How to add a handrail to a narrow staircase!

You can buy handrails and anchor attachments at a big box hardware store. They screw into the wall.

I looked to see if there is something that wouldn't take up much of the stairwell's width. Fact is you have to have a handrail that you can wrap your hand around. Needs to be sturdy enough to support your weight too.

Buy the better quality brackets and make sure they are firmly attached to studs in the wall. Handrail is an off-the-shelf item at any store that sells lumber.

Looks like the window side would be less desirable for the handrail. I don't see what is at the top of the stair but you may need to install a post.

Use Closet Poles with short brackets to hang wall.

Go to a lumberyard. They will have a rail that is routed with a finger indent. It's not round. It's both more attractive and can be attached to the wall directly ( I mean the wall at the studs). I put two up in our narrow stairwell for my elderly father-in-law. Two made a huge difference. 15 years later, with my bad knees, I use the two all the time. Good luck

Thanks! I'll check that out.

Ken has a good point about making sure the railing and hardware are sufficient enough quality to support your weight, (which is constantly pushing down on and against the rail even with normal use) and ensuring that they are properly and securely anchored into the studs inside the wall.

Do not try to save money by taking the cheap quick route here. You are putting your safety at risk.

Thanks y'all! I have MS & my husband needs new knees so we definitely won't be skimping on this. The life we save could be our own. 😊

I have bad knees my son lives on second floor in apartment if not for two rails I could never get there...

Hello Suzanne,

Plugged to the Wall or by stair rail brackets . Hope that helps!