The answer is yes!
A grab bar is a sturdy bar meant to prevent falls in the bathtub or the shower. It attaches to your bathroom wall and is useful for anyone who might need extra support, such as the elderly or people with disabilities or the toddlers.
Since bathrooms can be slippery, especially the bathroom tub areas and shower floors, shower grab bars can be particularly useful. They can help with sitting and standing if placed near the toilet as well. The kind of grab bar you choose depends on your requirements and preferences.
Important Considerations
When choosing a shower grab bar, focus on the ideal length for ease of access. The amount of weight the grab bar can support is also an important factor. This shower grab bar guide can help you find the perfect addition to your bathroom.
Shower Grab Bar Length
The ideal shower grab bar length depends on the space available in your shower area. Measure the width of your shower walls to get a shower grab bar that fits optimally. Your personal requirements also play a big role. Your hand size is a deciding factor since the grab bar should be easy to grasp in your hand. The level of stability you require is another factor to consider. If you have good balance, a shorter bar might suffice. Alternatively, if you require more support, a longer one might offer varied hand placements and accessibility. The length of a grab bars can extend up to 48 inches.
Shower Grab Bar Height
There are ADA guidelines that prescribe what an accessible design should be. Ideally, a horizontal shower grab bar’s height should be between 33 and 36 inches above the floor. This is supposed to provide optimal support and stability for most individuals. The heights of people intending to use the grab bar also determines the placement of the grab bar.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a grab bar can range from 200 to 900 pounds. As per ADA and IRC codes, any grab bar should be able to support at least 250 pounds in weight. It’s always better to choose one with a higher weight capacity to ensure safety and support. AquaChase's grab bars can support up to 500 pounds which is twice of the ADA minimum requirement.
Shapes
- Straight grab bars: These can be installed horizontally, diagonally or vertically.
- Angled grab bars: Two angles to grab, these grab bars offer a thick and secure grip.
- L-shaped grab bars: By installing one grab bar horizontally and the other vertically, you can DIY you own L-shaped grab bar
Materials for Shower Grab Bars
The materials used for shower grab bars depend on personal preferences as well as features like durability and water resistance. Some common materials include:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel grab bars are a corrosion-resistant option that offers durability and easy maintenance. It’s available as a chrome, brushed nickel, powder coated black, white or other colors that can elevate the look of your shower space. Known to be strong and sturdy, this material is ideal for a shower grab bar.
Bamboo
AquaChase have launched two series of bamboo grab bar, which offers an elegant and luxurious appearance yet comfortable to grab. The natural bamboo is anti-mould treated, making it a long-lasting option.
Plastic
Plastic suction grab bars are budget-friendly and lightweight making this ideal for temporary use or mild support needs becuase they are tool-free installation and no-drilling needed. But, they might not be as durable and tough, and you need to check them before every use.
Types of Shower Grab Bars
The mounting mechanism changes depending on each type of shower grab bar.
Wall-Mounted
This is the most versatile and common type of shower grab bar available. Wall-mounted grab bars are accessible and sturdy, providing stability and preventing slips. They are securely mounted to the wall of your shower space with screws and anchors or directly screwing in studs. They also save space and are a good addition for small bathrooms. You can get a U-shaped bar if you need multiple grab points for better support.
Folding
These are designed to fold down or flip up when not being used. They are ideal for small and narrow spaces. These consist of hinges at the mounting point on the wall. They also have a locking mechanism that helps the bar stay stable when it is lowered. Folding shower grab bars offer a sleek and clutter-free look.
Bathtub Grab Bar Placement
The ideal location for a grab bar is near slick and slippery surfaces like the shower or bathtub. The correct bathtub grab bar placement enhances its functionality.
Tip:Install them in wall studs for added safety.
Tub/Shower
Place the grab bar along the inner edges of your bathtub or near the door of your shower. This makes it accessible and easy to grab in case of any imbalance. Make sure the tub or shower grab bar is installed correctly and can bear the weight of the users.
Vertical or Horizontal
A vertical grab bar provides help to stand or sit in the shower area or tub. Alternatively, a horizontal one helps maintain balance while showering. Combining the benefits of the two, a diagonal grab bar is versatile and offers a firm grip for most individuals. Or an angled grab bar can be an alternative solution.
Features of Shower Grab Bars
Other than decorative grab bars and ADA compliant grab bars, look out for these additional features to make the most of your shower grab bars.
Non-Slip Grip
Perhaps the most significant feature of a shower grab bar is its grip. You can find non-slip grab bar designs like knurled surfaces, rubber grips and peened surfaces to provide a power grip for ensuring stability even in wet conditions.
Waterproof
Being resistant to water damage, corrosion and rust is essential for grab bars since they are always in contact with water. Stainless steel is the best choice for the perfect waterproof grab bar grip.
Multifunctional
Other than providing stability, these can have multiple useful features. Some shower grab bars are designed to hang towels or toilet paper. These consist of a built-in arm or shelf with grab bars to hold the towels and are available as toilet paper holder with grab bars as well. And there's shower shelf with grab bar combo as well.
