Maintaining safety and independence in the bathroom is one of the most important parts of living well at home — especially as mobility or strength changes over time. Tasks like showering, toileting, or getting in and out of the bath can quickly become difficult, risky, or tiring without the right support.

At Mobility Plus NZ, we believe the right equipment should make life easier — not more complicated. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, supporting a loved one, or planning ahead, this guide will help you understand the best bathroom and toileting aids available and how to choose what’s right for your home and needs.

Making changes in the bathroom isn’t always easy — but often it’s the small signs that tell us support is needed. Many of our customers tell us they wish they’d put the right equipment in place sooner. That’s because the right setup can reduce the risk of falls, prevent injury, and restore independence.

Here are some common signs it might be time to explore bathroom or toileting equipment:

• You feel unsteady getting in or out of the shower, especially on wet or slippery floorsYou're avoiding showers or baths because they feel tiring or unsafe
• You’ve had a near miss or a fall — or rely on walls and towel rails for balance
• You're finding it hard to get up from the toilet — especially without armrests or support
• You're recovering from surgery or managing a long-term condition like arthritis, MS, or stroke
• You're supporting a loved one and need ways to reduce strain or assist more safely

Using bathroom equipment isn’t about giving up — it’s about making daily routines safer, more comfortable, and easier to manage. Whether it’s a raised toilet seat, a shower stool, or a full over-toilet frame, having the right tools in place helps Kiwis stay independent at home for longer

When planning for safety and independence at home, it helps to break things into two areas: bathroom aids and toileting aids. While they often work together, they serve slightly different purposes — and choosing the right support in each space can make a big difference to your comfort and confidence.

1. Bathroom Equipment (Showering & Bathing Aids)

These products help make washing safer and easier — whether you're standing in a shower, sitting on a stool, or getting in and out of a bath. Most are lightweight and portable, so they can be used in different bathrooms if needed. Many are height adjustable for comfort and safety.
This includes: shower chairs, shower stools, rotating shower seats, height-adjustable shower stools, and bath transfer boards.

2. Toileting Equipment (Toilet Safety & Support Aids)

Toileting products are designed to assist with safe, comfortable toilet use — especially if strength or balance is reduced. Many Kiwis find these useful after surgery, during rehabilitation, or if struggling to get on and off a standard-height toilet.
This includes: raised toilet seats, toilet frames with arms, over-toilet frames, bedside commodes, male and female urinal bottles, and privacy screens.

When choosing bathroom and toileting aids, it’s not just about the product — it’s about how it fits into your home and routine. Some people need a long-term solution to support ageing in place, while others may need short-term help during recovery or when visiting family. Thinking about where, who, and how often it will be used can help guide your decision.

1. Where Will It Be Used?

Some bathrooms are tight on space, especially in older homes, so compact or folding options are often best. If you're renting or don’t want to drill into walls, look for freestanding equipment like height-adjustable stools or toilet seat raisers. Shower stools with non-slip feet work well in standard showers, while bath benches are helpful where stepping over the edge of a tub is a challenge.

2. Who Is It For?

Most bathroom aids are designed with older adults in mind, but they're equally useful for anyone recovering from surgery, managing reduced strength, or supporting a chronic condition. They can also make a big difference for family caregivers — helping them assist a partner or parent safely, without strain or risk.

3. How Often Will It Be Used?

If it's for everyday use, comfort and durability are key. Padded seats, strong frames, and hospital-grade materials are worth the investment. But if it’s only needed for a short time — such as after surgery or when staying with family — a basic folding model may be a more practical choice. Many of our customers choose to keep portable options on hand for holidays or travel.

Every home is different, but many of our customers face similar challenges when it comes to bathroom and toileting tasks. Here are some of the most common issues — and the products that can make life easier, safer, and more comfortable.

Getting up from the toilet is difficult
Many people find the toilet too low, especially after surgery or with reduced leg strength.
✅ Toilet Seat Raiser with Armrests
✅ Freestanding Over-Toilet Frame

Standing in the shower feels unsafe or tiring
Slippery surfaces and fatigue can make standing difficult, especially in longer showers.
✅ Height Adjustable Shower Chair
✅ Compact Shower Stool

Transferring in and out of the bath is risky
Climbing over the edge of the bath can be hard on joints and increases the risk of slipping.
✅ Bathtub Bench Seat with Backrest

There’s no support to hold onto
Many NZ homes don’t have grab rails, and wall-mounted options aren’t always possible.
✅ Shower Chair with Arms and Back
✅ Freestanding Toilet Frame

Needing support at night or while recovering
Getting to the bathroom during the night or while recovering from surgery can be unsafe.
✅ Wheeled Commode Chair
✅ Non-Spill Urinal Bottle

The bathroom is shared or has limited space
Permanent fixtures aren’t always practical in shared or smaller bathrooms.
✅ Rotating Shower Stool
✅ Lightweight Commode Chair

Every home and situation is different — but some challenges come up time and time again. Whether it’s getting safely on and off the toilet, showering without fear of slipping, or managing personal care after surgery, the right equipment can make everyday routines easier and safer.

Below, we’ve highlighted common problems and the most popular products that Kiwis trust to solve them.

Choosing the right bathroom and toileting equipment isn’t just about convenience — it’s about staying safe, independent, and comfortable in your own home. With the right support in place, everyday tasks like showering or using the toilet become easier, more dignified, and less of a worry.

At Mobility Plus NZ, we’ve proudly helped thousands of Kiwis find solutions that fit their homes and needs. Every product we sell is backed by a minimum 12-month NZ-based warranty and trusted advice from our family-run team in Tauranga.

Need help choosing the right product for your bathroom?
We’re here to help — no pressure, just practical support from people who care.

📧 Email us anytime at info@mobilityplus.co.nz