Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services
Over Toilet Frame
An over toilet frame is a free-standing frame that sits over and around a standard-sized toilet.
The armrests help keep you stable and support you when getting on and off the toilet. The legs are adjustable to change the seat height and are fitted with non-slip rubber feet.
How to set up the toilet frame
- The height should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, with hips higher than knees.
- To adjust the height, push the buttons on each leg and raise or lower until the button pops out again. Do this to all four legs until it is the right height for you.
- Lift up your existing toilet seat to expose the ceramic toilet bowl.
- Place the over toilet frame over the toilet, lining up the seat with the rim of the toilet bowl so that the openings match.
- All the legs should be in full contact with the ground. Check that it is stable and the is seat level.
- If it wobbles, due to an uneven floor, try a different hole on the leg that has more holes. If this doesn’t work pull the leg with more holes off and swap it to a different side of the frame with another leg. Try different holes to stop the wobble and make the frame stable.
- If you have been given a splash guard; lift the seat, place the splash guard into the opening and lower the seat. Do not use the splash guard if it touches the sides of the toilet bowl.
Precautions:
- Check each leg has rubber stoppers to prevent slipping.
- Make sure the push buttons on each leg are securely locked into a hole to stop the leg from collapsing.
- While the over toilet frame is in place you won’t be able to lower your normal toilet seat and lid.
- Be aware that weight limits apply to this equipment and there will be a sticker stating this on the frame.
How to use:
- Use two hands on the arm rests and push down evenly to prevent it tipping when getting on and off the toilet.
Care and Maintenance
- Clean the over toilet frame weekly using warm, soapy water and a cloth. Rinse it with disinfectant and dry with a cloth to prevent corrosion.
- Check the frame weekly for cracks, rust around the push buttons and that the rubber stoppers are in good condition.
- If the over toilet frame is damaged, stop using it and contact the Equipment Loan Service for assistance.
If your needs change or you need your equipment to be re-assessed, please contact your treating therapist.
Contact information
ACT Equipment Loan Service (ELS)
- Location: Village Creek Centre, 37 Kingsmill Street, Kambah, ACT 2902
- Phone: (02) 5124 1057
- Opening hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
- Saturday – Sunday: 11:00am – 12:00pm
If you no longer have a treating therapist, call Central Health Intake (CHI): (02) 5124 9977.