In 2026, hygienstolar—specialised hygiene chairs designed for medical, residential, and assisted-living environments—are more important than ever across the United Kingdom. With the UK’s ageing population steadily increasing and home-based care becoming more common, the demand for safe, ergonomic, and hygienic seating solutions has surged.
From NHS hospitals in London to care homes in Manchester and Glasgow, hygienstolar play a crucial role in improving patient dignity, infection control, and caregiver safety. These chairs are not simply medical equipment—they represent independence, comfort, and enhanced quality of life.
This comprehensive 2026 guide explores everything you need to know about hygienstolar in the UK, including features, types, leading manufacturers, regulations, funding options, and future trends shaping the market.
What is Hygienstolar? Understanding the Basics
Hygienstolar originates from Swedish and translates to “hygiene chair.” In the UK healthcare context, it refers to ergonomically engineered chairs designed specifically for showering, toileting, and personal hygiene routines.
Unlike ordinary chairs, hygienstolar are built to:
- Withstand frequent cleaning and disinfection
- Support individuals with limited mobility
- Reduce fall risks
- Enhance caregiver efficiency
- Maintain user dignity during personal care
They are commonly used in:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Rehabilitation centres
- Home adaptations
- Disability care facilities
As UK care standards continue to evolve, hygienstolar are considered an essential component of modern hygiene and mobility support systems.
Key Features of Hygienstolar
Modern hygienstolar models in 2026 offer advanced features such as:
- Adjustable height (manual or electric)
- Tilt-in-space mechanisms
- Lockable castor wheels
- Commode pan integration
- Corrosion-resistant frames
- Waterproof and disinfectant-safe materials
For example, the ERGOtip 5 EL includes electric height adjustment and supports up to 200 kg, making it suitable for bariatric users and diverse body types.
Many models now include ergonomic armrests and swing-away footrests to improve access and transfers.
Types of Hygienstolar Available in the UK
There are several types tailored to specific care needs:
- Mobile Shower Chairs – Designed for use in wet rooms and shower areas.
- Toilet Commode Chairs – Include removable pans for bedside use.
- Shower & Toilet Combination Chairs (Dusch- och Toalettstolar) – Multi-functional designs.
- Tilt-in-Space Hygiene Chairs – Provide pressure relief and better posture support.
- Bariatric Hygiene Chairs – Built for higher weight capacities.
These variants ensure that UK care providers can choose solutions tailored to both patients and staff.
History and Evolution of Hygienstolar in the UK
The development of hygienstolar dates back to the mid-20th century. Innovators like Arne Johansson pioneered bathing and transfer equipment in Scandinavia, and these products gradually expanded into the UK market during the 1960s.
Milestones in Development
- 1960s–1980s: Basic steel-framed hygiene chairs introduced in UK care homes.
- 1990s: Introduction of corrosion-resistant aluminium frames.
- 2000s: Electric height adjustment and tilt features become mainstream.
- 2016: Arjo separates from Getinge, strengthening its UK focus.
- 2026: Smart-integrated, ergonomic, and eco-friendly models dominate the market.
These innovations significantly improved both infection control and caregiver ergonomics.
UK-Specific Advancements
The UK market has seen unique developments influenced by:
- MHRA medical device regulations
- NHS infection control standards
- British Standards Institution (BSI) ergonomic guidelines
Recent academic research in the UK has focused on dynamic chassis designs, reducing tipping risks and improving stability during transfers.
Benefits and Uses of Hygienstolar in UK Care Settings
Hygienstolar provide transformative benefits in modern healthcare.
Health and Safety Benefits
- Reduce risk of falls during showering or toileting
- Lower caregiver injury rates
- Minimise infection risks with easy-clean surfaces
- Improve posture and pressure relief
In UK care homes, infection prevention is critical. Hygienstolar are built with sealed joints and antimicrobial surfaces, ensuring compatibility with hospital-grade disinfectants.
Common Applications
Hygienstolar are widely used in:
- Elderly care facilities
- Stroke rehabilitation centres
- Home adaptations under DFG schemes
- Palliative care environments
Advanced models like Arjo’s Carendo enable single-transfer routines, reducing physical strain for caregivers.
Impact on Caregivers and Patients
By 2026, with staffing pressures affecting UK healthcare systems, hygienstolar have become vital in:
- Reducing repetitive strain injuries
- Improving workflow efficiency
- Supporting patient independence
- Enhancing dignity during intimate care
For patients, these chairs restore confidence and autonomy.
Top Manufacturers and Suppliers of Hygienstolar in the UK
The UK hygienstolar market features reputable manufacturers committed to safety and innovation.
Leading Brands in 2026
1. Direct Healthcare Group (DHG)
Based in Caerphilly, DHG offers models like ErgoTip 7, featuring electric tilt and 200 kg capacity.
2. Arjo
A global healthcare leader with strong UK operations. Popular models include Carendo and advanced shower systems.
3. Invacare
Supplies the Aquatec Ocean VIP series, designed for flexibility and indoor hygiene support.
Where to Buy in the UK
Hygienstolar can be purchased via:
- Specialist mobility retailers
- Online medical equipment suppliers
- NHS procurement channels
- Local authority disability support services
Prices in 2026 range from:
- £500–£900 for basic manual models
- £1,000–£2,500+ for electric tilt-in-space chairs
Regulations and Standards for Hygienstolar in the UK
Compliance is mandatory.
Medical Device Regulations
Hygienstolar must comply with:
- MHRA requirements
- CE marking under UK Medical Devices Regulations
- BSI ergonomic standards
Testing includes:
- Stability assessments
- Weight load certification
- Water resistance checks
- Infection control validation
Hygiene and Maintenance Standards
UK healthcare providers must:
- Conduct regular equipment inspections
- Follow manufacturer cleaning protocols
- Ensure commode pans minimise cross-contamination
In 2026, many chairs are designed for tool-free disassembly to simplify deep cleaning.
Funding and Accessibility
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) scheme in England supports home adaptations. Hygienstolar may be funded through:
- Local councils
- NHS occupational therapy referrals
- Charitable disability grants
This improves accessibility for individuals requiring long-term support.
Future Trends in Hygienstolar Technology (2026 and Beyond)
The hygienstolar industry is entering a smart, sustainable era.
Emerging Innovations
- IoT-enabled monitoring systems
- AI-powered posture adjustment
- Remote caregiver alerts
- Dynamic anti-tip chassis
- Advanced pressure mapping sensors
These innovations aim to reduce risks while enhancing patient comfort.
Sustainability Focus
Manufacturers are prioritising:
- Recyclable aluminium frames
- Low-carbon manufacturing processes
- Durable components reducing waste
This aligns with the UK’s Net Zero 2050 goals.
Market Growth Forecast
With the UK’s ageing population increasing rapidly, the hygienstolar market is projected to grow by approximately 15% annually through 2030.
Growth drivers include:
- Increased home care adoption
- NHS infrastructure upgrades
- Greater awareness of caregiver ergonomics
- Technological innovation
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Hygienstolar in the UK (2026)
In 2026, hygienstolar represent the intersection of safety, dignity, and innovation in UK healthcare. Whether for hospital environments, care homes, or private residences, these hygiene chairs significantly improve both patient outcomes and caregiver efficiency.
When selecting a hygienstolar, consider:
- User weight capacity
- Electric vs manual adjustments
- Infection control compatibility
- Regulatory compliance
- Funding eligibility
With leading suppliers like DHG, Arjo, and Invacare, UK consumers have access to high-quality, compliant solutions.
Investing in the right hygiene chair is not just about comfort—it’s about enhancing quality of life and professional care standards.
FAQs About Hygienstolar in the UK (2026)
1. What is a hygienstolar used for?
A hygienstolar is used for showering, toileting, and assisted hygiene routines, especially for individuals with mobility challenges.
2. Are hygienstolar funded by the NHS?
They may be funded through NHS referrals or local authority schemes like the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).
3. How much does a hygienstolar cost in the UK?
Prices range from £500 to £2,500+, depending on features and brand.
4. What regulations apply to hygienstolar in the UK?
They must comply with MHRA regulations, CE marking standards, and BSI guidelines.
5. Which brands are most trusted in the UK?
Leading brands include Direct Healthcare Group (DHG), Arjo, and Invacare.
