Stairlifts for Narrow Stairs: Compact, Comfortable, and Custom-Fitted
If you’re worried your staircase is too narrow for a stairlift, don’t worry! Many people think a slim or winding staircase means sacrificing independence. But the good news is: there are stairlifts designed specifically for narrow stairs, and we specialise in fitting them to some of the tightest spaces imaginable.
In fact, a few years ago this issue was brought to our attention. We had to turn away customers because they had narrow, awkward staircases which a stairlift wouldn’t fit. We knew this problem was widespread, so we started learning how to fit stairlifts to very narrow staircases. This meant expanding our previous range of stairlifts to use newer, more capable stairlift makes and models.
Can Stairlifts Be Fitted on Narrow or Twisting Stairs?
Yes – even the most compact staircases can often accommodate a stairlift. Whether your stairs are narrow, have tight corners, or unusual angles, our experienced engineers can find a safe, space-saving solution for your home.
Best Stairlifts for Narrow Stairs
We recommend two three main types of stairlifts for narrow stairs:
1. Thyssen Flow X Stairlift
One of the most advanced options for awkward or narrow staircases. Key features include:
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Powered swivel seat that rotates during travel
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Foldable arms and footrest for added space
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Curved rail custom-fitted to your staircase
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Smooth, quiet operation
The Thyssen Flow X is ideal for narrow curved stairs, even with landings or multiple turns.
Learn more about the Thyssen Flow X stairlift →
The Flow X stairlift has a patented technology which allows it to pivot and climb simultaneously. It can face downstairs, giving the user more leg room immediately. It’s the perfect solution for staircases which are too narrow for most other stairlift brands.
Stairlifts For Narrow Stairs #2: Stannah Stairlifts – 600 or 260 (straight/curved)
Stannah stairlifts are great at navigating tight and narrow stairs. Their ride position has been expertly designed to sit much further back on the rail than many other models. This gives the user more knee room.
Back to knee, or back to toe room is the main problem when it comes to stairlifts. As you can see below, the arrows showing these two main measurements.
Learn more about the Stannah 600 and the Stannah 260 stairlifts. Stannah have done their homework when it comes to saving space on the stairs, it has to be said. Their robust design not only makes for a long lasting stairlift which just keeps going, but the chair position creates the maximum of legroom for a stairlift of this type.
Stannah have designed a winner with their stairlift, allowing the carriage to sit right back against the wall/rail, and leaving the maximum legroom available.
Stairlifts For Narrow Stairs #3: Standing or Perching Stairlifts
These are ideal if:
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You have a very narrow, straight staircase
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You’re able to stand or perch safely while using the lift
However, they’re not suitable for everyone. If your mobility is likely to change, a seated option may be a better long-term choice. We tend not to recommend these kinds of stairlifts as they are suitable only in a few scenarios.
Often, standing stairlifts are recommended for those who struggle to sit. A seated stairlift is generally recommended over the standing model. That’s to ensure your stairlift is going to be suitable for years to come.
Should your condition decline, and standing becomes more difficult, or even dangerous, a standing stairlift may become redundant fairly quickly. Replacing with a seated option then becomes expensive if you’ve installed a standing version.
Not Sure What Will Fit? Book a Free Assessment
The only way to know for sure is to let our trained engineers take a look.
✅ No pressure
✅ Free advice
✅ Tailored recommendations
📞 Call 0800 046 3438 or fill out our contact form here to book your free home assessment.
Real Customer Example: Narrow Staircase Case Study
We recently fitted a stairlift in a property with an extremely narrow, curved staircase. With a custom rail and the Flow X model, the customer was able to move between floors easily again.
This staircase was very narrow indeed! Another fitter declined the installation because their stairlift models wouldn’t fit. We stepped up to the challenge – this stairlift installation was very important and was needed urgently after a hospital discharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a stairlift fit on my narrow staircase?
In most cases, yes. We offer a range of slimline and rotating seat models designed for tight spaces. We particularly recommend the Flow X if no other models will fit, or the Stannah if possible.
Do I need to stand up on a narrow stairlift?
No. We often recommend seated stairlifts with folding arms and footrests, like the Flow X, even on narrow stairs. A standing stairlift can help if you have problems sitting down, but it’s not always the best solution. Should your condition worsen, the standing stairlift may easily become redundant in just a short space of time.
How much space is needed for a stairlift?
It depends on the model and the type of stairs, but as little as 61cm may be enough with the right stairlift. If you have a larger space, we often recommend a less expensive model according to your needs and budget.
Will The Flow X Fit My Staircase?
Even with a top of the range stairlift which offers the maximum agility such as the Flow X, there’s still limitations. Whether this stairlift can solve the problem for you is down to our engineers as each one is a custom fit. Give us a call and we will book an assessment to help determine whether it’s an option for your stairs. We offer free, no obligation assessment of your home, so you’ve nothing to lose! Give us a call today!
Get Expert Advice Today
Whether you’re looking for the best stairlift for narrow stairs or just want to know your options, UK Stairlifts is here to help.
📞 Call 0800 046 3438
📩 Contact us here for a free quote and advice.
Don’t let a tight staircase hold you back—we make stairlifts work where others can’t.
Checkout our stairlift fitting on a narrow staircase here in time lapse format:
You can also see more of our videos on our YouTube channel here.