A slippery shower or bathtub is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a significant safety hazard for every member of the family. Finding the right solution to prevent slips and falls is crucial for creating a secure bathroom environment, especially for children, seniors, and pets. The right anti-slip tape can provide that essential traction without compromising on the look of your bathroom.
With numerous options available, from clear rolls to individual stickers, selecting the best product for your specific needs can be challenging. This roundup simplifies your search by reviewing eight of the best anti-slip solutions, highlighting their key features, benefits, and ideal use cases to help you make an informed decision for your home’s safety.
Our Top Picks for Shower Safety
- LifeGrip Anti Slip Transparent Anti Slip Tape
- Secopad USA Patented Anti Slip Shower Stickers 24 PCS
- Blue Industrial-Grade Swimming Pool Anti Slip Tape
- 3M Safety-Walk Slip Resistant Tape, 2 in x 15 ft
- Anti-slip Strips, Safety Shower Treads Stickers
- 3M Safety-Walk General Purpose Anti-Slip Tape
- SlipX Solutions Bathtub and Shower Safety Tread
- Gorilla Grip Original Patented Bath and Shower Mat
LifeGrip Anti Slip Transparent Anti Slip Tape
For those who want safety without altering their bathroom’s aesthetic, the LifeGrip Anti Slip Tape is an excellent choice. Its ultra-clear design maintains the beauty of your original surfaces, whether you have tile, wood, or laminate. The tape is also remarkably soft and comfortable for bare feet, making it a pleasure to stand on during your shower.
This tape is built for performance with improved strong waterproof adhesion that works in both indoor and outdoor wet areas. It is made from environmentally friendly materials and creates a healthy environment for kids, seniors, and pets. Cleaning is straightforward—simply wipe it down with a damp cloth indoors or spray it with a hose for outdoor applications.
Secopad USA Patented Anti Slip Shower Stickers
Offering a flexible alternative to a full bath mat, the Secopad Shower Stickers provide targeted slip protection exactly where you need it. This set of 24 individual strips works on all kinds of slippery surfaces and is easier to set up and maintain than a traditional mat. Each piece features hundreds of tiny protrusions to increase friction while allowing water to flow freely, preventing soapy water from accumulating.
The stickers use a special ecological glue that provides strong adhesion for long-lasting protection against slips and falls. A significant advantage is that this adhesive can be removed without leaving any sticky residue behind, making them a great temporary or repositionable solution. They are also non-toxic and fade-free, ensuring safe and convenient use for the whole family.
Blue Industrial-Grade Swimming Pool Anti Slip Tape
If you need a heavy-duty solution for high-traffic or outdoor areas, this Blue Industrial-Grade Tape is built to handle the challenge. Constructed from durable PEVA material, it offers excellent resistance to water and wear, making it suitable for pool decks, outdoor stairs, and showers. The bright blue color also provides a high-visibility safety warning.
Application is quick and simple thanks to its aggressive adhesive backing that grips securely on various surfaces, from smooth tile to rough concrete, without needing additional tools or fixings. The tape is easy to cut to size, allowing for precise installation on stairs or irregular shapes. This combination of durability and ease of use makes it a reliable choice for demanding environments.
3M Safety-Walk Slip Resistant Tape
Backed by the trusted 3M brand, this Safety-Walk Tape is a proven solution for creating safer environments in bathrooms and recreational areas. It is specifically designed to combat slippery conditions created by water in showers, tubs, and around pools. The self-adhesive backing allows for quick and easy application on clean, dry surfaces.
This tape is engineered for enhanced durability, resisting wear over time to provide long-lasting protection. Its clear finish helps it blend with many surfaces, though it is the reliable traction it provides that is its main benefit. For those who prioritize a brand known for quality and performance in safety products, this 3M tape is a solid and dependable option.
Anti-slip Strips, Safety Shower Treads Stickers
This pack of 24 clear stickers offers an affordable and straightforward way to increase traction on slippery surfaces. Made from soft PEVA material, they are non-toxic, comfortable underfoot, and will not fade over time. Their lightly textured surface improves stability and helps prevent harmful slips and falls for everyone, including seniors and children.
The versatility of these stickers is a key advantage, as they are suitable for use in bathtubs, shower stalls, bathroom floors, pools, and stairs. For the best results, it is important to apply them to a perfectly clean and dry surface to ensure the adhesive bonds strongly. This makes them a practical safety upgrade for nearly any smooth, slippery area in the home.
3M Safety-Walk General Purpose Anti-Slip Tape
As a general-purpose variant from a leader in safety products, this 3M tape is designed for versatility and reliability. It can be used in a wide range of settings beyond the shower, including workshops, ramps, and commercial kitchens, providing dependable traction wherever slippery conditions exist. The tape is known for its tough, abrasive surface that offers a secure grip.
This tape typically features a strong adhesive that bonds well to most clean, dry surfaces. While it may not be as transparent as other options, its primary focus is on maximum slip resistance and durability. For those seeking an all-around safety tape from a brand with a long history of quality, this is a go-to choice for many household and industrial applications.
SlipX Solutions Bathtub and Shower Safety Tread
The SlipX Solutions Safety Tread offers a different approach, functioning as a single, larger applique rather than multiple small stickers. This design provides a continuous, textured surface that can cover a significant area of your tub or shower floor, offering consistent traction underfoot. It is designed with user safety as the top priority.
These treads are known for their strong adhesion and are made from materials that resist mold and mildew, a common issue in wet bathroom environments. The application process is generally simple, requiring a clean surface for the best hold. This product is a great middle ground between individual stickers and a full bath mat, providing substantial coverage with a secure fit.
Gorilla Grip Original Patented Bath and Shower Mat
While technically a mat and not a tape, the Gorilla Grip is a renowned solution for shower safety that deserves mention. Its patented design includes hundreds of powerful suction cups on the underside that grip the tub surface firmly, preventing shifting and sliding during use. The mat itself is made from a durable, latex-free material that is comfortable and resistant to cracking.
The textured top surface provides excellent slip resistance, and the mat is designed with built-in drainage holes to allow water to flow through, reducing the chance of water pooling and mildew growth. For those who prefer full-tub coverage and the reassurance of a physically anchored mat, the Gorilla Grip offers a high level of safety and stability.
What to Look For in the Best Anti Slip Tape for Showers
I’ve tested a lot of anti-slip tape in my time, and let me tell you, not all of it is created equal. A bad choice can lead to a peeling, gunk-filled mess that’s almost as hazardous as the slippery surface it was meant to fix. To help you avoid that, here are the key things I always consider before making a purchase.
First up is grit and texture. This is the most important factor for safety. I look for tape with a high-quality abrasive surface, similar to fine sandpaper. It needs to be aggressive enough to provide real traction under wet, soapy feet, but not so rough that it feels like you’re standing on a bed of nails. Some tapes have a raised, bumpy pattern, while others have a more uniform gritty feel. For a shower, I prefer a balance—something that offers security without sacrificing comfort.
Next, you absolutely cannot ignore adhesive strength and waterproofing. A weak adhesive is a recipe for disaster. The tape needs a powerful, permanent adhesive backed by a serious waterproof seal. I always check that the adhesive is specifically rated for wet environments. Tapes that promise to be “removable” or “repositionable” often don’t hold up long-term in a constantly wet shower. Look for phrases like “permanent bond” and “100% waterproof” to ensure the tape stays put through daily showers and cleanings.
The material and durability are also crucial. Most high-quality anti-slip tapes are made from vinyl or a similar polymer, often with embedded grit or a textured surface. I avoid anything that feels thin or flimsy. A thicker tape generally lasts longer and resists wear from foot traffic. It should also be mold and mildew resistant, as a shower is a prime location for those to develop. A non-porous surface is a big plus for easy cleaning.
Finally, think about aesthetics and application. Anti-slip tape doesn’t have to be an eyesore. While the classic safety-yellow or white is common, many brands now offer clear tapes or options in colors like gray that blend in better with shower floors and tubs. Clear tape can be a great choice if you want the safety without altering the look of your tile. Also, consider the application process. I find that tapes with a liner you peel off are much easier to handle and apply smoothly compared to ones without. A smooth application without bubbles is key for both looks and performance.
FAQ
How do I apply anti-slip tape to my shower floor correctly?
Proper application is everything. First, I make sure the surface is completely clean, dry, and free of any soap scum, oils, or old adhesive. I usually scrub the area with a strong cleaner, rinse thoroughly, and then dry it with a towel or a hair dryer. Once the surface is pristine, I peel back a small section of the liner and carefully align the tape. Then, I slowly press it down as I peel away the rest of the backing, using a squeegee or a firm cloth to smooth it out and push any air bubbles to the edges. I always avoid stretching the tape during application.
Will anti-slip tape damage my shower or tub surface when removed?
This is a common concern. Permanent anti-slip tape is designed to, well, be permanent. If you try to remove it, there’s a high chance it will leave behind a sticky residue that can be difficult to clean, and in some cases, it could potentially damage certain finishes. If you think you might want to remove it later, I’d suggest looking for a product specifically marketed as “removable,” but be aware that its grip and water resistance might not be as strong. For a long-term solution in a shower, I plan on the tape being a permanent addition.
How long does shower anti-slip tape typically last?
The lifespan really depends on the quality of the tape and the amount of foot traffic it gets. A cheap, thin tape might start to peel or wear down in a few months. However, a high-quality, thick vinyl tape with a strong adhesive can last for several years. I’ve had some tapes in my own shower that are still going strong after three years with no signs of lifting or losing their grit. Proper application and gentle cleaning will definitely extend its life.
How do I clean anti-slip tape in my shower?
Cleaning is straightforward, but you need to be gentle to avoid lifting the edges. I use a soft brush, like a nylon-bristled scrub brush, or a cloth with a mild bathroom cleaner. I avoid using abrasive scrub pads or harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can break down the tape’s textured surface and degrade the adhesive over time. A simple routine is to just give it a quick scrub with your regular shower cleaner during your weekly clean.
Can I use any anti-slip tape, or do I need a specific type for showers?
You definitely need a specific type. I would never use a general-purpose or indoor/outdoor tape meant for stairs or workshops in a shower. The best anti slip tape for showers is explicitly designed for constant immersion in water. It features a fully waterproof backing and a much stronger, waterproof adhesive to prevent it from soaking through and letting go. Using the wrong type is a safety hazard, as it will likely fail quickly.