Nine ways to make a bathroom safer

How to make a bathroom safer and more accessible so you can keep enjoying the benefits – and joy – of bathing.

The bathroom can be a sanctuary.

It’s a place to relax, soak in the bath, take time out and enjoy the health benefits of stress-busting bathing or showering. Bathing can help alleviate pain and has even been proven to make people feel better by boosting their happy hormones!

It’s also the room in the house where most accidents happen. Hard tile floors, glass shower screens and slippery, wet surfaces can be hazardous, especially for those who have issues with mobility.

Fortunately, there are ways to make a bathroom more accessible and safer for everyone.

1. Place a mat in the bath or shower

Slippery surfaces and soapy water don't mix well. A rubber mat that uses suction to stick to the bath or shower floor is a budget-friendly way to minimise any sliding.

2. Use a higher toilet seat

Sitting down and getting back up again can be hard on the knees and hips. An extra-high toilet seat can be helpful for those with mobility issues.

3. Install grab rails to make a bathroom safer

Should someone lose their footing or need some support in the bathroom, grab rails can be a simple way to reduce the likelihood of a fall or slip.

4. Consider bath lifts and inflatable bath cushions

These let users lower themselves gently to the bottom of the bath and raise them up when finished. Bath cushion lifts are comfortable and can be kept inflated during a bath or simply let the air out and re-inflate when done. They are battery operated.

5. Consider a walk-in bath…

For those who love bathing but find getting in and out of the bath too tricky, walk-in baths could be a solution. These come with a door so there’s no big step up or down.

6. …or wet room

For those who prefer showering or use mobility aids, a wet room could be a good option, complete with handrails.

7. Put a seat in the shower

The simple addition of a shower seat to avoid the need to stand for any length of time – is another option.

8. Have storage designed for accessibility

Consider size and practicality in the bathroom with things stored close by and simple handles to make it easier to grip when opening and closing doors and drawers.

9. Have good bathroom lighting

Last but not least, it makes sense to put the bathroom lights on even at night when the temptation can be to do without. Make sure the lighting is bright enough to avoid bumping into something or risking a fall.

Age Co partners with Handicare who are experts in providing and installing bathing and bathroom aids. Find out more and request a brochure here.

There are options available to suit different budgets, but if you’re worried about the cost of making changes you may be able to get financial support by contacting Citizens Advice or using the Government’s Money Helper service.