For many, aging can mean reduced mobility. And not just trouble climbing up and down stairs or bending down to pick something up. It can also be harder to comfortably perform those more private hygiene tasks, like properly cleaning yourself after a trip to the bathroom. But one thoughtful tool seems to be helping people “regain their independence” and dignity.
The Bottom Buddy is a strategically designed toilet wand that makes it easy to wipe, especially if someone has difficulty twisting or reaching behind. It uses a soft, flexible head with three tulip-petal sections that grab and hold toilet paper or wet wipes, and a perfectly curved ergonomic handle that reaches where you need it to.
The curvature of the handle is actually one of the main design elements that sets the Bottom Buddy apart from similar wiping aids of its kind, according to reviewers who have tried multiple.
“I recently tried one of the ‘straight’ devices, but I found myself still having to do contortions to get clean,” one Amazon customer said. “Because of the curved ergonomic design, you can reach around and use a pretty decent amount of pressure on it to make sure you get every last little bit.”
Another reviewer agreed, writing: “Unlike other toilet helpers that have straight handles, this one is curved so the end with the toilet paper can be put on exactly the area it needs to go.”
To use, start by loading the head with toilet paper or a wet wipe by pushing a few squares into the center. Then, after using the device to assist with wiping, an easy-release button drops the used tissue into the toilet without you having to touch anything. The silicone head washes easily, and the Bottom Buddy stores easily and discreetly.
As you’ll see from the reviewers ahead, the Bottom Buddy has proved indispensable to more than those whose reduced mobility is caused by age. Some have come to rely on the toilet wand while they recover from surgery, injuries, strokes, or other conditions that have resulted in limitations. Or just skip ahead and grab a Bottom Buddy for yourself or a loved one who needs it.
Promising Amazon reviews:
“I recently had a stroke and I am 52 years old. I have many limitations since the stroke one of them being able to clean myself after using the bathroom. I HATED asking someone for help. I did some online research and found this product. Even though I thought it was a bit spendy it is well worth the money since it has helped me regain my independence and self esteem! It is very easy to use and portable! I am very pleased with this product. I look forward to the day I no longer have to use it but until then I am very glad that someone had the forethought to produce it.” — M. Bentley
““Bought again to replace several year old Buddy. As far I’m concerned this is the only way to go when having reach issues. Had many back surgeries that have left me unable reach as I should. It would be a rough life without the aide of this tool. Very easy to learn how to use.” — Arkansas
“Without going into intimate details, I have been using this product for YEARS and have been very pleased with it and the results. I need to quickly say that I recently tried one of the ‘straight’ devices, butt (intended) I found myself still having to do contortions to get clean. Because of the curved ergonomic design, you can reach around and use a pretty decent amount of pressure on it to make sure you get every last little bit. Plus, with a push of your thumb, your TP or wipe comes right out. The silicone head just grabs the TP/wipe and holds it tight while you wipe. Despite its appearance, it will hold up and has a good bit of longevity to it. Given its ergonomic curve it does not fold up, nor is it easy to conceal at work; I own two. However, it is worth the occasional knowledge of my colleagues I am off to the bathroom. This device loads easily and lets go when you want it to, not before. I use wipes frequently and only once in a great while have I pulled them out. If you are trying to consider whether or not to buy this or one of the cheaper straight ones, spend the little bit extra and buy this one. I prefer to know everything is squeaky clean than sitting down and knowing you are not. If you are in the market for a device like this, stop looking and just get this one. You will be glad you did.” — J L.
“This handy little gadget works fantastic! Great for anyone who has difficulty reaching their backside for any reason. The shape and size of the handle and head are perfect. You will be able to clean yourself thoroughly and your hands never touch anything messy. You need to fold the toilet paper into squares the size of one piece of toilet paper several squares thick – don’t just wad up the paper because that will not work. Then secure the tissue right in the middle of the square drapping the tissue over the head. You will be able clean yourself and dispose of the tissue with a click of a button. I have one at home, one in my purse and one at work. This device has given me back my independence and taken the struggle out of using the bathroom! Great quality product at a reasonable price!” — Amazon customer
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If you want to shop for more accessibility products that help you and your loved ones stay independent with age, take a look at the list ahead, gathered from previous coverage:
A “godsend” grabber arm with70,000+ 5-star ratings
This rotatable grabber tool is “worth its weight in gold” and “just the thing for a senior with bad knees,” older reviewers write.
Lightweight and able to expand up to 31 inches in length, the mobility aid acts as an extendable arm to help pick up small items like keys, clothes, and reading material. It’s especially useful for folks who have trouble bending over or standing up.
The bestselling grabber is also available in an updated version that’s able to rotate 360 degrees.
A popular sock helper that’s “the easiest to use of any tool on the market”
If limited mobility, arthritis or injury has made it difficult for you to bend over and put your socks on, this lightweight sock aid offers a handy, intuitive solution.
Using a wide-mouth, cup-like design and a 33.5-inch rope, the assistive tool helps you slip your socks on and off while you sit or stand. The aid is designed to fit an array of foot sizes, with a smooth interior that helps socks glide onto the foot and a terry cloth exterior to keep even high socks in place while you put them on.
Don’t knock it till you try it: Older reviewers call it “a godsend” and “superb compared to others on the market,” especially because it’s comfy and easy to use.
A toilet safety frame for a “world of difference”
This freestanding toilet seat railing is one of the best affordable tools for getting up and off the toilet that doesn’t require expensive renovation.
This safety frame by Drive Medical sits snugly underneath your toilet seat, so it’ll stay put without accidentally knocking over your toilet cover, like other cheaper models.
Its extra perks make this tool really stand out — like the padded armrests and side magazine rack (!) so you can keep care items and reading materials within easy reach. (Reviewers say they’ve used the rack for cleaning wipes, grabbers, iPads, and more.)
Made with sturdy aluminum, the adjustable frame comes with a lifetime warranty, supports up to 300 pounds, and installs tool-free.
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