Types of Grab Bars

Bathroom grab bars come in a variety of styles, finishes and sizes. The most common types of bathroom grab bars include:

• Wall-mounted. These grab bars are installed securely to the wall with mounting screws and anchors.
• Bathtub-mounted. Adjustable clamps fit the grab bar base tightly over the rim of the bathtub, providing stability when getting in and out of the tub.
• Suction. These grab bars attach to the wall with suction cups and are best used as a temporary measure, such as when traveling or while recovering from certain surgeries or injuries. Suction grab bars are generally used to assist with balance and not intended to support your full body weight. Check the suction on the bars regularly, as it may become less secure over time. These bars should only be installed on a non-porous surface, such as tile—never on drywall.
• Folding. These grab bars fold-down or flip-up when not in use to save space in tight areas, such as beside the toilet or sink.
• Free-standing. Free-standing grab bars are often floor-to-ceiling tension bars located beside the tub or shower to assist with exiting and entering. Another type is a toilet enclosure with stand-alone rails and a safety base to help with sitting down and standing up.