Best Commode for Elderly: Top Picks for Comfortable and Safe Toileting [2024]

As we get older, our physical condition evolves, making even basic activities such as going to the restroom more difficult. For older adults experiencing difficulties with mobility, commodes serve as a valuable tool to preserve autonomy and respect. These portable toilets, which can be placed in a bedroom, living room, or bathroom, offer various designs and dimensions to accommodate personal requirements and tastes.

When selecting the best commode for the elderly, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of commode, whether it’s a bedside commode, a drop-arm commode, or a mobile commode. Bedside commodes are stationary and can be placed next to the bed, while drop-arm commodes have arms that can be lowered to make transfers easier. Mobile commodes have wheels and can be moved around the house, providing more flexibility.

Another critical factor is the weight capacity of the commode. Most commodes have a weight capacity of 250-300 pounds, but heavier-duty models are available for individuals who need extra support. The seat height is also important, as it should be at a comfortable level for the user to sit and stand up from.

After researching and testing various commodes, we have identified the best commode for the elderly. Our top pick is the Drive Medical Steel Folding Bedside Commode. This commode has a weight capacity of 350 pounds and features a durable steel frame that can be folded for easy storage. The seat height is adjustable, and the armrests can be removed for easy transfers. The Drive Medical Steel Folding Bedside Commode is a reliable and versatile option for seniors with mobility issues.

Best Commodes for Elderly

As we age, we often require additional support and assistance in various aspects of our daily lives. One of the most essential needs is maintaining good hygiene, especially when it comes to using the restroom. For elderly individuals or those with mobility issues, a commode can be an invaluable aid in maintaining independence and dignity. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best commodes for the elderly based on factors such as comfort, ease of use, and durability. Whether you are looking for a commode for yourself or a loved one, we are confident that you will find a suitable option among our top picks.

Carex Folding Bedside Commode

We highly recommend the Carex Folding Bedside Commode for those in need of a portable toilet solution. It’s perfect for elderly individuals, camping trips, and travel.

Pros

• The elongated seat is comfortable and perfect for adult use.
• The commode is lightweight and folds easily for transport and storage.
• The Carex Folding Bedside Commode comes complete with a bucket toilet, splash guard, lid, and trial pack of commode liners.

Cons

• The commode bucket is not very deep, so use caution when cleaning.
• The seat may pinch the leg at the front.
• The collector does not seem stable when carrying by the handle.

We found the Carex Folding Bedside Commode to be a great solution for those who need a portable toilet. It can be used as a standalone commode, a raised toilet seat, or a toilet safety frame. The product dimensions are 22″ x 18.5″ x 16″, and it weighs only 8.5 lbs.

The commode is easy to assemble and use, and it’s perfect for those who have limited space. It’s also great for those who need a handicap toilet for the disabled. The commode supports weight up to 300 lbs, making it suitable for most individuals.

Overall, the Carex Folding Bedside Commode is a great investment for those in need of a portable toilet solution. It’s well-designed, easy to use, and highly functional.

Medokare Bedside Commode Chair

If you’re looking for a portable bedside toilet seat for an elderly individual, the Medokare Bedside Commode Chair is a great choice.

Pros

• The chair is versatile and can be used as a toilet seat riser with handles or positioned by the bed or living room for convenience.
• The sturdy adult toilet chair has a safety frame with padded armrests, making it easier for the user to get up and sit down.
• The adjustable height feature allows for comfort and convenience with the push of a button.

Cons

• Some users have reported rusting after a short period of use.
• The seat is a bit tight for some individuals.
• It may not be easy to wipe oneself due to the design.

This chair is easy to assemble without any tools, and the steel commode has a removable pail with a splash guard lid for easy clean-up. The Medokare commode liners make clean-up even quicker.

Overall, the Medokare Bedside Commode Chair is a sturdy and versatile option for those in need of a portable bedside toilet seat.

Agrish Bedside Commode for Seniors with Adjustable Design (Heavy Duty 400lbs), Handicap Raised Toilet Seat with Handles Padded, Medical Elderly Assistance Potty Chair (Extra Large), Gray 3-in-1 Bedside Commode

If you’re looking for a versatile and comfortable commode for an elderly person, the Agrish Bedside Commode is a great choice. With its adjustable width and height settings, it can be customized to fit the needs of users of all sizes. It’s also multifunctional, serving as a shower chair, an over-the-toilet seat, or a regular chair with the commode bucket removed.

Pros

• The cushioned seat provides exceptional comfort, alleviating pressure points and providing a supportive sitting experience.
• The reinforced steel frame offers stability and support to users, making it a safe and sturdy option.
• The commode is toilet user-friendly, with a paper holder and storage pouch.

Cons

• Assembly can be challenging, with many parts to assemble and some mis-marked.
• Some users may find the commode less sturdy than expected.
• The price may be higher than some other options on the market.

We recently purchased the Agrish Bedside Commode for a family member who needed a convenient and accessible toileting solution. We appreciated the adjustable design, which allowed us to customize the commode to fit our family member’s needs. The cushioned seat was also a big plus, providing exceptional comfort during extended periods of sitting.

However, assembly was a bit challenging, with many parts to assemble and some mis-marked. Once assembled, the commode was less sturdy than we expected, but it was still a safe and sturdy option for our family member. The toilet user-friendly features were also a nice touch, making toileting easier and more convenient.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and comfortable commode for an elderly person, the Agrish Bedside Commode is a great choice. While assembly may be challenging and the price may be higher than some other options, the cushioned seat, reinforced steel frame, and toilet user-friendly features make it a practical and convenient choice for any home or healthcare facility.

GentleBoost Uplift Raised Toilet Seat with Handles

We highly recommend the GentleBoost Uplift Raised Toilet Seat with Handles for elderly individuals who need assistance with sitting and standing.

Pros

• The GentleBoost technology provides a safe and easy way for users to sit and stand.
• The 3-in-1 design allows the chair to be used as a bedside commode, over the toilet, or in the shower.
• The fully padded seat, backrest, and handles provide optimal comfort and help eliminate potential skin tears.

Cons

• The seating area may be too small for taller individuals.
• The chair is not electrically powered, which may be a drawback for some users.
• The blue color may not be aesthetically pleasing for all users.

The GentleBoost Uplift Raised Toilet Seat with Handles is a versatile and comfortable commode chair that can be used in multiple settings. The GentleBoost technology ensures that users can safely and easily sit and stand, making it an excellent option for elderly individuals who need assistance with mobility. The fully padded seat, backrest, and handles provide optimal comfort and help eliminate potential skin tears, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.

The 3-in-1 design allows the chair to be used as a bedside commode, over the toilet, or in the shower, making it a versatile and practical option for those who need assistance in the bathroom. The chair’s integrated handrails provide added safety, no matter where it is used.

While the seating area may be too small for taller individuals, the chair’s overall design and functionality make it an excellent option for most users. The chair is not electrically powered, which may be a drawback for some users, but the GentleBoost technology provides a safe and effective alternative.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the GentleBoost Uplift Raised Toilet Seat with Handles for elderly individuals who need assistance with sitting and standing. Its versatile 3-in-1 design, GentleBoost technology, and fully padded seat and handles make it an excellent choice for those who need a safe and comfortable commode chair.

Goplus 4-in-1 Folding Bedside Commode

If you’re looking for a versatile and sturdy commode chair, the Goplus 4-in-1 Folding Bedside Commode is worth considering.

Pros

• The chair is multifunctional and can be used as a commode chair, shower chair, mobile toilet, and normal chair.
• It’s made of premium materials and has a stable construction that can support up to 440lbs.
• The height is adjustable and the commode bucket is detachable for easy cleaning.

Cons

• The chair may not fit in small spaces due to its size.
• The armrests may not be comfortable for some users.
• Some users may find the assembly process difficult.

We were impressed with the versatility of the Goplus 4-in-1 Folding Bedside Commode. It’s not just a commode chair, but also a shower chair, mobile toilet, and normal chair. The chair is made of premium materials and has a stable construction that can support up to 440lbs. The threaded non-slip pads enhance stability, and with water-resistant surface, this shower chair can be used in a wet and slippery environment such as a bathroom.

The height of the chair is adjustable and the commode bucket is detachable for easy cleaning. The chair can be folded easily for convenient storage, and it’s lightweight enough to be taken anywhere. However, the chair may not fit in small spaces due to its size. Some users may also find the armrests uncomfortable. Additionally, some users may find the assembly process difficult.

Overall, the Goplus 4-in-1 Folding Bedside Commode is a versatile and sturdy option for those looking for a multifunctional commode chair.

Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair

We highly recommend the Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair for elderly individuals or those recovering from surgery. This versatile commode chair can be used as a bedside commode, a commode chair for toilet with arms, or a toilet safety frame.

Pros

• The tool-free snap-button assembly makes it easy to open and fold for storage and transportation.
• The durable plastic snap-on seat and lid, along with the plastic arms, provide added comfort.
• The powder-coated steel-welded construction increases the strength and durability of the commode chair.

Cons

• The commode bucket can easily overbalance and spill urine on the floor when held by the handle.
• The suction cups on the legs may come off the floor easily.
• The seat could be stronger.

We found the Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair to be a reliable and sturdy product. The assembly process was straightforward and tool-free, making it easy to set up. The plastic arms provided added comfort during use, and the powder-coated steel-welded construction made it durable and long-lasting.

However, we did notice that the commode bucket can easily overbalance and spill urine on the floor when held by the handle. Additionally, the suction cups on the legs may come off the floor easily, which can be a safety concern. Finally, the seat could be stronger to support heavier individuals.

Overall, we believe that the Drive Medical Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair is a great option for those in need of a versatile and durable commode chair. It has a weight capacity of 350 pounds, making it suitable for most individuals.

DMI Deluxe Steel Drop-Arm Commode

We highly recommend the DMI Deluxe Steel Drop-Arm Commode for anyone who needs a portable toilet close to the bed or wherever is convenient. It’s easy to assemble with no tools, and the padded support arms drop below seat level using a pull-pin release mechanism to provide for smooth lateral transfers from the bed or wheelchair.

Pros

• The portable toilet is made sturdy with slip-resistant rubber tips that make getting up and sitting down significantly easier while providing the stability you deserve.
• The commode is designed for easy transfer with a pull-pin release mechanism that drops the padded support arms below seat level, allowing for unobstructed lateral transfers into the beside commode.
• The convenient drop-arm commode adjusts to the user’s height from 19 to 23 inches in 1-inch increments.

Cons

• The seat is narrow, which can be uncomfortable for some users during bowel movements.
• The commode is not 100% stable, so you have to use caution when using it.
• The splash guard can be difficult to clean.

In our experience, the DMI Deluxe Steel Drop-Arm Commode is a reliable and convenient option for anyone who needs a portable toilet close to the bed. The commode assembles easily with no tools and has a large capacity with an 8-quart pail with lid and splash guard. Slip-resistant tips add to safety, and the commode supports up to 250 pounds.

We appreciate the adjustability of the commode, which allows users to customize the height to their needs. The drop-arm feature is also a great addition, making it easier for users to transfer from the bed or wheelchair. However, the seat is narrow, which can be uncomfortable for some users during bowel movements.

Overall, we believe the DMI Deluxe Steel Drop-Arm Commode is a solid choice for anyone who needs a portable toilet close to the bed or wherever is convenient. It’s easy to use, reliable, and provides the stability and support you need.

GreenChief 3 in 1 Bariatric Bedside Commode 700lb

We highly recommend the GreenChief 3 in 1 Bariatric Bedside Commode 700lb for those who are looking for a sturdy, versatile, and comfortable commode chair.

Pros

• The chair is made of sturdy anodized aluminum frame and thickened pipe wall, which can hold up to 700lbs, making it ideal for bariatric, elderly, adults, and disabled individuals.
• The extra-wide padded seat and cushion provide a spacious and comfortable sitting area, which is perfect for people with limited mobility.
• The U-shaped cutout seat and removable commode bucket make cleaning and maintenance quite convenient.

Cons

• The chair is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around.
• The assembly instructions may be a bit confusing for some users.
• The chair may be a bit expensive compared to other commode chairs on the market.

The GreenChief 3 in 1 Bariatric Bedside Commode 700lb is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and comfortable commode chair. The chair is made of high-quality materials and can hold up to 700lbs, making it ideal for bariatric, elderly, adults, and disabled individuals. The extra-wide padded seat and cushion provide a spacious and comfortable sitting area, which is perfect for people with limited mobility. Additionally, the U-shaped cutout seat and removable commode bucket make cleaning and maintenance quite convenient.

The chair is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around. However, this is a small price to pay for the chair’s sturdiness and durability. The assembly instructions may be a bit confusing for some users, but with a little patience and effort, anyone can put the chair together. Finally, the chair may be a bit expensive compared to other commode chairs on the market, but we believe that it is worth the investment for those who need a reliable and comfortable commode chair.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the GreenChief 3 in 1 Bariatric Bedside Commode 700lb for anyone who needs a reliable, versatile, and comfortable commode chair. With its sturdy construction, spacious and comfortable seat, and convenient features, this chair is sure to provide many years of reliable service.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best commode for elderly, there are several factors that one should consider. We have compiled a list of features to look for when shopping for a commode.

Height

The height of the commode is an important factor to consider. It should be at a comfortable height for the elderly person to sit and stand up from. A commode that is too low can cause discomfort and difficulty while using it.

Weight Capacity

It is important to check the weight capacity of the commode before making a purchase. The weight capacity should be able to support the weight of the elderly person who will be using it.

Portability

If the commode needs to be moved frequently, then portability is an important factor to consider. A lightweight and portable commode can be easily moved around the house.

Seat Size

The size of the seat is another important factor to consider. The seat should be wide enough to provide comfort and support to the elderly person.

Armrests

Armrests provide support and stability while using the commode. They should be sturdy and easy to grip.

Cleaning

The commode should be easy to clean and maintain. Look for a commode with a smooth surface that can be easily wiped down.

Accessories

Some commodes come with accessories such as a splash guard, commode liners, and a cover. These accessories can make using the commode more convenient and hygienic.

In summary, when shopping for a commode for elderly, it is important to consider the height, weight capacity, portability, seat size, armrests, cleaning, and accessories. By considering these factors, you can choose the best commode for your elderly loved one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider when choosing a bedside commode?

When choosing a bedside commode, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the weight capacity of the commode to ensure it can support the weight of the user. Additionally, consider the height of the commode to ensure it is at a comfortable level for the user. Other factors to consider include the size of the seat, the type of bucket or pan used, and any additional features such as armrests or adjustable legs.

What is a bariatric commode and how is it different from a regular commode?

A bariatric commode is designed to support individuals who weigh over 300 pounds. These commodes have a higher weight capacity and wider seats than regular commodes. Additionally, bariatric commodes often have reinforced frames and extra support features for added stability.

Can a bedpan be used instead of a bedside commode?

While a bedpan can be used instead of a bedside commode, it is not recommended. Bedpans are designed to be used while laying down, which can be uncomfortable and difficult for some users. Additionally, bedpans can be messy and require assistance from a caregiver to use properly.

How often should I clean my bedside commode?

It is recommended to clean your bedside commode after each use. This will help prevent the buildup of bacteria and unpleasant odors. Use a disinfectant cleaner and warm water to thoroughly clean the commode and its components.

Are there any tips for keeping my bedside commode from smelling?

To keep your bedside commode from smelling, it is important to clean it regularly and thoroughly. Additionally, consider using odor-neutralizing products such as deodorizing tablets or sprays. It may also be helpful to empty the bucket or pan frequently and store the commode in a well-ventilated area.

Where can I find the best deals on bedside commodes?

You can find bedside commodes for sale at medical supply stores, online retailers, and through healthcare providers. Consider shopping around to compare prices and features before making a purchase. Additionally, check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of a bedside commode.