The Best Shower Grab Bars of 2022

Our top pick is the Safe-er-Grip Changing Lifestyles Suction Cup Grab Bars

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Shower Grab Bars

The Spruce / David Hattan

Whether you have mobility concerns or just want some extra support, a shower grab bar can be a game-changer when bathing. Designed to offer you a place to grip and grab as you climb in and out of the shower, these handy bars can increase your stability and slash your risk of slips and falls (yes, even if you’re still young!). With easy installation options as well as finishes that compliment the rest of your bathroom, these safety rails or grab bars for the shower and bath might be an important part of your bathroom considerations and design.

Discover more of the best shower grab bars below.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Safe-er-Grip Shower Grab Bar

Safe-er-Grip Shower Grab Bar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Works on showers or baths

  • Can be used on glass, tile, or ceramic

  • Easy to install

  • Removable and reusable

What We Don't Like
  • Smaller in size overall

Safe-er-Grip’s Suction Cup Grab Bar is easy to install and provides a reliable place for you to grab if you need it while in the shower or bath. It can attach to any point of your shower or bathtub, as long as your chosen surface is non-porous and flat. That means the same grab bar can be put on the shower wall or side of the bathtub. It works on tile, glass, ceramic, or any other flat surface. 

To install, just flip the latches up, press down, and suction it to the wall. It has a gripped bottom that stays in place. You can adjust it and move it if your needs change. Because it is budget-friendly, it is also good if you want to install multiple handles in the same space.

It comes in two finishes, white and stainless steel. Both are durable and made for bathrooms and showers, while still matching the hardware and overall look of your bathroom. The bar itself is smaller, but it features a gripped handle that you can use to steady yourself in the shower or bath.

Price at time of publish: $15

Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 16.5 x 4 x 3.75 inches

Best Budget

ZUEXT Chrome Stainless Steel Bathroom Grab Bar

ZUEXT Chrome Stainless Steel Bathroom Grab Bar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Classic design

  • Budget-friendly

  • Comes in pack of two

What We Don't Like
  • Permanent installation

ZUEXT’s Chrome Stainless Steel Bathroom Grab Bar is actually a set of two shower grab bars, making this a budget-friendly pick that’s also highly reliable and durable. It has a simple design made of stainless steel without any extras, such as grips or adjustability. The chrome stainless steel matches a lot of bathroom fixtures, making it a versatile addition. It’s also easy to maintain and won’t rust.

You will need to install this shower grab bar using a drill, screws, and anchors; it’s a permanent pick that can’t easily be moved. The screws and anchors come with the set but you’ll need a drill and bit that can get through the surface that you plan to use. However, this means there are more options when it comes to surface installation, including natural stone and tile. And when it comes to secure installation, we like that it’s totally permanent and won’t run the risk of slipping or coming loose over time.

Price at time of publish: $17

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 13.31 x 3.46 x 2.76 inches

Best for Bathtub

Zalik Grab Bars for Bathtubs and Showers

Zalik 12 inch Grab Bars for Bathtubs and Showers

Amazon

What We Like
  • Compact for smaller spaces

  • Can be used horizontally or vertically

  • Easy to install

What We Don't Like
  • Only for flat surfaces

  • Plastic, not metal, construction

This duo of 12-inch grab bars from Zalik runs on the shorter side, which actually makes them great for use in a bathtub. They don’t require a lot of space and can be placed vertically or horizontally. Because they come in a set of two, you can use one vertically to help you transfer in and out of the bath, while the other can be positioned horizontally to assist with getting up and down. 

Installation is also easy and doesn’t require any drilling or permanent fixtures, as the grab bars use suction to stay in place. Just flip up the latches, place them on a clean, flat surface, and press the latches back down to suction. They do need to be used on flat surfaces only, so curved bathtubs won’t work. Keep in mind, too, that this pair of grab bars is made out of plastic, which may impact durability over the long-term.

Price at time of publish: $30

Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 12 x 3 x 3 inches

Best Straight

Moen Home Care Concealed Screw Grab Bar with SecureMount

Moen Home Care Concealed Screw Grab Bar with SecureMount

Home Depot

What We Like
  • Multiple finishes and lengths

  • Supports up to 500 pounds

  • Installation hardware and template included

  • Slip-resistant textured surface

What We Don't Like
  • Requires permanent installation

  • Some bars may have slight imperfections

Moen’s Home Care Concealed Screw Grab Bar might look simple at first glance, but it’s an impressive straight bar, both in its capability and its appearance. It comes in five finishes and nine lengths to suit just about any and every bathroom’s aesthetic. All of the grab bars feature an etched, or textured, gripping surface that’s slip-resistant for a little extra stability. And they all use a SecureMount system. All installation hardware is included, as well as a template to make drilling easy and reduce the chances of making a mistake. 

These grab bars are a bit pricey but still a great value. They’re made of durable stainless steel that won’t rust or wear. Each bar comes with a lifetime warranty from Moen, too, for added peace of mind. Some users do note that the grab bar can come with slight imperfections in the metal—but the warranty or store return policy should take care of any you might find.

Price at time of publish: $20

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 24 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches

Best Curved

Delta Curved Bathroom Safety Assist Bar

Delta Curved Bathroom Safety Assist Bar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Slim, space-saving design

  • Sleek polished chrome finish

  • Stays clean in the shower

What We Don't Like
  • Only one finish option

  • Short and small

If you want an unobtrusive shower grab bar, the Delta Curved Bathroom Safety Assist Bar is a good pick. It’s affordable, durable, and provides plenty of grab space without requiring a foot or more of wall space in a small shower or tub. The curved shape looks sleek in almost any bathroom, and it’ll pair perfectly with other polished chrome Delta bathroom accents. Plus, this grab bar is built to last thanks to its die-cast zinc and stainless steel construction.

This shower grab bar only comes in polished chrome. While that does stay clean and look sleek, it may not match your other bathroom fixtures. Additionally, it’s quite small, measuring under 11 inches in total length. However, the bar’s smaller size doesn’t limit its strength; it supports up to 300 pounds. It won’t take up much space, but it should be able to support you solidly.

Price at time of publish: $21

Material: Zinc and steel | Dimensions: 10.66 x 2.37 x 8.02 inches

Best Adjustable

Vaunn Medical Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail

Vaunn Medical Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable width

  • Weighs under 6 pounds

  • Heavy-duty, durable steel frame

  • No-tool installation

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn’t work with all tubs or showers

  • Not the most stylish

If it’s stability paired with flexibility that you need, the Vaunn Medical Safety Rail is a great option. You can change the position of this safety rail, which attaches to the side of the bathtub. It fits on tub walls between 3 and 7 inches thick. All you need to do is turn the adjustable knob to create a highly secure fit. This is key to making sure it can support the weight of anyone using it. It’s made of durable stainless steel that won’t wear or bow as it supports you, with a white powder-coated finish that blends seamlessly into most bathrooms.

You will need a bathtub to use this support; it won’t work with a stand-up shower. It has to attach to the bathtub wall and is designed to help those with limited mobility get in and out of the tub or shower. It also isn’t safe for tubs with curved walls or texture. Additionally, it’s not the sleekest or most aesthetically pleasing option, so it will stand out in many bathrooms.

Price at time of publish: $40

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 6 x 6.5 x 17 inches

Best Extra Long

Stander Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar

Stander Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Adjustable height

  • Curved portion swivels

  • Tension-mount installation

  • Won’t damage tile or walls

What We Don't Like
  • Only works with flat ceilings

Stander’s Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar is a different kind of shower grab bar—one that can be used outside of the shower, with grab features you can use whether standing, sitting, or getting in and out of the bath. It features a vertical pole as well as a curved section that acts as a grip or handle. It comes in white or black and can be adjusted in height between 7 and 10 feet overall. The curved portion turns and locks in place at 45-degree increments. It’s handy for those with limited mobility who need extra stability getting in and out of the shower as well as around the bathroom.

Installation does take some time and is easiest with two people, but it’s relatively mess-free. You may also need a ladder, depending on the height of your ceilings. The bar is tension-mounted, which means no drilling or permanent installation that leaves marks in your wall or tile. However, that does also mean it’s only compatible (and stable) with flat ceilings and floors. 

Price at time of publish: $169

Material: Steel | Dimensions: 84 x 12 x 7 inches

Best with Shelf

Moen Home Care Curved Bath Safety Grab Bar with Shelf

Moen Home Care Curved Bath Safety Grab Bar with Shelf

Amazon

What We Like
  • Shelf with lip built in

  • Can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at an angle

  • Roomy shelf can hold soap or bottles

What We Don't Like
  • SecureMount hardware sold separately

  • Can rust over time

The Moen Home Care Screw-in Curved Safety Grab Bar provides plenty of space to grab for stability, but it’s also handy for keeping bathroom essentials close by. If you share a bathroom or have a particularly small shower, a shower bar that does double duty is key. You can mount this one vertically, horizontally, or at an angle, and the built-in shelf will provide some extra storage space. Just keep in mind that if you plan to store anything on the shelf, you’ll want to keep it as close to horizontal as possible. It does include a lip on the shelf, but that won’t keep items in place if it’s adjusted more than a few degrees. However, when installed correctly, it’s able to hold full-size products effortlessly.

Installation does require a drill and hardware. This grab bar supports 250 pounds, although if you use the optional SecureMount hardware, that’s increased to 500 pounds. Unfortunately, neither the drill nor the SecureMount hardware are included with the shower grab bar.

Price at time of publish: $43

Material: Steel | Dimensions: 5.07 x 18.64 x 4.16 inches

Best Wide Grip

LEVERLOC Grab Bars for Bathtubs and Showers

LEVERLOC Grab Bars for Bathtubs and Showers

Amazon

What We Like
  • Slip-proof textured rubber grip

  • Extra-wide handle

  • Sticks to wet and dry walls

What We Don't Like
  • Can’t be placed over grout lines

  • Suction may loosen over time

Having a wider grab bar can help some people grip it more securely. The LEVERLOC Grab Bar is 3.2 inches in circumference and has a textured rubber grip on the outside of the handle, providing extra surface area and some extra-grippy material for added stability. It uses suction to attach to the wall whether wet or dry, and it can support up to 240 pounds of pulling force exerted away from the wall.

This wall bar is a bit expensive but is still a great value, especially if you need the extra grip surface. You can also opt for an L-shaped version, which is even pricier. The suction cup is 3.7 inches in diameter, which ensures that it stays in place. Just make sure not to place it over grout lines, since it won’t be able to create a seal. Additionally, you’ll want to check the bar from time to time, as users note that its suction can loosen with use and need to be resecured.

Price at time of publish: $30

Material: Plastic | Dimensions: ‎17.17 x 4.69 x 3.82 inches

Best with Indicators

AquaChase 2-Pack Suction Shower Grab Bars

AquaChase 2-Pack Suction Shower Grab Bars

Amazon

What We Like
  • Color-coded indicators for correct installation

  • Tool-free installation

  • Four color options

What We Don't Like
  • Can’t be used on small tile or textured surfaces

For those who want some extra reassurance that their grab bar is secure, the two-pack of Suction Shower Grab Bars from AquaChase makes this a breeze. Each bar features built-in red/green indicators that change color when they lose suction. Installation is easy. Just flip up the latches, press the suction cups to the surface, and press the latches down. The indicator will be green if it’s secure and red if not. The grab bars come in four color options, too, so you can match your existing bathroom decor or add an accent that’s easy to see.

Keep in mind, though, that this bar is only safe for surfaces that are at least 4 inches by 4 inches. That means smaller tiles with grout lines or those with textured patterns aren’t compatible—and the suction won’t hold properly. The suction cups need full contact with the surface to work.

Price at time of publish: $34

Material: Plastic | Dimensions: ‎16.7 x 4 x 3.2 inches

Best Foldable

Moen Flip-Up Bathroom Grab Bar

Moen Flip-Up Bathroom Grab Bar

Amazon

What We Like
  • Polished stainless steel finish

  • ADA compliant

  • Space-saving flip design

  • Durable construction

What We Don't Like
  • Installation can be tricky

  • May require a backer board

You can literally flip the Moen Flip-Up Bathroom Grab Bar out of the way when not in use, making it perfect for small or midsize bathrooms when you still want a larger, supportive rail. It measures a full 30 inches and has a double bar for two different support heights. It supports up to 300 pounds in either the vertical or horizontal configuration. Designed to meet ADA standards, you can also trust that it offers the level of support you’re looking for.

Installation does require drilling and permanent mounting, and the process can be a little tricky, especially if your studs aren’t aligned with the mount’s holes. You may need to add a backer board for increased sturdiness. However, once it’s in place, the screws and mounts are hidden from view, creating a clean, tidy look. The bar is made of stainless steel, which will match many bathroom fixtures. It’s also easy to clean and won’t rust.

Price at time of publish: $99

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 32 x 7.63 x 13.38 inches

Final Verdict

Our top pick, the Safe-er-Grip Changing Lifestyles Suction Cup Grab Bars, is a versatile option that works in either a shower or bath. It uses suction to stay in place on a variety of surfaces. If you’re looking for extra stability without a high price, the ZUEXT Chrome Stainless Steel Bathroom Grab Bar is a budget-friendly option that comes in a set of two. We like the way this bar offers sleek style and durable construction.

What to Look for in a Shower Grab Bar

Type

Shower grab bars most commonly come in one of two types: a permanently installed bar that requires drilling or suction mount bars that use simple suction cups. There are also a few with a tension mount design, like the Stander Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar, that use tension alone to stand securely in place. However, tension-mounted shower grab bars are often larger and take up a lot of space in the bathroom. Foldable or flip shower bars are another less common type; these can be mounted permanently on a wall or tub wall and used in a variety of positions.

Weight Limit

Shower grab bars are meant to support the full weight of the person using it so most can support 250 pounds or more. Some even go up to 500 pounds. Just make sure that you follow the installation instructions, including using wall anchors for a permanently installed grab bar. Otherwise, they might not be secure enough to support the intended weight.

Material

Look for a grab bar that’s made of material that won’t rust or corrode in the wet environment of the shower. Plastic and stainless steel are both popular options. Grab bars that are the same finish as your other bathroom fixtures can create a cohesive look and appear less intrusive.

Size

Twelve inches long is the most commonly-found “short” option for most shower grab bars. Larger bars can be up to 2 or 3 feet long. Some even extend from the floor to the ceiling in your bathroom. Keep in mind that you will need the appropriate amount of wall space in your shower or tub to install your bar.

FAQ
  • How much weight can a grab bar hold?

    Most shower bars can support between 250 and 500 pounds. However, in order to achieve this level of weight support, you’ll need to correctly install your bar—including using wall anchors for those that use screws for permanent installation. SecureLock or SecureMount hardware, which is available for some products like the Moen Home Care Curved Bath Safety Grab Bar with Built-in Shelf, can increase the weight limit of some shower grab bars.

  • What is the best size for a shower grab bar?

    Most shower grab bars are between 12 and 36 inches long. Smaller options are great for shower stalls and small bathrooms. Longer grab bars can be used with a full-size tub or shower/tub combo. The best size will depend on both your needs and the available space in your bathroom.

  • How high off the floor should a grab bar be?

    A grab bar should be between 33 and 36 inches high, according to regulations in the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA. This is measured based on the shower floor at the point of entry. If you are placing a grab bar on a tub surround, it will be lower and should be accessible when standing up or sitting down. It may be helpful to mount two grab bars to ensure support when getting in and out of the shower or tub as well as standing and sitting.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she looked for shower grab bars that could be used in a variety of setups, including stand-alone showers, bathtubs, and shower/bath combinations. She also considered ease of installation and use.

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