Commode chairs consist of a frame with push tube or push-handles. The side pieces / armrests are removable and / or foldable and allow a sideways transfer. The seat surface of commode chairs is made of a water-tight, removable plate with a toilette opening, under which a commode basin may be pushed. A rugged, padded and upholstered water tight lid covers the commode opening. In some models the seating surface is made of a padded upholstered material where the commode opening can be closed with an insert element. Because of the materials used and design, the metal and plastic commode chairs are far more resistant to mechanical and chemical loading than with wooden commode chairs.

Stationary commode chairs have four legs.

Commode roll-chairs have four small swivel castors (two with locks) that allow easy turning into position. The footrests are removable or may be folded away. Commode wheelchairs can be easily pushed over conventional toilets.

Patient-propelled commode chairs have two large wheels with handrims in the back and two small swivel castors up front. The footrests are removable or may be folded away. Commode wheelchairs can be easily pushed over conventional toilets.

Indication
Illnesses or impairments that require the patient to be in close proximity to toilet facilities. Illnesses or disorders may include:

• Tenesmus, stool incontinence, chronic dysentery. When the commode chair partially or almost completely replaces incontinence devices.
• Great difficulty walking, e.g. leg amputation, when using a prostheses and walking aid is functionally unreasonable.
• Paralysis
• Cardiac disorders with regular night-time urination
• Dizziness caused by impaired arterial circulation or other reasons