Straight vs curved stairlifts: which is right for your home?

If you are considering a stairlift, one of the first decisions you will need to make is whether you need a straight stairlift or a curved stairlift.

The right choice depends entirely on your staircase and how you use it. This guide explains the difference between straight and curved stairlifts, which type is best suited for, and highlights some of the stairlifts available from Felgains.

What is a straight stairlift?

A straight stairlift is designed for staircases that run in a single, straight line with no bends, turns or intermediate landings.

These are the simplest type of stairlift and are very common in UK homes.

When is a straight stairlift suitable?

A straight stairlift is usually suitable if:

• Your staircase runs directly from top to bottom
• There are no corners or half‑landings
• The stairs are wide enough to accommodate a rail and seat safely

Straight stairlifts are often quicker to install and more cost‑effective than curved options.

Example: Access BDD HomeGlide stairlift for straight stairs

The Access BDD HomeGlide stairlift is a popular straight stairlift option supplied by Felgains.

It is designed specifically for straight staircases and offers a practical, reliable solution for people who need safe access between floors without unnecessary complexity.

You can view the HomeGlide stairlift here:
https://www.felgains.com/care-products/access-bdd-homeglide-stairlift-straight-stairs/

What is a curved stairlift?

A curved stairlift is made to fit staircases that have bends, turns, spirals or intermediate landings.

Because no two curved staircases are the same, curved stairlifts are custom‑designed to match the exact layout of your stairs.

When do you need a curved stairlift?

You will usually need a curved stairlift if:

• Your staircase has one or more turns
• There is a half‑landing or full landing
• The stairs change direction
• A straight stairlift would not reach the areas you need safely

Trying to fit a straight stairlift onto a curved staircase is not safe or practical.

Example: Access BDD Flow X stairlift for curved stairs

The Access BDD Flow X is a curved stairlift supplied by Felgains, designed for staircases with bends or complex layouts.

It is a good example of how a curved stairlift can be tailored to suit a wide range of staircase designs while maintaining comfort and safety.

You can view the Flow X stairlift here:
https://www.felgains.com/care-products/access-bdd-flow-x-stairlift-for-curved-stairs/

What about staircases with very limited space?

Some staircases are narrow or awkwardly shaped, which can make choosing the right stairlift more challenging.

In these cases, careful surveying is essential.

Example: Otolift Modul‑Air Smart stairlift

The Otolift Modul‑Air Smart stairlift is another curved stairlift option available from Felgains and is often considered for staircases where space is more limited.

As with all curved stairlifts, suitability depends on a detailed survey of your staircase.

You can view the Otolift Modul‑Air Smart stairlift here:
https://www.felgains.com/care-products/otolift-modul-air-smart-stairlift/

Straight vs curved stairlifts: key differences

Installation time

• Straight stairlifts are usually quicker to install
• Curved stairlifts take longer due to custom design and manufacturing

Cost considerations

• Straight stairlifts are generally more affordable
• Curved stairlifts are more expensive due to their bespoke nature

However, cost should never be the only factor. Safety and suitability always come first.

Flexibility and fit

• Straight stairlifts work well on simple staircases
• Curved stairlifts provide a tailored solution for complex layouts

Choosing the wrong type can limit access or create safety issues.

Why professional surveying matters

A stairlift is not a one‑size‑fits‑all product.

At Felgains, we have over 45 years of experience surveying and installing stairlifts across Ipswich, Suffolk and East Anglia.

Our surveys focus on:

• The exact shape and layout of your staircase
• Safe clearances and access points
• What will work long‑term, not just on installation day

This experience is especially important for curved stairlifts, where precision makes a real difference.

Can you change from straight to curved later?

In most cases, no.

If your staircase has bends or landings, it is best to choose the correct type from the start. This avoids unnecessary cost and disruption later on.

How Felgains can help you choose the right stairlift

We regularly help people who are unsure whether they need a straight or curved stairlift.

Our approach is:

• Honest and practical
• Based on your home, not sales targets
• Carried out by experienced assessors
• No pressure and no obligation

We will only recommend a stairlift that genuinely suits your staircase and needs.

Speak to a trusted stairlift advisor

If you are deciding between a straight or curved stairlift, our team is here to help.

Call 01473 741144 or visit our Ipswich showroom to speak to a trusted advisor and arrange a no‑obligation survey.