Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This doesn't affect our recommendations or editorial integrity. Learn more

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Grab Bars

The bathroom is where most falls happen—and a $30 grab bar can prevent a $30,000 hip fracture. We compared grab bars from basic steel to designer finishes—finding what anchors solid and actually gets used.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
Share:
Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
SecureMount Grab Bar 16"

Moen Home Care

SecureMount Grab Bar 16"

4.8 (12,345 reviews)

The grab bar that doesn't look institutional. Designer finishes match modern bathrooms, and the SecureMount system installs solidly in drywall or studs.

Length

16"

Capacity

500 lbs

Diameter

1.25"

Finishes

Chrome, brushed nickel, bronze

Pros

  • 500 lb capacity
  • SecureMount anchors included
  • Designer finish options

Cons

  • Requires stud or anchor
  • Premium price
  • Single size per purchase

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
SecureMount Grab Bar 16"
SecureMount Grab Bar 16" Best
Moen Home Care
4.8
$45 View
Suction Cup Grab Bar
Suction Cup Grab Bar Value
Vive
4.4
$20 View
Wall Grab Bar 24"
Wall Grab Bar 24"
Carex
4.5
$18 View
Plus Assurance Grab Bar 36"
Plus Assurance Grab Bar 36"
HealthCraft
4.7
$120 View
Pivot Grip Grab Bar
Pivot Grip Grab Bar
Peerless
4.5
$40 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
SecureMount Grab Bar 16"

Moen Home Care

SecureMount Grab Bar 16"

4.8 (12,345 reviews)

The grab bar that doesn't look institutional. Designer finishes match modern bathrooms, and the SecureMount system installs solidly in drywall or studs.

Length

16"

Capacity

500 lbs

Diameter

1.25"

Finishes

Chrome, brushed nickel, bronze

Pros

  • 500 lb capacity
  • SecureMount anchors included
  • Designer finish options

Cons

  • Requires stud or anchor
  • Premium price
  • Single size per purchase
Best Value
Suction Cup Grab Bar

Vive

Suction Cup Grab Bar

4.4 (23,456 reviews)

When you can't drill—rentals, hotels, or smooth tile surfaces. The color indicator shows at a glance if suction is secure.

Length

16"

Capacity

250 lbs

Mount

Suction cups

Indicator

Red/green safety

Pros

  • No drilling required
  • Relocatable
  • Good for travel

Cons

  • Only works on smooth surfaces
  • Must re-suction periodically
  • Lower capacity
Budget Pick
Wall Grab Bar 24"

Carex

Wall Grab Bar 24"

4.5 (8,765 reviews)

Basic but functional—the hospital-style bar at hardware store pricing. Not pretty, but absolutely reliable.

Length

24"

Capacity

300 lbs

Material

Stainless steel

Grip

Knurled texture

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Standard length
  • Textured grip

Cons

  • Basic appearance
  • Requires stud mounting
  • Limited finishes
Premium Pick
Plus Assurance Grab Bar 36"

HealthCraft

Plus Assurance Grab Bar 36"

4.7 (3,456 reviews)

A grab bar your guests won't notice is a grab bar. Elegant design that functions as bathroom decor until needed.

Length

36"

Capacity

500 lbs

Design

Decorative

Finishes

Multiple

Pros

  • Looks like towel bar
  • Elegant design
  • Color-matched to bathroom

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Still needs proper mounting
  • Limited lengths
Pivot Grip Grab Bar

Peerless

Pivot Grip Grab Bar

4.5 (5,678 reviews)

Folds up and out of the way when not needed—better aesthetics and doesn't block towel hanging. Just remember to lock it before using.

Length

18"

Capacity

300 lbs

Feature

Pivoting

Positions

Multiple angles

Pros

  • Pivots to multiple positions
  • Stores flat against wall
  • Solid when locked

Cons

  • Pivot mechanism could fail
  • Must remember to lock
  • Higher cost

Buying Guide: How to Choose Grab Bars

Grab Bars: $30 Prevention for $30,000 Hip Fractures

After Dad slipped getting out of the shower, installing grab bars in his bathroom became the most important thing I did all year.

Where to Install
Critical locations:
  • Inside shower/tub (vertical and angled)
    - Outside shower/tub (for entry/exit)
    - Next to toilet (for sitting/standing)
    - Near bathroom door (for light switch reach)

    Secondary locations:
    - Hallways
    - Bedroom (near bed)
    - Top and bottom of stairs

    ### Proper Mounting is Everything
    A grab bar is only as strong as its mounting:
    - Best: Into wall studs (can support 250+ lbs)
    - Good: Quality wall anchors rated for pull-out force
    - Risky: Standard drywall anchors
    - Never: Suction on textured surfaces

    ### Suction vs. Permanent
    Suction cup bars:
    - No drilling
    - Portable/removable
    - Only work on smooth, non-porous surfaces
    - Must check suction regularly
    - Lower weight capacity

    Permanent (mounted):
    - Much higher weight capacity
    - No maintenance once installed
    - Requires drilling (and repairs if removed)
    - Better for daily use

    ### ADA Guidelines (Good Practice)
    - 1.25" to 1.5" diameter for grip
    - 1.5" clearance from wall
    - 250 lb minimum capacity
    - Non-slip surface
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Grab Bars

    Can suction cup grab bars be trusted?

    For occasional balance assist, yes—but only on perfectly smooth, clean surfaces (glass, polished tile, fiberglass). Check suction before every use. Never rely solely on suction bars for full weight support. Permanently mounted bars are always safer.

    What if I can't find a stud?

    Use toggle bolts or wall anchors rated for at least 200 lbs of pull-out force per anchor. "WingIts" brand anchors are specifically designed for grab bar installation in drywall. Multiple anchors per bar.

    Should I install grab bars before someone falls?

    Absolutely. The best time to install grab bars is before they're needed urgently. Consider it prevention. Installing after a fall often happens under stress with poor planning. Install proactively.

    Was this guide helpful?

    Why Trust Our Recommendations?

    We analyze thousands of real customer reviews, compare product specifications, and curate recommendations so you can make an informed decision without the research hassle.

    Curated Recommendations
    Real Customer Reviews
    Specs Compared
    No Paid Placements