Grab Bars - The Basics

Grab Bars - The Basics

Locations Depend on
•	Bathroom space
•	Person's needs
General Recommendations
•	Tub entrance: Vertical bar
•	Long wall: Angled bar
Color & Finish
•	Visual contrast
•	Non-slip finish
Installation
•	Into wall studs (screws)
•	Into tile/drywall (special anchors)
•	Into plywood backing (new construction)
Grab Bar Types Not Recommended
Consumer Guide

Grab Bars Not Recommended

Tub Mounted Grab Bars

These grab bars do not permanently attach to the wall but clamp onto the tub wall.

They're designed to be used only with a downward force when standing – for example, when climbing over the tub wall. Grabbing onto the bar while getting up from the tub floor or bath chair can dislodge the bar from the tub rim, which could result in injury.
In addition, even when used while standing, a tub-mounted grab bar can easily pull off if it wasn't installed properly after the tub was cleaned.
We tested various types of tub-mounted grab bars and they all easily detached when not used properly. As people with dementia have skills and behavior that are constantly changing, we do not advise this type of grab bar

Suction Grab Bars

These grab bars do not permanently attach to the wall but attach with a suction cup. Although these bars may seem strong initially, they

Aren't designed to support a person's full weight
Need to be checked before each use as the suction attachment weakens over time and you never know when that will be
Will probably pull away from the wall if grabbed for support during a fall.

Consumer Reports Review

Send This Page To A Friend:
Grab Bars - The Basics

* Required Fields

Your Name*

Your Email*

Friend's Email*
(Separate multiple addresses with commas)

Add a Note

(Maximum length: 500 characters)

Send me a copy

Narration:

Grab bars may be installed in various locations, depending on the bathroom space and the person's needs. If the person is able to step into the tub or shower from a standing position, we recommend a grab bar at the tub entrance so the person has a safe support to hold onto while climbing over the tub wall. A vertical bar is frequently preferred over a horizontal bar because it is easier for arthritic hands to grip.

On the long tub wall, a grab bar on an angle is generally recommended for help when getting up from the tub floor or from a bath chair; make sure it slopes up in the direction of the showerhead from the person's seated position.

Read our Consumer Guide for more helpful tips on choosing and installing grab bars, along with a list of manufacturers and vendors.