10 Best Toilet Safety Rails You Can Buy Today: Beginner’s Guide!!!

If you’re living with a senior or someone with difficulties with movement, you need to invest in a toilet safety rail as it can help them have a comfortable sitting position before or after using the toilet.

People with arthritis, recovering from surgery or injury, and those learning to walk again need these handrails to reduce their likelihood of fall. Of course, if you’re planning on enhancing your safety in the bathroom, you need a model that’s stable, durable, and able to bear your weight.

Here we considered the best toilet safety rails that are easy to install, yet offer excellent comfort and support. These were chosen from the best-rated models after extensive research and physical testing. Hopefully, with this guide, you’ll be able to choose the right frames to help make your life a bit easier.

10 Best Toilet Safety Rails Tested and Reviewed

Drive Medical Stand Alone Toilet Safety Rail (Editor’s Choice)

Are you looking for something to prevent falls and ease your comfort when using the toilet? This Stand Alone support frame from Drive Medical will help. It’s constructed from aluminum, making it sturdy and lightweight. Besides, it’s easy to carry around and correctly supports people weighing up to 300 pounds.

The rail was easy to put together, we tightened the screws with hand and it was suitable for standard and elongated seats. Since it wasn’t attached to the floor, wall, or toilet, we could quickly move it from one bathroom to another.

What’s more, this model is equipped with padded handles that’re easy to grip and comfortable to rest your arms. It comes with rubber feet that prevent it from slipping and helps maintain its stability when placed on a tiled floor.

There’s a rack by the side that lets you keep your reading materials. The handles are not adjustable but the height and width measure at 25.5 and 21 inches respectively.

This is one of the highly rated safety rails on Amazon that proves other users also found it useful. We noticed that it was stable when we used both hands but would tilt a bit when using one hand.

Specifications

Pros

• Padded armrest for extra comfort
• Easy and tool-free assembly
• Magazine rack for convenience
• Suitable for standard and elongated bowls
• Rubberized feet
• Pretty stable

Cons

• Height not adjustable
• Unstable if you apply pressure with one hand

Final Verdict

This safety rail comes at a reasonable price, it’s quite sturdy, easy to install, and comfortable to use. It beautifully surrounds the toilet and doesn’t shift around, it’s great value for the money, and we can always guarantee it for anyone with balance issues.

Medline Toilet Safety Rails

This is a great toilet frame from Medline that can provide extra support for rising or sitting. Unlike our top pick, this one is fully adjustable, and you can rotate the handle width to enjoy a comfortable and secure position. Besides, the height adjusts from 26 to 31 inches to accommodate all standard toilets.

The heavy-duty frame is made from anodized aluminum, making it durable, easy to clean, sturdy, yet lightweight. It supports a maximum weight of 300 pounds and you can mount this on the toilet’s bowl without tools.

There are snap-button locks on the rear of the arms and front legs to prevent it from wobbling. The studs at the feet help to enhance its stability though you’ll experience a little wobbling if it’s wrongly installed. However, the design of the frame allows you to raise its legs to clean the toilet area quickly.

Sold at a reasonable price, its plenty positive reviews and high rating indicated how this Medline model made life a lot easier for many of its users.

Specification

Pros

• Adjustable height and width
• Studded feet
• Legs lift easily for cleaning the floor
• Fits all standard toilets
• Textured grip
• Aluminum frame

Cons

• Wobbles when wrongly installed

Final Verdict

Super sturdy, easy to clean, and simple to install. Sold at a reasonable price, this is the perfect choice for the elderly and adults with mobility issues.

Vive Stand Alone Toilet Rail

Supporting up to 300 pounds, this sturdy handrail, will conveniently guarantee your safety in the toilet area. It’s perfect for seniors, the disabled, and those recovering from injury or surgery.

The handles are equipped with soft foam to create a comfortable and non-slip surface. Besides, you can easily remove the handles for convenient storage. Like our previous choices, the frame is made of aluminum, which is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant. That’s not all; you can easily clean it with a standard disinfectant solution.

This freestanding unit was super easy to setup. We also noticed that its solid construction and leg spread made it exceptionally stable.

It is returnable and backed with the Vive lifetime warranty so you can purchase with confidence. However, you can’t extend the arm or leg height.

Specification

Pros

• Lightweight and durable
• Removable handles
• Corrosion-resistant frame
• Easy to assemble
• Comfortably fitting in smaller bathrooms
• Non-slip handles

Cons

• Not Adjustable

Final Verdict

This item is perfect, durable, and well-made. It provides the right support for people needing help getting off the toilet. It’s wide such that you won’t feel restricted when extending your legs. Many users were delighted with the price, quality, durability, and performance.

Medline’s Guardian Toilet Safety Rail

Medline’s toilet frames provide users with extra stability and offer perfect assistance when using the toilet. It’s entirely secure and attaches to the bolts that hold the toilet seat, so it doesn’t matter if your bowl is oval or round.

It’s adjustable, meaning you can set the correct width to allow you to get a firm grip and to stand without a struggle. The frame is adjustable in width and height, so it’ll fit all toilet types.

It is made from aluminum, can handle up to 300 pounds, and primarily supported by the two legs that rest on the floor. It features a closed-cell foam armrest that provides a sure and comfortable grip.

Specification

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Adjustable bracket
• Rubberized foot
• Accommodates standard or elevated seats
• Closed foam cell armrest

Cons

• Non-returnable

Final Verdict

It comes in the affordable range and is wholly adjustable for width and height. It’s non-returnable but still a good value for the money.

RMS Toilet Safety Frame

If you’re looking for the ideal living aid for anyone who’s facing issues with mobility, the RMS Toilet Safety Frame is an excellent choice. It features a soft non-slip handle that lets you get a secure and pain-free grip. Besides, it comes with a footrest that locks into the frame and a bar at the back to make it more supportive and stable.

This RMS model is foldable for secure storage or travel. Also, you can easily adjust the height though you can’t extend the width. It’s made of steel, making it super sturdy and durable, but it’s a little heavy. However, it comes with a lifetime warranty against factory defects and you’re guaranteed 100% satisfaction.

Though it costs more than others we’ve listed, its high rating showed that it was the right choice for a lot of people. A few reviewers complained that it didn’t accommodate a padded seat, and the width was a bit narrow.

Specification

Pros

• Lifetime warranty
• Tool-free installation
• Foldeasy
• Extremely sturdy and durable
• Padded armrest
• Heavyweight capacity

Cons

• Relatively expensive
• Non-adjustable width

Final Verdict

This RMS model is designed to help you sit and stand safely in the bathroom. It’s made of steel, making it heavyweight and sturdy. Though it’s a little expensive, the quality and performance justify the cost.

Vive Toilet Safety Rail

Compact and lightweight, the Vive Toilet Safety Rail will support you to stand or sit securely. It features a light aluminum frame that supports up to 300 pounds. What separates it from our previous choices is how it directly attaches to the toilet bowl, eliminating the need for legs. Also, this model is perfect for small bathrooms and won’t interfere with regular cleanings or wheelchair navigation.

It’s easy to self-install on any toilet and the rubberized handles ensure a comfortable and slip-free grip. The bar at the back connects to the seat holes while the front handles rest on the bowl with the lid covering it.

The frame is adjustable in width and height, so it’ll fit all toilet types. We found that it worked better if only you’re exerting a downward pressure because of the position of the front handles.

Specification

Pros

• Adjustable handles
• Lightweight and compact
• Fits all standard toilets
• Soft non-slip handles
• Vive guarantee
• Easy installation

Cons

• Handle wobble to the front of the toilet

Final Verdict

Overall, this is an excellent choice for people with difficulty with balance. It’s well designed and pretty easy to install. The arms on each side are well padded, comfortable, and sturdy, so it’s worth buying.

Vaunn Deluxe Bathroom Safety Toilet Rail

The Vaun Deluxe Safety Toilet Rail is engineered to prevent accidental falls common in the bathroom with arthritis patients, seniors, and those recovering from injury or surgery. This freestanding unit gives a trouble-free installation and will work on all toilet shapes.

It is highly versatile with the adjustable height feature that makes it useful in the toilet area, kitchen, bedroom, and living room. The frame is made of durable steel and able to support users weighing up to 300 pounds.

You’ll appreciate both the padded handles and the anti-skid feet that make it more comfortable and stable. You can collapse this item for easy transportation or storage with the removal of four bolts.

The width measures at 21.5 inches and height adjusts between 27.5 to 33 inches. However, we found that for specific bowls, when raising the frame much higher, the toilet lid and seat may not remain up.

Specification

Pros

• ADA compliant
• Adjustable height
• Fold for easy transportation
• Tool-free installation
• Ideal for all toilet types
• Heavy-duty construction

Cons

• Unable to adjust the width

Final Verdict

This Vaun item is sturdy and constructed to give you great confidence when using the toilet. It comes at the mid-range price, but given the quality, it’s worth the money.

Carex Toilet Safety Rails

This is another freestanding toilet safety rail that you can easily move away. This Carex handrail is an ideal companion for the elderly and handicapped. Its frame fit around any standard toilet for easy installation and use.

The Carex Toilet Safety Rails adjusts from heights 27 to 33 inches providing support for people of all heights. As a standalone unit, you can use it anywhere, including toilet, sink, and kitchen.

It’s equipped with capped feet to prevent any scarring marks on the floor while providing a secure footing.

This toilet safety frame is quite sturdy, weighing 9.65 pounds and supports a maximum of 300 pounds. You can easily fold it within a few minutes to a 14 x 23-inch size with the removal of the four clips.

Many users enjoyed its ease of assembly as well as the comfort from the padded handles. Contrary to a few users who reported they had issues with the seat cover staying up, we didn’t have such experience. However, we noticed the user needed to evenly distribute his/her weight to maintain balance.

Specification

Pros

• Adjustable and sturdy
• Foldable
• Extremely easy to install
• Good weight-bearing capacity
• Fit around any standard toilet
• Ideal for long term use

Cons

• Need equal pressure

Final Verdict

If you need stable support in your bathroom to prevent a terrible fall, then consider installing the Carex toilet safety rail. This unit is long-lasting and excellent at bearing your weight, so it’s worth the extra bucks.

Vive Medical Railing Helper for Elderly

This is another model from Vive brand that’s designed to support you. It comes with padded handles that’ll bear your weight even if you’re around 300 pounds. The height is pretty adjustable, making it an excellent choice when looking for a customizable option. This aluminum frame is anodized, making it corrosion resistant and easy to wipe.

To install the unit, you must remove the seat, then adjust the width before fixing the lid and the screws. However, it doesn’t fold, but you can quickly raise the feet to clean the floor. Besides, since it lacks a bracket at the front, you’ll experience a little wobbling, but you can minimize this by using a Velcro strap to tension the legs.

Specification

Pros

• Non-slip handles
• Corrosion-resistant
• No tools or drilling is needed
• Lifetime warranty
• Adjustable height
• Easy to clean frame

Cons

• Might wobble when exerting force with one hand

Final Verdict

This toilet frame is durable, easy to install, and simple to adjust. You can improve its stability with a bracket across the legs. Besides, you can easily customize the height and width while the anti-slip tip provides extra safety and convenience. Looking at the quality and performance, this model is an excellent value for the money.

OasisSpace Stand Alone Toilet Safety Rail

If you’re having difficulties with movement, don’t worry, the OasisSpace Stand Alone Handrail has got you covered. Watch your strength and confidence come alive with one of the world’s best toilet safety rails. This impressive freestanding frame is designed to provide the perfect support. It’s the ideal choice for seniors, disabled, arthritis patients, and those learning to walk again.

This OasisSpace model is constructed with a corrosion-resistant aluminum, making it durable, lightweight, and sturdy enough for people weighing up to 300 pounds. Also, this one is foldable and suitable for all toilets.

The height is adjustable from 24 to 31 inches, so tall users have nothing to worry about. It comes with a trigger handle that lets you fold it quickly.

Each of the legs is capped with an anti-skid rubber to keep you safe and secure. Besides, the textured rubber handles create a comfortable, non-slip surface for a convenient grip.

However, avoid using a single hand for support; and press down on both handles evenly to prevent it from tipping off. Also, don’t install on an uneven floor.

Specification

Pros

• Padded grip
• FDA approved
• Lightweight and durable
• Easy to fold for storage
• Easy to assemble
• Non-slip rubber tips
• Supports over 240 pounds

Cons

• Slightly wobble

Final Verdict

Overall, this is an impressive unit, there’s no need for tools during assembly and you can easily fold it for packaging. It is sturdy and it’s height easily adjusts to suit your preference. The arms slope slightly, providing a more natural angle for gripping. Sold at the mid-range price; it’s the right choice for enhancing your safety.

Best Toilet Safety Rails & Frames Buying Guide for Beginners

1. The shape of the toilet bowl

Toilets bowls are either round or elongated, meaning you should check if the bar you’re buying will fit your seat. However, all our top 10 products are suitable for all toilet shapes.

2. The width and height of rails

Ensure the rail’s width and height will accommodate your needs. The distance between the frames should be wide enough to enable you to move your legs. If you’re not using the toilet alone, you might consider one with adjustable height and width.

3. Handles

Most rails come with pads and other non-slip features while others don’t; so ensure you pick a model with the right handle texture.

4. Weight capacity

Generally, safety toilets have their weight ratings ranging from 250 to 350 pounds. Since these frames can only handle specific weights, ensure you select a model that’ll withstand your pressure.

5. Material and durability

Most of the world’s best toilet frames are made from stainless steel or aluminum. Steel types are durable but heavy, making them unsuitable for travel. Aluminum rails are durable, sturdy, but much lighter.

6. Foldability and storage

Are you sharing your bathroom with others? Is your condition temporary? Do you intend to convey it to another place? These are some of the questions you need to answer. If other people will access your toilet or you’ll soon recover, it’s ideal to choose a frame you can easily remove. If you always move with your safety rail, don’t buy the floor-mounted or bolted type since they’re thick, heavy, and awkward to carry.

7. Legs

It’s essential to choose toilet safety arms that have anti-skid rubber or suction cups at the bottom to prevent them from wobbling.

8. Adjustability

Note that the world’s best toilet safety rails always come with adjustability options. It is because adjustable toilet safety rails make it easier to use the toilet area with multiple people who don’t have disability issues. Also, people have different heights and sizes requiring bar and rail height adjustments. So, we recommend you go for adjustable options.

9. Type

Here are a few toilet rails to help you identify the model that suits your restroom and needs.

• Legless toilet rail – This one is easy to install and only mounts on your toilet bowl. You’re required to remove the toilet’s seat screws, position the bars to the bowl’s holes, then reinsert the screws. Most models come with a single or dual horizontal bar across the toilet to increase its stability. Whenever the user tries to stand from the toilet, there’s a possibility of dislodgement. And this happens in models with one horizontal rail that’s fixed to the back of the bowl. The same displacement might occur for options with two separate pieces that’s resting on the front of the seat.

• Toilet rails with legs extended to the floor – You’ll experience greater comfort and stability with this toilet rail as the legs transfer your weight to the floor. You should avoid this type if you’re having a small bathroom as the legs could restrict your ability to use a wheelchair.
• Toilet riser with handles – Another way to increase your restroom’s accessibility is to buy a toilet seat with a riser and handle. You can find these handles for both one-piece and two-piece toilets with single or dual flush systems. Risers come in various heights and shapes to suit your existing toilet size. Some are held to the bowl via a clamp while others can be attached to bolts behind the toilet. We recommend the ones that are fixed to the seat’s bolts since they won’t loosen nor require frequent retightening.
• Freestanding rails – This is not attached to anything, making it quite easy to install. You can quickly move it, but since it’s standing alone, it could tip off when you’re supporting yourself.
• Commode on the seat – Also called a portable toilet, it’s placed over the toilet top to increase the height for better accessibility and ease of standing. Most units are equipped with a hard-plastic liner to prevent the splashing of users excretes. There are commodes with arms that allow you to slide from the wheelchair to the toilet directly.
• Flip-up style grab bars – They come with hinges that allow you to flip it up to create space and flip down when needed. Most forms can be attached to the wall, while others would extend to the toilet floor.

10. Warranty

Always opt for models with a lifetime warranty since it indicates the frame’s quality and the level of manufacturer’s positivity about its durability and performance.

11. Brands

A few most reputable toilet handrail brand to choose are Medline, Vive, Drive Medical, etc.

• Medline– Based in the US, Medline industries specializes in the manufacture and distribution of high-quality medical products. Besides, they educate people on various health issues, and their toilet safety rails are among the most reliable on sale.
• Drive Medical – This company specializes in mobility equipment, bathroom safety, commodes, personal care, and therapeutic support surfaces. They offer various lightweight aluminum toilet frames with padded grips.
• Vive– Each of Vive’s items comes with an unconditional lifetime guarantee so you can purchase with confidence. Their toilet rail is easy to assemble, requiring no tools, and the foam padding and anti-slip arms create a comfortable surface.

12. No return policy

The FDA regulations prohibit the return of toilet accessories like seat and risers, except it’s sealed and wasn’t used by the buyer. So, ensure you pick a model with your appropriate specification.

13. Wheelchair transfers

Most toilet frames are more suitable for wheelchair users than others; you can consider a collapsible armrest if you’re transferring sideways from the chair to the toilet seat.

14. Price

Depending on the design, quality, and extra features, the price ranges from $25 to $100.

Tips for Selecting the Right Toilet Safety Frames for Your Need

• Significant balance issues – If you’re having a temporary mobility challenge or you’ll frequently need an assistant, you can choose a standalone model. But if your movement difficulty is severe or permanent, you’ll want a safety rail that’s more stable and firmly attached to the floor or toilet. For the elderly, there’s the likelihood that their balance condition may deteriorate over time, so we recommend you buy a bolted option right away.
• Wheelchair user and transfer height – If you’re transitioning from the wheelchair to the toilet seat, choose a hinged option that you can swing the rail up, clearing the way to perfect the transfer. However, if you’re transferring from a walking position, you should opt for something that’s fixed and can support your weight.
• Do other people use the same toilet? If you’re going to share your toilet area with others, it’s either you purchase something easily removable or one that’s permanent that they’ll love. Getting a handicap toilet would be a better option.
• Can you use both hands? Most toilet frames will tip-off resulting in a fatal fall depending on the side you’re exerting the force. So, if you often lean heavily to one leg, you should bolt your handrail permanently to the floor.
• Bathroom Size – Do you have a cramped toilet area? If so, choose a safety rail that won’t extend beyond the bowl to interfere with your movements.

More Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Accessible

Installing toilet safety rails is just one way of making your bathroom comfortable and safe. Below are other things you can do to prevent the likelihood of a mishap.

• Remove barriers – Most bathrooms have a 4-inch step at the doorway to prevent water from escaping. However, this can hinder wheelchair users from getting through or cause those with mobility issues to stumble. So, removing such barriers will greatly ease accessibility.
• Install grab bars – You can attach bars near the toilet or at strategic places on the bathroom walls to assist people. These bars can also be used for wall-hung toilets.
• Use a non-slip mat – Laying a textured carpet in and outside the tub is essential. Besides, you can install tiles on the bathroom floor, so if water splashes, you can easily mop.
• Modify the door – ADA specifies that a wheelchair accessible doorway should be at least 36 inches wide, and the handle should accommodate the user’s disability. Here, you should install lever handles for those with shaky or arthritis hands.
• Adequate lighting – Install the right bulbs in your restroom so that everyone can see and avoid any hazard on the floor.

How to Install A Toilet Safety Rail?

Final Words

Toilet safety rails are crucial for seniors, pregnant women, handicapped persons, and those recovering from injury or surgery. They prevent slips and falls by providing support, comfort, and security when sitting or standing. There are different designs, and each of them will cater to specific needs.

You’ll need to pick a model that is easy to install, fits your needs, and is lightweight.

All the toilet rails in this buying guide are high-quality and from reputable companies. If you want an affordable freestanding rail that’s easy to assemble, durable, and fit all toilet shapes, our Editor’s choice is for you. For those that’ll want to travel with their rails, you can opt for the RMS model which is sturdy and easily foldable.

With all the information we’ve provided, we believe you’re ready to make the best shopping decision.

FAQ’s

Q. 1. How often can I clean a toilet handrail? 

Ans. Wipe the rails with soap and water once or twice weekly. This should remove grimes and keep them sparkling. Don’t use strong chemicals or abrasive objects because they can damage the finish.

Q. 2. Full handrail or toilet grab bar, which is better?

Ans. It depends on your needs, as most people prefer a single grab bar beside the toilet while others require more. If you’re having a chronic mobility issue due to old age or injury, it’s ideal to install a full handrail for better safety and that’ll help you to avoid unnecessary upgrades in the future.

Q. 3. Why do I need toilet safety rails?

Ans. A toilet safety rail is one of the most reliable ways to minimize falls in the bathroom. You can use the frame to anchor yourself when raising or lowering your body without increasing the risk of a crash.

Q. 4. What is a ‘Safety Grip’? 

Ans. The term ‘Safety Grip’ means any outer coating on the handrail that makes it easier to grab even when it’s wet. Most padded armrests provide excellent comfort, but they wear faster.

Q. 5. How can I clean my toilet handrails?

Ans. Freestanding toilet rails are the easiest to clean as you can move it away to a comfortable corner to apply a cleaner, then wipe off the dirt. However, cleaning those bolted to the toilet is a little challenging since you’ll need to remove the toilet seat. Notwithstanding, make sure you clean your handrails each week to keep it from dirt and disease-causing germs.