Caring for someone at home, or recovering at home yourself, is easier with the right equipment close at hand. Home care equipment helps with getting to the bathroom, eating and resting in bed, and moving safely from one place to another. Below is what we carry, the key measurements, and how to set each item up.
Measurements and weight capacities below are for the models we currently stock. Always choose equipment rated for at least the user's weight.
Commodes
A 3-in-1 commode works three ways: as a bedside commode with its bucket, as a raised seat placed over the toilet, or as a toilet safety frame with armrests. It is especially helpful at night or when getting to the bathroom is difficult.
How to set up a commode
- Seat height: sitting on the commode, your feet should rest flat on the floor with your knees bent about 90 degrees.
- Set all four legs to the same height and check that each button clicks fully into place.
- Over the toilet, remove the bucket and adjust the legs so the seat sits just above the toilet seat.
- At the bedside, place it on a flat, non-slip surface where it can't roll or tip, within easy reach of the bed.
Disposable commode liners make cleanup quicker and more sanitary. Each has a super-absorbent pad that holds up to 20 oz and a drawstring closure, and they fit standard commode buckets.
| 3-in-1 commode | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Seat height | 15.5"–21.75", adjustable |
| Seat depth | 16.5" |
| Bucket | 8 quart, with lid and splash guard |
| Weight capacity | 350 lb |
Bedpans & urinals
For anyone who needs to stay in bed, a bedpan or urinal keeps them comfortable and avoids risky trips to the bathroom.
- Contoured bedpan: shaped for comfort with side grips for easy handling. Holds up to 84 oz, measures 12" × 16.25" and supports up to 250 lb.
- Fracture bedpan: tapered, lower front for easier positioning when getting out of bed is difficult. Measures 9.25" × 12.5" and 3.25" tall. Latex-free and easy to clean.
- Male urinal: holds 32 oz (1,000 mL), with graduated markings, a handle and an attached lid.
- Female urinal: contoured for a secure seal, with a grip handle and graduated markings. Holds 35 oz. Works at the bedside or in a vehicle.
Overbed tables
An overbed table rolls over the bed or a chair to give you a sturdy surface for meals, reading, a laptop or medications.
How to set an overbed table
- Sit up in bed or in the chair where the table will be used.
- Adjust the top so it sits a few inches above your lap, about elbow height.
- Roll the base under the bed or chair so the top reaches you without leaning.
- Lock the casters if the table has locks.
An overbed table is not built to support body weight. Don't lean on it or use it to stand up.
| Overbed table | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 31.25"–43.75", adjustable |
| Tabletop | 15" × 30.25" |
| Base | 15.25" × 26.5" |
| Weight capacity (tabletop) | 55 lb |
Bed rails
A bedside assist rail gives you something sturdy to hold when sitting up, turning over or getting in and out of bed. Ours fits most standard home beds and includes a storage pouch.
Setting up a bed rail safely
- Slide the base between the mattress and box spring or bed frame.
- Secure the safety strap around the bed frame so the rail can't move away from the bed.
- Adjust the legs so they reach the floor.
- Check that there is no gap between the rail and the mattress. A gap can trap an arm, leg or head.
An assist rail is a handhold, not a restraint. Check that it's secure every day.
| Bedside assist rail | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 32"–44", adjustable |
| Length | 29" |
| Fits | Most standard home beds |
| Weight capacity | 250 lb |
Transfer & gait belts
A gait belt, also called a transfer belt, goes around the waist and gives a caregiver a secure place to hold while helping someone stand, walk or move between a bed, chair and toilet. Belts with handles give an even better grip, and leg straps keep the belt from riding up.
How to use a gait belt
- Put the belt around the waist over clothing, with the buckle in front.
- Tighten it so it is snug, with just enough room to slide your flat fingers underneath.
- Stand close and to the side, and hold the belt or handles with an underhand grip.
- Lift with your legs, not your back. Never lift someone by their arms.
| Belt | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gait belt | 60" or 72" long, 2" wide | Cotton webbing, side-release or metal buckle, washable up to 180°F |
| Transfer belt with handles | Fits waists up to 51", 4" wide | Seven padded handles, quick-release plastic buckle |
| Transfer belt with leg straps | Fits waists 27"–51", leg straps 16"–36" | Padded handles, quick-release buckle |
Underpads & positioning
Underpads protect the bed, chair or wheelchair from leaks. Positioning wedges help with comfort, pressure relief and keeping someone safely on their side.
- Disposable underpads: 30" × 36", heavy absorbency.
- Reusable underpads: washable, in 18" × 18", 23" × 36", 36" × 54" and 36" × 72".
- Positioning wedge: 23" × 23" × 7", for side-lying support.
- Offloading foam wedges: 30° wedges, 5" × 16" × 11", sold as a pair, with handles and a non-slip bottom. Latex-free.
Common questions
What is a 3-in-1 commode?
A 3-in-1 commode can be used three ways: as a bedside commode with its bucket, as a raised toilet seat placed over the toilet, or as a toilet safety frame with armrests.
What is the difference between a contoured bedpan and a fracture bedpan?
A contoured bedpan is shaped for comfort and holds more. A fracture bedpan has a tapered, lower front, so it is easier to position under someone who has difficulty getting out of bed.
How tight should a gait belt be?
Snug around the waist over clothing, with just enough room to slide your flat fingers between the belt and the person's body.
Do bed rails fit any bed?
Our bedside assist rail fits most standard home beds. It must be strapped securely to the bed frame with no gap between the rail and the mattress.
Do you bill insurance?
Not yet. We are working on it. For now, home care equipment is available for retail purchase.
Get set up in Belgrade
If you're setting up a room for someone coming home from the hospital, we can help you put together everything you need. Stop by 312 W Main St, Suite 9 in Belgrade or call 406-414-6868.