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Getting into and out of the bathtub can be dangerous for children as well as people who are disabled and aged. To avoid such situations, choosing the best shower grab bars is essential. These bars reduce the risk of slips and falls while using the bathroom. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most injuries in bathrooms are caused while trying to get on or off toilets and getting out of a shower or bathtub. Listed below are a few of the best shower grab bars to make your time in the bathroom safe and comfortable.
Top Picks
11 Best Shower Grab Bars
1. Best Tool-Free Installation:Vive Grab Bar
Image: Vive Health Vive suction grab bar offers support and balance when you get in and out of the bathtub or shower. With a tool-free installation, you need a smooth, flat, and non-porous surface to install it. Make sure there are no grout lines where you place the suction cups to ensure proper fitting. It has a safety indicator to ensure the suction is airtight and safe to use. This suction grab bar will provide stability for up to 300lb and is comfortable to hold. This video offers a more detailed explanation of the product.
Pros
- Locking latches
- Textured, contoured rubber handle
- Non-slip grip
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to reposition
Cons
- May not support full body weight
- Not suitable for textured, porous, and fiberglass surfaces
"I'm pleased with this handle as it offers a firm grip and positioning flexibility. It even holds up well under heavy weight. However, I noticed the suction's dependability can diminish with temperature fluctuations or on granite. Still, it's a decent product overall."
2. Best Long-Lasting:Moen Home Bathroom Grab Bar
Image: Moen Made of stainless steel, this bathroom grab bar from Moen is wall-mounted. It is safe to use and provides stability and support for up to 500lb. Find the wall studs and install this straight grab bar at any angle that suits you. If you have a hollow wall, use the Secure Mount anchors for a stable and safe fitting. It has a slightly gray metallic look which looks stylish and suits most bathrooms. The standard grab bar for showers is available in different sizes to help you find the right size. You may check this video for a better understanding of this expert-approved product.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Long-lasting
- Concealed screws
- ADA-compliant
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Screws may not be durable
- Secure Mount anchors are not included
"I found these bars pretty versatile; they work on most surfaces. Though mounting seemed tricky, it was manageable with minor adjustments and stronger screws. Their textured finish helps minimize slippage and gives enough comfort and support to my wife post-surgery."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 7,275 positive reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Easy-To-Grip: Amazon Basics Grab Bar
Image: Amazon Basics The Amazon Basics stainless steel grab bar can support body weight up to 500lb. The rust-resistant bathroom grab bar has a 1.5-inch diameter for a comfortable grip and is available in different sizes to help you choose the right one. This video review will help you learn more about this basic grab bar.
Pros
- Easy-grip finish
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- Includes mounting screws and a guide for easy installation
- ADA-compliant
Cons
- Installation may be difficult in some positions
"I found these grab bars solid and reliable, so I have put several of them around the house. However, the installation involves considerable work, especially while locating studs and constructing a sturdy mounting point. But it is nice that it can be set up horizontally and vertically."
Point to considerWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 6,349 reviews on Amazon, it's clear that many people love this product.
Vive Grab Bar Best Tool-Free Installation | Moen Home Bathroom Grab Bar Best Long-Lasting | Amazon Basics Grab Bar Best Easy-To-Grip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | White | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Material | Stainless Steel, Plastic | Stainless-steel | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | - | 1 pounds | 2.25 Pounds |
| Dimensions | - | 27.5"L x 3"W | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 8,032 | 7,275 | 6,349 |
| Price | $27.99 | $29.06 | $28.88 |
4. Best Ambidextrous: Safe-er-Grip Grab Bar
Image: Safe-er-grip Safe-er-Grip’s bathroom grab handle is made of durable plastic and features sturdy and secure suction cups, enabling you to install it on non-porous and flat surfaces. It has a contoured, textured grip that provides superior hold even when wet. The length of the bar is 16.5 inches, while its suction cups measure 3.75 inches, making them suitable for bathrooms of all sizes.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Non-toxic
- Secure flip tabs lock the bar in place
- Ambidextrous design
- Doubles as bathtub grab bar
Cons
- May not stick on textured surfaces
"With its simple assembly method, this grab bar provides dependable suction. I find it pretty reliable; however, the surface must be impermeable for the best adhesion. It is a useful tool for stability and balance but may not be able to handle heavy weight."
5. Best With Indicator Light:AmeriLuck Suction Bath Grab Bar
Image: Ameriluck Ameriluck suction grab bars are made of quality ABS material to withstand the test of time. They are easy to install and can be used as assist bars as well. This two-set includes 16.5-inch suction bars and is suitable for non-porous, flat and smooth surfaces. Make sure these are not placed on grout lines or textured walls. The suction cup grab bars can securely hold in place when you install them as per instructions. Its indicators turn from red to green when the secure hold is achieved and goes red when the suction hold is lost.
Pros
- Tool-free installation
- One-year warranty
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Can be placed at various angles
- Anti-slip grip
Cons
- Suction might not last long
- May not support full body weight
"I have been utilizing this suction-based grab bar to maintain stability in my shower, and it has been doing a good job. The length is suitable for my smaller tiles because it prevents grout lines. Overall, it has been a good choice for my needs."
6. Best Rust-Resistant: CSI Bathware Bathroom Safety Bar
Image: Csi Bathware CSI Bathware’s L-shaped safety handrail for shower is sturdy, reliable, functional, and ADA-compliant. This curved grab bar has twist-on flange covers with a smooth finish to complement your bathroom’s decor. When installed correctly, it can support weights up to 500lb. Made of 304 stainless steel tubing to ace the test of durability, this bar ensures multi-level support even in compact spaces.
Pros
- Available in different colors and sizes
- Rust-resistant
- Can be installed vertically or horizontally
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Installation may not be tool-free
Quick tip7. Best Space-Saving:Moen Flip-Up Screw-In Bathroom Grab Bar
Image: Moen These flip-up grab bars from the trusted brand Moen have a space-saving railing-like design that you can flip up when not in use. It is made of waterproof 304-grade stainless steel and measures 30 inches in length and 1.25 inches in diameter. This stylish grab bar is available in two shades to suit your bathroom décor and supports up to 300lb.
Pros
- Durable
- ADA-compliant
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Stylish design
Cons
- May be difficult to install
"Having tested different bars, I settled on this one for its security. It requires some tweaking to install, but it is worth the effort for the safety it provides my family. Moreover, I like the design; it works well in our compact bathroom."
Quick tipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 1,188 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
8. Best Minimalistic: Gatco Elevate Grab Bar
Image: Gatco The durable bathroom grab bar by Gatco is hand-polished, hand-crafted, and has a minimalistic design. It is universally compatible and can be mounted on different textured and dry surfaces, including tile and dry wall. The handle provides a strong and anti-slip shower grip. This expert-approved straight grab bar is available in different sizes and satin nickel and chrome finishes, allowing you to choose one that best matches your bathroom’s interiors.
Pros
- Concealed mounting screws
- Corrosion-resistant
- Rust-proof
- ADA-compliant
Cons
- Some might find it difficult to install
"I love that these grab bars are stylish and functional, providing firm support and plenty of grabbing space. However, its mounting is quite challenging as precise alignment is crucial. On the whole, I'm pleased with its quality and durability."
9. Best Ergonomic: Delta Faucet Decorative ADA Grab Bar
Image: Delta Faucet The 24-inch ADA-compliant horizontal grab bar by Delta Faucet is a sturdy and stylish support bar with a weight capacity of 500lb, making it suitable for people of all sizes. Its matte black finish with a modern and sophisticated touch makes it the perfect choice of decorative bathroom grab bar for your bathroom. This ergonomic support bar features mounting flanges with a snap-over cover and includes the required installation hardware.
Pros
- Concealed wood screws
- Easy to clean
- Smooth finish
- Easy to install
Cons
- Cover plate may pop off at times
"These grab bars are sturdy and stylish and have been a nice addition to my bathroom. They are functional and secure and have not shown any signs of wear yet. Despite some hiccups about finding the correct size, they serve me well."
10. Best Comfortable Grip: Kohler ADA-Compliant Grab Bar
Image: Kohler The Kohler shower grab bar measures 18 inches in length and is durable and reliable, making it a long-lasting and efficient option for any bathroom. It features an oil-rubbed bronze finish for a sophisticated look, smooth, rounded contours for support and safety, and a wide handle offers a comfortable grip. With the option of traditional or transitional styling, you can choose the perfect fit for your decor.
Pros
- Premium metal construction
- Sturdy
- ADA-compliant
- Comes with an installation template
Cons
- Screws may not be strong enough
"I recently upgraded my shower with this bar to enhance accessibility for my mother. I like that it complies with ADA regulations. While its length exceeds the typical stud distance, making the setup slightly tricky, I have placed it horizontally for better assistance."
11. Best Stylish:Plumb Pak Keeney Wave Grab Bar
Image: Keeney The wave-shaped, wall-mounted grab bar is made of durable stainless steel material and can support up to 250lb. This vertical grab bar gives the support you need to hold on and prevents accidental falls on a wet floor. The set includes screws and flange covers to help you with the installation. These stylish grab bars are available in different finishes and colors.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- One-year warranty
- Offers flexibility to install in different angles
- Stylish and modern look
Cons
- May not be suitable for porous surfaces
"Thanks to the wavy shape of these grip bars, my mother can grip it more effectively. I'm impressed that they can hold up to 500 pounds. However, the assembly is slightly tricky with difficult-to-reach screws. All in all, it's worthwhile for its convenience."
How To Choose The Right Shower Grab Bars?
Here are a few factors to consider before choosing the right shower grab bar.
- Necessity: If you need a grab bar to pull up and sit down, putting a lot of pressure on the bar, you might need a wall-mounted bar. If you need a grab bar to balance and support your movement, go for suction-type grab bars.
- Permanent/temporary: Choose stainless steel wall- or tub-mounted grab bars for permanent use. For travel purposes, choose the suction bars.
- Weighing capacity: Ensure the grab bars can support the weight of the person who will use them. Grab bars with a weight capacity of 250 to 500lb are good options. Note that suction grab bars cannot hold the full body weight.
- Material and finish: Choose the material and the finish depending on your bathroom aesthetic and durability. Materials like stainless steel can stand the test of time and will last longer than plastic ones.
- Quality: Ensure the grab bar is not flimsy to avoid accidents and injuries.
- Bar length: Choose an easy-to-reach bar length suitable for your shower space.
- Space and installation requirements: Consider your bathroom space and shower space before choosing the type of grab bars. You should also check the stud’s location, or if you have drywall, check if the secure mounts are included or not. You should consider the surface type and the installation angles to make the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are suction shower grab bars safe?
Suction grab bars are not recommended for someone who needs to support their total body weight. They are not securely fixed to the walls or tubs as they work on suction power. These grab bars tend to lose their suction grip after a few uses or days and must be checked before every use. Its efficiency depends on surface type, duration, and the person’s weight. Due to these limitations, they are not considered completely safe but are suitable as assist bars for balancing.
2. How high should a grab bar be in a shower?
You can choose the height of a grab bar depending on the user’s convenience. However, the ideal height for a horizontal bar can be from 33 to 36 inches from the floor of a shower stall or 30 inches from the tub floor.
3. How much weight can a grab bar hold?
The grab bar’s holding capacity depends on its design, structure, material, and quality. An ideal grab bar should hold the person’s body weight when they grab it with force. Usually, grab bars have a holding capacity from 250 to 500 lb.
4. Will one grab bar be enough for my bathroom?
The number of grab bars you should install in a bathroom depends on the user’s requirements. You should install more than one bar if they need more assistance with balance and movement. You can also place grab bars beside the toilet seat, near the faucet, and the entrance for better support.
5. Do suction grab bars work in showers?
Yes, suction grab bars can work in showers. You can opt for a bar with a suction indicator light, as the suction bars might not be as secure as wall-mounted bars.
6. What is the best width for a grab bar?
Studies have shown that cylindrical grab bars of a diameter between 28 and 32 mm provide optimum support for the elderly (1). However, grab bar diameters may vary based on the required support and the size of a person’s hand.
7. How should I install grab bars?
You can install suction bars on non-textured surfaces without any tools. For wall-mounted bars, you will need to drill holes at the desired height and use anchors or screws to mount the bar.
Shower grab bars reduce the risk of accidental slips and falls in the bathroom and are especially helpful for the elderly and those with limited mobility. They provide additional support, whether mounted near the toilet or bathtub, keeping you safe while sitting down or getting up. The best shower grab bars are firm and sturdy enough to hold the required weight. When choosing one, you should factor in the type of suction and hold, material and finish, bar length, and ease of installation.
Infographic: Points To Consider When Installing Shower Grab Bars
Shower grab bars offer enhanced accessibility and safety by providing support and stability in the bathroom for individuals with varying needs and heights. However, they must be mounted properly to ensure maximum functionality and comfort. Check out the following infographic to learn the points to keep in mind to affix shower grab bars correctly.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Ergonomic design requirements for a safe grip to prevent falling in the bathroom
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281458640 - Facts About Falls
https://www.cdc.gov/falls/facts.html
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Why Trust MomJunction?
As shower areas are accident-prone areas, you need a shower grab bar that is strong and durable and one that offers a firm and secure grip. This list of the best shower grab bars has been compiled after reading the product features and customer reviews of several products in the market. We have also included the pros and cons of each product to assist you in making an informed decision. We hope you find the list and the buying guide helpful.
