Tub Transfer Benches: Safer Entry and Exit for the Bathtub

October 23, 2026 7 min read

Most people don't give much thought to getting in and out of the bathtub. It is a simple activity until it isn't. Bathing routines can become more challenging for older adults or those with limited mobility.

Stepping into the tub can become one of the most difficult parts of bathing. It requires balance and leg strength. Add a wet, potentially slippery surface, and the risk of a fall increases.

That's where a tub transfer bench can make a significant difference in making bathing safer and easier. It differs from a standard shower chair that sits completely inside the tub.

A transfer tub bench extends past the tub wall. This design lets the user sit outside the tub and move their legs over the edge while seated and stable.

Below, we'll look at how tub transfer benches work and how to use them safely. We'll also cover:

The differences between fixed and sliding designs
Sizing and weight capacity
Key considerations when choosing a transfer bench

What Is a Tub Transfer Bench and How Does It Work?

A tub transfer bench is a bathing aid designed to make the process of moving in and out of the tub safer and easier.

A standard shower chair sits in the shower. A transfer bench straddles the tub wall. Two legs are securely on the bathroom floor. The other two legs are positioned inside the bathtub.

The shower transfer bench eliminates the need to step over the tub wall. Instead, the user starts by sitting on the part of the bench, which is outside the bathtub. From there, they can lift one leg at a time over the tub wall while still sitting.

Depending on the design, the user either scoots or slides across the transfer tub bench until they are positioned inside the bathtub.

A tub transfer bench can be a game-changer for older adults with balance difficulties or mobility problems. It may also be a useful short-term option for someone:

Recovering from surgery
Recovering from an injury that makes stepping over the tub wall difficult

Why Getting In and Out of the Tub Causes the Most Falls

One of the riskiest parts of bathing is getting in and out of the tub. Factors that increase fall risk include:

Stepping over a high tub wall
Shifting your weight from one leg to the other while maintaining balance

For a few seconds, you're putting all your weight on one leg while the other leg clears the edge of the tub. Additionally, the bathroom floor or the tub itself can be wet, making it more slippery. It's no surprise that someone with reduced leg strength or problems with balance is at risk for a fall in the bathroom.

A tub transfer bench removes the one-leg balancing act because the person sits down while transferring into the tub. But a transfer bench is only one part of the equation for a safer bathroom. It's also important to take additional steps to keep the bathroom safe.

For instance, adding a secure tub rail, such as the MD Multi-Tub Rail, provides an added layer of support during transfers. It has adjustable height, rotating handles, and supports up to 300 lb.

A non-slip surface, like the MD Bath Mat, also adds traction and provides a non-slip surface.

How to Use a Tub Transfer Bench Safely

Getting the right transfer bench is only half the battle. Understanding how to use a tub transfer bench correctly is just as important.

Start with the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model. Designs may vary a bit. But the basic steps for using a transfer bench for a shower are typically similar and include the following:

Start by positioning the bench. Place two legs of the tub transfer bench on the bathroom floor and the other two in the tub.
Adjust the height of the bench. The tub floor is usually higher than the bathroom floor. You may need to adjust the legs as needed to keep the bench level.
Make sure all four legs are firmly planted so the bench isn't wobbly.
Sit down. Back up towards the bench until you feel it against your legs. Reach back for the seat and slowly lower yourself down.
Move across into the tub. While seated, lift one leg at a time over the tub wall. Next, scoot yourself across the seat until inside the tub. If using the sliding bench, instead of scooting, let the sliding mechanism do the work.
Reverse the process to get out of the tub. You’ll do the same process to get out of the tub.

It's also a good idea to keep a few things in mind before you sit down. Grab the soap, shampoo, and any other supplies you need and place them within arm’s reach. This way, you can stay seated and won't have to maneuver around the tub to grab items.

Sliding Seat vs. Fixed Seat Transfer Benches

You usually have two choices when choosing a tub transfer bench, a sliding seat or a fixed bench. Both types allow you to get in and out of the bathtub while seated. The difference between each style is about how much work you have to do to get across the seat.

Fixed Transfer Bench

The fixed transfer bench is simple in design, and the seat stays in place. The user sits down outside the tub, lifts the legs over, and scoots across the seat. This design may work well for someone with enough upper-body strength and mobility to reposition themselves while seated.

Sliding Tub Transfer Bench

A sliding tub transfer bench requires less scooting and physical effort from the user. The seat moves along a track, sliding across the tub wall and into position. This style may be a solid option for someone with more limited mobility.

Some sliding benches take it a step further and swivel too. For instance, the MD Easy Glide Transfer Bench has a sliding seat with 360-degree rotation and supports up to 350 pounds. The swivel feature can make it even easier. It reduces the movement and repositioning needed to get in and out of the tub.

Choosing between the two styles may come down to the user's strength, mobility, and personal preference.

Adjustable Height, Width, and Weight Capacity Explained

A tub transfer bench isn't one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right fit is important for comfort and safety. Before purchasing a transfer bench, consider a few measurements.

Height

Start with height. An adjustable tub transfer bench has legs that you can lower or raise to match different tub and user heights. Set the seat height so the user's feet can touch the floor when sitting or standing.

The legs may need different height adjustments inside and outside the tub. Usually, the tub floor sits higher than the bathroom floor. The goal is to keep the seat level, so transfers feel more stable.

Width

Check width. Make sure the bench is wide enough to span the tub wall properly and fit comfortably in the space outside the tub. Measure the bathtub and surrounding floor space to ensure you buy a bench that accommodates your available space.

Weight Capacity

Also, confirm weight capacity. Weight capacity varies by brand. Models may have different weight limits. Check the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing a bench.

Choosing a Transfer Bench for Your Bathtub Layout

Before you choose a transfer bench, take a look at your bathroom layout. The bench takes up more space than a standard shower chair. It extends out over the tub wall onto the floor, so you need enough space outside the tub for the bench to fit safely.

Measure the height and width of the tub wall and measure the floor space outside the tub. Consider the faucet placement when deciding which side the person will enter from.

If your tub has shower doors instead of a curtain, that may affect how well a bench fits and functions. The bench may block the doors from closing.

One of the most important considerations is who will be using the bench. If someone has trouble scooting, a sliding seat may be best. Lastly, consider whether a tub rail may also be beneficial for adding another layer of safety.

FAQs

What is a tub transfer bench used for?

A tub transfer bench helps someone move safely in and out of the bathtub while staying seated.

How do you use a tub transfer bench safely?

To use a tub transfer bench safely, make sure the bench is stable on the bathroom floor and also in the bathtub. It should be the correct height to make transferring into the tub easy. Sit on the bench, move one leg at a time over the tub wall, and slide onto the seat in the tub using a grab bar or tub rail as needed.

Does a transfer bench work with a shower curtain?

Yes, a transfer bench can work with a shower curtain. You can drape the curtain around the outside of the bench. Make sure your shower curtain is long enough to position properly and prevent water from escaping.

What weight capacity do transfer benches support?

Weight capacity varies by product. Always check the manufacturer's specifications. For example, the MD Easy Glide supports 350 lb.

Is a transfer bench better than a shower chair?

Deciding which one is better depends on the person's mobility and strength. For example, if stepping over the tub is difficult, a transfer bench is likely the better choice. If an individual can step over the tub wall easily and just needs to sit while bathing, a shower chair may work well.