Toilet Bedside Commode

a do it yourself guide to the right purchase.

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Need a toilet bedside commode? When nature calls, there is no call waiting. Your internal plumbing doesn't stop... so if you can't get to the commode, bring the commode to you! Your bathroom has become a necessity that you may take for granted. A knee joint replacement or recent stroke can make your bathroom a tough place to visit despite physical therapy exercises.

With a simple metal frame, a washable bucket underneath and the ability to adjust the height, the toilet bedside commode is quite popular, portable and necessary for many!

If you have mobility issues, trouble getting up and down from a lower toilet seat, balance issues that make you a higher risk of falling, issues with weight, a bedside commode should be high on your list of items to obtain. When all else fails despite strength improvement efforts, a movable commode may be your best temporary solution.

With so many toilet bedside commodes on the market and so many options, the choice can be hard to make. What exactly do you need? What don't you need? So many questions - let's sort them out so you know right what you're after.

Money Saving Options

Outside of an outright commode with everything included (except the toilet paper), your other money saving options include:

Use a seat riser

Use a toilet riser

Use a seat riser with arm holds

Use arm holds only

Use a 3-in-1 commode

Remember, though, commodes are made to fit various needs. Here are some take away tips before you shop.

A 3-in-1 Commode is generally covered by Medicare only with a physician's order.

Consider the weight that will sit on your commode. Heavy weights require a sturdier commode. Fudging on this point can be costly and fatal. Bathroom safety equipment must meet needs safely!

3 uses! Over the commode, in the shower as a shower chair, or beside your bed. (Most bathtubs are too narrow these days).

Most commodes have adjustable legs to adjust height.

Be sure your commode or seat raiser will fit your toilet bowl. Round or oval? Safety equipment must be safe and fit!

Some commodes have a drop arm on them. Will you be scooting from a bed to the commode? If so, get the drop arm commode.

What's the hollow bucket with no bottom in it? Use that if your 3-in-1 goes over your regular commode. It guides everything into the bowl! Liquid on the floor spells disaster.

Take your regular toilet lid all the way off to scoot your 3-in-1 commode further back on your toilet if quarters are tight. You don't want a piece of safety equipment tripping anyone!

Renting a 3-in-1 may be an option at some Durable Medical Equipment stores.

You may only need a toilet seat riser or just the chair arms. This is less bulky but likely more expensive as Medicare generally won't cover these items. They are also less adjustable.

Start doing a sit to stand squat exercise over and over for quad strengthening. You will be surprised at how quickly your current commode becomes manageable again.

Call around in your community. Many cities (even small ones) have some community center that manages donated durable medical equipment. Good will or other thrift stores are a good place to start. Be cautious when buying used bathroom safety equipment. There may be an overlooked reason as to why it was donated in the first place. Check for rust, cracks, missing hardware etc.

simple solutions in a nutshell.

Raised or 3-in-1 commodes are generally needed due to portability and ease of sit to standing... Summarized, you can elevate or make commode transfers successful by getting the correct equipment for the task and ability at hand. Not all bedside commodes are made for everyone - find out what your needs are below.

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RELATED PAGES:

Basic 3-in-1 Commode

Basic 3-in-1 commodes have frills, bells or whistles unless you pay extra for them. Learn more...

Drop Arm Commode

Drop arm commodes are as simple as a 3-in-1 commode with an added whistle - the side arms drop. Learn more...

Extra sturdy, extra wide

These heavy duty toilet bedside commodes are designed for heavy people (bariatric commodes). Learn more...

Transfer Commodes

Transfer commodes are generally made with a metal frame with the same washable, removable bucket and side arms that you can drop for the transfer. Popular in nursing homes and rehab units due to it's ability to roll on wheels fairly easily. Learn more...