Looking for Grab Bars That Don’t Look Like Grab Bars?

by Leslie Farin

Table of Contents

The beauty of accessibility

Did you know there are lots of grab bars that don’t look like grab bars on the market these days? Many people tell me they don’t want grab bars installed in their bathrooms because they look “institutional”. Or they say grab bars are for “old people”. These days, manufacturers make beautiful ones that are both useful and beautiful. And grab bars are absolutely not just for old people! Water and soap can make bathroom, tub, and shower floors slippery, so grab bars simply make good sense for everyone. This safety measure is not only important for older adults, but also for younger people with temporary injuries or who rush around and don’t pay attention.

You may not be familiar with the manufacturers that make grab bars that look nice, but sleek versions are available in a variety of finishes and sizes. They often double as towel bars or toilet paper holders. A decorative grab bar is no longer hard to find. Take a look at the list of our favorites below available at Amazon. 

OUR FAVORITE GRAB BARS THAT DON’T LOOK LIKE GRAB BARS

 Delta Faucet-Contemporary Grab Bar, Champagne Bronze

This contemporary 18 inch decorative grab bar in champagne makes a beautiful addition to your bathroom! With concealed mounting it extends 2 3/4 inches from the wall. (COMES IN 24″ TOO)

This safe and secure bathroom grab bar supports up to 250 lbs (supports up to 500 lbs when installed using SecureMounts- not included). It’s easy to install and not only provides peace of mind in the shower, but the added shelf comes in handy for soap, shampoo or whatever. The versatile design in chrome works with any decorating style.

Bathware Wave Shaped Grab Bar

This unique wave-shaped decorative grab bar provides multi-level support. It’s functional, safe, and on-trend. It’s the perfect solution for a modern bathroom!

Delta Traditional Grab Bar

This decorative grab bar/towel bar, forged with the finest die-cast zinc and rust-resistant stainless steel, provides quality and strength you can see and feel. I love the combination of a grab bar and towel bar – these really are grab bars that don’t look like grab bars!

Delta Contemporary Combination Towel and Assist Bar

Fabulous function meets awesome contemporary decor! This streamlined design installs easily and provides support for more than 250 lbs.

 Delta Dual Purpose Tissue Holder and Assist Bar

Another unique and contemporary product from Delta! This 6-inch-long tissue holder also functions as an assist bar. With a pivoting arm, it extends 4 1/2 inches from the wall. Sleek and beautiful!

Why install grab bars before you need them?

The above grab bars that look nice are just a few examples – there are many others! If you plan to renovate or build a new home, it makes sense to integrate some sturdy grab bars that don’t look like grab bars into the design. You may think you won’t need these support bars for many years – and that may be true – but you never know. Waiting until you need them costs a lot more money as you need to add support behind the walls for safety. Many people put up tension grab bars at that point to save money, something we discourage. They are not nearly as reliable or safe.

I have a friend in his early sixties who renovated his master bathroom recently. One day, when discussing his plans, I suggested he think about adding a beautiful grab bar or two while they were pulling down tile anyway. He let me know he was not at all interested and that it would be a long time before he needed them, if ever. This is delusional thinking; we all age and need to take more safety precautions. I understand no one likes to think about growing old, but it’s important. And if you think about it now, you don’t need to think about it later. The safety measures are already in place!

Grab bars are for everyone

Grab bars aren’t just safety devices for hospitals and public restrooms. Beautifully designed grab bars that don’t look like grab bars blend seamlessly into your design. Strategically placed and solidly anchored grab bars can mean the difference between a relaxing bath and a trip to the emergency room. For all ages.

Learn more about:

1. 18 Beautiful Grab Bars (Not Your Grandma’s Grab Bar)
2. 4 Most Commonly Googled Questions About Grab Bars
3. Every Towel Bar Should Be a Grab Bar!
4. Planning to age in place? Consider Universal Design Concepts

originally published 7/14/2020
updated 3/4/2022