A bedside commode is a chair-height frame with a seat and a removable pail, so a person can use the toilet without walking to the bathroom. The three common types are the 3-in-1 commode, which also works over a toilet; the drop-arm commode, whose arms swing down for side transfers from a bed or wheelchair; and the bariatric commode, which has a wider seat and a higher weight rating. Which one fits depends on how the user gets on and off, their weight, and where the commode will be used. An occupational therapist or nurse can suggest the right type for a specific person.
Commode types compared
| Type | How it is used | Best fit | Examples we carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-in-1 commode | Bedside commode, raised toilet seat or toilet safety frame over an existing toilet | Users who can stand and pivot; homes that want one item for bedside and bathroom | Drive Folding Steel 3-in-1 Commode |
| Drop-arm commode | Arms release and swing down so the user can slide on from the side | Lateral transfers from a bed, wheelchair or chair, often with caregiver help | Drive Drop Arm Commode Deluxe; ProBasics Drop-Arm Commode; Drop Arm Commode with Padded Open Front Seat |
| Bariatric commode | Wider seat and heavy-duty steel frame; available in folding and drop-arm styles | Larger users or anyone who wants a higher weight rating | Bariatric Folding Commode (650 lb); Bariatric Drop Arm Commode Deluxe (1,000 lb) |
| Mobile shower commode | Rolling chair with a commode opening and slide-in bucket | Moving between bedroom, toilet and shower in one chair | Dynarex Bari+Max HD Mobile Shower Commode Chair (1,000 lb) |
3-in-1 commodes
A 3-in-1 commode does three jobs. By the bed, it is a commode with a pail. Over a toilet, with the pail removed, it adds height like a raised toilet seat and gives armrests like a toilet safety frame. The Drive Folding Steel 3-in-1 Commode folds for storage. This style works well when the user can stand up and turn to sit. If you mainly need extra toilet height, also look at our raised toilet seats and toilet safety frames.
Drop-arm commodes
Drop-arm commodes have arms that release and lower out of the way, so the user can slide sideways from a bed, wheelchair or chair without standing up fully. The ProBasics Drop-Arm Commode has a push-button arm release and a removable backrest. The Drop Arm Commode with Padded Open Front Seat adds a padded vinyl seat with an open front for easier cleaning. If transfers are hard, our transfer aids collection has boards and other helpers.
Bariatric commodes
Bariatric commodes use heavier frames and wider seats. The Bariatric Folding Commode supports up to 650 lb and folds flat. The Bariatric Drop Arm Commode Deluxe uses 1-inch steel tubing and supports up to 1,000 lb, and the Dynarex Bari+Max HD Drop Arm Commode is height-adjustable and comes in 26-inch and 30-inch sizes. Bariatric commodes usually need a larger pail, such as our 14-quart bariatric commode pail. See all bariatric commodes and our bariatric equipment guide.
Checklist: choosing and setting up a commode
- Weight capacity: choose a rating above the user's weight, with margin.
- Seat width and height: the user should sit with feet flat on the floor; many frames have adjustable legs.
- Transfer style: stand-and-pivot users can use a 3-in-1; side transfers call for drop arms.
- Placement: leave room beside the bed for the user and any caregiver, on a level floor.
- Pail and lid: check the pail size and that it has a lid. Spare pails in 7.5-quart and 12-quart sizes make cleaning easier.
- Splash guard: a splash guard helps direct urine into the pail or toilet.
- Floor protection: some households place a disposable or reusable underpad under the commode.
Frequently asked questions
Can a 3-in-1 commode be used over a regular toilet?
Yes, that is one of its three uses. Remove the pail and follow the manufacturer's instructions for setting it over the toilet.
Do I need a drop-arm commode?
If the user moves sideways from a bed or wheelchair rather than standing and turning, drop arms make that transfer easier. Ask the care team which transfer method is safest.
Are commodes FSA or HSA eligible?
Commodes are commonly FSA/HSA eligible. Check with your plan administrator for your specific plan.
Shop all commodes and commode accessories. For bathroom safety, see our grab bar placement guide and shower chair guide.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, nurse or occupational therapist about the safest way to transfer and which commode is right for you.