Commode facts for kids

A commode is a special piece of furniture. The word comes from French and means convenient. A commode developed from the chest. Commodes have drawers, which makes them easier to use than chests. People have commonly used commodes since the 18th century.

An early commode with four drawers

What is a Commode?

A commode is a type of cabinet. It usually has drawers or shelves. These pieces of furniture are often decorative. They can be found in bedrooms or living rooms. They are used to store clothes or other items.

History of Commodes

Commodes became popular in the 1700s. They were first made in France. Craftsmen designed them to be both useful and beautiful. Early commodes were often made from fine woods. They sometimes had fancy decorations. These decorations included carvings or metalwork.

Commode as a Toilet

The word "commode" can also mean something else. In some parts of the United States, it is a casual word for a flush toilet.

Commode Chairs

In the United Kingdom, "commode" often refers to a special chair. This chair has a hidden pot inside. It is used by people who have trouble moving around. Hospitals often use these chairs. They help people who cannot easily get to a bathroom. This type of chair is sometimes called a chaise percée in French.

Images for kids

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  French commode, by Gilles Joubert, circa 1735, made of oak and walnut, veneered with tulipwood, ebony, holly, other woods, gilt bronze and imitation marble, in the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston, United States)

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  A British commode, circa 1772, marquetry of various woods, bronze and gilt-bronze mounts, overall: 95.9 × 145.1 × 51.9 cm, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City)

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  A washstand with pitcher (jug) and towel rack, sometimes known as a commode.

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  A commode chair from India

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  Museum collection of toilets, bed pans, hip baths, etc. The modern toilet commode is on the right.

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  19th century heavy wooden toilet commode

See also

In Spanish: Cómoda para niños