Grab bars come in 12 to 52 inch lengths. Longer isn't always better; the right length is the one that puts a handhold everywhere a hand goes and lands on solid mounting.
By location
| Location | Typical length | Orientation |
|---|---|---|
| Shower or tub entry | 16 to 24 in. | Vertical |
| Shower back wall | 24 to 36 in. | Horizontal |
| Shower control wall | 16 to 24 in. | Horizontal or angled |
| Tub back wall | 24 to 36 in. | Horizontal |
| Toilet side wall | 36 to 42 in. | Horizontal |
| Toilet rear wall | 24 to 36 in. | Horizontal |
| Beside a shower seat | 18 to 24 in. | Horizontal |
| Hallway or ramp rail | 36 to 52 in. | Horizontal |
Match length to stud spacing
On 16 inch stud spacing, a 16, 32, or 48 inch bar has a flange on two studs. A 24 or 36 inch bar lands on one stud, so one end needs a rated hollow-wall anchor. If you'd rather hit two studs, choose the next length up.
Think about who's using it
A wheelchair user transferring to a toilet needs the longer 42 inch side bar so the bar extends past the front of the seat. Someone who just needs a steadying hand while stepping into a tub is well served by a 16 or 18 inch vertical bar.
Browse standard ADA grab bars for commercial-style lengths and decorative grab bars for finished bars in the same sizes.
Questions about your bathroom? Call LiveWell at (440) 499-7221 or email info@livewellhs.com. We ship grab bars from Ohio to homes, contractors, and senior living communities nationwide.