Where to Place Grab Bars in Showers: Expert Guide

Getting in and out of the shower shouldn’t feel risky. I remember helping my grandma after she slipped in her bathroom—it was scary. But installing grab bars changed everything. If you or someone you love wants to feel safer and more steady in the shower, knowing exactly where to place grab bars in showers makes a big difference. In this article, you’ll learn the best places to put grab bars with clear, easy-to-follow guidance that gives you real answers for making your shower safer.

Near the Shower Entrance

When someone walks into the shower, the first place they need support is right at the entrance. This is where many people lose balance—especially when stepping over the edge of a bathtub or shower lip. A strong grab bar placed near the entrance helps stop slips before they happen.

The bar should be placed vertically, around 34 to 36 inches from the floor. Why vertically? Because it matches the way our hands reach when we open a door or step into a space. This way, you can grab it easily while standing straight or bending slightly. Even when wet or in a hurry, you’ll find the bar in a natural hand position.

If it’s a walk-in shower, the bar can also be horizontal or angled, depending on the space. Angled bars help the hand slide along when moving forward or backward. Make sure the bar is installed into wall studs, not just tiles, so it can support a person’s full body weight.

If the shower door swings out, keep enough space between the door and bar so that it doesn’t get blocked or awkward. For people with wheelchairs or walkers, make sure the grab bar isn’t in the way of the mobility aid when entering.

People often overlook this placement because they focus more on what’s inside the shower. But safety starts the moment you take the first step into it.

• Install the bar 34–36 inches high from the floor
• Vertical placement is best for gripping when entering
• Use wall studs for secure installation
• Leave space from the shower door if it swings outward
• Check door and mobility aid clearance

On the Back Wall of the Shower

The back wall is the widest part of the shower and the one people lean on the most. This is where a long, horizontal grab bar can really help. When washing your body, rinsing your hair, or reaching for soap, people often shift their balance without thinking. That’s when slips happen.

A horizontal bar along the back wall gives you something to grab instantly. This is especially helpful for people who shower while standing and need help staying steady. It’s also good for someone who uses a shower chair, as the bar behind them adds confidence and support.

The best height is again between 33 to 36 inches from the floor. If someone is very short or tall, this can be adjusted slightly to match their reach. Some people also install two bars—one higher and one lower—for multiple grip options.

The back wall is also where many people brace themselves without knowing it. Without a bar, they may lean on slippery tiles, which can cause a fall. But with a bar there, it becomes a solid anchor point.

The length of the bar can range from 24 to 48 inches depending on your wall size. Longer bars give more room to move hands while staying supported. Always anchor into studs for strength.

Think of this bar as your silent helper, always there when you reach backward for balance.

• Horizontal bar placed at 33–36 inches from floor
• Ideal for standing and seated users
• Can install two bars for different heights
• 24–48 inches long depending on shower wall size
• Prevents slipping when shifting balance or reaching

Along the Side Wall

The side wall is often the most used part of the shower without people realizing it. This is where people usually face when standing or where they place their shower caddy or soap holder. So having a grab bar here adds a lot of hidden safety.

A horizontal bar works well here, placed at about waist level—again, 33 to 36 inches from the floor. Some people prefer an angled bar, which makes it easier for the hand to slide along naturally during movement. Angled bars also help people of different heights use the same bar comfortably.

You can also use this wall for a second grab bar placed vertically near where the faucet and controls are. That way, someone can hold on while turning on the water, especially when it’s slippery.

If there’s a built-in bench or seat in the shower, the side wall is the perfect spot to install a bar above or beside it. This helps the person sit down or stand up without feeling unsteady.

The side wall grab bar is perfect for those moments when you’re scrubbing, turning, or bending. It’s like having an invisible friend right there, ready to catch you if you slip.

• Place horizontal or angled bar at 33–36 inches
• Vertical bar near faucet for turning water on/off safely
• Supports scrubbing, standing, and movement
• Useful near a built-in bench or seat
• Install securely in studs or using wall anchors

Near the Shower Controls

The controls area is often slippery and awkward. You bend or lean to turn the water on, sometimes from outside the shower. If the floor is wet or your foot slips, that’s when serious accidents can happen. A grab bar near the controls can make all the difference.

This bar should be placed vertically, right beside or slightly above the water knobs or panel. Vertical placement gives you something to hold while reaching forward. It’s especially important for seniors or people with limited mobility who may not have good balance in those moments.

If your shower has digital or remote controls, this bar still matters. People tend to fidget or shift weight while adjusting temperatures or modes. A bar nearby acts as a steadying point.

Many showers don’t have this bar because it seems like a small spot. But it’s actually one of the riskiest areas—especially when the water first comes on cold or hot and people react quickly. Holding onto something solid helps prevent that sudden slip.

Use a short vertical bar, about 12 to 18 inches long, and mount it so it matches hand height while standing naturally. Make sure it doesn’t block access to the controls or get in the way of motion.

This placement may seem minor, but it brings comfort and safety every time you shower.

• Vertical bar placed near shower knobs or controls
• 12–18 inches long, mounted at natural hand height
• Helps when turning water on or adjusting temperature
• Reduces risk from sudden movement or slips
• Install away from direct spray but easy to grab

Near or Above a Shower Bench

Shower benches are great for comfort, but getting up or down from them is often tricky—especially for seniors or anyone with knee, hip, or balance problems. That’s why a grab bar near or above the bench is key.

The best setup is a horizontal bar mounted on the wall right next to the bench. This helps the person steady themselves when sitting down or pushing up to stand. If the wall is far from the bench, a vertical bar at the edge of the bench works too.

The height should match the person’s reach while seated—usually 30 to 33 inches from the floor. Some people even install a second bar higher up for standing support.

Think of the bar as a helper that says, “I’ve got you,” every time you make a move from the seat. Without it, people often try to push off from wet walls or use soap holders—not safe at all.

It also makes caregivers’ jobs easier. They can assist someone in the shower without worrying about sudden slips or needing to hold them the whole time.

This grab bar should be strong, rust-resistant, and long enough to give options in hand placement. A 24-inch bar is often perfect, but longer is fine if the wall allows.

Don’t skip this area. The bench may be relaxing, but moving on or off it can be the riskiest part.

• Horizontal bar 30–33 inches above bench height
• Helps with sitting down or standing up
• Can add second bar for standing grip
• Use wall studs for secure mounting
• Choose rust-resistant, comfortable-to-grip materials

Inside a Tub-Shower Combo

Tub-shower combos are common, but they come with more slip risk than walk-in showers. Stepping over the tub edge while wet is dangerous for people of all ages. Grab bars in this setup must be extra well-planned.

You need at least two bars: one vertical near the tub entrance, and one horizontal along the back wall inside the tub. The vertical bar near the entry helps you step over the edge safely. This one should be about 36 inches tall and placed right at the entrance.

The horizontal bar along the inside wall should sit 33 to 36 inches above the tub floor. This one helps you while standing, washing, or if you slip. Some people also place a shorter angled bar for easier hand movement when changing positions.

This combo of bars works together. First you grab the vertical one to step in, then the horizontal one to stay steady while inside. If the tub is deep, you may also add a bar to help lower yourself into a seated bath safely.

Because tubs have smooth surfaces, use special mounting anchors or wall studs. Never attach to tile only.

This setup is perfect for families, seniors, or anyone wanting that extra layer of safety. Even young kids can grab onto the lower bar if they need.

• Vertical bar at tub entrance, around 36 inches high
• Horizontal bar along back wall, 33–36 inches high
• Optional angled bar for easier grip transitions
• Use special anchors for tile or wall studs
• Helps during stepping, bathing, or sitting movements

Final Thoughts

Installing grab bars in the shower is one of the smartest ways to prevent slips and falls. Knowing the right spots makes the difference between staying safe and facing real danger. From the entrance to the back wall, every placement adds more support. Think of them not as medical tools, but as confidence boosters. Whether you’re caring for someone or just planning ahead, these bars bring peace of mind, every single day.

Location	Type of Bar	Height	Purpose
Near Entrance	Vertical	34–36 inches	Helps step in safely
Back Wall	Horizontal	33–36 inches	Balance during shower
Side Wall	Horizontal/Angled	33–36 inches	Stability while moving
Shower Controls	Vertical	Natural hand height	Support during adjustments
Above Bench	Horizontal	30–33 inches	Aid for sitting/standing
Tub-Shower Combo	Vertical & Horizontal	33–36 inches	Step in and bathe safely

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to install grab bars by myself?

It can be, but only if you know how to find wall studs and use the right tools. Grab bars must hold a person’s full weight, so attaching them to drywall or tile alone is unsafe. If you’re not sure where studs are or how to drill into tile, it’s better to get help from a professional. Safety always comes first. Even a small mistake could lead to a fall later.

Can grab bars be installed in tile showers?

Yes, they can, but it takes extra care. You’ll need a masonry bit to drill through the tile and strong anchors to hold the bar securely. The best way is to screw directly into wall studs behind the tile. If that’s not possible, use anchors made for tile that support at least 250 pounds. Avoid suction cup bars—they can come loose over time. Always check the grip before using it.

Do I need more than one grab bar in the shower?

Most likely, yes. One grab bar may help in one spot, but multiple bars cover more areas and offer more safety. For example, you might need one to step in, another to hold while standing, and a third near the seat or controls. Think of the different moves you make in the shower. Each one should have support. It’s better to have too many than not enough.

Is it okay to put a grab bar on drywall?

No, not without special anchors. Drywall alone can’t support a person’s weight. If you place a grab bar directly into drywall without finding studs or using heavy-duty anchors, it might pull off the wall when needed most. Always check what’s behind the wall before installing. If you’re not sure, ask a handyman or contractor. Safety is too important to guess.

Can I use towel bars instead of grab bars?

No, towel bars are not made to hold body weight. They may look strong, but they’re only meant to hold towels—not people. If someone grabs one during a fall, it will likely break or come loose. Grab bars are made from stronger materials and installed with anchors or into studs. They’re tested for safety. Always use real grab bars for support, never towel holders.

Do I need a grab bar if I’m still young and healthy?

Even young people slip in the shower. Wet surfaces, soap, and fast movements can cause anyone to lose balance. A grab bar isn’t just for the elderly—it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind. Plus, if someone visits your home who needs one, it’s already there. Think of it like a seatbelt: you may not need it every day, but when you do, it matters.

Is it possible to remove a grab bar later?

Yes, but it will leave holes in the wall or tile. If the bar was screwed into studs, those holes can be patched or filled. For tile, you’ll need to be extra careful not to crack surrounding areas when removing screws or anchors. If you think you might want to take the bar down in the future, consider bars that are easier to uninstall without damage. Still, safety should come first.

Can I use suction cup grab bars instead?

Suction cup grab bars are only good for short-term use and should not be trusted for full body weight. They can lose grip over time, especially in wet or humid conditions. If someone depends on them, they may fall when the bar slips. Always test suction bars before every use, and never use them as a permanent solution. Drilled bars are safer and stronger.