How to Find the Best Bathroom Safety Products

Bathroom safety is of high importance for homes with an elderly or disabled member but can also be of great concern for parents who have young kids. Even if you don’t have a family member with these special needs, your bathroom can still benefit from installing helpful devices. 

No matter your reason for finding the best bathroom safety products, knowing your options before shopping is essential. You want something practical and easy to use yet still meets your needs. Not every safety tool is appropriate for every bathroom, and your first step should be assessing your situation.

As you read through this guide on finding the best bathroom safety products, you will learn about different kinds of equipment and considerations to make before buying. Bathroom safety can make your life much easier, but you don’t want to rush into anything.

Assessing Your Bathroom and Its Needs

There are many factors to consider when outfitting your bathroom with products for safety. If you have a senior or otherwise impaired relative who will be living in your home, these considerations are critical. If you have children in your home, there are also things to consider before installing certain items.

1. Consider the Layout of the Bathroom

The layout of your bathroom will help determine what kind of equipment and tools you need. For example, maneuverability and ease of use become much more critical if the toilet is enclosed in a small space with little room to move around. Hanging bars and raised toilet seats can be helpful in these situations.

If there is a lot of free space to move around, you do not need to worry about maneuverability. Instead, you can focus on other safety considerations like a bathtub transfer bench or a standing shower chair.

2. What Flooring is in the Bathroom?

Your bathroom flooring can determine your safety equipment and tools as well. For example, if you have a slippery bathroom floor made of tile or marble, you might want to invest in a bath mat or non-slip adhesive strips.

Some bathroom floors are made of non-slip materials but are nonetheless uneven or have gaps. A bathtub safety frame with a slip-resistant mat would be a terrific choice in this case. Bathroom floors that are slippery or uneven can also make using specific equipment difficult, so it is crucial to account for these challenges.

3. How is the Visibility?

Most people ignore the importance of bathroom visibility. This is dangerous because it can lead to falls or injuries if you can’t see what is below your feet.

For example, if the shower curtain hangs down to the floor, there may be dark shadows where you cannot see safety hazards like a wet floor or stray objects on the ground. If you have impaired vision or are a parent with young children, extra caution in the bathroom is vital.

When checking the visibility of your bathroom, make sure there isn’t anything blocking your line of sight from any spot inside it. While this does not necessarily mean you need to move everything out of the way, you should at least think about what could block your sight from certain angles.

4. Is There Any Furniture in the Bathroom?

What else is in the bathroom? If you have a chair, coffee table, or other furniture of any kind in your bathroom, you need to consider how it affects your safety. For example, if you have a chair next to the bathtub, getting in and out of the bathtub becomes much more difficult because there is something right by your side.

If you are using the bathroom for other things besides bathing, should you remove all furniture? Not necessarily. Instead, you should find the best products for your specific situation. Some people like placing their chairs next to the toilet, while others prefer it near the sink or tub.

Products such as a toilet riser and a bathtub bench can be helpful in these situations. For example, consider installing a toilet riser for people who use the chair to get on and off the toilet. A bench in the bathtub is also excellent if you have difficulty sitting or standing from a regular height.

5. Who is Using the Bathroom?

Young children and adults with disabilities may need extra equipment in the bathroom. If two adults in your home require additional bathroom safety equipment of their own, consider buying one product that is adaptable for both people.

For example, you may want to get a rail with durable grips so older people can pull themselves up and down when getting on or off the toilet. You could also install this rail near the sink so you can grab onto it when washing your hands. When your children are young, install a rail near the toilet to help them get on and off the seat.

6. Is There an Accessible Shower?

Some bathroom shower designs are safer than others. If you have a bathtub-shower combination, the tub part is more dangerous than just having a shower. To prevent slips and falls inside the tub of this type, consider getting a non-slip adhesive strip for your current tub.

On the other hand, if you only have a shower, you can be more creative with your safety equipment. For example, some people would rather get a bathtub transfer bench that allows them to sit down. Getting a shower chair is another brilliant idea if you have difficulty standing for long periods.

Important Safety Products for Walk-in Bathrooms

Most homes are remodeling their bathrooms with walk-in showers. One major reason for the surge in walk-in shower designs is that they are easier to use for people with disabilities or age-related problems.

Below are some items that can make walk-in showers safer.

1. Grab Bars

Grab bars are beneficial for those who are not steady on their feet or need to hoist themselves up after sitting on the commode. If you plan on getting grab bars, make sure they are strong enough to support your weight. 

An ideal grab bar should support at least 250 pounds. You should also install it on a wall that does not have any studs in the wrong place. Ensure you install it at least 33-36 inches above the ground to get the best leverage.

If possible, it is nice to install at least two grab bars in strategic spots. For example, put one near the toilet and another on the opposite side of the shower. This way, you have a rail to hold on to while you shower and one for getting on and off the commode.

2. Flooring

When you are installing new flooring, make sure it is slip-resistant. Although no floor will guarantee slip-proof features, you can choose a textured floor or one made from a material that does not become as slick as other types.

Ideally, ceramic, porcelain, and stone floors are safer for people with disabilities. These surfaces are rough enough that they will not become wet and slippery when you step out of the shower or walk on them barefoot. If you decide to install ceramic, porcelain, or stone tiles over your current flooring, you should add a textured surface. This way, it will be easier to keep your footing on the bathroom floor.

3. Shower Seats

Shower seats are essential if you live with someone who has difficulty standing for long periods. They are handy for children, older adults, and those recovering from illness or surgery. Having a shower seat will allow you to rest and relax while still getting clean.

You can install shower seats in one of the corners of the shower. Alternatively, you can install them outside the tub entirely but still next to it. This way, they will be easier to access when getting out of the shower or using a bathtub transfer bench.

4. Bathtub Benches

Bathtub benches are one of the best safety products for people with disabilities. This simple bath accessory gives you a spot to sit while still bathing. If you find it difficult to stand for long periods, getting a bath bench will allow you to take your time without worrying about slipping or falling.

Essentially, there are two types of bathtub benches, padded and unpadded. You should go with a padded variety if you tend to slip and fall frequently. This way, the bench will support you and prevent your skin from becoming irritated because of pressure.

Unpadded bathtub benches are great for kids because they are easy to get on. Most importantly, it is easier to scoot yourself up and down the bench. Unpadded bathtub benches are also cheaper.

5. Safety Rails

If you have a walk-in shower with handrails, then you should be fine. However, if you prefer to get into your shower using a bathtub transfer bench, you should invest in safety rails. These are also great for people with disabilities or the elderly who have problems standing up after sitting down or squatting down to get into the shower.

Safety rails come in different styles, but they are all installed on the walls of your walk-in shower. They are typically about 28 inches long and can support weights between 250-300 pounds.

When choosing a safety rail, it is best to get one that doesn’t have a hollow bar. Hollow bars are often flimsy, and they may fall apart if you lean on them too hard. Go for solid metal ones instead.

6. Shower/Bath Mats

Shower mats are essential for keeping your feet dry. The last thing you want is to get out of the shower and slip on a wet floor.

When buying a mat, look for one with suction cups in the back. Alternatively, choose one that has rubber seals or plastic covers along with suction cups. These will prevent water from seeping underneath the mat, so you can be guaranteed that your feet will stay dry while getting in and out of the shower.

Mats made of 100 percent cotton are the best because they are soft and gentle on your skin. Mats with an added anti-microbial coating will keep them from smelling or getting moldy after extended use. The mat should also be easy to vacuum and clean.

7. Lighting

Having good lighting in the bathroom can save you from nasty falls. No one wants to risk getting hurt just because they use the toilet at night or have trouble reaching the sink without dropping their toothbrush.

Bright lights are beneficial if your bathroom is dimly lit, has no windows for sunlight, or only has a small lamp on the wall. The best lighting should be bright enough to see but not too distracting.

Vent fan lights are an excellent option for bathrooms that do not have natural lighting. They remove excess moisture and provide you with enough light to move around safely when getting into or out of the shower.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Bathroom Safety Products

Finding the right bathroom safety products for your home involves a deep search to find the perfect combination of features. You want to ensure that the product you choose will provide maximum safety while still being practical for your needs.

1. Quality of Material Used

You should not go cheap on quality. Quality bath safety products are more durable. They will not fall apart or break on you after a few weeks of use.

For example, when looking for the perfect mat, look for one made from 100 percent cotton material because it is soft and gentle on your skin. Grab bars should be sturdy and solid to support your weight. Solid metal bars are preferable over hollow tubes, which may seem flimsy and can break easily.

2. Ease of Use

Bathroom safety products should be easy to install and use. If possible, choose products that are versatile and can be used by the whole family.

For example, if you are looking for a bath bench, select one with armrests to support your weight while allowing people of different heights to sit on it. You should also choose a sturdy model that is also easy to clean.

Ease of use shouldn’t be an issue for products like grab bars that are expected to be sturdy and solid. Make sure they can fit onto your wall in a way that feels secure but is also easy enough for you to remove if needed.

3. Durability

Several factors affect how long your bathroom safety products are likely to last, including the material used in the design and the quality of its construction. Most products will indicate the expected lifespan on the packaging. 

Some, such as grab bars, things that should be sturdy and solid to support your weight, or bath benches with armrests that provide support but are still comfortable to sit on, may have a lifetime warranty included in the package. On warranty, you must read the fine print to understand what is covered.

4. Level of Safety

You want to ensure that the product you choose will provide maximum safety for you or your loved one. Safety entails several factors, including whether the product can hold a certain amount of weight and how it is installed. It also refers to safety concerns like slipping and falling.

The product should guarantee ultimate safety. You can find this information in the product’s advertising or on its packaging. If it is too vague, you should probably look for another model.

5. Size and Weight

You need to know how big and heavy the product is before you make a purchase. If the product is too small or light, it may not support your weight if needed. Bath benches, for example, should be sturdy and strong enough that you can sit on them without worrying about them breaking or giving way. 

They should also fit in your bathroom. Models that are too large or heavy may be challenging to install, which is why you should measure your bathroom space before you go shopping.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

The addition of safety products shouldn’t compromise your bathroom’s overall appearance. The best bathroom safety products should blend in beautifully with your existing décor while adding a layer of style and comfort.

For example, a mat with a non-slip surface and a stylish design can provide the ultimate safety without being an eyesore. A grab bar with an elegant finish can blend seamlessly into your existing décor without looking out of place.

7. Maneuverability

At times, you may need to move the product from one place to another. A safety product that is bulky or heavy may not be convenient for you to move on your own, which is why the product must be lightweight and easy to transport.

For example, if you are looking for a bath bench, select one that is light enough for you to lift into and out of the tub or shower without straining yourself.

8. Relevant Compliance

All bathroom safety products must meet relevant compliance standards. Look for information on relevant compliance standards in the product’s advertising or packaging. If it doesn’t provide this information, you may want to look for another model.

There are several compliance standards in the U.S., including ANSI A117.1, which mirrors the most recent version of the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility (ADA) Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (2010). Products such as grab bars and bath benches should meet these standards.

Choosing the Best Bathroom Safety Equipment for Seniors

The bathroom can be a dangerous place for seniors. Slip and falls in the shower lead to many injuries each year, including broken bones and concussions. Seniors living alone or with a disability can benefit from bathroom safety equipment.

When choosing the best bathroom safety equipment, there are certain factors you need to keep in mind.

Assessing the Needs of a Senior in Your Home

The first step is to assess the needs of your senior. They may need the bathroom to be completely accessible, or you might need to make a few changes here and there. The requirements of a senior living alone are different from those of a senior living with a spouse and not as distinct from those living in an assisted living center. 

For example, a person living with a spouse may not need grab bars but more storage units to organize the bathroom. On the other hand, a person living alone might regard grab bars as very important because of that extra sense of security. Seniors who live alone are also more likely to have accidents due to medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or arthritis.

How Mobile are They?

Mobility issues are a major concern for seniors. If they need help getting out of bed or moving around, the bathroom is important to check safety standards. 

For example, you may want to install grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet. A walk-in bathtub can make it easier for your senior to get in and out of the bathtub. In addition, a raised toilet seat can make it easier for your senior to sit down and get up from the toilet.

What are Their Cognitive Abilities?

Seniors with cognitive issues such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may be more at risk for accidents in the bathroom. The senior may not remember where things are located, which can lead to falls and injuries.

For example, precise storage units can help organize your supplies to be easy for your older adult to find. A bath bench can provide extra support when they get in and out of the tub.

What is Their Current Bathroom Routine?

The time of day your senior uses the bathroom and their current bathroom routine can help you organize equipment in the safest locations. If they use the bathroom in the morning, the nightlight will be essential to avoid falls.

If your senior gets dressed before using the toilet, a T-shaped grab bar is an excellent option because it provides support while standing and sitting on the toilet. 

Types of Bathrooms Safety Products for Seniors

1. Automatic Night Lights

Automatic nightlights are a great way to save energy and provide safety. You can choose from motion-activated or time-activated switches. Time-activated nightlights will turn on when the room gets dark, creating enough light for your senior to get around safely.

Motion-activated nightlights will turn on when movement is detected, which can be a great way to model healthy habits for your senior. For example, if your senior uses the bathroom in the middle of the night, they may forget to turn off the light. A motion-activated nightlight will automatically turn off after a set amount of time, saving energy.

2. Bathroom Grab Bars for Seniors

Grab bars are a great way to provide extra balance and stability in the bathroom. You can choose between different styles of grab bars, including wall-mounted or free-standing models. 

Wall-mounted grab bars are simple to install on any flat, smooth surface. They come in various widths, so you can find one that is the perfect size for your senior. 

Free-standing grab bars are a popular choice, especially for seniors living with a spouse. These can be placed wherever they provide the most support and will not damage your wall or flooring.

3. Shower Chairs for Seniors

A shower chair is a remarkable fixture in the bathroom because it provides safety and a place to sit. A shower chair with a backrest will have extra support for your senior’s head and neck, keeping them in the correct position while bathing.

Some are reversible and height-adjustable, while others have draining holes and come with grab bars for added safety. Overall, the best choice will be the one that is most comfortable for your senior to use.

4. Transfer Benches

A transfer bench makes it easier for your older adult to move from the shower to the toilet. The bench typically has a back and armrests, making it an ideal fixture to use while bathing.

An adjustable transfer bench is ideal because you can lower the height as your senior progress with their therapy or if their condition worsens. You may also want to consider a transfer bench that has wheels for ease of movement. One capped with non-slip legs is great for seniors to use in the shower.

The best transfer benches have adjustable legs with drainage holes and feature a high-quality Aluminum frame. They should also be easy to assemble and feature non-toxic or odorless HDPE plastic.

5. Toilet Risers

Toilet risers are a great way to ensure that your older adult is safe when using the toilet. Risers come in different sizes, so you can find one that will fit their current height, as well as the size of their waste opening.

There are various kinds on the market today. Some have bars for handholds, while others have a cut-out seat that will keep your older adult from falling forward. They should feature easy to wipe clean surfaces and be durable for extended use.

The best toilet risers should support a minimum of 300 pounds for safety and comfort. The toilet seat should be able to fit both standard seat sizes as well as elongated. It should also feature sturdy materials and easy-to-use functionality.

6. Bathtub Lifts

Bathtub lifts provide a safe and dependable way for your older adult to get in and out of the tub. They include various features that will allow them to sit safely and comfortably.

An advanced bathtub lift will have a control panel that is easy to use. It should include various functions, such as pulsating massage and heat therapy features. However, this may come at a hefty price tag. An ideal one will be easy to assemble and dissemble, as well as provide ease and comfort.

The bathtub lift should guarantee safety for your older adult. It should be able to support up to 400 pounds and feature slip-resistant footrests. You should also find one that is easy to operate and install with no drill installation needed.

How to Find the Best Bathroom Safety Products for Children

Children are not immune to accidents and injuries in the shower or bathroom. There are risks of drowning, slipping, and more. It’s essential to find products that ensure your children are safe when taking a bath or shower.

1. Bath Spout Covers

Bath spout covers are a great fixture to add when bathing children. Young children can easily slip and hit their heads on the faucet, which is why you should add a protective fixture to the bathtub. These will cover up the faucet and spout, cushioning your child from the hard surface.

Some have a strap that will hold them in place, while others can adhere to tile with suction cups. The best ones are easy to install, have a cushioned design, and even prevent mold.

The bath spout covers should be soft, designed with tough rubber, and be dishwasher safe. You may also want to look for ones that can easily strap around the tub while still providing a secure fit.

2. Grab Bar

Children need strong support when standing up in the shower. A grab bar is an ideal fixture to use, providing extra safety and support for your child. They can hold onto it while drying off, as well as getting out of the bathtub.

There are a variety of bars available on the market today, including ones that have a rubber coating, so they don’t slip out of your child’s hands. Some have a bar that can be moved somewhere else when not in use for added convenience.

The best grab bars will feature an easy installation process and come with everything needed to install it properly. The most common are those with a suction cup so you can remove or re-adjust after every use.

3. Toilet Lock

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) considers the toilet one of the top hazards in the bathroom. Children under the age of three falling headfirst into the toilet bowl is a leading cause of injury and death. It’s why you should get a toilet lock to prevent your child from using it without supervision.

A childproof lock will prevent them from opening it without assistance, making it safer for them to use. You can get one that either has a key or you push down on the lid to open. The best ones come with an easy install design and are durable.

The toilet locks should be sturdy, made of strong material, and feature a simple installation process. They should also be able to fit most standard toilets.

4. Non-slip Bath Mat

A non-slip bath mat is a great addition to have when bathing your child. It will prevent them from slipping and falling in the tub, which can lead to injury. There are a variety of mats available that have different textures, colors, and designs.

The best ones will feature small suction cups on the bottom, so they don’t slip. They’ll also be able to fit any size bathtub and be soft enough for your child to walk on.

5. Safety Door Locks

You should also get a childproof safety door lock for the bathroom. The standard doors you have in your home will open with little force, which is why they can pose a risk. A young child could accidentally push the door open and fall down the stairs or get locked inside and suffocate.

A childproof lock will prevent these accidents from happening. They have an easy lock and unlock feature, making it safe for your child to use when you’re not around.

The best locks will be able to fit doors of all sizes, feature a simple installation process, and be designed in a way that’s easy for children to open. They should also be made from solid materials and resist easy breaking.

6. Bathtub Safety Rails

Having a safe tub railing is another helpful addition to have when bathing your child. You can easily install safety rails on the side of the bathtub, and it’s a safer way for a young one to get in and out of the tub. Some even attach under the faucet area, which makes them convenient.

The best bathtub rails will feature an easy installation process, attach securely to the tub, and resist corrosion over time. They should also be built with high-quality materials that stand up to daily use for many years of reliability.

How to Find the Best Disability Bathroom Safety Equipment

Disability is not inability but the inequality to provide the best safety equipment for all. Disability can simply mean someone who has a handicap. People with disabilities, such as problems in mobility and agility, may need special care when using bathrooms. 

Some bathroom safety products which are available to you are:

1. Grab bars for showers and bathtubs provide additional support to those with disabilities, especially if they need help standing up or moving around. They also prevent falls, which is one of the leading causes of injury among seniors.
2. The use of shower chairs can reduce depressive feelings brought on by the inability to bathe oneself.
3. Safety rails for showers and bathtubs can help anyone get in or out of a tub or shower, but they’re most accommodating for people with limited mobility. If you need assistance getting out of your tub, you must install a hand-held shower head. This allows for a safe and consistent flow of water.
4. Safety seats for your bathtub or shower may be just what you need if you have trouble getting up and down from the seat. They’re typically non-slip cushioned plastic units that fit perfectly in the shower.
5. Shower curtains with built-in magnets can make it easier for those with disabilities to close and open the shower curtain. These curtains are designed with magnets that run along the bottom of the curtain, making them easier to attach and remove.
6. Commode toilet chairs can be used in place of a traditional toilet for those with disabilities that make it difficult to stand or walk. They’re great for those who have difficulty sitting, standing, or holding onto a standard-sized seat.

You should be aware of the different handicaps and disabilities when installing safety products in your bathroom. This list includes visually impaired people, those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, those with problems with balance and coordination, or those who need additional support when on their feet.

When choosing disability bathroom safety equipment, it makes sense to consult with your doctor or specialist. They’ll help you identify what kind of support you need and the right products for your particular situation.

FAQs

Conclusion

Bathroom safety products are an essential part of any bathroom for those with disabilities or mobility issues. The right accessories can help prevent falls, support people getting in and out of the bathtub, and provide stability when using a toilet chair. Safety features should fit your specific needs, so be sure to consult with your doctor or specialist about what you need before shopping for these devices. We hope this article helped you learn more about how to find the best bathroom safety products.