Home Decor, Furniture and Fixtures for Big and Tall People

Size issues can be a problem in the outside world, but what about in the home? The living room could have an EZ chair that is too cramped for you or a couch that is not strong enough for you. The kitchen could have chairs at the table that creek at the stress of your weight. The bathroom may have a toilet that is too small or even too weak to support you. The tub could be plastic and not support you or could be too short or not wide or deep enough. The shower head may be fixed causing it to be too low or not able to clean you effectively. You may have a bed with a weak frame or need an adjustable bed for some medical conditions or may just not be long enough. What can be done?

Chairs for Larger People

As far as the living room, you want to measure yourself for and EZ chair. See what kind of clearance you need to fit comfortably. Give yourself an extra few inches. With couches, take your weight, multiply it times 3 for a sofa, 2 for a love seat and use that as the guide for weight capacity. Since your weight will be focused on one area, this is the best method.

Kitchen chairs would require similar preparation. See what the weight limits are. Also, review the height. Higher chairs may work for taller people (and may be preferred). Shorter chairs are going to be desired by those of smaller and heavier stature. The size of the seat of the chair may also be something you want to consider, especially if you are considering chair with arms. Use the same method that you would use for the EZ chair, measure what you need and add a few inches for so wiggle room.

Bathrooms Made Size Friendly

Bathrooms are going to be the most difficult because it might require renovation. Toilets with elongated bowls and that fasten to the ground (some fasten to the wall, although this is mostly found in businesses). High weight capacity seats, possibly “horseshoe” style may be preferred. Bathtubs made of steel or ceramic are usually preferred to a fiberglass model which can buckle if presented with too much weight and improper support underneath the tub. If you have a handicap, you may want to consider walk in tubs. Some people forego the stub altogether and decide on a stand alone shower. With this choice you would want to consider a hand held shower (even with a tub, this may be the choice you want) and a strong shower bench. These can be made free standing, or in the case of a remodel, can be built into the wall. Just be sure to speak with the builder about weight capacity needs. Along with these fixtures, you may want to consider handicapped fixtures such as handles and bars.

Heavy Duty Bedrooms

In the bedroom, you want to choose a bed with a solid frame that is long enough for you. A tall person can find extra long frames and mattresses. Heavier people will need to be concerned with weight capacity. Bed frames that have drawers underneath generally provide a more solid base, as opposed to the standard metal frames. Mattresses with springs may want to be avoided as the springs can pop out and wear out easier than other designs. The box spring itself will need to be sturdy and measure the same as the mattress (mismatched sizes can cause extreme discomfort). Most manufacturers will provide weight limitations for both mattresses and box springs. There are also alternatives to box springs that may provide extra support, but you should investigate these carefully.

Guarantees and Warranties

Any furniture or furnishings you buy should have a warranty. Be sure to check that it covers you in the case of breaking under your weight. This is important for heavy people. You do not want to keep buying furniture every year, especially when 5 and 10 year warranties come with them.