Stairlift Features That Matter
(And Which Ones You Can Skip)
Buying a stairlift is not something most people plan for. It usually comes after a fall, a close call, surgery, or a gradual loss of confidence on the stairs. When that moment arrives, families are often overwhelmed by options, upgrades, and technical terms that sound important but aren’t always necessary.
At The Stairlift Store, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Ontario choose the right stairlift for their home and mobility needs. Based on real installations, service calls, and long-term use, here’s a clear breakdown of which stairlift features genuinely matter and which ones you can safely skip without compromising safety or comfort.
Start With Safety and Fit, Not Add-Ons
Before getting into features, it’s important to understand that a well-fitted stairlift with essential safety components will always outperform a premium model that doesn’t suit the user or staircase properly.
Every staircase, user, and home layout is different. The best stairlift is the one that:
- Fits your staircase precisely
- Matches the user’s mobility level
- Is easy to operate every day
Stairlift Features That Truly Matter
- Battery Backup (Non-Negotiable): Power outages happen, especially in winter. A stairlift without battery backup becomes unusable the moment electricity goes out. A battery-powered stairlift continues to operate during power failures, charges automatically when parked & offers multiple trips even during an outage.
- Swivel Seat for Safe Landings: A swivel seat allows the chair to rotate at the top of the stairs, so the user exits onto the landing instead of toward the staircase. This reduces fall risk during entry and exit & makes standing up easier and safer.
- Seat Belt (Simple but Critical): It may seem obvious, but a proper seat belt makes a real difference, especially for users with balance issues or limited core strength. A good stairlift belt is easy to fasten with one hand and adds stability during travel.
- Smooth Start and Stop Technology: Jerky movement can be uncomfortable and even painful for users with joint, hip, or back issues. Smooth start/stop reduces strain on the body, makes the ride feel stable and controlled & improves overall comfort.
- Obstruction Sensors: Modern stairlifts include sensors that stop the chair if something is blocking the stairs such as a pet, object, or footrest obstruction. This protects the user & other household members from a potential safety hazard.
- Folding Seat, Armrests, and Footrest: In homes where stairs are shared, foldability matters more than people expect. A folding design keeps the staircase clear for others while preventing tripping hazards, helping the stairlift blend more naturally into the home.
- Reliable Warranty and Local Service Support: This isn’t a physical feature, but it may be the most important one. A stairlift should come with clear warranty coverage & access to local technicians. Without service support, even the best stairlift becomes a problem over time.
Stairlift Features You Can Usually Skip
- Luxury Upholstery and Custom Colors: Premium fabrics and custom color options may look nice, but they don’t improve safety or performance. Standard upholstery is easier to clean, wears just as well & keeps costs reasonable.
- Powered Folding Footrests (In Most Cases): Powered footrests can be helpful for some users, but they’re not necessary for everyone. You can skip this feature if the user can comfortably fold the footrest manually or if simplicity is preferred.
- Advanced Display Screens and Extra Controls: Some stairlifts come with digital displays, diagnostic screens, or extra buttons that most users never actually use. For everyday operation, simple up-and-down controls work best. Fewer buttons reduce confusion, and ease of use matters far more than extra technology.
- High Speed Settings: Stairlifts are designed to operate at safe, controlled speeds, and faster is not better. A steady pace feels more secure, reduces anxiety, and helps protect joints and balance during use.
Recommend Reading: Stairlift Safety Features
Final Thoughts
The best stairlift is the one that keeps the user safe, comfortable, and confident on the stairs. Features like battery backup, smooth movement, and a secure seat matter far more than cosmetic upgrades or extras that rarely get used. By focusing on what truly adds value and avoiding unnecessary features, you can choose a stairlift that supports independence and peace of mind without added cost or complexity.
