4 Tips for Choosing the Right Grab Bars for Your Needs

Whether you or your loved one needs some extra support around the home due to an injury, disability or just old age, grab bars can be incredibly helpful.

But, there are many types of grab bars out there these days. That is why you need to find something that would suit your needs.

If you are new to these kinds of safety equipment or you are having some trouble finding the right one, here are some tips to help you choose the right grab bars for your needs.

1. Understand Your Specific Needs

Before you start looking at grab bars, you need to understand the specific needs of the person who will be using them.

Are you looking for something to provide stability while getting in and out of the shower, do you need support for moving around the bathroom, or do you need something around the house?

Grab bars are designed for various purposes. For instance, some are ideal for supporting weight, while others are better for providing balance. Knowing exactly what you need will help narrow down your options and make sure you get the right product.

2. Consider the Location

The next thing you should think about is where you are going to install the grab bars.

Many people get grab bars for their bathrooms, to put near the toilets, in showers, and along staircases. You should think about the areas in your home where you need extra support.

When you are planning for grab bar installation, make sure the walls can support them. Your grab bars should be installed into wall studs for maximum stability. If your walls cannot support them, you should think about using special mounting hardware designed for this purpose.

3. Choose the Right Material

Another thing you need to consider is the material. Grab bars come in various materials, each with its advantages. The most common materials are stainless steel, plastic, and aluminum.

– Stainless Steel: This material is durable and resistant to rust, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms.

– Plastic: Plastic grab bars are often more affordable and come in various colors, but they may not be as durable as metal options.

– Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, aluminum grab bars are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

When you are making the purchase, don’t forget to ask whether or not it can hold a weight higher than yours easily.

You should also consider the environment where the grab bars will be installed. For example, in a bathroom where there is a lot of moisture, stainless steel or aluminum might be better choices than plastic.

4. Select the Appropriate Size and Length

Finally, you need to make sure the grab bar has the right size and length for your use.Grab bars come in different sizes and lengths, and choosing the right one depends on where and how you will be using them.

– Short Bars (12-18 inches): Ideal for small spaces or for providing balance.

– Medium Bars (24-36 inches): Suitable for general support, such as beside toilets or in showers.

– Long Bars (42-48 inches): Best for larger areas where the user may need to move along the bar for continuous support.

Make sure to measure the space where you plan to install the grab bar to ensure it fits properly and provides the necessary support.