English 
Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-22 Origin: Site
Summer brings sunshine, warmth, and unfortunately, humidity that can challenge the upkeep of assistive living equipment like shower chairs. For individuals who rely on a shower chair for bathroom independence, proper maintenance ensures the tool works at its optimal durability and performance, thus guaranteeing a sound and safe mobility experience. As a DME supplier with 25 years experience in medical industry, Brother Medical understands that a well-maintained shower chair can make all the difference in daily routines, especially during the hot, often humid months when bacteria, mold, and mildew are at their most aggressive.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your shower chair during the summer season—covering cleaning, inspection, storage, and even troubleshooting. Whether you’re a user, caregiver, or facility manager, this is your go-to resource for keeping your shower chair in top condition.
Summer brings higher temperatures and humidity levels. These conditions create a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and mold, especially in damp environments like bathrooms. For shower chairs—often constructed from plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel—this can mean faster wear and tear, rust, staining, and worsened slippery resistance, posing a direct threat to bathroom safety and user’s health
According to a bathroom germ statistics by Rob, shower floor and shower curtain both exhibits a stunning bacteria level of over 15,000,000 CFU (Colony-forming Units), representing roughly 60 times that of a toilet seat perceived as one of the dirtiest component in a bathroom. Since microbe thrives with temperature and moisture, it is safe to assume an even grimmer bacteria existence in shower area as well as your shower chair during summer days. In a word, proper maintenance is crucial to the reliability of your bathroom aid at the season.
Mold and Mildew Growth: Warm, damp conditions are ideal for fungal growth.
Corrosion and Rust: Humidity increases the risk for metal components.
Odor Build-Up: Bacteria and mold can create persistent, unpleasant smells.
Material Degradation: UV exposure from sunlight (if the bathroom is well-lit) can weaken plastic components.
Why it matters: Daily cleaning removes soap scum, skin cells, and bacteria before they can multiply.
How to do it:
Rinse after Every Use: Quickly rinse the chair with warm water to remove soap and debris.
Dry Thoroughly: Dry the chair using a clean, soft cloth, paying special attention to fissures.
Check for Residue: Look for any build-up that could become a problem if left unchecked.
Pro Tip: If multiple people use the shower chair, daily cleaning is non-negotiable.
Why it matters: Deep cleaning helps to wipe out invisible bacteria and mold, preventing accumulation over time.
What you’ll need:
Mild antibacterial soap or a bathroom cleaner formulated for medical equipment.
Soft brush or sponge.
Clean towels.
Disinfectant spray (bleach-free, non-corrosive).
How to do it:
Remove any detachable parts (armrests, backrests, or seat pads).
Clean all surfaces thoroughly with soap and water.
Use a brush for grooves and textured areas.
Rinse with clean water.
Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots and mildew.
Apply a light mist of disinfectant spray and let air dry.
Fact: According to research, disinfecting surfaces reduces bacteria by up to 99.9%, especially in high-contact areas.
Why it matters: Summer heat can accelerate material fatigue, leading to cracks, rust, or loose parts.
Inspection points:
Frame: Check for rust, especially at joints and welds.
Seat and Backrest: Look for cracks, discoloration, or warping.
Feet/Tips: Inspect rubber tips for wear; replace if they are worn down or loose.
Moving Parts: Make sure adjustable arms or legs move smoothly and lock securely.
Action Steps: If you notice any damage or instability, contact your local distributor or Brother Medical expert team for replacement parts or professional assessment.
Why it matters: Mold can cause respiratory issues and degrade material.
How to treat:
Mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water.
Spray the affected area and let sit for 10 minutes.
Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
Dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
Why it matters: Odors indicate microbial growth and can be unpleasant.
Solutions:
After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on the seat and let sit for one hour before rinsing.
Ensure the chair is fully dried after each use and cleaning.
Store in a well-ventilated area when not in use.
If you use your shower chair seasonally or travel frequently, proper storage is key to longevity.
Clean Before Storage: Never store a dirty or wet chair.
Choose the Right Location: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Cover the Chair: Use a breathable cloth cover to protect from dust and insects.
Disassemble if Possible: Take apart to save space and reduce stress on joints.
Summer often means vacations or visits to family. If you need a portable shower chair:
Opt for lightweight, folding designs from Brother Medical.
Always clean and dry before packing.
Use a protective bag for transport.
Not all shower chairs are created equal. The choice of material affects how the chair withstands summer conditions.
Pros: Lightweight, rust-proof, easy to clean.
Cons: Can warp or discolor with prolonged sun exposure.
Pros: Rust-resistant, lightweight.
Cons: Can corrode if protective coating wears off.
Pros: Durable, highly resistant to rust.
Cons: Heavier; may require more thorough drying to avoid water spots.
Brother Medical Tip: Always check manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance, as some chemicals can degrade specific materials.
Use a paste of baking soda and water to gently scrub away minor rust stains. For more stubborn spots, a commercial rust remover (safe for medical equipment) may be necessary.
Repeat vinegar treatment and consider using hydrogen peroxide for persistent areas (test first to avoid discoloration).
Ensure rubber tips are intact and dry. Place non-slip mats or pads on the shower floor for extra safety.
A shower chair that’s not well maintained is not just unsightly—it’s unsafe. According to a report published by the National Institute on Aging, falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors, and many occur in the bathroom. A well-maintained, stable shower chair is a critical element of fall prevention strategies.
Double-check all locking mechanisms before each use.
Ensure all surfaces are dry to prevent slipping.
Never use a chair showing signs of instability or severe wear.
Ideally, rinse and wipe down after every use, and deep clean at least once a week.
Bleach can be harsh and may corrode certain materials. Opt for non-corrosive, medical-grade disinfectants.
Try cleaning with baking soda, and ensure thorough drying. If the odor persists, inspect for hidden mold or mildew.
If you notice cracks, instability, rust that can’t be removed, or irreparable mold, it’s time for a replacement. Brother Medical offers a range of durable, easy-to-clean models.
Maintaining your shower chair in the summer is about more than appearance—it’s about ensuring safety, hygiene, and peace of mind. A clean, sturdy, and reliable shower chair supports independence and confidence during bath time, whatever the season brings.
At Brother Medical, we are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your mobility aids. By following these summer maintenance tips, you’ll extend the life of your investment and create a safer bathroom environment for yourself or your loved ones.
Ready to take your bathroom safety to the next level? Download our free Shower Chair Maintenance Checklist or browse our latest range of shower chairs designed for easy cleaning and durability in every season.
Remember: The more you know, the safer you’ll be. Explore more expert insights and guides from Brother Medical to empower your independence and elevate your everyday living.
Thank you for trusting Brother Medical as your source for assistive living expertise. There’s always more to discover—stay tuned for our next guide on adapting bathrooms for all ages and abilities.
