Bathroom Grab Rails

A grab rail for the bathroom provides support for people who might be unsteady on their feet.

They are metal or plastic rails which fit to the wall, providing something secure to hold on to for those who might be prone to losing their footing.

For individuals in this situation, strategically placed bathroom grab rails are important safety features.

People with conditions which impact their balance or strength may need extra support in the bathroom.

Fitting a rail near the toilet, bathroom sink, shower or bath, provides security and reassurance.

Some rails have surfaces which are smooth to the touch, while other metal versions have a milled-pattern surface, increasing friction.

Other rails, particularly plastic versions, may have textured finishes, which are both warmer to the touch and in some cases less likely to become slippery.

Chrome or stainless steel finished rails are available, along with the more common white models.

It’s worth considering these options in order to make the rails blend in with your bathroom’s decor.

Rails with strong colours, usually red or dark blue, are sometimes recommended for people with visual impairments.

These high-contrast bathroom grab rails are designed for maximum visibility.

Rails are straight-forward to install but it’s important the work is done by a qualified tradesman.

They will understand the construction of the wall on which the rail is to be fitted, and apply the correct fixings.

Fitting grab rails in the shower cubicle is a popular option for those who may find it difficult to stand up for the duration of a shower.

Others may want to use a support rail in combination with either a free-standing or fold up shower seat.

Fit the rails where you need them most.

It’s a good idea to adopt the positions and postures you find yourself most needing support, and mark the walls with chalk to indicate where to fit the rails.

Bathroom grabrails are available in numerous lengths, from around 12cm at their shortest, to nearly a metre.

Fold-up bathroom grab rails are often fitted next to the toilet pedestal.

Usually U-shaped, these rails have a spring loaded mechanism which allows them to lock in a vertical position against the wall when not in use.

This prevents any hindrance of other people who might use the same toilet.

There are bathroom grab rails which clamp to the wall of the bath, providing a support handle midway along its length.

This type of rail is designed to offer support when getting in or out of the bath.