How to get in and out of the bathtub more safely: transfer benches, grab bars and mats

Sit, then swivel: use a tub transfer bench

A tub transfer bench has two legs inside the tub and two outside. You back up to the bench, sit down on the outside part, then slide across and lift your legs over the tub wall one at a time while seated. A backrest helps if your sitting balance is limited. Check the bench fits your tub width, that all four legs sit level with their rubber tips down, and that the weight capacity suits you.

• Tub transfer bench
• Drive Medical Plastic Tub Transfer Bench with Adjustable Backrest – approx. US$52–120 depending on retailer

If you can step in but can't stand for long

If getting over the wall is manageable but standing to shower is tiring or unsteady, a shower chair or stool inside the tub may be enough. Chairs with backs and arms give more support when sitting down and standing up.

• Shower chair with back
• Medline shower chair with back – approx. US$35–50
• Carex E-Z Bath and Shower Seat with Handles – approx. US$62–66

Add grab bars where your hands naturally go

Common spots are a vertical bar at the tub entry to hold while sitting down on the bench, and a horizontal or angled bar on the long wall. Weight-bearing grab bars must be screwed into wall studs or approved blocking, never drywall or tile alone. Suction-cup bars are a balance aid only and must never take your weight.

• Wall-mounted stainless grab bar
• Moen Home Care grab bar – Approx. C$36–130 depending on length and finish
• Suction grab bar

Make the floor less slippery

Use a non-slip mat inside the tub, and an absorbent, non-slip bath mat outside it so you don't step out onto wet tile. Replace mats when the suction cups or backing wear out.

• Non-slip bath mat

Wash while seated

A handheld shower on a long hose lets you wash and rinse without standing or twisting, and a long-handled sponge reaches your feet and back without bending.

• Handheld shower head with long hose
• Waterpik handheld shower head QMP-863ME – approx. US$65 (MSRP)
• Long-handled bath sponge

When to ask for an assessment

If you need help from another person to transfer, feel faint in the bath, or are recovering from surgery with movement precautions, ask your doctor for an occupational therapy home assessment before buying equipment. An occupational therapist can recommend the right bench, the bar positions and a safe transfer method for you.

Safety notes

• Suction grab bars are a balance aid only. They can release without warning and must never hold your body weight or be used to stop a fall.
• Anchor wall grab bars into studs or approved blocking, never drywall alone, and follow the manufacturer's instructions or use a qualified installer.
• Check the weight capacity and fit of any seat, rail or pole, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.