the contents into the toilet, and flush. The bucket can be cleaned with a toilet brush, a germ-killing cleanser, and water. Scrub the bucket as you would your toilet.
When you are completed with cleaning, you can keep the bucket in the bathroom or place it back under the bedside commode. Throw your gloves away.
How to use Bedside Commode Liners
To make the cleanup job easier, there are bedside commode liners with absorbent pads. The absorbent pads work somewhat like a child’s diaper – though in the commode bucket. The pad will absorb the urine and help to eliminate odors.
To use this liner, place the plastic bag into the commode bucket. Set an absorbent pad in the bottom of the bucket. Once the person has used the bedside commode, lift the bag out of the commode by the ties and tie the bag shut as you would with a garbage bag. Dispose of the bag into the trash can. These bags do help eliminate odors with the use of absorbent pads.
Can Bedside Commode Liners be Flushed?
The bedside liners will make the cleanup easier. However, they should not be flushed down your toilet. Just as women’s sanitary pads or diapers should not be flushed, the commode liners will plug your toilet if you try to flush them.
To properly dispose of them, tie the bag shut and take them to your outside trash can. This will eliminate any odors you could have.
When helping a person use the bedside commode, always provide dignity and respect. If you have further questions, contact your physician or the supplier of your bedside commode.
Important Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bedside Commode
Range of Mobility
The range of mobility of the person using the commode may be the single most important factor when deciding which commode to purchase. Obviously, you don’t need me to tell you this, because mobility is the very reason you’re here looking for a bedside commode.
However, it is possible to purchase the wrong one. Amazon is riddled with negative reviews by people who purchased commodes that weren’t right for themselves or their loved one. If you’re buying a commode for someone else, sometimes you just don’t know how effective their range of motion is.
Further, you have to keep in mind possible deteriorations in mobility in the future. If you buy a commode that’s suitable for someone who can walk with limited assistance now, it may not be suitable for them if they need the assistance of a wheelchair in the future. These are things you have to keep in mind when reviewing commodes for purchase.
As you browse the selections reviewed above, make sure you are visualizing how you or the intended user will be using the commode – checking with the user manual to make sure you’re on the right track.
Body Type
One of the most important elements to keep in mind when choosing a commode is the body type of the person who will be using it. If you or the person you are caring for are a smaller individual, you will be comfortable with many of the options we have described above. Almost all of them hold at least 300 lbs., but many lack the space to accommodate larger users.
If you are worried about the size of your bedside commode, however, then you shouldn’t fool around with a smaller model. You can skim hundreds of reviews and find that, many times, the most common complaint is that the product or seat is too small.
If you think that you will need extra space or a stronger frame, it would probably be best to find a heavy duty or larger bariatric commode. Price won’t be much of any issue if you can’t use the commode you purchase.
Intended Uses
Before you purchase a bedside commode, ask yourself what you intend to use it for. Is it primarily for bedside use? As a raised toilet seat over your traditional toilet? As railing for your toilet? The most likely answer is a combination of at least 2 of these. If that wasn’t the case, then you probably wouldn’t be looking for bedside commodes.
But keep in mind that if you’re willing to live without an extra feature, you may be able to purchase a commode that better fits your needs, or one that is in a better price range.
You also have to take into account where you live, the amount of travel you will be doing, whether you will be using a caregiver, etc. For instance, if you would like to store your commode, you may be more interested in a folding commode.
If you travel a decent amount, you may be interested in a folding or even rolling commode as well. Either way, mobility is definitely something to take into account.
In addition, you may want to use the chair as a shower bench. Purchasing a bedside commode that doubles as a shower bench could save you money (and space) in the long run, even if it costs you more initially.
Caregiver Ease of Use
An extremely important buying component to keep in mind is the caregiver ease of use. You – as a caregiver, user, or just the purchaser – have to ask yourself how the individual assisting the user will be able to handle the bedside commode.
If the caregiver can easily assist the user to the commode, then you may not have to worry about purchasing a more mobile (and more expensive option). Will the caregiver be there to help at night? If not, you may want to seriously consider a drop-arm like the Medline Heavy Duty Drop-Arm, which you can line up with the bed, arm lowered for easy access at night.
If you want to buy a product that you can use as a raised toilet seat, you may want to consider whether the caregiver can help the user to the toilet. If the user is more mobile or doesn’t require a lot of assistance, then maybe the caregiver doesn’t have to worry about this and you can purchase a commode for use as a raised toilet seat.
Common Accessories and Other Add-Ons
One of the most important things to keep in mind is that you will likely need a lot of add-ons and other products to safely use most bedside commodes. Some of these are more necessary than others, and some just make for a more enjoyable experience.
For example, cleaning products are a must with every commode listed here. There’s no way around it, you’re going to have to clean your bedside commode, no matter how unpleasant it may be. To do the job, make sure you purchase adequate cleaning products.
Other products, some users may find to be discretionary. Toilet liners and splash guards make for an easier and more enjoyable user experience. Splash guards do exactly what they say, prevent too much splash. And toilet liners can be a lot of help if you want to avoid excessive cleaning. Many liners soak up liquids very well, allowing the user to simply lift the liner out and dispose of it like a trash bag.
For male users, you may also want to consider a portable urinal container. It can make it easier to use the commode when you’re in a tight spot or find it difficult to maneuver.
Overall, you shouldn’t purchase a bedside commode without considering the necessary accessories and the benefits that come along with them.
Conclusion
It’s clear to see that there’s really no single bedside commode that’s perfect for every situation. Sometimes you require one that allows for extra mobility, or maybe a commode that can hold a little more weight. And even though all of them have their downsides, we hope you can use this guide to identify the best fit for your specific situation.
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