Best Grab Bars For Bathtubs

Updated: Jul 16, 2022

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The National Institute on Aging says that six out of 10 falls for senior citizens happen at home, often in areas where there are stairs or while getting in and out of the bathtub. A little prevention can keep a costly, painful, or even life-threatening accident from occurring, so it’s worth taking the time to add a grab bar or rail to your bathtub. We’ve rounded up our favorite bars and rails on the market right now for extra grip in and around your tub.

How We Found the Best Grab Bars

8 Reviewers
50 Products Considered
12 Hours of Research
7 Products Reviewed
3 Top Picks

Best Suction

Safe-er-Grip Changing Lifestyles Suction Cup Grab Bars For Bathtubs & Showers; Safety Bathroom Assist Handle, White & Grey, 16 Inches

$11.51

Features and Specifications

  • NO TOOL INSTALL: position suction cup grab bar on bathtub or shower wall; flip latches up; apply pressure to handle; press each latch down to lock suction grips in place; ability to easily relocate this portable handle is perfect for travel
  • Sturdy secure suction cups work on non-porous flat surfaces including tile, glass, acrylic, and metal; grab bars provide stability when entering or exiting a bathtub or shower; can be used as a disability aid to prevent falls for elderly, disabled, or…
  • TIP: bar is to be used only to assist and help balance a person’s body; not to hold full body weight; suction cup device must be applied to smooth, flat, non-porous surface; do NOT cover grout lines; will not work on drywall, fiberglass, or marble tile
  • NON SLIP GRIP: textured contoured rubber grip provides safety and comfort; total length of bar is 16.5″; suction cups are 3.75″ in diameter; measure tiles and distance between them prior to purchase as suction cups cannot overlap grout line
  • BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: our durable, nontoxic material makes this a long lasting product to facilitate bathroom safety; perfect assist for shower or bath when traveling; strong suction design provides security needed without damage to applied surfaces

Pros

  • Textured grip for safety

  • Can be used on either tub or shower walls

  • Affordable

  • Easy-to-install

  • No damage needed from drilling holes

Cons

  • Requires smooth, non-porous surface

  • Limited color options

  • May not hold up in the long-term

The Changing Lifestyles Safe-er-Grip is a 17-inch bar with strong suction on both ends. We found these incredibly straightforward to install. You just flip the tabs on both ends and press down. To remove them, flip the tabs again to release the suction.

For under $20 this is an ideal bar if you have super smooth tiles larger than 4 x 4 inches. We recommend this for individuals who do not need to put their entire body weight on a rail or bar while getting in and out of the shower or tub. If you need to rest a significant amount of pressure on something while stepping out, a clamp or bar with screws would be a better fit.

However, if you just need some balance help or a little assistance stepping out, this is a good choice. The ease of installation, affordable price, and lack of damage from drilling holes are substantial benefits for a bit of added safety.

Our Verdict

We like this tub and shower bar for those who don’t need to rest all their weight and want easy installation.

Best Tub Bar

Moen DN7010 Home Care Tub Safety Bar, White

$28.81

Features and Specifications

  • BRIGHT LOOK: Glacier finish for a bright, clean white look
  • ADA COMPLIANT: Complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications
  • CONSTRUCTION: Made from anodized aluminum with a powder coat white finish
  • FIT: Fits most standard size bathtubs with edges between 4.25-in- 6.25-in
  • BUILT TO LAST: Backed by Moen’s Limited Lifetime Warranty

Pros

  • Sides can be adjusted separately

  • Corrosion-resistant

  • Clamp pads to prevent scratching

  • Fits most standard tubs

  • Will fit a curved-top tub

Cons

  • Not for tubs with slanted walls

  • Not ideal for extra-deep tubs

The Moen DN7010 Home Care Tub Safety Bar is an excellent, durable bar if you’re looking for a grab-bar for getting out of a tub in particular (as opposed to showering). This seven-inch high grip is sturdy, fits securely, and resists corrosion in a humid environment. We like that you can adjust each side individually for a perfect fit if the rear of your tub is slightly wider or more narrow than the front. This grab-bar also meets the strict ADA guidelines for safety and security for those with disabilities. This is a safe, reliable bar as long as it’s installed correctly. The clamps are simple to install, and the unit is surprisingly lightweight at just under two and a half pounds. For those only in need of a grab-bar for the tub, this is our favorite!

Our Verdict

Sturdy, secure, and ADA compliant, this is our favorite for those who only need a bath (not shower) grab bar.

Best High/Low Bar

AURALUM Bathroom Grab Bar Bathtub Arm Safe-Grip Bar Shower Handle Stainless Steel … (17 inches)

Price not available

Features and Specifications

  • AURALUM grab bar, Easy grip support bars for bathrooms, stairwells, laundry room, kitchen, slip prevention for elderly, handicapped, disabled and so on.
  • The total length is 17 inch.Bending bar is 8.7 inch.The diameter is 1 inch,Comes complete with instructions and stainless steel hardware.
  • Supports up to 500 lbs of pull force and to provide a stable, reliable handhold.the grab bar provides additional stability when entering and exiting the tub or shower for a safe and comfortable experience.
  • Complies with ADA specifications,be made of durable stainless steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish,add to durable security maximum support to prevent slips and falls.
  • This grab bar design allows for easy, secure installation at any angle.Concealed mount allows you to cover any unsightly screw holes and make your bathroom keep beauty.

Pros

  • Angled for various height grip spots

  • Concealed mount to hide screws

  • Lightweight aluminum

  • Can be used in stairwells and other slippery areas

  • Available in three differing lengths/styles

Cons

  • Limited weight capacity

  • No textured grip

If you want a grab-bar of varying heights, the AURALUM Bathroom Grab Bar Bathtub Arm Safe-Grip Bar is an attractive, highly polished, lightweight option. It’s made of lightweight aluminum and recommended for people who don’t need to put excessive weight on the bar but just need a little assistance. The bar is mounted by drilling the screws into the tub wall, but if it’s appropriately installed it’s  a sturdier option than some other styles. Covers will conceal the screw holes and the bar can be placed at any height you choose. We love that this can be used in other areas, as well, such as laundry rooms or stairwells. It works well anywhere there might be a slippery floor or a few steps to climb. Resting your full weight on the bar is not recommended.

Our Verdict

The angle of this model offers various height points to grip.

Best On A Budget

AmeriLuck Suction Bath Grab Bar 12in with Indicators, Bathroom Shower Handle (White/Grey, Pack of 1)

Price not available

Features and Specifications

  • 👍 PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU BUY – For getting sufficient suction power to work, 1)✔ This Suction Grab Bar only works on tile size LARGER THAN 4″x4″, 2)✔ The suction discs can not be mounted on grout seam(s). 3)✔ Make sure there’s no texture on…
  • 👍 NO TOOL REQUIRED INSTALLATION – This AmeriLuck Suction Grab Bar is easy to install. (1).Clean the rubber discs and the surface it is to be attached to thoroughly. (2). Press as hard as possible against the wall till the green indicators show up. (3)….
  • 👍 SAFE TO USE – The indicators on the side of the suction cup will change from red to green when a safe and secure hold is achieved. Before each use, test the firm hold of the suction device. Ensure that both indicators are GREEN. If the adhesion seems…
  • 👍 PERFECTLY FOR ELDERLY/SENIOR/ALL AGES – This could be a sweet gift for elderly/senior parents/grand parents.
  • 👍 LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY – This AmeriLuck Suction Grab Bar(s) come with a limited lifetime warranty against any manufacturing defects.

Pros

  • Cost

  • Easy installation

  • Safe-installation indicator window

  • Lightly textured grip

  • Fits well in small spaces

Cons

  • Size

  • Limited weight capacity

  • Limited color options

The AmeriLuck Bath and Shower Suction Grab/Grip Bar is an incredible value at under $15. If you need an affordable bath or shower bar but don’t have a lot to spend, this one is easy on anyone’s budget. The installation is easy. Tabs flip into place the grab bar suctions to your tub. What we particularly love about this bar is the green indicator for safety. When the bar is not securely attached, the color window will be red. When the grip securely adheres to the wall or tiles, the color window will flip to green. The suction cups require a non-porous surface such as tile (must be 4 inches or larger). Do not install over seams or grout. This is an excellent option particularly for smaller stall-style showers or tubs, as the bar is a bit more compact than some competitors. Overall, a great buy.

Our Verdict

The excellent price and compact size make this our favorite for those on a budget or for a travel option.

Best Clamp-On Rail

Drive Medical 12036 Handicap Grab Bar, White

$32.31

Features and Specifications

  • Shower Grab Bar: Designed to fit just about any style of bathtub, our handrail for the bathroom is exceptionally easy to install without tools
  • Quality Construction: An important shower accessory for daily living, our grab bars for elderly, disabled, and injured individuals are made of durable powder-coated steel
  • Adjustable: Designed to fit your unique needs, our bathtub handle grab bar can be adjusted from 3 to 7 inches in width
  • Secure and Scratchproof: Our grab bars for bathtubs and showers come equipped with a stainless steel locking mechanism and non-wearing rubber pads for scratch-proof installation
  • Dimensions: Clamp: 3 inch to 7 inch; Height: 14.5 inch; Weight Capacity: 300 lbs

Pros

  • Made of sturdy, durable steel

  • Rubber pads to prevent scratches

  • Fits most tub sizes

  • Adjustable, secure tightening clamp

  • No tools needed for installation

Cons

  • Not for use on fiberglass tubs

  • Limited color options

The Drive Medical Steel Clamp on Tub Rail has one of the highest users ratings we’ve seen out of any bathtub bar. With its sturdy steel construction, powder-coated humidity resistance, and reasonable price we understand why. The adjustable clamp fits most tubs, including many of those with curved sides. We love that this safe, reliable tub rail provides this much security without any tools. There is no need to drill into tiles or tub fiberglass or worry about suction cups coming loose. The adjustable clamp has rubber pads on the inside to prevent it from scratching your tub. The edges of the metal are smooth and pose no risk of scratching you if you happen to bump into them. If you’re looking for a tub-only rail or grip bar, this is definitely one of our favorites for reliability.

Our Verdict

We love the absolute sturdiness of this fantastically-rated tub rail.

Best With A Grip

Bathtub Safety Rail with Sure-Grip (19″ Height)

$61.99

Features and Specifications

  • PCP brand model 7252 bath rail safety grab bar; Provides seniors, limited mobility, and recovering patients assistance when entering and exiting a bathtub; Excellent choice for elderly, injured, or disabled users to feel secure and independent
  • Easy installation no tools needed; Tool free design is accessible for all users of any skill level; strong welded construction with solid one piece steel platform and stainless steel locking mechanism; Supports up to 300 lbs.
  • Overall height 19 inches (48.3 cm); Height above tub wall 15 inches (38 cm); Width 8 inches (20.3 cm); Locking bracket adjustment 3 to 6 inches (7.6 – 15.2 cm); Product Weight 6 lb, 10 oz.
  • Dimpled rubber grip for increased traction in support of recuperating patients, recovery from surgery, or infirmed limited strength users; Non-marring rubber pads protect tub wall; Simple design is easy to clean and sanitize; Rust resistant construction
  • Affordable alternative option to costly permanent fixtures with the added value and peace of mind for safety, traction and security; Convenient reliable daily living aid for men and women; Minimize the risk of falls on wet slippery tile floors

Pros

  • 300-pound weight capacity

  • Non-slip rubber grip

  • Steel locking mechanism once in place

  • Rubber pads prevent scratching tub

Cons

  • Cost

  • Not for all sizes of curved tubs

  • Only fits straight edge tubs 3 to 6 inches wide

The Pcp Bathtub Safety Rail with Sure-Grip is ideal especially if you’re undergoing recovery for a procedure or injury. This sturdy steel rail is suitable for those up to 300 pounds. That makes this rail a good choice for those who need more weight capacity than suction-cup shower bars offer. We particularly like the added safety grip at the top to prevent your hand from slipping if the rail gets wet. The texture and slightly raised edges of the grip also help keep you stabile. This rail requires no tools for installation. Once the rail is in place, there’s a locking mechanism that will keep it from moving around.

Our Verdict

The extra non-slip grip on this bathtub rail is ideal for slippery, humid conditions.

Before quickly deciding on a bathtub grab bar, consider some of the following to pick the right one for you. With safety around the tub being a serious concern, you want to be sure you’re choosing the right bar or rail for your bodyweight and tub style.

When shopping for a bathtub grab bar, you first need to consider your weight.

Type Of Installation

When shopping for a bathtub grab bar, you first need to consider your weight. If you need it to support your full body weight, it’s better to the veer toward a drill and screw installed model. Suction bars are not meant for heavy loads of weight and can come loose over time. If a wall mount isn’t what you’re looking for, a sturdy clamp style tub rail that attaches to the side of the tub can be a good option that supports body weight well.

Type Of Bathtub

Double check the measurements of your bathtub and evaluate whether you want a bar or rail. Consider if it will be installed near a curved area of a tub or if the model you’re considering is safe for fiberglass tubs. Some clamp-on rails are not recommended for specific tub widths and styles, fiberglass, or shapes with more noticeable curves in the side of the tub.

Material

The material of the grab bar becomes significantwhen you factor in how wet it will get and the weight load it needs to bear. An extremely lightweight aluminum model might work well for very wet conditions but may not offer the support you need. If the bar or rail is likely only to encounter a lot of humidity or occasional water, a durable coated steel or a stainless steel model is an excellent option.

Slipping is not the only danger when it comes to the bathtub. The health ministry in Japan launched an investigation in 2012 after it was projected that around 14,000 people passed away annually in the tub. That number is three times as many people as those who are killed in car accidents. They found that the deaths were linked to drowning, heart attacks, slips, and head injuries. The deaths increased during the winter months when older people moved from the warmer areas of their homes to the bathroom. This can cause thermal shock. Don’t get into a steaming tub if you’re excessively cold. Slowly warm up the temperature to adjust your blood pressure without shocking your system. Having a grab bar that can help you get out quicker and safer is highly recommended. You may also want to consider adding non-slip strips or a mat to the floor of your tub as an extra safety precaution.

Always factor your personal preferences, budget, and needs before picking your bathtub bar. It’s such a personal choice for each individual. It’s important that you feel secure in your home and are able to go about your daily activities as you age in place. A bathtub grab bar is a small, relatively inexpensive way to create safer spaces.

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