Grab bars and other products for bathroom safety

Every year, about one in four older adults over age 65 report falling. This can lead to head injuries, hip fractures and other serious outcomes. The most common place to fall in the home is the bathroom. Installing proper safety bars and other modifications can help lower someone's risk of falling or tripping in the bathroom. Learn more about bathroom safety products that can help below.

In this article

Types of bathroom safety bars

Installing safety products in the bathroom can help support balance. For example, grab bars can be helpful for sitting down and getting up from a toilet; getting in and out of a bathtub; and standing from a sitting position in a shower. Depending on the needs, there are various types of safety bars to consider. Whatever someone chooses, they should be sure to read the product label for directions, installation and safety information.

Wall-mounted grab bars

It’s not recommended to grab onto the towel racks in the bathroom, as these aren’t designed to support a person’s body weight. Instead, wall-mounted grab bars — bars that are attached to the wall securely — can help provide support to hold onto while someone maneuvers around the bathroom.

Bathtub grab bars

Grab bars for the bathtub can either be installed on the wall (see wall-mounted grab bars above) or they can be attached to the bathtub itself. For example, some grab bars latch over the side of the tub. This type of bar can help someone get in and out of the bath and may help someone from falling on slippery surfaces.

Shower grab bars

Horizontal or vertical grab bars can be installed in a shower to help the user stand while they bathe or to help them get up from a shower seat.

Toilet grab bars

There are several types of toilets grab bars that can assist with sitting down, standing up and overall stability while using a toilet. Options include wall-mounted grab bars next to the toilet or grab bars that attach to and surround the toilet.

Floor-to-ceiling grab bars

Floor-to-ceiling grab bars run the entire vertical length of the bathroom. For small bathrooms, a centrally placed floor-to-ceiling grab bar may be within reach of the shower and toilet, potentially reducing the need for multiple safety bars. Some full-length grab bars are designed as tension rods, meaning people won’t have to drill to install them (and if they move to another home, they can take them with them).

Suction cup grab bars

Suction cup grab bars are a less-permanent option that can attach to smooth surfaces without drilling. Following the installation instructions and being mindful of any weight limits is important to help ensure that the suction cups will hold. This type of grab bar also may not be suitable for certain surfaces, like grouted titles or textured walls.

Considerations for bathroom grab bars

Look for products that meet the specifications required by the Americans with Disabilities Act, including diameter, length, placement and more.

The type of grab bar or bars people choose to install should also take into account the specific needs of the individual using them and the features of the bathroom itself. Some things to consider may include the following:

• The height of the person: This will help people determine how low or high to place the grab bars.
• Weight capacity: Make sure the grab bars can support the full weight of the person using them.
• Location: Where will grab bars be most useful for balance and stability?
• Bathroom design and material: Make sure whatever grab bars people choose will work with the bathroom size, layout and material.

Maintenance of bathroom grab bars

After a bathroom grab bar is in place, people should check them regularly to ensure they are stable, clean and undamaged.

Other home safety products

For a more comprehensive overview of other ways to support safety at home, read more about home safety or learn about bedroom support.

Raised toilet seat

In addition to grab bars, an elevated toilet seat may be an option to consider in the bathroom to help prevent falls and help make the sit-to-stand transition easier when someone is using the toilet.

As an alternative to installing a raised toilet seat, consider a temporary commode chair instead. Commode chairs can fit on top of the existing toilet or can be placed next to the toilet, depending on the type of chair. Just remember that commode seats that aren’t attached to the toilet will need to be emptied and cleaned after each use.

Shower seat and shower bench seat

It’s no secret that the floor of the shower can get slippery — from the water being used but also from soaps, shampoos and conditioners. A rubber mat or simply sitting down on a bath chair or bench can help. Consider a foldable seat that attaches to the shower wall or purchase a standalone shower seat or bench for bathroom safety.

Seat for bath

Bathtub seats can be used for people who prefer baths over showers. They narrow the distance from the tub floor to standing position and can help make it easier to reach a grab bar. Look for a multi-level seat that can gradually lower someone into the tub and use it for showers or baths.

Key takeaways

Bathroom safety products, such as grab bars, raised toilet seats, and shower or bath seats, can help reduce the risk of slips and falls. Grab bars come in several styles and can be chosen based on the user’s needs, bathroom layout and weight requirements. Regular maintenance helps ensure grab bars remain secure over time. In addition to grab bars, supportive seating options in showers, tubs and near toilets can help make everyday movements easier and safer.