Ever worried if your bathroom is safe enough for kids or elderly parents? Bathrooms can be tricky spots with all their slippery floors and sharp corners.

It’s not just about telling everyone to be careful; it’s about making the bathroom a safe place where accidents are less likely to happen.

So, what are the main dangers in a bathroom? Think about things like slippery tiles, towels and toiletries that are hard to reach, and areas that are too dark.

These might sound simple, but they can be real problems. Let’s look at ways to make your bathroom safer for everyone, so you can stop worrying and start relaxing a bit more.

Bathroom Hazards for Kids and Seniors

To start, navigating a bathroom safely can be a real challenge for both the youngest and oldest in your home.

It’s filled with hazards that might not be obvious until someone takes a fall or has a close call. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Slippery surfaces. It’s no secret that wet and slick floors are common in bathrooms. When you mix water with smooth tiles, you’ve got a recipe for slips and falls. This is especially risky for energetic kids who might not be as cautious, and seniors whose balance might not be what it used to be.
• Inadequate lighting. Dim or poorly placed lighting can make it tough for anyone to navigate the bathroom safely. It’s even tougher for seniors or little ones who need clear visibility to move around safely.
• Lack of proper support and stability. Bathrooms typically aren’t designed with the needs of kids and seniors in mind. Things like grab bars or stable surfaces to hold onto are often missing but are crucial for preventing accidents.
• Clutter and hard-to-reach items. From toys scattered across the floor to essential toiletries placed too high or tucked away, cluttered and disorganized bathrooms are accidents waiting to happen. It’s easy for kids to trip and for seniors to strain themselves reaching for what they need.

Bathroom Safety Tips for Kids and Seniors

Here’s how you can improve the safety of your bathroom and give yourself some peace of mind:

• Install non-slip mats and treads, and grab bars. These are simple additions that make a big difference. Non-slip surfaces can prevent those unexpected slides, and grab bars near the shower, tub, and toilet help everyone steady themselves.
• Keep floors dry and clean, repair or replace loose flooring. Wet floors are a top cause of slips. Keeping them dry and fixing any loose tiles or uneven surfaces will cut down the risks dramatically.
• Supervise young children and seniors in the bathroom. Don’t leave kids and elderly family members on their own in the bathroom. A little supervision can prevent a lot of accidents.
• Use child-proof locks on cabinets and drawers. Keep medicines, cleaners, and sharp objects securely locked away. Child-proof locks are a must to protect curious kids.
• Keep electrical appliances away from water sources. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Always keep hair dryers, shavers, and other appliances away from the sink and tub.
• Ensure adequate lighting throughout the bathroom. Good lighting helps everyone see better and move safely. Make sure each corner of the bathroom is well-lit to avoid any missteps.

We’ve covered how to make bathrooms safe for kids and seniors. A few small changes can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls in one of the most accident-prone areas of your home.

Read Also: 7 Unexpectedly Dirty Areas in Your Bathroom

If you’re around Lafayette and need to make your bathroom safer, stop by our showroom. As the top bathroom supply store in Lafayette, LA, our team at Facets of Lafayette is ready to help you choose the best products to keep your family safe!