Shower Buddy SB1

From the manufacturer

The argument for a transfer system is usually an argument against a bathroom renovation, and that is how it is best framed in a submission. Converting a bathroom for a wheelchair user means removing the shower hob, re-waterproofing, re-tiling and often relocating fixtures — months of work, significant cost, and simply not available to anyone renting. The SB1 delivers shower and toilet access across an existing step-in shower without altering a single fixture, sets up in under an hour, and packs down and moves with the client if they change address. The second argument is manual handling. Lifting a seated client over a shower hob is one of the higher-risk transfers a carer performs, and it is a recognised mechanism of carer back injury. The SB1 removes it: the chair slides along a bridge, across the step, with the client seated throughout. How it works: the wheeled base and bridge line up with the shower, the chair slides across, and waterproof suction feet fix it to the shower floor. The bridge then detaches so the door can close and the carer has access. The chair rotates 360 degrees inside the shower (space permitting), so the client can face the outlet or turn for assisted washing. The base can stay in the shower or be removed so the rest of the household can use it normally. It also doubles as a commode. Locking casters let it be positioned over most standard toilets, and a pan and lid are included for bedside use. A full overlay cushion closes the aperture so it works as a day chair between uses. Published specifications: 160 kg capacity. Seat height adjustable 550–680 mm from the floor. Width 520 mm over casters, 570 mm over arms, 475 mm inside arms — measure the doorway and the shower entry against those. Maximum toilet height clearance 510 mm; narrowest toilet width clearance 295 mm. Standard bridge 405 mm, with 300 mm, 200 mm and custom bridges available. Arms are removable, lockable and flip-back; footrest folds up; lap and chest belts fitted; 125 mm all-locking casters. Frame is 6061 T6 aluminium with 304 stainless hardware, assembled without tools. Where the client has to clear a bathtub wall rather than a shower step, the TubBuddy SB2 is the correct model.

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