Do Suction Shower Handles Work? Quick Installation Tips

Suction shower handles are extremely popular because they’re customizable and easy to use, but do they actually work? These handy devices are perfect for people who need an extra boost out of the tub or the shower. However, it’s understandable that you might be a bit worried about relying on a suction cup to support yourself.

Suction shower handles work if they’re installed on a smooth, dry surface. Make sure the shower is clean and free of dust and debris before attaching the suction handle to the inside of the shower. Check the manufacturer’s weight limits before getting a gripped shower bar.

Throughout this article, I’ll explain whether or not suction shower handles work, how much weight they can support, and how you can install one properly.

Do Suction Grab Bars Work in Showers?

Suction grab bars work in showers by vacuuming to the non-porous surface with multiple suction cups. These cups support the bar, which supports hundreds of pounds. Remember, suction grab bars are designed to help you get out of the shower, but they’re usually not made to support pulling motions.

Here’s how you can make sure your suction shower handle works:

• Never apply the suction cups on an uneven surface. If they don’t make complete contact with a shower wall or the edge of a tub, the shower handle’s suction cups won’t work. They need to be able to be firmly pressed against a flat, smooth surface.
• Make sure all of the suction cups are vacuumed to the wall. Check the levers every so often. They’re quite durable, but the last thing you need is for the levers to pop off the side of the shower. Once the vacuum loses its seal, you can’t use the handle anymore.
• Keep the shower handle completely horizontal or vertical (as recommended by the manufacturer). Some suction shower handles (such as the one mentioned below) can be used in multiple positions. However, some of them are specifically designed to be used in one way or another.
• Inspect the suction bar once per week. Clean around it and don’t shy away from removing it from the wall if you need to clean under the suction cups. These shower handles can be removed and replaced multiple times, so you don’t have to worry about losing its effectiveness.

The Changing Lifestyles Safe-er-Grip Shower Handle has an ergonomic handle with two vacuuming levers. It can be used on a shower wall or on the edge of a tub. There’s also a textured grip that provides additional support.

On that note, never apply a suction shower handle to a shower door. Shower doors can shatter, especially if they have uneven weight distribution. Instead, apply the shower to one of the walls.

How Much Weight Can a Suction Cup Grab Bar Hold?

Most suction cup grab bars can hold up to 300 pounds. However, some of them are listed for 200 to 250 pounds. Always check the manufacturer’s weight capacity before determining whether or not it’ll work in your shower or bathtub. Consider a 20-pound buffer for safety purposes.

According to Grab Bars, the average suction grab bar or shower suction handle holds around 250 to 350 pounds, though there are some exceptions. Keep in mind that your weight is increased by pulling the handle. You’ll put your natural bodyweight combined with the downward force on the handle.

However, it’s essential to remember that the weight limit isn’t the only safety issue. Read on for more details about how and why suction shower handles work.

Are Suction Bath Rails Safe?

Suction bath rails are safe if they’re used within their weight limits and as recommended by the manufacturer. They need to be completely horizontal or vertical. Make sure the suctioned surface is clean and the rail doesn’t come in contact with grout, paint, or glass.

Every part of a shower has weight limits. The trays, handles, and everything in between need to be checked for their capacity. Suction bath rails are surprisingly durable and resilient, but they can’t have their limits exceeded.

Once you’re ready to install a suction shower handle, bath rail, or grab bar, read on.

How to Install a Suction Shower Handle Properly

To install a suction shower handle properly and ensure it works, follow these instructions:

1. Clean the surface thoroughly. Small bits of dust and soap scum can prevent the shower handle from achieving proper suction. It can also slide the handle all over the wall, making it hard to get out of the shower. Use a shower cleaner, then head to the next step.
2. Only place the suction shower handle on a smooth, non-porous area of the shower. Home Care Hospital Beds claims almost all suction shower handles don’t work on porous, painted, or textured surfaces. The suction loosens and can damage the finish, so it’s not worth trying.
3. With the suction cup firmly pressed against the wall, activate the vacuum lever. Almost all suction shower handles have levers or buttons that vacuum them to the wall. This method pulls the suction handle as close to the wall as possible, allowing it to support more weight without sliding.
4. Pull on the shower handle to test your work. If it moves even a little bit, it’s not worth it. Remove the shower handle from the wall, clean it again, and repeat the process. Keep in mind that it’s best to let the surface dry after cleaning it unless otherwise advised by the manufacturer.

Quick Note: Some shower doors are reversible. If you reverse your shower door so it can open inward, make sure it doesn’t bump the suction shower handle. Continuous contact could loosen the suction, which means the handle could fall off the shower wall.

Wrapping It Up

Suction shower handles get a bad reputation for slipping, but they’re quite reliable when they’re installed properly. Furthermore, choosing a high-quality suction shower bar will support a lot of weight. Remember to use the bar as a support system, not as the sole tool to get yourself out of the tub.