Handicap Showers: Camper Accessibility Options

can a handcap shower be put in a camper

Handicap showers are designed to be accessible for people with disabilities, and can be a useful addition to a campervan setup. While some people opt for a full wet room setup in their camper, others prefer to use public showers or natural bodies of water to stay clean while travelling. Handicap showers can be designed to be wheelchair accessible, with a low threshold, and can include features such as a folding shower seat, grab bars, and a height-adjustable showerhead.

Characteristics Values
Shower type Roll-in or transfer
Shower size At least 30" wide and 60" deep
Shower entry width At least 36" wide
Shower entry clearance 36" wide and 48" long
Threshold height No taller than 0.5"
Shower seat Folding or non-folding, able to withstand at least 250 lbs of force
Grab bar placement 1.5" from the shower wall, able to support at least 250 lbs of force
Shower controls At least 38" from the shower floor and no higher than 48"
Shower spray unit Mounted no higher than 48" from the floor, with a hose at least 59" long
Shower floor Non-slip, small tiles with coarse surface
Shower walls Contrasting colours to the floor, light colours recommended
Shower lighting Waterproof fixtures and accessible controls or motion-activated lights
Shower head Handheld, on a sliding arm

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Space requirements

Space is a crucial consideration when installing a handicap shower in a camper. The available space will dictate the size of the shower, and you will need to ensure that the camper has enough room to accommodate the necessary features and accessories.

To be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a transfer shower must have interior dimensions of at least 36" x 36" (91 x 91 cm), while a roll-in shower for wheelchair users must have a minimum interior dimension of 60" x 30" (152 x 76 cm). These dimensions are absolute and cannot be smaller. Additionally, there must be adequate clearance space outside the shower to allow for easy manoeuvring and approach in a wheelchair.

When planning the layout, consider that a handicap shower will require dedicated shower space in the camper. The shower area will need to be raised slightly to allow for a drain, and the entire area must be waterproof and watertight to prevent leaks and mould. This will limit your layout options and impact the available space for other features in the camper.

It is also important to think about the space required for shower accessories and controls. Grab bars, for example, must be installed horizontally between 33 and 36 inches (84 and 91 cm) from the shower floor. The shower spray unit should be mounted no higher than 48 inches (122 cm) from the floor and should have a hose at least 59 inches (150 cm) long. Soap, shampoo, and other shower accessories should be easily reachable and within the individual's unique range of motion.

Finally, it is worth noting that while a handicap shower can be installed in a camper, it will increase the complexity of the build and reduce flexibility in terms of space and layout. It is essential to carefully plan and measure the available space to ensure that all the necessary features can be accommodated and that the shower is accessible and comfortable for the user.

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Shower type

There are a few things to consider when choosing a shower type for your camper. Firstly, you'll want to think about the amount of space you have available and the needs of the user. If the user requires a wheelchair or walker, a "curbless" or "roll-in" shower may be the best option. These showers have a low threshold or no threshold at all, allowing easy access for wheelchairs. If the user is able to walk but needs to be seated while showering, a "transfer" type shower might be more suitable.

Another important consideration is compliance with accessibility guidelines, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA-compliant showers have specific requirements for measurements, materials, and designs. For example, an ADA-compliant roll-in shower must have an interior that measures at least 30 inches wide and 60 inches deep, with a clearance of 30 inches wide and 60 inches long adjacent to the opening. The threshold height for roll-in showers must also be no taller than ½ inch.

If you're looking for a more compact option for your camper, you could consider a portable shower. Portable wheelchair showers are available, and some people also opt for a USB shower setup, which uses a USB-powered showerhead, shower curtains, a hoola-hoop, a bucket, and a dog paddling pool to create a mini shower inside the campervan. This type of setup allows for a warm shower without taking up too much space.

It's also worth noting that some people choose to forgo a dedicated shower area in their camper and instead utilise public showers, lakes, the sea, or campsites when they need to bathe. This frees up space in the camper for other purposes.

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Shower accessories

There are a variety of accessories that can be added to a handicap shower to improve comfort, safety, and accessibility. Here are some essential and optional accessories to consider:

Essential Accessories:

  • Grab bars: Grab bars are crucial for providing support and stability, especially for individuals with limited mobility. They can be installed in various locations within the shower, such as the back wall and sidewalls, to ensure safety. Grab bars should be placed 1.5 inches from the shower wall and be able to support at least 250 pounds of force.
  • Shower controls: The shower controls, including the faucet and spray unit, should be easily accessible and located conveniently by the door or on the sidewall opposite the shower seat. They should be installed at a height of at least 38 inches from the shower floor and no higher than 48 inches.
  • Shower seat: A shower seat is essential for individuals who cannot stand for extended periods. It provides a safe and comfortable place to sit while showering. Look for seats that can fold up when not in use, and ensure they can support at least 250 pounds of weight.
  • Nonslip floor: To prevent slips and falls, it is essential to have a nonslip floor in a handicap shower. Small tiles with a coarse surface and ample grout lines can provide better traction and improve safety.

Optional Accessories:

  • Handheld showerhead: A handheld showerhead on a sliding arm allows for adjustability and can also double as an extra grab bar for stability.
  • Fixed showerhead: In addition to the handheld showerhead, you may want to include a fixed showerhead for multiple water streams.
  • Water retainer: A collapsible water retainer can help prevent water from escaping and ensure a dry bathroom floor.
  • Weighted shower curtains: These curtains provide privacy and can be paired with the water retainer for ADA compliance.
  • Shower shelves: Shelves or shower caddies can be installed to provide storage space for shampoo, soap, and other shower essentials.
  • Shower mats: Nonslip shower mats can provide additional traction and improve the safety of the shower floor.

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Shower safety

  • Follow ADA Guidelines: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides guidelines for accessible design, including shower standards such as spacing measurements, shower control heights, grab bar placement, and more. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure the shower is safe and functional for individuals with disabilities.
  • Create a Wide Shower Entry: A wide entry, preferably at least 36 inches, allows for easy access, especially for those using wheelchairs or walkers. Consider a doorless design or use a glass panel splashguard for easier access.
  • Install Grab Bars: Grab bars are essential for safety and can be incorporated in a way that blends with the shower design. Choose products that serve dual purposes, such as a soap dish/grab bar or shampoo shelf/grab bar. Ensure they are securely installed and can support at least 250 pounds of force.
  • Use a Nonslip Floor: Opt for small tiles with a coarse surface and multiple grout lines to create a nonslip floor. This helps prevent slips and falls, providing a safer shower experience.
  • Provide Good Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial to prevent falls. Install waterproof fixtures, accessible controls, or motion-activated lights to ensure the shower area is well-lit.
  • Choose the Right Shower Head: A handheld shower head on a sliding arm is a good option as it offers adjustability and can be used as a fixed shower head or hand-held sprayer. Ensure the shower spray unit has a hose at least 59 inches long and is mounted no higher than 48 inches from the floor.
  • Accessible Controls: Locate the shower controls by the door, rather than across the shower. This allows the user to turn on the water without being in the direct stream. Ensure controls are easy to reach and are at an appropriate height.
  • Consider a Seat: A flip-down seat attached to the wall can be useful for individuals who need to sit while showering. It can be folded up when not in use to open up space in the shower.
  • Use Contrasting Colors: Using contrasting colors for the floor and walls can help individuals with impaired vision distinguish between the two. Consider dark colors for the floor and light colors for the walls.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain the shower area to prevent the build-up of soap scum and mould, which can make the shower surface slippery and hazardous.
  • Water Temperature Control: Ensure the shower has a working water heater and that water temperature controls are easily accessible and clearly labelled to prevent accidental scalding.
  • Water Conservation: Consider using low-flow shower heads or water-conserving devices to reduce water usage, especially when dry camping or boondocking.
  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mould or mildew growth. Ensure the bathroom has an exhaust fan or window to remove excess moisture.
  • Outdoor Shower Safety: If using an outdoor shower, be mindful of the environment. Do not use soap, shampoo, or other chemical products in lakes, rivers, or other water bodies as they can harm the ecosystem. Use biodegradable soap sparingly and dispose of wastewater properly.

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Shower maintenance

To ensure your handicap shower remains in good condition, it is important to perform regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are some detailed tips to help you keep your handicap shower well-maintained:

Cleaning Tiles and Fixtures

  • Regularly clean the tiles and fixtures using appropriate cleaning products. This will prevent the buildup of grime and maintain a hygienic space.
  • Pay special attention to the grout between tiles, as it can be a breeding ground for mould and bacteria. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub away any dirt or stains.
  • For glass shower doors or walls, use a mild glass cleaner and a soft cloth to avoid scratching.

Durability of Materials and Fixtures

  • Invest in high-quality, durable materials and fixtures to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your handicap shower.
  • Opt for non-slip and easy-to-clean surfaces, such as small tiles with coarse surfaces, to ensure safety and ease of maintenance.
  • Consider using waterproof wall panels instead of standard shower wall tiles, as they require less maintenance and are easier to clean.

Addressing Wear and Tear

  • Regularly inspect the shower for any signs of wear and tear. This includes checking the condition of the caulk and grout, as well as the stability of grab bars and other fixtures.
  • Address any issues promptly to prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs. For example, if you notice a leaky shower head, replace the washer or the entire fixture if necessary.

Maintaining Accessibility Features

  • Ensure that all accessibility features, such as grab bars, shower seats, and handheld showerheads, are securely attached and in good working condition.
  • Check the weight-bearing capacity of grab bars and shower seats periodically, especially if they are supporting heavy weights.
  • Keep the shower area clutter-free and ensure that shower accessories, such as soap and shampoo, are easily reachable for the user.

Preventing Clogs and Drain Maintenance

  • Use a drain catcher or strainer to catch hair and other debris, preventing them from clogging the drain. Clean the drain catcher regularly.
  • Once a month, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water, to help clear any built-up residue and keep the pipes clear.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your handicap shower remains safe, functional, and enjoyable for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, a handicap shower can be put in a camper. There are a few options for handicap showers in campers, including portable wheelchair showers and roll-in showers.

Handicap showers are designed with a barrier-free entrance, making them wheelchair accessible. They usually have a maximum threshold height of 1 inch, with other features such as folding shower seats, grab bars, and height-adjustable showerheads.

Handicap showers offer increased independence and safety for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. They also help reduce the risk of falls in the bathroom and provide a stylish and comfortable showering experience.

When installing a handicap shower in a camper, it is important to consider the available space, the specific needs of the user, and compliance with accessibility guidelines such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Additionally, think about the shower's design, including the type of shower head, grab bar placement, and shower accessories.

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