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A grab bar is an important safety element for elders or persons with restricted mobility in bathrooms. These gadgets are simple to install and can help reduce the risk of falling when bathing or getting up from a toilet seat.
When utilizing a bathtub or shower, the risk of injury is high since you are frequently balancing on one foot on a slick surface. A grab bar may provide much-needed support for one of life’s most important duties while also allowing many people to keep their independence.
National Institute on Aging states that six out of ten falls among older persons, most frequently in places with stairs or getting in and out of the bathtub. It’s worth investing the time and money to install a grab bar or rail in your bathtub to avoid a costly, unpleasant, or even life-threatening mishap.
Best bathtub grab bars – 2023 Updated
It’s critical to get the best grab bar for your demands. Before buying a bar, think about where you’ll use it and how much weight you’ll be putting on it. Following our analysis, we’ve included a more comprehensive buying guide with tips on choosing the best grab bar.
Bathtub Grab Bars Comparison | ||
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Editor's ChoiceMoen 8724 Bathroom Grab Bar
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Drive Medical Adjustable Safety Rail
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Moen 7010 Home Care Tub Safety Bar
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Changing Lifestyles Safe-er-Grip Bathtub and Shower Handle
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AmeriLuck Suction Bath Grab Bar
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AURALUM Bathroom Grab Bar
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Moen 8724 Bathroom Grab Bar
The Moen 24-Inch Angled Grab Bar’s strong design may safely help you get in and out of the bathtub. You may also use it to hold on to when showering.
The bar is designed to be put into wood studs and comes with mounting hardware. The brushed nickel finish may be attractive to some people. You may set it in a variety of ways to suit your needs.
This Moen bathroom grab bar is wall-mounted and made of stainless steel. It’s completely safe to use and can sustain up to 500 pounds. Locate the studs in the wall and place the bar at whatever angle that works for you.
It has a somewhat grey metallic appearance that is attractive and appropriate for most bathrooms. These grab bars come in various sizes to ensure that you get the proper fit.
Pros
- Installation is simple
- Long-lasting
- Hidden screws
- ADA-compliant
- The warranty is limited to a lifetime.
Cons
- Screws may not be long-lasting.
- Anchors for the Secure Mount are not with it.
Final Verdict
Some customers have complained that the installation hardware provided is of poor quality, so you may want to consider purchasing your own. Use the Secure Mount anchors if you have a hollow wall for a secure and safe installation. We recommend this Moen grab bar.
Drive Medical Adjustable Safety Rail
Try Drive Medical’s Adjustable Safety Rail if you’re unsure what height, breadth, or position is appropriate for your bathtub grab bar. You may adjust the height and width of this bathtub safety bar from 14 and 17 inches high and 3 and 7 inches broad.
It has a steel frame that can support up to 300 pounds. Although installation is simple and requires no tools, You should not use this product in fibreglass tubs.
The Drive Medical adjustable bathtub grab bar is a terrific addition to any family, especially with many generations, because individuals of different sizes and weights can use it.
It fits on just about any style bathtub and is super-easy to install. It’s made of robust, powder-coated steel to endure frequent usage.
The metal’s edges are smooth, so if you chance to knock into them, it won’t scratch you. If you’re searching for a tub-only rail or grip bar, this is one of our top recommendations for dependability.
Pros
- Steel construction is strong and long-lasting.
- Scratch-resistant rubber pads
- Good for different tub sizes
- Tightening clamp that is adjustable and secure
- There are no tools required for installation.
Cons
- Don’t use this on fibreglass tubs.
- Colour selections are limited.
Final Verdict
Most tubs, including several with curved sides, are compatible with the adjustable clamp. We like how this secure and dependable tub rail gives so much security without the need for any equipment.
You don’t need to drill holes in tiles or tub fibreglass, and you won’t have to worry about suction cups falling out. Rubber cushions on the adjustable clamp keep your tub from scratches.
Moen 7010 Home Care Tub Safety Bar
If you’re searching for a grab bar to help you get out of a tub, the Moen DN7010 is a great option (as opposed to showering).
Its seven-inch high grip is robust in a humid atmosphere, fits firmly, and prevents corrosion. We like that you may modify each side independently for a precise fit if the rear of your tub is a little wider or narrower than the front.
It is a safe and dependable bar as long as you put it correctly. This grab-bar also complies with the ADA’s demanding safety and security criteria for people with impairments. The clamps are straightforward to set up, and the apparatus is surprisingly light, weighing in at around two pounds.
Pros
- You may adjust both sides independently.
- Corrosion-resistant
- To avoid scratching, use clamp pads.
- Most standard tubs are compatible with this product.
- Fits a tub with a curved top
Cons
- It may not be good for tubs with sloped walls.
- For extra-deep tubs, this isn’t the best option.
Final Verdict
Safety, comfort, and peace come to mind when you look at this product. The Moen grab bar has an ageless yet fashion-forward appearance because of its exceptional beauty and simple design characteristics.
The Moen bath care series is an exercise in design balance, tailored but comfortable. This gleaming line fits right in with today’s lives, and we recommend it.
Changing Lifestyles Safe-er-Grip Bathtub and Shower Handle
The Safe-er-Grip bathtub and shower handle from Changing Lifestyles is a 17-inch bar with powerful suction on both ends. Press down on both ends of the tabs.
Suction cups hold the bar in place; thus, no tools are to install it effectively. Suction cups may stick to any flat, non-porous surface, such as glass or tiles.
The bar is approximately 11.5 inches long, ideal for tiny and regular tubs. It’s available in various shades, including white and chrome, to complement a person’s current bathroom fixtures.
Although the bar can assist with balance and support, it cannot hold a person’s whole weight according to its directions for usage. As a result, when standing, sitting, or moving, a person should not place their entire weight on the bar.
Pros
- For added safety, the grip has texture.
- You may use it inside or outside a tub or a shower.
- Affordable
- Easy-to-install
- Drilling holes will not do any damage.
Cons
- The surface must be smooth and non-porous.
- Colour selections are limited.
- It won’t stand up in the long run.
Final Verdict
Consider the Safe-er-Grip Shower Handle if you need a temporary hold bar. This suction cup grab bar can be installed, removed, and reinstalled without the need for any tools or without causing damage to your bathroom walls. Because the bar is to give balance rather than a full-body grasp, Safe-er-Grip does not guarantee a weight restriction.
AmeriLuck Suction Bath Grab Bar
Suction grab bars from Ameriluck are composed of plastic and are simple to install and use as aid bars. This two-pack of 16.5-inch suction bars is for smooth, flat, and non-porous surfaces. Ensure they don’t get stuck in grout lines or on textured surfaces.
When you install the suction bars according to the directions, they will stay put. When you obtain the secure grip, the indicators become green, and when the suction hold is lost, they turn red.
The AmeriLuck Bath and Shower Suction Grab/Grip Bar are great. If you’re looking for a cheap bath or shower bar but don’t want to spend a lot of money, this one is perfect. It is simple to set up. Thanks to tabs that flip into position, the grab bar suits your tub.
The green safety indication is one of our favourite features of this bar. The colour window will be red if the bar is not properly tightened. The colour window will change to green once the grip is properly attached to the wall or tiles. A non-porous surface, such as tile, is required for the suction cups (4 inches or larger).
Pros
- Installation is simple.
- Window with a safe-installation indicator
- Grip with a light texture
- It’s ideal for tiny places.
Cons
- Size
- Weight capacity is limited.
- Colour selections are limited.
Final Verdict
Because the bar is a little narrower than other rivals, it’s a great choice for tiny stall-style showers or tubs. Installing over seams or grout is not recommended. Overall, a great purchase.
AURALUM Bathroom Grab Bar
The AURALUM Bathroom Grab Bar Bathtub Arm Safe-Grip Bar is an appealing, highly polished, lightweight choice if you desire a grab-bar of variable heights.
It’s lightweight aluminium and is ideal for folks who don’t need to put a lot of weight on the bar but still require some help.
The bar is inserted by drilling screws into the tub wall; however, it is a more durable alternative than other models if properly put. Covers will hide the screw holes, and you can set the bar at any height.
Pros
- Angled for a variety of grip places at varied heights
- Screws are behind a concealed mount.
- Lightweight material.
- It’s safe to use in stairwells and other slick situations.
- There are three lengths/styles to choose from.
Cons
- Weight capacity is limited.
- There is no textured grip.
Final Verdict
We like how you may utilize it in various places, including laundry rooms and stairwells. It works effectively in any situation when there is a slick floor or a few stairs to ascend. It’s not good to rest your entire weight on the bar.
Health concerns
Even though organizations such as the CDC Trusted Source encourage grab bars in showers, according to a 2011 articleTrusted Source, there is little study on their usage. When installing a bar, it is critical to follow the directions attentively.
If they cannot install the bar themselves, they may want to consider hiring a professional. If you do not fit the bar appropriately, a person may be in danger of harm or falling.
NIA Trusted Source suggests the following measures in the case of a fall:
- Avoid panicks
- They may do it by taking one or more deep breaths to assist them to relax.
- They should next evaluate themselves to see if an injury has occurred.
- A person should turn onto their side, wait for a bit, and then carefully get to their hands and knees if feasible.
- A person should utilize a stable surface for support while on their hands and knees and place one foot firmly on the floor.
- After that, a person can rise to a sitting position and then stand once they are comfortable doing so.
Buying Guide
It’s critical to understand what characteristics you’ll want in a grab bar. Before you buy something, think about the following:
Location and Installation
The first decision is where you want your grab bar to go. Consider the length you’ll need and what will fit in your bathroom shower and your walls. Some grab bars may be mounted on hollow walls, while others require a flat, dry surface.
Before buying anything, be sure you have the right equipment and understand how to install it. The installation of several grab bars in our study will necessitate certain tools. Many of these bars will need to be put in a wall stud if you plan to use the maximum weight suggestion, so keep that in mind.
Finish
There are a few things to think about regarding the finale. The first consideration is how the grab bar will blend in with the rest of your bathroom design. You might not mind if the grab bar is behind shower curtains.
Consider how significant the finish of your grab bar will be, whether it will be near the toilet or another open location. If you use your grab bar in the shower, you might want to get one with a textured grip. In damp weather, this will aid users in gripping the bar without slipping.
Needs
The sort of bar you require is determined by how you want to utilise it. Someone who wants a grab bar in the shower needs a different design than someone who wants a handle to help them get in and out of the tub.
Grab Bar Design
Straight grab bars are available in free-standing forms and may be mounted horizontally, vertically, or diagonally on the wall. Wave grab bars feature a small curve and are a more elegant option than straight grab bars for aesthetics.
Textured grab bars consist of textured materials that provide a non-slip grip. Two-in-one grab bars can also be used as a toilet paper holder, a shower shelf for amenities, or a towel rack.
Material
When you consider how wet the grasp bar will be and how much weight it will have to support, the material becomes important. A very light aluminium model could perform well in very sticky situations, but it might not provide the support you want. Sturdy steel or stainless steel type is a fantastic choice if the bar or rail will only be exposed to a lot of dampness or occasional wetness.
Orientation
Orientation is an important location. Shower/bathtub bars are usually installed horizontally on the rear wall. Diagonally positioned bars work more effectively with the angle of your hand, making them simpler to grasp. Vertical bars should be mounted on the control wall.
Capacity for weight
Some hold bars are to support specific weight loads, while others are to keep someone steady. Please take into account the varying weight capacities of each grab bar and how you want to utilize it. It could be worth investing in something with a bigger weight capacity if you require it to lift yourself.
Permanence
Many individuals choose no-drill grab bar designs because they only need them for a short period or don’t want to harm their facilities permanently. Many grab bars are held in place by suction cups or tension mechanisms, which won’t leave scars in your bathroom. However, many designs have drawbacks, such as restricted weight ratings and increased maintenance requirements.
How to Put Grab Bars in bathrooms?
It is critical to install the grab bar to assure safety appropriately. Ask a buddy for help or pay a professional if you need it. Pull the grab bar to ensure it’s secure once it’s been fitted if you have the strength and stability to safely. If you’re not sure about testing it yourself, have someone else do it.
You can install grab bars on various surfaces, including tile, stone, and fibreglass. Most wall-mounted grab bars are installed into a stud, giving maximum support. If drilling into a wall stud isn’t practicable, you may typically purchase anchors to fasten the bar.
Many individuals choose to invest in tougher materials or get their hardware from a local hardware store instead of using the installation hardware with grab bars. A drill, a level, and a hammer are required. A screwdriver and a tape measure are other essential supplies. A towel bar should not be used as a grab bar. Only use a grab bar to hold your weight and motions for safety reasons.
FAQs
What Are Grab Bars?
Grab bars are grabbable bars that You may use to keep one’s balance and reduce tiredness when standing. They keep elders, persons with disabilities, and those recuperating from an accident or disease that impairs balance or mobility safe in the bathroom.
Grab bars can be put in the tub or shower, near the toilet or sink, and throughout the house, including the kitchen, hallway, and other rooms. The focus of this article is on restroom grab bars.
Why Should You Use Grab Bars?
Many falls among the elderly occur in the bathroom, where slick surfaces such as the tub, shower floor, and smooth tile walls create a potentially dangerous environment. Grab bars, such as those on the shower or bath walls, can help prevent sliding and falling. A grab bar next to the toilet can help you sit and stand, and a grab bar close to the sink or vanity can give additional stability.
Is it safe to use suction shower grab bars?
Suction grab bars are unsuitable for people who require their entire body weight supported. Its effectiveness is due to the individual’s surface, time, and weight. Because they rely on suction power, they are not permanently fastened to the walls or tubs.
After a few uses or days, these grasp bars lose their suction hold and must be checked before each usage. Due to these restrictions, they are not as safe but useful as balancing help bars.
Will a single grab bar suffice in my bathroom?
The user’s needs determine the number of grab bars you will install in a bathroom. If they require extra help with balance and mobility, you should put more than one bar. You should install grab bars next to the toilet seat, near the faucet, and at the entry for further support.
Shower grab bars aid the elderly and others with restricted mobility in the bathroom by reducing the chance of unintentional slips and accidents. Whether put near the toilet or in the bathtub, they give additional support to keep you safe whether sitting or getting up. Shower grab bars that are the greatest are solid and robust enough to support the appropriate weight.