6 Ways to Fix a Slippery Bathtub

Published on Wednesday January 20, 2021

Did you know that the bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in your home? Slipping in the bathtub or shower is a common occurrence, and these slips can lead to dangerous falls. Figuring out how to fix a slippery tub is key to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.

Here are some slippery tub solutions that may work for you.

6 Slippery Bathtub Solutions

1. Non-Slip, Non-Abrasive Tape

When dealing with a slippery bathtub, increasing traction is the best way to reduce the risk of falling. Look for some non-abrasive tapes that you can lay along the floor of your tub to help prevent the surface of the tub or shower base from becoming too slick.

Keep in mind that tapes like these wear away over time, meaning you’ll need to replace them pretty often.

2. Non-Slip Sprays

There are a variety of non-slip sprays on the market for acrylic bathtubs that help create a less slippery surface rather quickly.

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the bathtub and allowed it to dry completely, treat the surface of your tub according to the package instructions of your non-slip spray. Be precise with your application, careful to only cover areas of the tub that require additional traction.

3. Rubber Floor Mats

One of the most affordable ways to help with a slippery bathtub, rubber, non-slip bathtub mats can be placed on the surface of your bathtub to increase the traction and prevent falls.

You can also find non-slip rugs to place just outside of your tub to prevent slipping on wet tile. The downside of using a rubber mat versus a non-slip spray or tape is that they can shift around with use.

Non-slip rugs can even become a tripping hazard if they bunch up or absorb too much water, allowing them to easily slide along the tile floor.

4. Grab Bars and Handles

While creating a non-slip surface is a great way to prevent falls, it’s not foolproof. It’s important to install additional safety features that can help keep you even safer while bathing.

Accessible, secure handles and grab bars to hold onto in and around the bathtub can be incredibly helpful in preventing a fall. If you’re in the process of updating your bathroom to meet aging-in-place standards, grab bars are highly recommended.

5. Accessible Storage

Falls often happen because you’re reaching for something that’s not easy to grasp. To ensure safety while bathing, make all soaps, shampoos, towels, and other bathtub necessities easily accessible.

Overextending to reach something is much more likely to result in an accidental fall, so it’s best to utilize storage that eliminates that risk.

6. Bathtub Replacement

If all else fails, it may be time to consider upgrading to a new bathtub. While this slippery tub solution is the most expensive, it’s often worth the cost, especially if you live with a senior that’s at a higher risk of slipping.

Replacing your old bathtub with a newer, non-slip model or converting a slippery bathtub to a walk-in shower could be the best option for you and your loved ones to ensure safety in the bathroom.

Fix Your Slippery Tub For Good

Long Baths™ bathtub and shower products are a great replacement for your slippery bathtub. We offer slip-resistant tubs and low-barrier shower bases, grab bars, shower seats and more to ensure that all customers can bathe safely and comfortably.

If you’re looking to upgrade your bathtub, call or visit us online today to get a quote or schedule a free, in-home consultation!