Making your home accessible is not just a thoughtful decision but also a practical one, especially when it comes to areas like your bathroom. Whether you’re planning to care for elderly parents, anticipate future needs, or simply want a safer environment, adapting your bathroom ensures comfort, safety, and usability for everyone.
Bathrooms can be tricky spaces, given their typical dimensions and fixtures. Fortunately, with some clever adjustments and thoughtful design, you can transform this space into a haven of safety and accessibility without compromising on style. Here’s a guide to help you make your bathroom safer and more accessible.
Why Make Your Bathroom Accessible?
Accessibility isn’t just about practicality; it’s about freedom and independence. An accessible bathroom prevents slip-and-fall accidents, reduces strain for those with mobility challenges, and provides peace of mind for carers and family members alike.
Proactively redesigning your bathroom can also add value to your home by future-proofing it. Whether it’s for guests, parents, or your own long-term needs, these changes ensure your bathroom caters to everyone.
Key Solutions to Improve Bathroom Accessibility
1. Walk-in Showers
Standard showers with high edges can be challenging for people with movement restrictions. A walk in shower eliminates this issue, offering step-free access. Additionally, installing a non-slip base, grab rails, and a comfortable shower seat transforms your shower into a safe and relaxing space.
Tip: Consider handheld showerheads for added flexibility when seated.
2. Walk-in Baths
For those who enjoy a good soak, a walk in bath is a fantastic solution. These come equipped with a door, allowing easy entry without the need to step over a high edge. Look for models with quick-draining systems to enhance convenience.
3. Grab Rails
Grab rails are simple but powerful tools for enhancing safety. Install them near essential areas such as the shower, toilet, or bathtub. Available in various materials and colours, they can be stylishly integrated into the bathroom’s overall decor while still serving their functional purpose.
4. Wider Doorways
Accessibility starts the moment you approach the bathroom. If space permits, widen doorways to allow wheelchair access. Sliding doors are another brilliant option, eliminating the need for door clearance and providing a sleek aesthetic.
5. Comfort-Height Toilets
Standard toilets can often be too low, making it uncomfortable for people with mobility issues to sit or stand. Comfort-height toilets, also known as chair-height toilets, are taller and offer easier use. Pair this with a sturdy grab rail for additional support.
6. Non-Slip Flooring
Bathrooms are notorious for slippery surfaces. Replacing standard tiles with non-slip options significantly reduces the risk of falls. Alternatively, you can use non-slip mats as a temporary and cost-effective solution.
Tip: Opt for flooring materials like vinyl or rubber for their durability and water-resistant properties.
7. Lighting and Visibility
Proper lighting is crucial in any bathroom but even more so for those with decreased vision. Use bright, even lighting throughout the room, and add motion-sensor lights for ease of use during the night.
Tip: Choose fixtures with minimal glare to avoid discomfort.
8. Adjustable Vanities and Fixtures
Vanities and sinks designed with adjustable heights cater to wheelchair users, children, and individuals of all sizes. Pair these with lever-style taps which are easier to operate than traditional knobs.
Future-Proofing Your Bathroom
If you’re not dealing with accessibility concerns now but want to future-proof your space, consider creating a bathroom that is flexible and adaptable. Modular fittings, removable grab rails, or a pre-planned area for a walk-in shower or bath are investments that pay off long-term. You never know when these small upgrades might be crucial for you or your family.
Taking the Next Step
Creating an accessible bathroom may seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and materials, it’s certainly achievable. Whether you go all-out with structural changes or start small with fixtures like grab rails or non-slip mats, every effort contributes to creating a safer and more inclusive space.
Start by identifying the specific needs of those who will use the bathroom, then consult with experts who specialise in accessible design. Remember, functionality doesn’t mean compromising on style. These solutions can bring together both comfort and elegance seamlessly.
