What Are the Best Stairlifts Available in Ireland? 2026 Guide

1Sep2025

Are you wondering what are the best stairlifts available in Ireland? Then, read on.

Choosing the right stairlift is an essential step to reclaiming independence and safety within your home. For many in Ireland, especially in Dublin, Leinster, and beyond, stairlifts transform daily mobility, allowing for safe and smooth access between floors. But what makes a stairlift the best fit for your home? This comprehensive guide explores the top stairlift brands available in Ireland, key features to consider, the installation process, grant support, and real user insights to help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways: What to Expect

Top stairlift brands in Ireland include Acorn, Ergo, and Bruno, known for quality, innovative safety features, and smooth rides.
Stairlifts come in straight and curved models tailored to your staircase’s specific layout.
Crucial factors include weight capacity, seat comfort, user controls, and integrated safety features like seatbelts and sensors.
Professional installation by expert engineers ensures minimal disruption and optimal fit Installation details.
The HSE and some local councils offer grants up to €8,000 to help fund stairlift purchases for eligible applicants.
Customer reviews consistently praise reliability, responsive service, and personalized support from Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms staff Reviews.

Understanding Your Stairlift Options

Straight vs. Curved Stairlifts

The first step in your stairlift journey is determining your staircase type:

Straight stairlifts are designed for staircases without turns and generally have shorter installation times (1–3 hours). For budget-conscious homeowners, second hand straight stairlifts can be a cost-effective option while still offering reliability and safety.
Curved stairlifts cater to staircases with bends, landings, or irregular shapes. These are custom-made to fit your home, with delivery and installation typically spanning 3–5 weeks and around 4–5 hours respectively. In some cases, second hand curved stairlifts may also be available, offering a more affordable alternative for complex staircases.

Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms offers both new and second-hand options and works closely with you to assess and recommend the best fit based on your home layout, budget, and personal mobility needs.

Weight Capacity and User Comfort

Stairlifts vary in supporting weights generally between 250 to 400 lbs. It is vital to select a model with sufficient weight capacity for safe, comfortable use. Additionally, models with cushioned, ergonomic seats, swivable options, and adjustable armrests provide greater ease and comfort during use.

Safety Features to Prioritize

Safety is paramount. Look for:

Seatbelts to prevent falls.
Obstacle sensors that stop the lift if anything blocks the path.
Smooth start and stop mechanisms to avoid sudden jerks.
Battery backups so your stairlift works even during power outages.
Easy-to-operate controls, often via joystick or remote.

Leading Stairlift Brands in Ireland

Acorn Stairlifts

Acorn is widely recognized for its ease of installation and user-friendly design. Their models are popular throughout Ireland for reliability and affordable pricing. Acorn supports both straight and curved stairlifts, with options including powered swivel seats and folding rails.

Ergo Stairlifts

Ergo stairlifts stand out for their ergonomic design focused on user comfort and accessibility. They offer a range of customizable options to fit various staircase types and feature intuitive controls along with enhanced safety sensors.

Bruno Stairlifts

Bruno is praised for its robust safety features and smooth, quiet ride quality. Their stairlifts are engineered for durability and comfort, featuring padded seats, advanced obstacle detection, and reliable battery backups to ensure consistent performance.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Stairlift

Weight Capacity: Confirm the maximum supported weight meets your needs.
Seat Comfort: Ergonomic, padded, with adjustable features.
Control Simplicity: Easy-to-understand joysticks or remote controls.
Safety Sensors: Detect obstructions automatically.
Noise Levels: Select quieter models for peaceful home environments.
Customization: Color options and design elements to blend with your home décor.
Battery Life: Reliable usage during power outages.
Compactness: Foldable seats and footrests to space-save when not in use.

Installation and Maintenance: What to Expect

Professional Installation

Installation times vary:

Straight stairlifts: approximately 1-3 hours.
Curved or custom stairlifts: roughly 4-5 hours.

Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms’ engineers fit all lifts to the actual stair treads, so there is no damage or need for remodeling walls or staircases. A power outlet should be nearby (usually within 10 feet) to keep the lift charged. Installers will conduct a thorough demonstration and provide a detailed user manual post-installation.

Minimal Disruption

Installations are tidy and cause minimal disruption to daily life. After fitting the stairlift, engineers clear all waste and packaging, ensuring a clean finish.

Upkeep and Servicing

Routine maintenance prolongs the life and safety of your stairlift. Many providers offer tailored service plans with regular inspections, lubrication, and prompt repairs if necessary to ensure the stairlift continues running smoothly year-round.

Navigating Stairlift Grants and Financial Support

While stairlifts are a significant investment (prices in Ireland typically range between €3,000 and €6,000), financial assistance can ease the burden.

HSE and Local Council Grants

Certain counties offer housing adaptation grants for older people or those with disabilities, which can cover up to €8,000 or the full price of a stairlift in some cases. Eligibility is determined based on individual needs, income, and a medical assessment often involving an occupational therapist.

How to Apply

Arrange a free home stairlift survey with your chosen supplier.
Contact your local county council to get the correct grant application form.
Submit the form along with supporting documents like medical reports and quotes.
Await approval before installation commences.

Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms provide expert guidance throughout the grant application process, assisting customers to maximize available funding.

Customer Reviews and Real-Life Recommendations

Hearing from others who have experienced stairlift installation can provide invaluable reassurance and insight. Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms consistently scores high on platforms like Trustpilot, with users praising:

Prompt and professional installation service.
Friendly, knowledgeable staff including personalized attention from recognized team members.
Peace of mind from reliable after-sales care.
Stairlifts that integrate smoothly into home spaces without aesthetic disruption.

Positive testimonials highlight the transformative impact stairlifts have on daily living for older adults and individuals with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the average cost of stairlifts in Ireland?

Most new stairlifts cost between €3,000 and €6,000, depending on the model (straight or curved), features, and installation complexity.

Are stairlifts covered by insurance or government grants?

While insurance seldom covers stairlifts, grants from the HSE and local councils may provide substantial financial aid for qualifying individuals.

How long does stairlift installation take?

Installation is typically completed within 1-5 hours, depending on the stairlift type.

Can stairlifts be used outdoors?

Yes, weather-resistant outdoor stairlifts are available designed for garden steps and external staircases.

What is the typical weight capacity of stairlifts?

Most units support from 250 to 400 pounds. Verify specific models for exact capacities.

Conclusion: Take the Next Step Towards Independence

Choosing the best stairlift in Ireland is a decision that can profoundly improve quality of life, safety, and autonomy. Leading brands like Acorn, Stannah, and Brooks offer reliable, customizable solutions tailored to your unique home environment and mobility needs. Combined with expert installation by Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms, grant support, and trusted aftercare, the journey to greater home accessibility is well within reach.

Explore more about our Mobility Products and Bathroom Solutions to complement your stairlift with holistic home mobility solutions. Reach out today for a free consultation and discover how a stairlift can transform everyday living into a safer, more comfortable experience.

Mobility Aids

Can Electric Wheelchairs Get Wet? Safety Tips

5Apr2024

Electric wheelchairs are designed with some weather resistance, but prolonged exposure to rain or moisture can damage sensitive electrical components. While most modern powerchairs can handle light rain briefly, they aren’t fully waterproof and require proper protection to ensure longevity and safe operation.

Understanding Water Resistance in Electric Wheelchairs

Modern electric wheelchairs typically have an IP rating (Ingress Protection) that indicates their level of water resistance. Most powerchairs have basic splash protection, meaning they can withstand light moisture but shouldn’t be submerged or exposed to heavy rain. The electrical components—including the battery, motor, controller, and wiring—are vulnerable to water damage that can cause malfunctions, corrosion, or complete system failure.

How to Protect Your Electric Wheelchair from Rain

Invest in Quality Waterproof Covers

Purchase wheelchair-specific rain covers or canopies that protect both you and your mobility device. Look for covers with sealed seams and materials that fully enclose the control panel, battery compartment, and motor housing.

Plan Around Weather Conditions

Check weather forecasts before heading out and avoid traveling during heavy rain or storms. If you must go out in wet conditions, plan your route to include covered areas and indoor spaces where you can take shelter.

Apply Protective Coatings

Use electronic-grade waterproofing sprays on exposed connections and terminals. Silicone-based products can help repel water from vulnerable areas, but ensure any product you use is safe for electronic components.

Perform Regular Maintenance Checks

Inspect your powerchair monthly for signs of moisture damage, including corrosion on battery terminals, rust on metal components, or water in the battery compartment. Clean and dry any damp areas immediately and address issues before they escalate.

Store Your Wheelchair Properly

Keep your electric wheelchair in a dry, climate-controlled space when not in use. Avoid storage in damp garages or outdoor sheds where condensation can accumulate overnight.

What to Do If Your Wheelchair Gets Wet

If your electric wheelchair is exposed to rain, dry it thoroughly as soon as possible. Wipe down all surfaces, pay special attention to the control panel and battery area, and allow it to air dry completely before use. If water has entered electrical components, have your wheelchair inspected by a qualified technician before operating it again.

Ready to Explore Mobility Solutions?

At Irish Stairlifts, we understand the importance of reliable, weather-appropriate mobility equipment. Visit our showroom in Clane, Co. Kildare, to view our range of folding wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and electric wheelchairs, and speak with our mobility experts about the right solutions and protective accessories for your needs. Schedule your appointment today to find the perfect powerchair solution for Irish weather conditions.

Accessible Bathrooms

Top Advantages of Wetrooms for Safer Living

Level Access Showers with Full Height Elegance Doors

21Mar2024

Wetrooms aren’t just a design trend—they’re transforming how Irish homeowners approach bathroom accessibility and safety. With 68% of homeowners now prioritizing accessibility features in bathroom renovations, wetrooms have become the gold standard for creating safe, stylish, and future-proof spaces.

Barrier-Free Access for Everyone

The standout feature of wetrooms is their level-access design that eliminates steps and thresholds entirely. Unlike traditional bathrooms with raised shower trays that create trip hazards, wetrooms provide seamless floor-level access that’s ideal for wheelchair users, individuals with mobility challenges, and aging-in-place homeowners. This barrier-free approach makes daily routines easier for people of all ages and abilities, from young children to elderly family members.

Enhanced Safety Features

Safety concerns drive many wetroom installations, and for good reason. 80% of bathroom accidents involve slips, trips, and falls, with over 235,000 people requiring emergency treatment annually for bathroom-related injuries. Wetrooms address these risks through multiple safety features:

Non-slip flooring materials that reduce fall risk even when wet
Shower grab rails and support bars that provide stability without compromising design
Integrated shower stools for comfortable, secure bathing
Thermostatic controls that prevent scalding with automatic temperature regulation

These features make wetrooms safer than traditional bathrooms, particularly for households with elderly members where injury rates peak after age 85.

Freedom of Movement and Independence

Wetrooms offer unmatched space and maneuverability, especially important for those using mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, or walking frames. The open-plan design eliminates tight corners and restrictive enclosures, allowing caregivers to assist when needed without spatial constraints. This spacious layout empowers individuals to maintain their independence and dignity while managing daily hygiene routines safely.

Customizable Design Options

Modern wetrooms blend accessibility with aesthetic appeal, dispelling the myth that accessible bathrooms must look institutional. Homeowners can choose from contemporary minimalist designs, traditional styles with natural stone, or spa-inspired wellness retreats. Popular 2026 design elements include:

Rainfall showerheads for a luxurious bathing experience
Natural materials like travertine and textured tiles
Chromotherapy lighting to enhance mood and wellbeing
Smart technology integration with voice-activated controls

This flexibility ensures your wetroom reflects your personal style while prioritizing functionality and safety.

Future-Proofing Your Irish Home

Investing in a wetroom adds long-term value to your property as the accessible shower room market is projected to grow at 7% annually through 2033, reflecting increasing demand for age-friendly housing. Homes with accessibility features like wetrooms appeal to a broader range of buyers and meet evolving building standards. With installation costs in Ireland typically ranging from €3,500 to €10,000, wetrooms represent a smart investment in both quality of life and property value.

Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?

Irish Stairlifts specializes in creating accessible, stylish wetrooms that enhance safety and independence, including the supply and installation of high-quality shower safety chairs and other toilet aids for seniors and those with mobility issues for added comfort and support. Our bathroom installations serve Dublin, Offaly, Meath, Louth, Wicklow, Kildare, and Carlow.

Contact us today for a free quotation and discover how a wetroom can transform your home.

View our wetroom and accessible bathroom gallery here

Mobility Aids

Are Rollators Allowed on Planes? Travel Guide

8Mar2024

4 Wheel Lightweight Rollator

Traveling by air with a rollator is fully permitted by airlines, and understanding current regulations ensures a smooth journey. Most carriers welcome mobility aids on board, though specific policies vary by airline and aircraft type.

Understanding Airline Rollator Policies

Airlines must accommodate passengers traveling with rollators under disability access regulations. Your rollator can typically travel as a carry-on item, checked baggage, or gate-checked equipment at no additional charge. Contact your airline at least 48 hours before departure to notify them of your mobility aid—this allows ground staff to prepare appropriate assistance and ensure adequate storage space.

Size limitations vary by carrier and aircraft. Standard rollators that fold to approximately 22″ x 14″ x 9″ usually qualify as carry-on items. Larger models may require gate-checking, where staff store your rollator in the cargo hold and return it immediately upon landing.

Preparing Your Rollator for Air Travel

Documentation and Labeling: Attach durable tags displaying your name, phone number, and destination address to your rollator. Photograph your device before travel to document its condition. Remove or secure loose accessories like baskets, pouches, or trays that could detach during handling.

Battery Considerations: If your rollator includes electronic features, verify battery type with your airline. Most standard alkaline batteries pose no restrictions, but lithium batteries may require special handling or removal.

Folding Practice: Master folding and unfolding your rollator quickly. Airport security and boarding procedures move efficiently when you can collapse your device smoothly. Time yourself folding your rollator in under 30 seconds for optimal travel readiness.

Airport and In-Flight Procedures

Arrive at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 90 minutes before domestic departures. Request wheelchair assistance during booking if needed—this service helps you navigate security checkpoints while staff transport your rollator separately.

At security screening, you’ll walk through the metal detector while your rollator passes through X-ray scanning. TSA PreCheck membership expedites this process. Request a private screening if you need to demonstrate your rollator’s functionality.

During boarding, flight attendants will assist storing your rollator in the cabin closet, overhead bin, or arrange gate-checking. Keep essential items like medications in a separate bag rather than your rollator’s storage compartments.

International Travel Considerations

European Union regulations under EC 1107/2006 guarantee free mobility aid transport on all EU flights. Similar protections exist in the UK, Australia, and Canada. Research destination country requirements, as some nations mandate advance notification or specific documentation.

Connecting flights require coordination between airlines. Confirm your rollator transfers with you, especially when switching carriers. Allow minimum 90-minute connections for domestic transfers and 2+ hours internationally.

Travel Insurance and Damage Protection

Standard travel insurance often excludes mobility equipment. Purchase specialized mobility aid coverage or verify your homeowner’s policy extends protection during travel. Document any damage immediately with airport staff and file claims before leaving the airport.

Airlines accept liability for damaged mobility aids under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in the United States and equivalent international regulations. Request loaner equipment if your rollator sustains damage requiring repair.

Post-Pandemic Updates

Recent aviation changes have improved disability accommodation. Airlines now offer enhanced pre-boarding for passengers requiring extra time, and many airports have designated mobility aid assembly areas near gates. Digital check-in systems allow you to flag mobility equipment during online booking, ensuring staff prepare appropriate assistance.

Ready to Travel with Confidence?

At Irish Stairlifts, we offer a comprehensive range of lightweight, travel-friendly rollators designed for active lifestyles. Our mobility experts help you select equipment that meets airline requirements while providing the support you need. We serve customers throughout Dublin, Kildare, Leinster, and all of Ireland with professional guidance and quality products.

Explore our complete selection of travel-ready rollators.

3 Wheel Folding Rollator

Accessible Bathrooms

Why Accessible Bathrooms Improve Safety for Disabilities

Acorn Stairlift Straight Stairlift Dublin

30Oct2023

Imagine starting your day with something as simple as getting ready in the morning. For most people, this routine is straightforward. For individuals with disabilities, however, this daily ritual can present significant challenges. The lack of accessibility in bathrooms can create formidable obstacles that diminish quality of life and independence.

Around 16 million individuals in the UK experience disabilities, accounting for nearly 24% of the population. In Ireland and globally, the need for accessible bathroom solutions has never been more critical. This article explores how an accessible bathroom can transform the lives of people with disabilities and why investing in proper bathroom accessibility is essential for dignity, safety, and wellbeing.

Restoring Independence and Dignity

The most significant impact of an accessible bathroom is the restoration of independence and dignity. A bathroom designed to accommodate unique mobility needs empowers individuals to perform personal hygiene tasks without assistance. This means maintaining privacy, reducing dependence on caregivers, and regaining a sense of control over daily life.

Features like toilet grab rails, shower bench, lower sinks, and spacious layouts create environments where people can carry out self-care duties independently. This independence directly improves both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

Enhanced Mobility and Safety

Accessible bathrooms are designed with critical safety features that reduce accident risks. Essential elements include grab bars strategically placed near toilets and showers, elderly shower chairs for comfortable bathing, slip-resistant flooring to prevent falls, and adequate space for wheelchairs or mobility aids to maneuver easily.

These features ensure that individuals with disabilities can move around safely and confidently. The absence of barriers transforms the bathroom into a secure space, free from the fear of falling or getting stuck.

Improved Comfort and Daily Convenience

Comfort plays a vital role in daily life for everyone. An accessible bathroom offers comfort through amenities specifically tailored to individual needs. Modern accessible design trends for 2026 include raised toilet seats (typically 46-48 cm from the floor), adjustable sinks with wheelchair clearance underneath, lever-style faucets for ease of use, walk-in showers with roll-in access, and touch-free technology like motion-activated lighting and smart faucets.

Being able to shower, use the toilet, or wash hands comfortably enhances daily experience and overall wellbeing.

Better Health and Hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial for everyone, and accessible bathrooms directly impact the health of individuals with disabilities. Adequate space for wheelchairs or mobility devices, adjustable fixtures, and shower seats make it easier to clean effectively. This reduces the risk of infections and other health issues that can arise from inadequate hygiene facilities.

The global accessible bathroom solutions market reflects growing recognition of these needs, with the toilet aids for disabled market valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2033.

Accessible bathrooms have a profound effect on social inclusion. By making public and private restrooms more inclusive, individuals with disabilities can participate in social activities, engage in the workforce, and lead more fulfilling lives. No longer being limited by bathroom accessibility means becoming active members of communities and society as a whole.

Proper accessible facilities are essential in public spaces, workplaces, and homes to ensure equal access and opportunity.

Boosting Emotional Wellbeing

The emotional impact of accessible bathrooms cannot be underestimated. The relief and confidence that come with being able to use the bathroom independently lead to improved overall emotional wellbeing. Mastering personal tasks without assistance reduces stress and anxiety while building self-esteem.

Families also benefit from peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a safe, accessible environment.

Modern Design Trends for 2026

Accessible bathroom design in 2026 emphasizes both functionality and style. Current trends include open, spacious layouts that provide luxury while allowing maneuverability, minimalist designs with clean lines and neutral colors, sustainable and eco-friendly materials, customizable features like adjustable showerheads and height-adjustable vanities, and smart technology integration for convenience and independence.

These design approaches prove that accessibility doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics.

Compliance with Irish Regulations

In Ireland, accessible bathroom installations must comply with specific regulations and standards. Key requirements include minimum floor area of 2,200mm x 1,500mm for wheelchair maneuverability, proper placement and height of fixtures, grab rails near toilets and showers, non-slip flooring throughout, and adequate clearance for mobility aids.

Working with professionals who understand these regulations ensures installations meet all necessary standards while promoting safety and accessibility.

Creating a More Inclusive World

The impact of an accessible bathroom on the day-to-day life of someone with a disability is immeasurable. It transcends mere convenience and restores independence, dignity, safety, and comfort. Accessible bathrooms directly influence physical health, emotional wellbeing, and social inclusion.

By prioritizing accessibility in bathrooms, we create a more inclusive and compassionate world where everyone enjoys the same rights and opportunities. It’s not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about building a more equitable and empathetic society.

Transform Your Bathroom with Irish Stairlifts

If you’re considering making your bathroom more accessible for yourself or a loved one living with a disability, the dedicated team at Irish Stairlifts is here to help. We understand that every individual has unique needs, and we’re committed to providing solutions that restore independence and dignity.

Our experts can guide you through the entire process, from initial consultation to professional installation, ensuring your accessible bathroom meets all safety standards and personal requirements. We also offer a wide collection of folding wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and mobility scooters to support your mobility needs at home. Don’t let bathroom accessibility challenges or mobility limitations reduce your independence or quality of life.

Contact Irish Stairlifts today to discuss how we can transform your bathroom into a safe, comfortable, and accessible space:

Call us: +353 (0)1 616 70 79 or +353 (0) 45 892696
Email: showroom@irishstairlifts.ie
Visit: irishstairlifts.ie
Get a free quote: Fill out our online contact form

Let us help you create a bathroom that supports independence, safety, and wellbeing for years to come.

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