When adapting your bathroom for accessibility and safety, one of the most important considerations is grab rail placement. Knowing where to put grab rails in a shower and selecting the right types can dramatically improve safety, mobility, and bathing confidence.

At EA Mobility, we specialise in creating accessible bathrooms tailored to your unique needs, helping you feel safe and independent at home.

Why Grab Rail Placement Matters in Accessible Showers

Correct grab rail positioning offers vital support while entering, exiting, or standing in a shower. This support reduces the risk of slips and falls and promotes independent living—especially for elderly individuals or those with limited mobility.

When planning an accessible wet room or walk-in shower, we recommend factoring in daily routines, reach height, and whether a shower seat is being used. Each of these can influence the type and position of your grab rails.

Types of Grab Rails for Showers and Their Functions

1. Horizontal Grab Rails

• Best for: Stability when moving from sitting to standing.
• Positioning Tip: Install on the wall beside a shower seat or at waist height along a clear stretch of shower wall.
• Ideal Placement: ~20 cm above the shower seat or ~90–100 cm from the floor if standing.

2. Vertical Grab Rails

• Best for: Support when pulling yourself up or stepping in/out of the shower.
• Positioning Tip: Fix near the shower entrance or along interior walls to assist with balance.
• Ideal Placement: From ~80 cm up to ~140 cm from the floor.

3. Angled Grab Rails

• Best for: Users with reduced arm or wrist strength.
• Positioning Tip: Mount at a 45° angle rising away from the user to support the wrist in a neutral position.

4. Fold-Down Grab Rails

• Best for: Space-saving showers where flexibility is needed.
• Positioning Tip: Often placed beside shower seats and can be folded away when not in use.

5. Textured or Anti-Slip Grab Rails

• Best for: Wet environments where grip is a concern.
• Tip: Ensure all rails installed in showers have anti-slip features for added safety.

Where to Put Grab Rails in a Shower for Maximum Support

At the Shower Entrance

• A vertical rail here provides steady support when stepping into or out of the enclosure.
• Position where you naturally reach for stability—typically shoulder to chest height.

Beside a Shower Seat

•  on either side of the seat help with balance and getting up safely.
• Install ~20 cm above the seat to allow natural arm movement.

Opposite the Seat or Wall Space

• Add a horizontal or vertical rail ~1 metre from the floor for support when shifting positions.
• Ensure it’s within 55 cm of the front edge of the seat.

Corner or Side Wall Rails

• Consider placing an angled rail for multi-purpose support—ideal for shower users with varied needs.

How to Choose the Right Grab Rail for You

When selecting grab rails, think about:

• Your mobility level: Do you need push or pull assistance?
• Shower size/layout: Compact bathrooms may benefit from fold-down or vertical rails.
• Grip strength: Anti-slip textures or angled designs may offer better control.
• Whether you use a seat: This determines height and spacing requirements.

At EA Mobility, our team provides full accessible bathroom design solutions including expert advice on rail types and placement, ensuring every element fits your home and personal needs.

Featured Snippet Tip: Where Should Grab Rails Go in a Shower?

Grab rails in a shower should be placed at the entrance for support when stepping in, beside the shower seat for safe transitions, and at accessible wall heights for stability while standing or moving.

Looking for Expertly Designed Accessible Showers?

EA Mobility offers custom solutions tailored to your mobility needs. Whether you need a full accessible wet room, a safe walk-in shower, or a walk-in bath, our specialists are here to help.

Ready to Create a Safer Shower? Contact EA Mobility Today

Visit our accessible shower and wet rooms pages to learn more, or get in touch for a free consultation.