Our team has spent the better part of two decades designing products that make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Since our founding in 2004, our focus has been clear: to develop smart, accessible solutions that help people stay safely and comfortably in the homes they love.
Over the years, we’ve learned that when it comes to bathroom safety, even small changes can have a profound impact. That’s why we offer both transfer benches and small shower benches, each designed to address different needs while preserving independence and dignity in the bathroom.
Two of our most popular product lines, ShowerGlyde and Refine, are often compared by customers looking to improve safety in their bathrooms. While both provide secure seating during showers, they are designed for very different purposes. So, how do you know which is right for your situation? Let us walk you through the differences and help you make the best choice for your home and lifestyle.
Understanding the Differences
The first thing to understand is the distinction between a small shower bench and a transfer bench. A small shower bench is designed for individuals who can step into the shower independently but need support while seated during bathing. A transfer bench, on the other hand, is ideal for those who have difficulty stepping over the tub wall or standing safely during transfers.
While they may sound similar at first, the distinction is significant in terms of functionality, safety, and design.
ShowerGlyde: A Safer Way to Transfer
Our ShowerGlyde line was born from the need to eliminate the risks associated with entering and exiting the bathtub. We’ve worked closely with caregivers and individuals with limited mobility to develop a solution that doesn’t require a costly bathroom renovation but still offers maximum support during transfers.
The ShowerGlyde is a sliding transfer bench that makes bathing safer and easier for people with mobility challenges. It allows the user to sit down outside the tub and gently glide across the rails into the showering area, without ever needing to step over a ledge or balance precariously.
We offer three different ShowerGlyde models to accommodate various bathroom layouts:
- SG1: Best for bathrooms with open space around the tub. The bench locks securely in two positions—outside and inside the tub—for stable and safe transfers.
- SG2: Designed for bathrooms with a toilet adjacent to the tub. This model features longer rails to slide over the commode before entering the tub.
- SG3: Perfect for tighter spaces or bathrooms with a vanity next to the tub. It features shorter rails and a swivel seat, making it easy to navigate around obstacles without compromising safety.
Each model includes essential safety features such as a seat belt, grab bar, and multiple seat options, giving users and caregivers the tools they need for a safer and more comfortable bathing experience.
For those who need caregiver assistance or have more advanced mobility challenges, a transfer bench like ShowerGlyde is often the ideal choice. It restores a sense of autonomy and dignity, while minimizing the physical strain and potential dangers that can come with daily bathing.
Refine: A Stylish, Stable Small Shower Bench
Now, let’s talk about the Refine line of small shower benches. We created this collection for individuals who want the stability of a shower seat but don’t need a full transfer solution. These customers are often looking for something compact, sturdy, and, importantly, not medical-looking.
Refine benches are designed with form and function in mind. We wanted to change the narrative around bathroom safety products by creating a bench that looks as good as it performs. With modern lines, multiple color options, and a sleek designer aesthetic, Refine benches complement contemporary bathrooms instead of clashing with them.
Each Refine model stands at 17 inches high, with a 300 lb weight capacity. The dense, heavy design ensures that the bench stays in place during use, while the adjustable feet help accommodate uneven surfaces and eliminate any wobble. These small shower benches are also rust-resistant, hypoallergenic, and require no assembly—you can simply place one in your shower and enjoy immediate peace of mind.
Maintenance is just as effortless. A quick rinse is usually all it takes to keep your Refine bench looking new, and its simple, minimalist design makes it easy to clean and sanitize regularly.
Which Do You Need?
When choosing between the ShowerGlyde and the Refine, it really comes down to your mobility level and bathroom configuration.
Choose ShowerGlyde if:
- You or a loved one have difficulty stepping into or out of a tub.
- You require caregiver assistance during bathing.
- You need a secure sliding bench to help transfer into the tub safely.
- Your bathroom has obstacles like a toilet or vanity that require custom-fit solutions.
ShowerGlyde is ideal for those who want a secure, transfer-friendly solution without the need for permanent remodeling. It’s particularly helpful for elderly users, individuals recovering from surgery, or anyone with chronic mobility limitations.
Choose Refine if:
- You are able to step into the shower independently, but need stability while seated.
- You want a stylish, modern solution that doesn’t look like a medical device.
- You live in a small space and need a compact, small shower bench that still provides excellent support.
- You’re seeking a simple, tool-free option that can be placed directly in your shower stall.
Refine is a great match for people who are focused on preventing slips and falls but don’t need a transfer function. It also makes an excellent option for those who value aesthetic design and ease of use.
Why Choose SolutionBased?
We design all our products with real-world users in mind. Our experience in the field—working directly with families, caregivers, and individuals—has shaped our product development from the very beginning. Every ShowerGlyde and every small shower bench in the Refine line reflects our commitment to:
- User-centered design that prioritizes safety, independence, and comfort.
- Continuous innovation, always improving based on your feedback.
- Unmatched support from our knowledgeable, USA-based team—available by phone or even FaceTime to help you choose or install your product.
Whether you’re dealing with short-term recovery, a long-term mobility condition, or just planning ahead, we’re here to help you maintain your independence at home without compromise.
Choosing between a transfer bench and a small shower bench depends on your unique needs—but you don’t have to make the decision alone. At SolutionBased, we’re more than just a product provider—we’re a partner in your home accessibility journey.
If you’re looking for safety, comfort, and peace of mind during bathing, explore our ShowerGlyde and Refine lines to find the perfect solution. Whether it’s a sleek small shower bench that blends into your decor or a transfer bench that restores bathing independence, we’re here to ensure you get exactly what you need to live with confidence and dignity in the home you love.
Browse our full collection today or reach out to speak with our team, we’re always happy to help you find the right fit.
