The WAT Shower
A portable, modular, accessible shower system designed for real users, real caregivers, and real living spaces.
What Is the WAT Shower?
The WAT Shower is a self-contained, portable bathing system built for people who need more than what standard bathrooms provide.
It is designed for disabled users, elderly individuals, people recovering from surgery or injury, and anyone whose living space lacks a safe, accessible shower. It is also designed for the caregivers who assist them.
Who it's for: wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, aging-in-place individuals, home care patients, rehabilitation patients, and their caregivers and families.
Engineered for Real Life
Modular Wall System
Configurable, interlocking wall panels that adapt to any space. Reconfigure as needs change. Remove individual panels for caregiver access. No permanent installation required.
Wheelchair-Accessible Ramp
Integrated, gentle-slope ramp provides smooth wheelchair or walker entry and exit. Anti-slip surface for safety in wet conditions.
Grab Bars & Support Rails
Strategically placed, heavy-duty grab bars provide support for transfers, standing, and seated bathing. Positioned through user research, not guesswork.
Temperature Safety
In DevelopmentThermostatic mixing valve to prevent scalding (in development). Emergency shut-off accessible from seated position. Water temperature safety is a core design priority.
Self-Contained Pump & Reservoir
Built-in water pump and reservoir system — no permanent plumbing needed. Connect to a standard water source, or use the self-contained system for portable deployment.
Portable & Lightweight
Designed for transport and quick deployment. All components break down for storage or relocation. Can be set up in homes, facilities, shelters, or temporary housing.
Voice Controls & Haptic Feedback
Future VersionVoice controls and haptic feedback are planned for future versions to simplify operation for users with limited mobility or visual impairments.
Foldable Ergonomic Seat
In DevelopmentA specialized, ergonomic seat that folds neatly against the wall to maximize interior space when not in use.
Patent pending. WAT Shower design © Wilson Adaptive Technologies.
The Caregiver Experience
Caregivers face physical strain, safety risks, and logistical challenges every time they assist with bathing. The WAT Shower changes that.
- Open-access design: Removable wall panels give caregivers room to assist without awkward positioning.
- Ergonomic height: Controls and grab bars are positioned for both seated users and standing assistants.
- Easy cleanup: Non-porous surfaces and drain design simplify post-use cleaning.
- Quick setup: Caregivers can assemble and disassemble the system without special tools or training.
Reducing Caregiver Burden
Over 53 million Americans serve as family caregivers. The WAT Shower is designed to make bathing assistance safer, less physically demanding, and more dignified for everyone involved.
Setup & Use
The WAT Shower is designed for straightforward assembly without specialized tools or professional installation.
What You'll Need
A flat surface of at least 5×5 feet. Access to a standard water source (or use self-contained mode). A standard electrical outlet for the pump. That's it.
Assembly Time
Typical first-time setup: 30–45 minutes. Subsequent assemblies: 15–20 minutes. No special tools, fasteners, or technical knowledge required.
From Sketch to Reality
The WAT Shower has evolved through years of participatory design, clinical research, and engineering refinement.
Ron's Original Concept
The initial ideation based on Ron Wilson's lived experience with inadequate modular bathing options.
Early Prototypes
WSU engineering teams validate the structural physics, water containment, and weight capacities of the modular frame.
Current Prototype v2
A functional unit with self-contained pumping, temperature mix controls, and caregiver access panels.
Manufacturing Scale
Finalizing material sourcing for mass production while adhering to FDA/ADA compliance standards.
WAT vs. Traditional Options
| Feature | WAT Shower | Standard ADA Shower | Sponge Bath / Bed Bath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full shower experience | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Portable / relocatable | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| No permanent plumbing | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Wheelchair accessible | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Caregiver access panels | ✓ | ✗ | N/A |
| Temperature safety | ✓ | Varies | ✗ |
| Modular / configurable | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| User dignity preserved | ✓ | ✓ | Limited |
| Quick setup (<30 min) | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Affordable | ✓ | Renovation cost | ✓ |
Product Questions
Ready to Explore the WAT Shower?
View our documentation, contact us for details, or learn how WAT can work for you or someone you care for.