Putting the Brakes on Slippery Tubs, Showers
Every year more than 100,000 Americans require emergency treatment for serious accidents in tubs and showers, according to U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission studies.
About 36% of those accidents involve children 14 years old or younger, and 17% involve the very large and fast-growing 65-plus age group.
It is estimated that at least 10 million people suffer less serious but painful slips and falls in tubs and showers in the United States every year.
In response to this hazard, Unique Products of San Mateo, California has developed a liquid product called “Slip Stop” that, when properly applied to a porcelain or tile tub or shower, creates a non-skid footing without coating the surface of the tub or shower.
This clear liquid product is sold in 4-ounce containers and is guaranteed for five years. It was originally produced in Canada 20 years ago and is in wide use in hotels throughout the world.
Application is very easy. Simply clean the tub or shower thoroughly, pour the contents of the bottle onto a dry cloth and wipe the surface for three minutes. Rinse with water.
That’s it. No more bath mats or stick-on strips.
The surface will suddenly feel nonabrasive but not slippery. Almost as if there were a rubber mat under your feet.
Slip Stop creates microscopic “suction cups” on the tub or shower surface without changing the color or appearance.
The product complies with OSHA regulations, and a materials safety data sheet on Slip Stop is available by request from the manufacturer.
In hard-water areas, the manufacturers recommend periodic use of “Lime-Away” or a similar hard-water deposit removal product on the treated surface to prevent deposits from filling the “suction cups.”
Also, abrasive cleansers should not be used on the treated surface.
Slip Stop is available at B & B Hardware in Culver City, (213) 390-9413, or by mail order. Send $12.95 plus $1.50 postage and handling to Unique Products, 2228 S. El Camino Real 175, San Mateo, Calif. 94403. Phone (415) 595-6998 FAX (415)-595-6009.
