Shower Seat Height Recommendation

Minimal Height Seats

• Probably the lowest you will ever want to install a shower seat is 14 inches from the floor. This is fairly low if you consider that the height of most small chairs are 18 inches or higher. A seat this low is out of the way and only comes up to the back of your knees when standing. When sitting it gives you a very low position to the ground. You won't feel like you are elevated off the floor, but you may feel like the seat is too low. If you have problems getting up from chairs, this might not be a good idea. A higher seat is a better option for you.

Mid-Height Seats

• A middle of the road height for a shower seat is 16 inches from the shower floor. At this height you are positioned a few inches higher in the shower when seated, and you may have an easier time getting out of the chair. This seat height is also ideal if you do not want the seat to get in the way of showering, as it only comes up to your midthighs or just above the knees. It does not interfere with your arms when washing your body, and it still gives you a seat high enough that is easy to get into and out of. For larger individuals, this seat height may still seem low to the ground, so you should try a seat that is a little higher.

High Seats

• A higher shower seat height is set at between 17 to 19 inches high. This seat height is closer to the average chair height; if you are able to get into and out of a normal chair, you will find getting into and out of this seat much the same. Of course, for those who are taller, setting the seat at 20 to 22 inches is another option. Generally speaking, you want a seat height that is not taller than the distance from your feet to the bend in your knee, but not so low you have problems getting into the seat. Seats mounted 17 to 19 inches high meet ADA requirements for shower seat height, and seats at this height should be ideal for the elderly and those with limited mobility.

Shower Seat Sizing

• Another variable to consider is the size of your shower seat. Its length and width are important to the overall comfort of the seat. Many seats are small, only 12 inches wide, but most are 32 inches wide and 23 inches from front to back. Seats range from as small as 20 inches to as large as 42 inches. The size of the individuals and their preferences for seat size dictate this decision; however, you should have a shower that is at least 32 inches wide to install any type of seat. If you choose a seat that is 32 inches wide, you should have a shower at least 42 inches wide to accommodate the seat and give the user room to sit in the shower.