In our shared mission to support clients in maintaining their independence, safety, and comfort at home, bathroom accessibility remains a priority. Often, clients with mobility limitations require modifications to make their showers safer and easier to use. While traditional bathroom renovations can create ideal spaces, they’re costly, invasive, and time-consuming. For clients seeking a quicker, cost-effective solution, polyethylene shower base inserts present an excellent alternative.
The Shift from Rubber to Polyethylene: Why the Change?
Previously, we mainly did the rubber shower base inserts with ramps, providing an affordable alternative to structural renovations. However, as we gathered feedback from clients Occupational Therapists, and caregivers, certain limitations became clear. The rubber bases, while practical in some respects, were:
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Heavy and Challenging to Install
Moving and installing the rubber bases required considerable effort due to their weight and bulk, which posed challenges for both our team and caregivers.
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Difficult to Clean and Maintain
The porous nature of rubber led to waterlogging and mildew build-up over time, which compromised hygiene and required frequent, labor-intensive cleaning.
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Limited Durability
Waterlogged bases sometimes developed odours and wear over time, reducing their longevity and adding to the overall maintenance requirements.
After evaluating alternatives, we found that polyethylene shower base inserts offer superior advantages, addressing each of these concerns and adding value for both clients and caregivers.
1. Simple, Lightweight Installation
Polyethylene shower bases are far lighter than their rubber counterparts, making them easy to manoeuvre, position, and install without added strain. This streamlined process allows for quick, efficient installations that can be performed by a single person. Additionally, if future adjustments are needed, these inserts are easy to reposition or remove, offering more flexibility for clients as their needs evolve. The bases have finger holes which make moving it easy!
2. Improved Hygiene and Reduced Maintenance
Unlike rubber, polyethylene is a non-porous material, meaning it’s highly resistant to water absorption. This significantly reduces the risk of mildew, odours, and mould build-up, keeping the shower area cleaner and more sanitary with less frequent maintenance. Occupational Therapists will appreciate the low-maintenance requirements, and clients benefit from a cleaner, safer bathing environment.
3. Durability and Longevity
Polyethylene inserts are engineered for long-term use, withstanding regular wear without compromising integrity. Their harder, non-slip surface provides both stability and durability, supporting clients as they move within the shower. This stability enhances client safety and helps prevent falls, allowing users to feel confident and secure with every use.
4. Cost-Effective Alternative to Major Modifications
One of the primary benefits of using polyethylene shower inserts is cost efficiency. Full bathroom renovations can be prohibitively expensive, especially for clients on a budget. These inserts provide accessibility without requiring structural changes to the bathroom. For clients, this means they gain a safe, accessible shower at a fraction of the cost and time involved in a traditional remodel.
Enhancing Quality of Life with Practical, Accessible Solutions
The feedback from clients and their families has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate having a practical solution that improves daily life without the financial and logistical burden of large-scale renovations. For therapists, this option means being able to recommend a solution that delivers quick results while meeting clients' specific needs.
