A 24 to 36-inch grab bar is best for most showers. Use an 18 to 24-inch vertical bar at the shower entry for extra support.

These sizes give you something sturdy to hold while standing or stepping in and out.

Now let’s take a closer look at grab bars and how to choose the right size for a bathroom.

What Are Grab Bars?

Grab bars are safety devices that provide support in the bathroom. Unlike towel racks, grab bars can support your full body weight, which means they help prevent falls in slippery areas. You can think of them as sturdy safety rails specifically designed for bathrooms.

What Is A Grab Rail And How Is It Different?

You might hear people use “grab bar” and “grab rail” interchangeably, but there is a difference. Grab rails usually refer to longer supports that can extend around corners or follow curved paths. They serve the same purpose but are often custom-made for specific spaces.

When choosing between the two, ask yourself:

• Do you need support around corners?
• Does someone need continuous support over a longer area?
• Which option fits better with your bathroom design?

Choosing the Right Grab Bar Size

Size matters when it comes to grab bars. Different areas in your bathroom require specific dimensions for optimal safety and support. Here’s what you need to know about grab bar sizes.

Shower Grab Bar Lengths: What To Choose

When it comes to shower grab bar sizes, you’ll typically find options ranging from 12 inches to 42 inches. The most common shower grab bar lengths are 18, 24, and 36 inches.

So which size should you pick? It’s worth considering these factors:

• The size of your shower or tub area
• Where you’ll place the bar
• Who needs to use it

For most standard showers, you can use a 24-inch or 36-inch bar on the main wall. If you have a compact shower stall, it’s better to go with an 18-inch bar. It’s also worth mentioning that you don’t have to limit yourself to just one size—many bathrooms benefit from multiple grab bars of different lengths.

What Size Grab Bar For Shower Entry?

The shower entry is a critical spot where falls often happen. For this area, you should consider:

• A vertical bar of 18 to 24 inches that you can grip when stepping over the threshold
• Installation height should be about 32 to 36 inches from the floor
• If possible, you can add a horizontal bar at waist height for extra stability

It means that someone entering or exiting the shower always has something solid to hold onto during that transition.

Size Considerations for Different Mounting Position

The size of your grab bar is important, but where you put it can be just as crucial. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Horizontal bars work best at waist height, which is typically 33 to 36 inches from the floor
• Vertical bars should extend from around waist to shoulder height so you can grab them at different points
• Diagonal bars can be helpful for moving between sitting and standing positions

It’s essential that you install grab bars into wall studs. That means they’ll be securely anchored and can support at least 250 pounds of force.

What Makes A Bathtub ADA Compliant?

When selecting grab bar sizes for bathtubs, ADA standards provide specific guidelines to follow. If you’re wondering what makes a tub ADA compliant, grab bar dimensions are a critical factor. The regulations specify exact sizes:

• You’ll need two grab bars on the back wall, each at least 24 inches long
• You should install one grab bar on the wall with the faucet, at least 24 inches long
• All bars must be mounted 33 to 36 inches above the floor
• There must be a 1.5-inch space between the grab bar and wall for gripping

When planning your grab bar placement, you should think about how they’ll work with your faucets and other fixtures. Bars shouldn’t get in the way of using your faucets. If you’re setting up a fully accessible bathroom, you can check out our guide for picking ADA compliant faucets that will help you coordinate all elements.

Sizing For Commercial Bathrooms

If you’re working on a commercial bathroom, the requirements get more complicated. Commercial settings have different standards due to varying stall sizes and layouts. You can find specific guidance on properly sizing and positioning grab bars for commercial spaces in our guide on designing accessible commercial bathroom stalls.

Making Your Final Decision

The best grab bar size for your bathroom ultimately depends on your specific needs. Here are some practical tips to help you decide:

• Longer bars (24-36 inches) give more flexibility for gripping at different points
• You might find that multiple shorter bars in strategic locations work better than one long bar
• Always prioritize secure installation—it’s more important than how it looks
• Consider who will be using the bathroom and what their specific needs are
  

By choosing the right shower grab bar sizes and installing them correctly, you can create a safer bathroom that helps maintain independence and prevents falls.

If you need more guidance on selecting the perfect grab bars for your situation, you can always contact us at Interhasa for personalized recommendations.