Anti-slip bath products: What product will keep me from slipping in the shower?

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What product will keep me from slipping in the shower?

Question

Last week, as I was getting into the shower, I almost slipped and fell because the bathtub was so slippery. My reflexes and balance are not as good as they used to be, so I am scared that I will fall and hurt myself if this happens again. Do you know of a product that I can put in the bathtub that will prevent me from slipping while taking a shower?

Our answer

Bathroom slip and falls can cause serious injury, so it is important to take steps to make your bathroom as safe as possible. There are a number of products on the market that can help to prevent falls in the bathroom. Below are direct links to some examples of such products:

  • Extra Long Vinyl Bath Mat, by SlipX SolutionsSlipX Solutions Extra Long Vinyl Bath Mat (at Amazon Canada) is made of high-quality, anti-slip vinyl and provides 30 percent more coverage than the average bath mat. This product, which has nearly 200 suction cups that hold it firmly in place, costs about $20 to $25 (CDN).
  • Simply Essential 36 inches by 18 inches Microban Shower Mat (at Bed, Bath & Beyond Canada) offers slip-resistant protection and is machine washable. This product costs about $30 (CDN), plus a shipping fee. 
  • Oval Non-Slip Solid Shower Mat by Rebrilliant (at Wayfair Canada) is an oval shaped anti-slip mat that provides convenient floor coverage in a standard shower stall. This product, which features over 100 suction cups for reliable slip protection, costs about $60 (CDN), plus a shipping fee.

It is recommended that you place a non-slip mat inside your shower as well as outside (where you step to exit the shower). For outside the shower, select a bath mat with non-slip backing rather than suction cups. Below are direct links to a couple of examples:

  • For Living Bath Mat (at Canadian Tire) features a soft top layer with a non-slip backing for secure footing. This product costs about $25 to $30 (CDN), plus a shipping fee. 
  • Hometrends Memory Foam Blue Melange Rug (at Walmart Canada) has a soft texture and a skid-resistant backing for added safety. This product costs about $20 to $25 (CDN), plus a shipping fee. 

For added support when bathing, you may also want to know about grab bars, which are designed to provide additional support when getting into and out of the shower or tub. If you choose to purchase a grab bar, it is recommended that you have it professionally installed. Here are direct links to some examples of products you may want to explore:

  • 1-1/2 inch Securemount Grab Bar by Moen (at Home Depot Canada) is an ADA compliant grab bar with a textured surface, making it easier to grip onto. This product costs about $50 (CDN), plus a shipping fee. 
  • Chrome Knurled Grab-Bar by Drive Medical (at HME Mobility & Accessibility) is a steel bar designed to provide added security in and around the bathroom. This product, which is available in a number of sizes, ranges in price from about $30 to $50 (CDN), plus a shipping fee. HME Mobility & Accessibility also offers professional installation for an added charge. For more information, call HME Mobility & Accessibility toll-free at 1-778-734-1981.

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