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Beartracks

(14,466 posts)
Sun Feb 8, 2026, 01:10 AM 15 hrs ago

Is there a way to redo friction on foam rubber?

This is the black foam rubber padding on a bedside rail. It's gotten a bit shiny and slick, and the user can't rely on it for support without worrying her hand will slide off since there's far less friction than when it was new. It can't be replaced, so I'm wondering if anything can be done to make it provide some "grip" again?

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Is there a way to redo friction on foam rubber? (Original Post) Beartracks 15 hrs ago OP
Rubber Alsteen 15 hrs ago #1
Awesome suggestion! Will try. Beartracks 13 hrs ago #3
I have used "pipe insulation" for such things. I searched Amazon for it and saw this ... Intractable 14 hrs ago #2
Great idea, thanks! Beartracks 13 hrs ago #4
Steering Wheel Grip Tape Donkees 11 hrs ago #5
bicycle handlebar tape? surrealAmerican 9 hrs ago #6
I'd Try Cleaning With Isopropanol ProfessorGAC 8 hrs ago #7

Alsteen

(97 posts)
1. Rubber
Sun Feb 8, 2026, 01:32 AM
15 hrs ago

It's a good possibility that it is just very dirty. Try a good scrubbing with maybe Dawn and see if it comes clean. Things. Like the rubber handrails don't necessarily get a good cleaning and so they collect oil from hands and other dirty things that could leave the rubber slick and shiny. Try a good clean. If the detergent isn't enough use some naphtha as it will take the gook off without wrecking the foam.

Donkees

(33,516 posts)
5. Steering Wheel Grip Tape
Sun Feb 8, 2026, 05:33 AM
11 hrs ago


Steering Wheel Grip Tape for enhanced control
30 ft long for versatile application
3/4 in wide for a comfortable grip
Classic black color to match any interior
The sleek black finish not only adds a stylish touch but also ensures a secure hold

ProfessorGAC

(76,147 posts)
7. I'd Try Cleaning With Isopropanol
Sun Feb 8, 2026, 08:34 AM
8 hrs ago

Can get it cheaply at any pharmacy or dollar store.
I wouldn't use a harsher solvent like acetone. That could soften it too much & since I don't know what that polymer is, I can't pay for sure.
Getting it a little tacky might be useful, but it could also get hands dirty just using it.
I like the idea above of pipe insulation. Adds a little girth, making an easy grip.

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