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The Best Grab Bar

Last updated on June 23, 2022
Best Grab Bar

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A shower bar, also known as a grab bar, is an extra handle that is installed in the bath or shower to prevent people from slipping and falling. They are usually made from a rust-free metal and can be of varying lengths.

While commonly used to help seniors find stability on slippery bath surfaces, shower bars are also useful for adults and children. In fact, over 230,000 bathroom falls happen every year for people over 15 years old. In order to prevent unnecessary accidents, it’s critical to have a shower bar in place in your bathtub or shower.

Getting out of the bathtub can be difficult when you’re on a wet surface. Typically, bathtub sides are around 18 inches high, so it requires you to take a big step over. Shower stalls usually have a lip of around five inches, which can be easy to miss and trip over. If your balance isn’t good, or if you’re unsteady on a wet, soapy surface, having something helpful to grab on to can save you from injury.

When installing your shower bar, it’s vital to find the right place to put it up. A shower bar needs to be mounted onto a wall stud, otherwise it will not provide the stability and security you need. Ask a family member to stand in the bath or shower and climb out, so you can watch their hand placement. This will give you a good idea of where the shower bar needs to be mounted.

Our Picks For The Top Grab Bars

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Budding Joy Non-Slip Easy Install Grab Bars, 2-Pack

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Budding Joy

Non-Slip Easy Install Grab Bars, 2-Pack

If you're looking for a little bit of extra support when showering, this grab bar set is an excellent choice. It supports up to 88 pounds and can be placed exactly where you need it. The suctions cups will hold it firmly in place without damaging your shower walls.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly OptionWith this grab bar set, you get two bars for the price of one, making the set super affordable.

 Runner Up

ZUEXT Textured Rust-Proof Grab Bars, 2-Pack

ZUEXT

Textured Rust-Proof Grab Bars, 2-Pack

This grab bar is more of a permanent solution and can support up to 500 pounds. The unit is constructed from a durable stainless steel that won't rust. It features a textured center that remains non-slip, even if your hands are wet and soapy.

Overall Take

Adds Safety and StabilityIn addition to being used as a grab bar, this model can also be installed as a towel rack.

 We Also Like

AmazonBasics GBAR-150-42 ADA Standard Bathroom Grab Bar

AmazonBasics

ADA Standard Bathroom Grab Bar

Constructed from an attractive stainless steel, this grab bar is made to last. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds and offers the extra support you need to get in and out of a tub or up and down from the commode. An installation guide and a set of mounting screws are included with your purchase.

Overall Take

ADA CompliantYou'll find this grab bar is available in 16, 18, 24, 32, 36 and 42 inches with a diameter of either 1.25 or 1.5 inches.

 Strong Contender

Gotega Multi-Purpose Stainless Steel Grab Bars, 2-Pack

Gotega

Multi-Purpose Stainless Steel Grab Bars, 2-Pack

If you're searching for a grab bar that's designed to last, this model is an excellent choice. It's constructed from 304 stainless steel tubes and coated with a corrosion-resistant finish. When you're ready to add the grab bars to your kitchen, bath or laundry room, you'll find the simple design makes them easy to install.

Overall Take

Most VersatileIn addition to serving as a grab bar, this bar can also be installed to hold towels and clothing.

What to Look For

  • Opt for a shower bar that is made from stainless steel or other metal that will not corrode from the water. This will ensure you don’t need to replace your shower bar frequently.
  • Shower bars come in multiple lengths, with 18 inches being a common offering. You can also find shower bars that are as long as 24 inches. Take a look at your space to see what you can accommodate, and be sure to install it in the correct position to maximize effectiveness. Usually, shower bars are around 1.5 inches in diameter, so it’s easy to hold regardless of age. If you’re going to mount the shower bar horizontally, then you’ll need to get a longer one around 32 inches.
  • Be wary of shower bars that leave a lot of space between the wall and the bar. If it sticks out too far, it can be hazardous as you can bump into it.
  • Consider the surface of the shower bar and how textured it is. It’s important for the surface to be slip resistant so that when you’re holding on to it with wet hands, you don’t slide off. Choose a shower bar with a textured finish or one that is designed to be slip-resistant.
  • It’s important to know the weight accommodation of the shower bar before you buy. If you mount one that cannot accommodate the weight of the person holding on to it, it could cause injuries. You can find shower bars with large pull forces, such as those that can manage 500 pounds.
  • Consider the installation process and instructions. Review to make sure the hardware you need is included with the shower bar. In some cases, the materials for secure installation are sold separately. Before you purchase one, you’ll also want to make sure there is a wall stud in your bathroom which you can mount the bar on.
  • If the aesthetics of the bar are important, look for one that has a concealed mount, so you don’t need to look at any screw holes or mounting hardware.

More to Explore

A shower bar’s key benefit is that helps to prevent slips and falls. However, did you know that there are additional benefits that come with this simple gadget? Often, when seniors or other people with balance issues are afraid of falling in the bath or shower, they tend to avoid it altogether. This poor hygiene can actually lead to other issues such as skin infections. Installing a shower bar helps to dodge this issue. Similarly, those who are nervous about a slip and fall in the bathroom feel as though they have lost their independence when they need to ask for help. Providing a shower bar helps them to regain their confidence and maintain the quality of life they’re used to.

More to explore