Best Handicap Toilets For People With Limited Mobility
Being able to walk or move around and do daily chores on your own is something that many of us take for granted. However, these everyday tasks can be quite a challenge for people with disabilities. One such routine task is using the toilet. Disabled individuals or people with limited mobility usually find it difficult to use the standard toilets due to lack of space to turn around or to access the facilities and most commonly due to the height of the commode. Having a tall height toilet makes it comfortable for disabled users to sit and stand up without exerting pressure on their backs and legs.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines certain bathroom specifications for disabled individuals that include the toilet design, commode height, installation measurements, etc. Most of the conscious sanitary manufacturers today are mindful of such requirements and do thorough research and development to offer handicapped accessible toilets that are ADA compliant. Not only do the best handicap toilets provide an easier experience to the physically challenged individuals, but these toilets are also durable, water-efficient, and come in aesthetically pleasing designs. So, if you have someone with special needs in the family it is worth investing in a toilet that meets the ADA regulations.
To help you save time and effort, we have shortlisted some of the best handicap toilets along with their features as well as the advantages and disadvantages. Our list of top handicapped accessible toilets includes both ADA compliant commodes as well as seat risers with handles that can be installed on the regular toilets to increase their height. We have also provided a buyer’s guide for the features that you should look for in the best handicap toilets as well as a few safety tips for using the toilet.
The first model that we want to feature in the best handicap toilets is TOTO’s Drake II. This two-piece handicapped accessible toilet is the best value model in the market as it offers a high-profile design and several great features at a considerably reasonable price. This model is one of the top choices in toilets for handicapped as it comes with ADA compliant 17-inches comfort height seat and its length to breadth dimensions also make it quite comfortable to use. This is also one of the best handicap toilets that feature TOTO’s powerful G-Max flushing mechanism that ensures top performance with every flush. It has a high-efficiency and low-water consuming flush system that uses just 1.6 Gallons per Flush (GPF) and its 3-inch wide flush valve further bolsters its flushing performance.
2. American Standard 2467016.020 Cadet Right Height
The next two-piece model that we would like to feature in our list of best handicap toilets is American Standard’s Cadet Right Height. This toilet features an elongated bowl, good length to breadth dimensions, and has the right height which means that it can be the best toilet for handicapped person and at the same time is comfortable to use by the rest of the family members. Another feature that makes this toilet one of the best handicap toilets is its pressure-assisted siphon jet flush technology that uses just 1.6 GPF to flush out waste in a single flush, therefore, also helping you save water.
It has a fully-glazed trapway which further prevents any clogs. This toilet also has an EverClean glazed surface which prevents dirt and bacteria from accumulating on the surface. Its speed connect tank/bowl coupling system also ensures easy installation thus making it a great choice for toilets for handicapped.
This toilet was the first 20-inch tall toilet manufactured in the USA in 2016 by the Convenient Height Co. This toilet is one of the tallest and the best handicap toilets that you can get in the market. The reason why this model is amongst the preferred toilets for handicapped people is because it can easily be accessed from a wheelchair and its oblong-shaped bowl offers more seating space.
Another must-have feature that makes this toilet stand out from the rest of the toilets for handicapped is its new generation dual flush system that comes with a large and ergonomic metal flush lever. This toilet count in the water-efficient toilets for handicapped using 1.28 GPF for a full flush and 0.9 GPF for a half flush. Though its flush mechanism works on gravity, the bowl height makes the gush much more powerful than most of the Siphonic jet systems. Another plus point of owning this handicapped accessible toilet is that it may qualify for a tax deduction as a medical expense.
Next in line in the best handicap toilets is Woodbridge’s one-piece toilet T- 0001. This is one of the sleekest and modern-looking handicapped accessible toilets in the market today that offers chair-like comfort height seating. If you are planning to upgrade to a one-piece toilet in an ADA compliant bathroom, then this model can be the perfect addition that will not require any modification in the existing plumbing system. Its one-piece skirted design also makes it easier to clean as the outer bowl can simply be wiped clean thus adding to the perks of owning this best toilet for handicapped person.
This toilet also features a powerful siphon dual flush that uses 1.0/1.6 GPF for liquid and solid waste respectively. It is, therefore, also a water-efficient with WaterSense certification. Instead of a flush lever, this toilet features stylish dual flush buttons that are easy to operate. This toilet also comes with a high-end soft-closing seat with durable steel hinges.
Another American Standard that should be on your radar for the best handicap toilets is the Cadet 3 FloWise two-piece toilet. Similar to the previous American Standard handicapped accessible toilet in our list, this model too comes with a Right Height seat that is comfortable to use despite the toilet’s compact design. This model features the much-coveted American Standard’s Cadet 3 flushing system that incorporates a 3-inch wide flush valve and siphon action jetted bowl to clear out waste using just 1.28 GPF.
This model also mitigates blogs with a fully glazed trapway and its skirted trapway and EverClean coating doesn’t allow dust and other dirt to stick to the bowl surface. So if you are looking for a toilet for the disabled, then this model will be a hassle-free addition that will require less frequent cleaning. Another reason that makes this handicapped accessible toilet a good option to consider is that it comes with a soft-closing seat.
If you do not want to invest in permanent toilets for handicapped then you can go for a portable toilet or a seat riser that mounts on top of your existing toilet and also comes with support handles. Portable toilets are a more economical option as temporary toilets for handicapped people such as for a family member recovering from a hip, back, or knee surgery or if someone has limited mobility due to age.
The first model that we want to include in the “With Handle” category of best handicap toilets is a toilet seat riser. Manufactured by the popular American health and medical brand Vive Health, this seat riser comes under the best toilets for disabled at home as it can elevate the height of your regular toilet by 3.5 inches. This best toilet for handicapped person comes with padded arms that are comfortable to hold and also durable for regular use. This seat riser can make any toilet a handicapped accessible toilet as it has option for both elongated and round-shaped toilets. It is easy to mount as it comes with a dedicated knob for mounting. So you need not worry about gathering special tools to fix this on toilets for disabled at home. Plus, a regular toilet lid can be mounted on the raiser. Despite being lightweight it can handle adult weight up to 300 lbs. The slip-resistant strips also eliminate any chances of slipping and secure the seat firmly over the toilet. Its support handles are made of corrosion-resistant aluminum that can be cleaned safely using regular bathroom disinfectants.
The second seat riser that we want to feature in the best handicap toilets is again a Vive Health product. Compared to the previous model that provides 3.5-inch elevation, this seat riser for toilets for handicapped people offers a 5-inch height. But, what sets this one apart from the previous best toilet for handicapped person is its portability. That means you can easily carry this seat riser along with you anywhere you go. Another reason that we have included this seat in the best handicap toilets is its contour design that offers safe and comfortable seating.
This model can be mounted over the toilets for handicapped with the help of its easy-to-access knob located in the front. The rear wings offer stability to the toilets for disabled at home. The riser simply needs to be positioned over the base of the commode and locked with the knob to make any toilet a handicapped accessible toilet. Installing the handles is also optional and can be fitted in a regular way. However, to keep it portable for toilets for handicapped people, its weight capacity is 250 lb. which is lesser than the previous riser on our list.
Quite similar to the first seat raiser in our best handicap toilets, this model by Carex also offers an elevation of 3.5 inches. It features a simple design that is easy to mount and unmounts. It also comes with optional support handles that have a comfortable foam grip. Just like the other raisers for toilets for handicapped people, this model also does not require any tools for installation. However, this raiser is only compatible with elongated toilets for disabled at home. So if you have a round seat toilet, you will have to go for the Vive model. Made of durable molded plastic, this handicapped accessible toilet raiser is lightweight as well as easy to wipe clean. The differentiating point between the two best handicap toilets is the weight capacity. While the Vive model can support 300 lb. of weight, this model can endure up to 250 lb. only. This model is also cheaper than the Vive model.
For those who already have toilets for handicapped people installed in their bathrooms and are looking for additional support to make sitting and standing up easier, then these Medline toilet safety rails is just what you are looking for. These safety rails for toilets for handicapped boast of a sturdy frame that can easily be mounted to the toilet bowl using a bracket. The handles of these rails are adjustable in height (26 to 31 inches) and width (8 to 24 inches), therefore, are compatible with both standard and elongated bowl toilets. The rails are made of anodized aluminum tubing and have skid-resistant rubber-tipped legs to ensure safety. The frame can support up to 250 lb. of body weight, however, it is not recommended for full weight-bearing. The price though is highly affordable.
The last one that we wanted to feature in the best handicap toilets is a folding commode by NOVA. This best toilet for handicapped person is the most versatile toilet as it can be used as a stand-alone commode, placed by the bedside for easy access, and can also be placed over the existing toilets for handicapped people. This toilet has a fixed arm style and can be assembled in minutes. It unfolds effortlessly to be tucked away in storage. You can also carry this toilet along in case you are traveling and do not have access to toilets for handicapped people. Its seat height is also adjustable (16 to 21.75 inches) with easy push buttons. The commode comes with a bucket and a splash guard along with lids for both. Made of durable steel, it can handle weight up to 300 lb. If you want the best handicap toilets that are highly accessible and portable, this one should be on the top of your list.
Having a handicapped accessible toilet can make life much easier for people with disabilities. So if you are planning to move into a new house or are renovating, keeping the following ADA requirements in mind will be beneficial in the long run.
Large washroom – Handicapped accessible toilets should be installed in large restrooms to allow easy maneuvering of the wheelchair or when a person requires physical support from another person.
Clear pathways – no loose trash cans or any other object should come in the way of accessing toilets for handicapped.
Wall-mounted toilets – In case the dimensions of your bathroom are not very accommodating, installing a wall-mounted or back-to-wall commode can be the best toilet for handicapped person since it maximizes floor space.
Wider doors – Toilets for handicapped should have at least 32-inches wide doors so that wheelchairs can easily pass through them without any hassle. Also, the door knobs should require less effort to use and be operational with a single hand.
Tall-height commodes – Ideally, toilets for handicapped people should have a height of at least 16.5 inches. This height makes sitting down and standing up much easier for disabled individuals.
Grab bars – Toilets for disabled at home should have grab bars installed near the toilet walls to support users for using the toilet. Ideally, these bars should be circular and have an outer diameter of 1.5 to 2 inches. The bars near a handicapped accessible toilet should also be well-fitted to make them safe for use and should be able to support the adult weight up to 250 lb.
Urinals – Urinals in toilets for handicapped should be installed at a height of 17 inches with a minimum width of 30 inches.
Sinks – Sinks near toilets for handicapped people should be installed at a maximum height of 34 inches from the floor and with clear knee space of 27 inches. The ideal depth of sinks should be between 11 to 25 inches.
Faucets – Any faucet installed in the toilets for disabled at home should be easy to reach and have one-hand operation. You can also go for the auto, push, or touch-operated faucets for easier use.
Toilet paper and soap dispensers – The height of toilet paper dispenser should be 15 to 48 inches from the floor and should be mounted in a way that does not disrupt the use of grab bars. The soap dispensers should be easy to operate with one hand and should not require much force to dispense the soap.
Mirrors – The bottom edge of the mirror should not be more than 40 inches from the floor.
Buyer’s Guide for Installing the Best Handicap Toilets
If you are confused between the best handicap toilets available in the market today, we would recommend that you follow this buying guide to select the right handicapped accessible toilet.
Toilet Type – Selecting the best toilet for handicapped person will depend on individual needs. Select a type that complements and accommodates specific disabilities. You can choose between a two-piece or one-piece toilet, comfort-height commodes, and wall-hung or back-to-wall toilets for extra floor space. If getting up from bed is difficult, you can also go for a portable bedside toilet. There are also options available of motorized adjustable heights toilets for handicapped.
Toilet Height – Most of the handicapped accessible toilets have ADA compliant heights. But you must check the floor to seat measurements to be sure that the commode has the right height for your comfort and isn’t too tall that makes it difficult for you to get onto the seat.
Maximum Weight Capacity – Toilets for handicapped can handle adult weight from 350 to 1000 lb. So, check the weight capacity of your chosen handicapped accessible toilet before making the purchase.
Flusher – Toilets for handicapped people come with different styles of flushers. Depending on the disability, you can choose from lever-operated flushers, button flushers, pedal-operated flushers, or touch-less sensor flushers.
Efficiency – In addition to selecting the best handicap toilets, you must also look for toilets that have powerful flushing mechanism that can clear out waste in a single flush. Look for WaterSense certifications as these toilets usually require 1.28 or 1.6 GPF. You can also go for a dual flushing system that uses half flush to remove liquid waste.
Comfortable Seat – Do check that the toilet seat is comfortable to sit, doesn’t slide, and is made of sturdy material.
Ease of Installation – While the portable and floor-mounted toilets are easy to install on your own, the wall-mount ones will require professional help.
Ease of Maintenance – Toilets for disabled at home should be easy to clean. Go for ones that have skirted designs. Also, ensure that the best handicap toilets on your wishlist have a glossy coating that prevents dirt from accumulating on the surface. Also, the wall-mounted toilets are easier to reach for cleaning as the disabled person doesn’t need to bend to clean the bowl.
Available Space – Keep the dimensions of your bathroom in mind while selecting the best handicap toilets. If you have space constraints go for wall-mounted toilets or choose a round bowl instead of an elongated bowl that takes up more space.
Budget – If pocket allows, go for the best toilet for handicapped person that can be mounted permanently. These models cost $200-$500. However, if you are looking for budget options in the best handicap toilets, you can go for affordable seat risers or portable toilets for disabled at home.
Safety Tips
If you have a family member with a disability, you must install door locks that can be opened from outside, in case there is an emergency.
Ensure that are no exposed bolts at the base of the toilet to prevent foot injuries.
Install grab bars to prevent the handicapped person from falling while shifting from the wheelchair to the toilet seat.
Have at least 4-feet clearance from the toilet and sink so that there is enough space to turn the wheelchair around.
Install grab bars that have foam or rubber grips to prevent slippage.
Place a “no standing on the toilet” sign to prevent children or anyone from attempting to stand on the toilet and getting hurt.
Install a hand shower instead of a fixed shower.
Place anti-slip mats in the shower area to prevent accidents.
If you have kids at home, keep the bathroom door locked at all times and also shut the toilet lid to prevent kids and pets from drinking from the toilet bowl.
For ease of use, install a bidet seat on toilets for disabled at home. This can help people with limited mobility to maintain hygiene.
Conclusion
Being considerate to the needs of the disabled at home is important for the rest of the family members. Installing toilets for handicapped is the first step towards helping them lead a quality life. Choosing a comfortable height handicapped accessible toilet not only simplifies things for the disabled, but it is also comfortable to use for elders. We hope that our list of best handicap toilets will help you in choosing the right model for your home.
