Bathrooms with grab bars are safe for people with normal mobility as well as those with mobility-related conditions. The old and mobility-challenged people often found it challenging to use the toilet. They need some support for standing. People who have suffered from accidental injury also find it challenging. Grab bars are considered bathing aids. The reason behind this consideration is the safety, accessibility, and support they provide to people of all ages. In this setting, installing and placing grab bars at key points enhances their effectiveness. The following are points to guide you on where to install grab bars in the bathroom.
1. Shower/Bathtub Area
Here are the points near the shower/bathtub area:
Wall Placement
A crucial point is alongside the bathtub—another strategic point inside the shower. Bathroom Grab bars at these points can help while entering or exiting the tub. Inside shower grab bars can help in standing.
Install grab bars inside the shower or alongside the bathtub to provide support when entering, exiting, or standing.
Height
Bar height from the floor should be 33 to 36 inches above. This height is typical for gaining access. It helps in accessibility.
Vertical/Horizontal Orientation
A vertical bar supports while standing. A horizontal grab bar provides stability. It helps in entering and exiting.
2. Toilet Area
Side Support
A grab bar should be placed on the wall alongside or next to the toilet. This bar provides support to lift the body from the toilet.
Height
Generally, this bar is 33 to 36 inches from the floor.
Length
Some people prefer a short bar of 1 foot or 12 inches. However, a bar of 2 feet or 24 inches provides more leverage and support.
Rear Support
Rear support is also crucial in the toilet area. This support helps while sitting or standing. A bar at the rear side should also be 33 inches high from the floor. This bar is installed if space permits.
3. Sink Area
Near the Sink
A grab bar is supportive near the sink. It can benefit. This benefit is more pronounced when the sink is low relative to the user's required height. A user has to use a sink in a bending form. However, this is not an essential bar. It can be regarded as optional.
Height and Orientation
Height is 33 inches above the floor.
Use
This is supportive while bending.
4. General Considerations
Wall Studs
Stud should be complex and enduring. Often, grab bars are installed with weak studs. That is why a common problem in bars is stooping bars in bathrooms. For this, use a small diameter drill. First, fit the stud catcher inside the holes. Now, screw studs into these holes tightly.
Material and Grip
The material of grab bars should be non-slippery. The bar should be made from a sturdy material. Stainless steel is a good choice. This is strong, moisture-resistant, and rust-resistant.
Customization
Customization is an appropriate option if the user’s height falls outside the general parameters. Further, every user has a mobility level. Placement of grab bars according to the user's needs and requirements is the best strategy.
5. Installation Tips
Professional Help
A safety officer, or a professional who ensures building or home safety, should also be consulted regarding the placement of grab balls at a specific area and height. This advice will help you ensure better safety.
Testing
After installation of grab bars, proper testing is a must. For testing purposes, the proper weight should be applied to the bars and checked for any movement or slipping. If there is any slipping or a relay, the weight grab bar is not correctly installed. It needs reinstallation.
6. Aesthetics
Design Integration
The design of the grab bars should be compatible with the bathroom's interior. Color should match. Placement should enhance the bathroom's beauty. Any contrasting option can compromise the aesthetics.
Note: The best yardstick to test the grab bar is functionality and compatibility
Conclusion
Where to place grab bars in bathroom? The grab bars should be installed along the bathtub, near the toilet, and the sink. The general height of the grba bar is 33 to 36 inches from the floor. Arthritis Aid is the hub for arthritis-related accessories. Our product helps these people live an everyday life.
