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Best Bathtub Safety Rails for Seniors

Are you a senior or live with one and want to improve safety and comfort while bathing? Instead of purchasing an entirely new walk-in bathtub, which can be expensive, bathtub safety rails are a convenient tool to install.

best bathtub safety rails

We rate the Vaunn Medical Bathtub Rail as the winner of bathtub safety handles as it’s durable, stylish, and adjustable. It’s also quick to set up and helps to minimize slips and falls.

Best Overall
Vaunn Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail Shower Grab Bar...
Budget Option
Vive Grab Bar for Bathtubs and Showers - Handicap...
Best for Protection Against Microbes
Medline Bathtub Grab Bar w/ Microban – Bathroom Wall...
Vaunn Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail Shower Grab Bar...
Vive Grab Bar for Bathtubs and Showers - Handicap...
Medline Bathtub Grab Bar w/ Microban – Bathroom Wall...
Best Overall
Vaunn Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail Shower Grab Bar...
Vaunn Adjustable Bathtub Safety Rail Shower Grab Bar...
Budget Option
Vive Grab Bar for Bathtubs and Showers - Handicap...
Vive Grab Bar for Bathtubs and Showers - Handicap...
Best for Protection Against Microbes
Medline Bathtub Grab Bar w/ Microban – Bathroom Wall...
Medline Bathtub Grab Bar w/ Microban – Bathroom Wall...

#Affiliate links.Last update on 2024-03-18 at 15:58

Best Bathtub Safety Rails Reviewed

We’ve searched the Internet for the best bathtub safety handles for the elderly based on budget, reliability, grip, and more. Take a look at our top six findings.

1. Vaunn Medical Bathtub Rail — Best Overall

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This bathtub safety handle is for easily moving and installing in different bathrooms. It’s also perfect for ambidextrous customers.

If you travel often, you can take this rail with you, and it weighs less than 6 pounds. Although lightweight, it’s sturdy and has a padded rubber clamp to remain intact while not leaving any marks behind.

The one-piece steel frame is sturdy and durable to prevent the bar handle from shaking when you apply pressure to it. Also, you can easily adjust the height to suit your needs.

Pros

  • Can hold up to 300 pounds.
  • Adjustable height.
  • Thick width for a sturdy grip.
  • Lightweight and portable.

Cons

  • No ribbed texture for extra grip.

2. Vive Metal Grab Bar — Best for a Budget and Versatility

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This metal grab bar is cost-effective, making it ideal for those on a budget.

It’s versatile, allowing you to install it vertically, horizontally, or diagonally depending on what’s suitable for you. The grab bar is ideal for mounting on fiberglass surfaces such as drywall or plaster walls and acrylic walls.

The handlebar is designed with stainless steel, and the metal bar is corrosion-resistant, making it highly durable. It’s also suitable for weights up to 440 pounds and has a diameter of 1.25 inches.

Pros

  • Suitable for a range of surfaces.
  • Easy gripping surface.
  • Corrosion-resistant.
  • Cost-effective.

Cons

  • Fairly complex to install.

3. Medline Bathtub Safety Handle — Best for Protection Against Microbes

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This bathtub safety bar is easy to install and doesn’t require any tools. Simply turn the side knob, and the clamps will adjust to fit your bathtub.

Its top feature is the microban technology that provides a high level of protection against microbes, including stains, odor-causing bacteria, mildew, and mold. This protection prevents the growth of microorganisms, making it easier to clean. 

Medline designed the product with a non-slip grip to improve your safety and comfort in the bath. The handle also adjusts to different levels to help an array of people enter and exit the bathtub.

Pros

  • Rubber pad lining to prevent scratches.
  • Fits most standard bathtubs.
  • Tool-free installation.
  • Rugged steel bars.

Cons

  • Some customers reported that it can become loose.

4. Mefeir Anti-Slip Bathtub Rail — Another Budget Option

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This tub safety rail is made of high-quality materials to ensure it’s safe to use, sturdy, and long-lasting. 

The stainless-steel locking mechanism helps to keep the tub safety rail in place during use. The non-wearing rubber pads ensure it doesn’t scratch a surface once attached and allows you to grab onto the surface without slipping.

You can adjust the height to suit you, and it’s easy to install with all tools included in your purchase.

Pros

  • High-quality materials used.
  • Adjustable height.
  • Non-slip rubber pads.
  • Can be difficult to remove.

Cons

  • Not as wide as the other grab rails.

5. Delta Faucet Multi-Grip Bar — Best for Durable

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This multi-grip safety rail can accommodate up to 250 pounds and has a white finish for a clean and classic look.

It has a lightweight design, which helps to avoid putting too much additional weight on a bathtub and causing any damage. Plus, the foam padding on the support bracket is designed to protect the wall surface.

The safety rail has an adjustable clamp that allows you to change the height to suit you. This feature also makes it an excellent choice for a household with multiple occupants.

Pros

  • Designed by a highly reputable brand.
  • Adjustable heights.
  • Includes all tools for installation.
  • Foam padding on the rails for protection.

Cons

  • Opening is until 6 inches, so isn’t suitable for all bathtubs.

6. SPEED CARE Premium Bathroom Tub Safety Rail — Best for Easy Installation

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This durable, white, powder-coated steel construction is made to last and designed with exceptional quality. It’s also tool-free, making it easy to install for those who aren’t experienced.

You can easily uninstall the device from the bath to accommodate other guests or install it on another tub. It fits a bathtub measuring 3.35-5.71 inches, making it suitable for most seniors.

The product has a step-through clamp design that improves comfort for better hand positioning. Thanks to the soft foam texture on the self-adhering bandage, this safety rail won’t cause any damage to your bathtub.

Pros

  • Bi-level handgrip for maximum safety and flexibility
  • Two hand grip positions
  • Non-slippery surface

Cons

  • Not suitable for weights over 200 pounds

The Benefits of Bathtub Safety Rails

Tub safety rails are beneficial for seniors because they allow you to enter and exit the bathtub safely. They achieve this by providing a non-slippery surface for you to hold onto while in the bath. (See also toilet safety rails.)

Most are easy to install without any tools required, and they can be removed efficiently if you move home or no longer need them. 

Bathtub safety rails also provide exceptional support and comfort for those with disabilities. The bar allows you to stand up easily without any issues. They can also be adjusted to suit your height and placed in a convenient position for the utmost safety.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Bathtub Rail for Elderly People

We have provided varied selections above with an option for everyone. But how can you choose the right one for your needs and budget? Below are some essential factors to consider throughout your buying search that’ll help you narrow down your options.

Weight Capacity

Not all safety rails can hold the same weight, so it’s vital that you choose a maximum weight suitable for you. Selecting a bathtub safety rail that can’t support your weight can lead to harmful results.

Installation

Are you looking for a temporary or permanent fixture? During the early stages of purchasing a safety rail, it’s important to answer this question. If you opt for a permanent fixture, it can be the safest option as it’s installed with screws rather than a suction cup.

If you choose a permanent design, consider that you may need some tools as not all safety rails come with the essentials. Fixed safety rails will also leave marks behind on the bathtub and walls, which isn’t ideal if you rent your property.

Temporary rails are quick and easy to install via a clamp or tape. These are great if you’re not looking for a permanent solution, but they’re typically not as durable — especially for those who weigh more.

Adjustable Height

Not everyone is the same height, so the grab rail must be adjustable. This is also great for those in a household of more than one senior and makes the product safer to use and more versatile.

Anti-slip Design

Your tub safety rails will be exposed to water, which can increase your chances of falling if you don’t have an anti-slip design. Ensure the texture is knurled so you can grip the surface — even with wet hands.

Avoid a chrome finish, which might look attractive, but can make the surface slippery if you have wet hands. This can be combated with a textured finish, though, it’s best to avoid chrome.

Plastic is a great solution as it becomes warmer easier than metal, making it more comfortable to hold. This material is budget-friendly and can come in an array of colors.

The Controversy of Bathtub Safety Rails

Although there are many huge benefits of safety rails for seniors, if they aren’t installed correctly and safely, either by a professional or using all the necessary tools, they can become dangerous to use.

Ensure you test the tub safety rails vigorously before using them permanently. If you assume they’re attached properly without ensuring that they can comfortably hold your weight, you may slip while using them in the bath.

Another controversy is placing them in safe areas. If you position the safety rails anywhere on your bathtub without thinking about how you naturally get out, you could harm yourself when entering and exiting the bath. Ensure you use the correct measurements when installing them to prevent any accidents. 

Conclusion

Are you looking for the best safety rail for seniors? The Vaunn Medical Bathtub Rail is our top pick. It is reasonably-priced and made with padding for a comfortable feel that can support your weight. The rail is lightweight, though sturdy, thanks to the steel frame.

Alternatively, the Vive Metal Grab Bar accommodates those weighing up to 440 pounds and comes with versatility options so you can install it vertically or horizontally.

Cherry is the editor-in-chief of Mobility With Love. She obtained a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and a master's degree in Adapted Physical Activity. Her expertise includes biomechanics, biochemistry, nutrition, disability studies, and so on.

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