Imitation Is the Greatest Form of Flattery, Until It Isn’t
They say imitation is the greatest form of flattery – and in many ways, that feels true for us.
Over recent years, as Dignity Access has built up its strong reputation and WashPods have become synonymous with accessible wetroom quality and reliability, we’ve started to see more and more people referring generically to all shower pods as WashPods. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how deeply the WashPod name has resonated with people who value dignity, comfort, and independence.
But here’s something important to know: WashPod isn’t just another name for a shower pod- it’s the original, award-winning, registered product created by Dignity Access. And simply put, if it doesn’t have our logo, it’s not a WashPod.
Like “Hoover” or “Thermos”, when a brand becomes trusted and familiar, its name can sometimes be used to describe similar products. While that might seem harmless, it can create confusion- especially in an industry where reliability, safety, and trust are at the heart of what we do.
Why Trademarks Matter
Trademarks exist to help people identify the real source of a product. They protect both the maker and the customer by ensuring clarity and consistency.
When a product carries a registered trademark, it carries with it all that is important in the brand such as meeting a verified standard of quality and care. It’s a way of helping customers make informed choices- and ensuring that when someone chooses a WashPod, they know exactly what they’re getting.
Designed with Care, Developed by Experts
WashPod is not just a product- it’s a bathing solution designed with care. It was the result of a partnership between modular experts and inclusive design architects specialising in disabled accommodation design and such a pedigree of accessibility experts is not so easily replicated.
Together, we’ve created a product that offers a level of quality, safety, and innovation unmatched by any alternative. Every WashPod is thoughtfully designed to make life easier and more dignified for those facing mobility challenges without the need for disruptive adaptations in the home. They’re installed by small, unobtrusive teams who understand the importance of the finer details.
As Joanna Sale, Director of Dignity Access, explains:
“Our mission has always been simple – to help people live with dignity. As the creator of the WashPod name, I am flattered if it has inspired others to be innovative but what matters most is that everyone receives a high standard and this is not always the case.”
Celebrating Innovation, Protecting Trust
The Dignity Access team is always pleased to see new innovative products creating improved accessibility as it means more people are being supported and offered choice so that they can take control of their environment. This is certainly something to celebrate.
At the same time, protecting the WashPod name helps us ensure that customers continue to associate it with the quality, safety, and empathy it was built on.
WashPod has earned its reputation as a trusted solution across the UK, recognised with multiple awards at the Occupational Therapy Excellence Awards over the last couple of years – including Best Equipment Provider and Excellence in Equipment Innovation.
These achievements reflect what WashPod has always stood for: independence, dignity, and great design.
A Gentle Reminder
If you’re exploring options for accessible bathing, we encourage you to do a little research. Look for the purple WashPod logo or visit our official website (www.dignityaccess.co.uk) to ensure you’re getting the genuine product and the care that comes with it.
And to those out there designing accessible products with the same mission, it’s great to be joined by others who are helping people live with greater dignity. There’s always room for more compassion and innovation in this world.
But, there’s only one WashPod – and it will always stand for dignity, trust, and caring design. Don’t settle for less.