Keeping Safety in Mind While style is important in terms of making a room enjoyable and attractive, safety should take precedence. The bath can be a dangerous place for kids and a poor design can result in anything from towels being pulled to the floor from too-high shelving or hooks to a child getting burned from a faucet that is not temperature controlled. Here are some basic safety options to consider:
· A flat-bottom tub is safer than a curved one.
· Grab bars should be considered and installed at the right height (or multiple heights) for the users of the bath. Soapy hands can easily result in a fall if there is nothing to hold on to.
· A scald guard for the shower and tub is a critical safety consideration, as the device maintains the water’s temperature at a set point, regardless of other use of water throughout the house.
· Installing a hand held showerhead can make taking a shower a little less scary and even fun for little ones. Instead of the water pouring from high up, you or they can hold the showerhead and have control over it, which makes the experience less intimidating. It may even help your child to get cleaner!
· Shower caddies, soap dishes, tub spouts and handles that are recessed should be considered, avoiding bruises and scratches in the event of a fall or simple playfulness.
· Access in and out of the tub is another safety issue. Non-slip tiles, textured grout lines, and no steps, all reduce the chances of slipping.
· Lower robe/towel hooks, suiting the height of your child.
· Select medicine cabinets that can be locked.
· Determine where outlets should go for insertion of nightlights, for when a child wakes up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.
However you design your bath, give its style and safety careful consideration and planning. You will happy with your choices and the ability for your kids to grow with them through the years.
Check out some of these kid-friendly HGTV designs:
http://www.hgtv.com/bathrooms/12-stylish-bathroom-designs-for-kids/pictures/index.html - http://www.hgtv.com/bathrooms/12-stylish-bathroom-designs-for-kids/pictures/index.html