What is a bath lift?

How a bath lift works

A bath lift is a battery-powered seat that sits inside the bath. The user sits on it at bath-rim height, presses a button, and the seat lowers them towards the bath floor. Another press raises them back up to the rim so they can get out.

Most models are removable without tools, so other people in the household can still use the bath normally.

Who a bath lift may suit

Bath lifts tend to suit someone who wants to carry on having baths rather than switching to showers, who can move onto a seat at bath height, and who can sit safely without being held.

They are less suitable for someone who cannot transfer onto the seat at all, or who needs support to stay upright while seated.

Checks to make before ordering

Three things determine whether a bath lift will work in a particular home.

• Internal bath width and length, and whether the base of the bath is reasonably flat.
• Maximum user weight for the model you are considering.
• Who will charge the handset, and where. Batteries typically need charging every week or two.

Alternatives worth considering

If the bath is narrow or unusually shaped, a bath board or transfer bench may suit better. If bathing itself has become difficult rather than just the lowering, a shower chair with a shower over the bath is often simpler and cheaper.

A note on claims

No piece of equipment can guarantee safety. A bath lift is designed to reduce the effort involved in getting in and out of the bath. If you are unsure whether it is suitable for a particular person, please check with a healthcare professional, occupational therapist or qualified mobility specialist.