Suction cup handholds have low efficacy in laboratory evaluation with typical bathing conditions and wall materials

Suction cup handholds are sometimes recommended by Occupational Therapists for bathing transfers when permanent grab bars are not feasible. The efficacy of suction cup handholds on typical bathroom surfaces is unknown.

This study evaluated the efficacy and failure characteristics of two brands of suction cup handholds on six typical bathtub wall surfaces, under environmental and loading conditions associated with bathing.

Eighteen suction cup handholds underwent controlled longevity testing under wet and dry conditions in separate sessions. Handhold efficacy was evaluated through (a) visual inspection, (b) manual manipulation, and (c) controlled loading, with days to failure and other failure details as outcome measures.

No handhold-wall sample combinations were effective over the 28 day test period, with at least one handhold on each wall sample failing on day one. Handhold failure was most frequently due to sliding along the wall surface, and occurred most frequently during manual manipulation testing.

Handhold efficacy was poor in a controlled experimental environment. These results can inform clinicians of the risks suction cup handholds pose and assist in clinical recommendations against their use.