Does Grab Bar Size Matter? How To Choose The Right One

Falls are a leading cause of injury, particularly in bathrooms where wet surfaces create slippery conditions. Grab bars play a crucial role in preventing falls and improving safety and independence for people of all ages, but especially for older adults and individuals with mobility challenges. 

Whether installed near the toilet or in the shower, choosing the right grab bar size and style can make a big difference in functionality and safety. This article will describe how to select the grab bar size that best suits your needs. 

Looking for more tips and resources like this? Check if you have free access to Trualta. 

The Right Diameter & Length

Diameter

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a grab bar is its diameter. ADA guidelines explain that the ideal diameter should be between 1 ¼ – 2 inches, as this can ensure a secure and comfortable grip for most hand sizes. 

A grab bar that is too thick may make it difficult to grasp firmly, while a bar that is too thin can be challenging for individuals with reduced hand strength or joint pain to hold onto securely. Choosing the right diameter is essential for maximizing support and stability.

Length

Available grab bar lengths range from 18 to 42 inches. The longer the grab bar, the greater the versatility, which is particularly useful for individuals who may sit or stand in slightly different positions while bathing. 

For maximum effectiveness, the length of the grab bar should align with the shower or bathroom wall space to ensure a proper and secure fit. Before purchasing a grab bar, measure the wall you plan to place it on, so the grab bar doesn’t exceed that length. 

If installing a grab bar at an angle, a longer bar is generally recommended. This provides greater reach and support across a broader section of the bathroom wall, allowing for flexibility in grip and positioning. 

Regardless of the length, grab bars should meet ADA structural strength requirements, which state that they should be able to withstand a force of 250 lbs. at any point along the bar.

Other Grab Bar Considerations

In addition to size, there are several other important factors to consider when selecting a grab bar:

• Material & surface texture: A grab bar with a matte or slightly textured surface provides a more secure grip when wet, making it a better choice than smooth, polished chrome or stainless steel finishes, which is especially important for shower grab bars.
• Proper spacing & placement: According to ADA guidelines, no objects should be installed too close above or below the grab bar, as they could interfere with an individual’s ability to grip it properly in an emergency.
• Use a designated grab bar, not a towel bar: Select and use an actual grab bar rather than attempting to use a towel bar or other objects as a substitute. Grab bars that are ADA compliant and specifically designed to support weight and sustain force should always be purchased over anything else. Towel bars and similar fixtures aren’t built to handle the pressure and could lead to accidents if used improperly.
• Permanent installation over suction cups: Avoid grab bars with suction cup installation, as these are unreliable for fall prevention. Suction cup grab bars can become loose over time and are easily dislodged, making them unsafe.
• Professional installation: For optimal safety and stability, grab bars should be securely drilled into wall studs rather than mounted on drywall or tile alone. Hiring a professional ensures the grab bar is installed correctly and supports the weight of a person and the force applied during use.
• Seeking professional guidance: An occupational therapist (OT) can conduct a home safety assessment to evaluate an individual’s needs, functional abilities, and mobility limitations. Based on the user’s bathroom layout and personal requirements, OTs can recommend the ideal grab bar length, width, and placement. An OT can also suggest other adaptive equipment and fall prevention strategies to improve safety and independence.

Looking for more tips and resources to help you on your caregiving journey? Check if you have free access to Trualta. 

References 

1. https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-6-bathing-rooms/#grab-bars 
2. How to Decide Grab Bar Placement | Bathroom, Shower, & Toilet
3. HealthCraft Products – Grab Bars in the Shower: Placement and Selection 
4. HealthCraft Products – 7-factors-in-choosing-the-right-bathroom-grab-bars
5. Small or Large? How to Determine Ideal Grab Bar Sizes
6. Shower Grab Bar Placement Guide
7. An Overview to Grab Bar for Bathroom Safety-part 2 | advancedmedical
8. 7 Ways OTs can Assess and Improve Older Adult Bathroom Safety