Bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in your home, but they can also be one of the most hazardous, especially for people with limited mobility or those planning to age in place. With thoughtful design choices, you can make your bathroom safer, more functional, and more comfortable for everyone in your household.
Here are six design tips to help you create a safer bathroom that works for all ages and abilities.
1) Add Supportive Grab Bars
One of the most effective safety upgrades you can make is installing grab bars near the shower, tub, and toilet. These provide sturdy support when entering or exiting the shower or getting up from the toilet, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Just be sure they are placed at a height that is easy to reach from both a standing and seated position.
2) Choose Non-Slip Flooring
Wet bathroom floors are a major cause of accidents. Consider slip-resistant materials like textured tile or luxury vinyl flooring with a grip-enhancing surface. These materials help reduce slipping even when the floor is wet. Avoid loose mats, which can shift underfoot and create a tripping hazard.
3) Improve Lighting Throughout the Space
Good lighting is essential for safety. Make sure your bathroom is well-lit, especially around high-risk areas like the shower and toilet. Bright, even lighting helps you see obstacles, changes in floor level, or water puddles that could cause a fall. You can also add task lighting around mirrors and ambient lighting near the shower area.
4) Consider a Walk-In Shower
Traditional showers or tubs with high thresholds can be difficult and dangerous for individuals with limited mobility. A walk-in shower eliminates the need to lift your feet over a tub edge, making entry and exit easier and safer. Pair it with a built-in seat and handheld showerhead for even more convenience and comfort.
5) Install Comfort-Height Fixtures
Small changes like a comfort-height toilet or lever-handle faucets make a big difference in usability. Comfort-height toilets are easier to sit down on and stand up from, while lever-handle faucets can be operated easily with minimal strength or dexterity. These upgrades help everyone, especially older adults or those with arthritis.
6) Create Thoughtful, Clear Paths
Make sure the layout allows for easy movement throughout the bathroom. Keep pathways clear of obstacles, and ensure doors open wide enough to accommodate mobility aids if needed. If you or a loved one uses a walker or wheelchair, widening doorways and reducing clutter can significantly improve accessibility.
Explore Safe and Stylish Bathroom Remodel Options
A safe bathroom doesn’t have to sacrifice style. With careful planning and the right products, you can create an accessible space that feels welcoming and modern.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your bathroom, consider professional design and installation to ensure everything is both beautiful and functional. Visit Concept Bath Systems Inc. to explore handicap-accessible bathroom remodels, including walk-in bathtubs, custom showers, and accessible design solutions tailored to your needs. Our team serves the Quad Cities area, and we can help you create a space that’s safe, comfortable, and built to last.
Ready to get started? Browse our bathroom remodeling services and request a free estimate today!