If you're unsure which type of bathroom aid is most suitable for your needs, our Bathroom Mobility Aids Buying Guide can help you compare different options. For specific advice around Shower Stools & Chairs, view our Shower Stool & Shower Chair Buying Guide. 

The first step is to measure the area where you plan to use the stool rather than simply measuring the overall bathroom.

• Using a shower stool in a bath tub: If you plan to use a shower stool inside a bath, measure the flat area of the bath base where the stool's feet will sit.  The overall dimensions of a bath don't necessarily tell you how much usable space you have. Some baths have curved or sloped bases, which can reduce the area available for a shower stool.The stool's feet should sit securely on a stable, level surface. Don't choose a stool based solely on the external dimensions of your bath.
• Using a shower stool in a shower: For a shower tray, measure the usable floor area where the stool will sit. Remember to consider:
  • The width and depth of the shower tray
  • Shower screens or doors
  • Raised edges around the tray
  • Shower controls
  • Grab rails
  • Other fixtures that could restrict movement 
• Using a shower stool or shower chair in a wet room: Wet rooms can offer more flexibility because there isn't necessarily a defined shower tray. However, you still need to consider the available floor space and how the stool will affect movement around the bathroom. Adapated wet rooms may have a shower screen, grab rails and similar. It is important to consider these when measuring to ensure you can shower and stand up safely without knocking other features in the room. 

Compare these measurements with the overall dimension of the shower stool to make sure it will fit in the space comfortably. Ensure to check the total width and depth of the shower stool - do not just check the seat size as often a shower stool feet are wider than the seat size. 

It is important to not only ensure the bath stool fits, but you also need to ensure you can safely stand up by the shower stool and leave the shower, bath tub or wet room. 

We strongly recommend measuring your bathroom or shower before choosing a shower aid. UK bathrooms vary considerably in size and layout, so there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing a shower stool, shower chair or other bathroom mobility aid.

UK bathrooms can vary considerably in size, particularly in older properties where bathrooms may have been added or adapted after the home was originally built. Understanding the typical dimensions of baths and shower areas can therefore help when considering whether there is enough space for a shower stool. 

New-build homes in England must meet specific building regulations, with Part M covering access to and use of buildings. These requirements include provisions for clear access and circulation space around sanitary facilities. However, many existing UK homes were built before current accessibility requirements were introduced and may not have the same amount of clear space. This can make fitting a shower stool or other bathroom aid into a smaller bathroom more challenging.

What is the standard UK bath size?

The standard bath size in the UK is 1700mm x 700mm however smaller, compact baths can be 1200mm x 700mm. 

The internal, flat bottom base of the bath, the area you need to measure to ensure your bath stool will fit, is generally 1000mm x 450mm. 

What is the standard shower tray size?

Shower trays are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, including square, rectangular and quadrant trays.

Common shower tray sizes include 760mm x 760mm, 800mm x 800mm, 900mm x 900mm and 1200mm x 800mm, although many other sizes are available. 

Like with bath tubs, it is important to check the size of the flat area in the shower tray where your shower stool or shower chair will sit as many shower trays have raised areas around the side to prevent water leaving the area. 

For a small bathroom, don't assume that a shower stool will fit simply because the shower tray is a particular size. Check the stool's dimensions against the internal usable area of your tray, taking the shower screen, doors and other fixtures into account. If you have wall-mounted grab rails or a towel holder installed. It is also important to consider these, as you do not want to knock yourself against the rails when you stand up.

Swivel Shower Stool

The Swivel Shower Stool, or Rotating Shower Stool is perfect for those seeking a compact stool which can fit in the bath tub, shower tray or wet room. The adjustable stool can easily be set to your preferred height whilst the rotating design reduces the need for you to twist and turn whilst showering. The Shower Stool is especially beneficial for those who need a safe place to sit whilst bathing and struggle to lean and reach due to chronic pain, muscle pain and those recovering from surgery.

The small shower stool is only 410mm wide and 380mm deep making it fit easily in most tight spaces. At only 2.4kg, it can easily be lifted and moved, perfect for those seeking a solution which can be used in a shared bathroom. 

Our Swivel Shower Stool provides a supportive seated option while allowing the seat to rotate, making it a practical choice for bathrooms where manoeuvring space is limited.

Folding Shower Stool

The lightweight Folding Shower Stool is perfect for those seeking a compact stool which is comfortable and easy to store.

The foldable shower stool is lightweight at only 2.5kg and folds for easy storage, when folded simply lean it against the wall in the shower or bathroom. Due to the folding design, it is also perfect for those seeking a stool they can take on travels away. 

The stool offers a curved contoured seat to ensure the water drains quickly from the seat whilst the cut out handles provides enhanced support. The rubber feet ensures the stool remains securely on ground during use.

Before purchasing a shower stool, consider:

• Measure the space: Check the usable floor area rather than just the overall bathroom dimensions.
• Check your bath: If using the stool in a bath, measure the flat area where the feet will sit.
• Check the stool dimensions: Make sure the width and depth fit comfortably within the available space.Check whether the measurements noted on the listing relate to the total width of the product. If the shower stool has arms, consider the total width including arms.
• Allow room to move: Make sure you have enough space to sit down, stand up and leave the shower safely.
• Consider storage: A folding stool could be useful if the bathroom is shared.
• Check the stool weight: Make sure it can be moved and stored safely if required.
• Check the user weight capacity: Always choose a stool suitable for the intended user.
• Think about the layout: Make sure the stool won't obstruct shower doors, screens, controls or other bathroom fixtures.

If there isn't enough space to use a shower stool safely and comfortably, you may need to consider adapting the layout or design of your bathroom rather than choosing a smaller stool.

Depending on your needs and the space available, adaptations could include replacing a bath with a walk-in or level-access shower, walk-in bath tub, changing the position of bathroom fixtures, widening access or creating more space around the shower.

You could also look at alternative bathroom aids such as bath boards and wall-mounted shower seats.

If you have a disability and need adaptations to make your bathroom safer or more accessible, financial support may be available. In England and Wales, you can apply through your local council for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), which can help towards the cost of eligible home adaptations. The council may arrange an assessment, often involving an occupational therapist or trained assessor, to determine what changes are necessary and appropriate for your needs.

It's important to apply for funding before starting any work, as you may not receive a grant if work has already begun.

Some charities can also provide funding for home adaptations.

Choosing a shower stool for a small bathroom isn't just about finding the smallest option available. The right choice needs to fit the available space while still allowing you to use the shower safely and comfortably.

By measuring your shower or bath, considering how much room you need to move and thinking about whether the stool needs to be stored between uses, you can find an option that works with your bathroom layout.

Explore our range of shower stools and shower chairs, including folding and swivel designs, to find a solution suited to your needs.

Still need assistance? Our team is available throughout the week to help via phone, email, live chat or WhatsApp. If you’d rather we call you, you can easily request a callback here.