Grab Bars

Grab bars are used in bathrooms to help prevent accidents such as falling, slipping and sliding. It's a good idea to install grab bars on the side of a bath tub or shower wall to help you get in and out of the tub and shower safely. You should also install them on the walls where extra support may be needed - such as around the toilet and sink areas.

You can mount most grab bars vertically, horizontally or diagonally in the tub or by the toilet. You can buy permanently installed grab bars along with removable models that are clamped onto the wall. You should always use proper grab bars to hold onto and support your weight. You should never use such things as toilet paper holders, towel racks or wall mounted sinks to support your weight. These are not built to handle a person's weight and you can easily injure yourself if one of these objects breaks away from the wall.

When installing grab bars, make sure they have no more than a 1.5 inch wall clearance. You also need to make sure they are the proper length and diameter for your needs. For instance, never install grab bars that are too big for your hands. Most grab bars have stainless steel cores and are about 1 ¼ inch in diameter, making them easy to hold. You also need to position the bars in areas where they will offer you the most support.

Your safety is the main concern of grab bars, but not all grab bars are as safe as they should be because they aren't installed properly. Some grab bars are positioned too far away from the wall; which may end up making you reach to far, causing you to fall. You also have to prepare your wall properly and follow all installation instructions. Grab bars are designed to support a specific amount of weight. Before buying make sure your grab bars are built to handle your body weight. Grab bars are available in a wide variety of lengths, colors and styles to suit your bathroom decor.