As your children grow older, they need to have more room as well, including in the bathroom. When you need to carve out a space just for them, remember that a child-focused bathroom design will be different from the one used by adults. Here’s how you can tackle this home improvement project with the right frame of mind.

What Features You Should Include

First and foremost, child-friendly bathroom design should always put safety as a priority. A bathroom’s features must also be practical and right for your kid’s size.

• Non-Slip Surfaces: To prevent accidental slips in the bathroom, use textured or matte-finished ceramic or porcelain tiles instead of glossy ones for flooring. Opt for larger tile cuts to make cleaning a breeze as well, and use adhesive-mounted mats on tubs and shower areas. For area rugs, place nonslip pads or double-sided carpet tape underneath to anchor them.

• Enough Storage Space: Like you, your kids need a place to stuff their bath toys, towels, and bottles—if you haven’t given up your rubber duckie yet. Go for roomy bathroom cabinets instead of open shelving for a neat-looking space, and carve out deep wall niches by the tub or shower for their shampoos and soaps.   

• Easy-to-Use Hardware: Prevent falls by installing kid-height grab bars that can double for hanging towels and washcloths. Rather than knobs, use D-shaped drawer pulls and levers for doors for smooth operation, especially with soapy hands. Switch to single-lever faucets, which allow kids to adjust the temperature easily.   

• Child-Proof Measures: Don’t forget to install ground-fault circuit interrupters on all outlets, and use safety covers or plugs to keep out prying hands. Consider adding childproof locks on cabinets and toilets, especially if you have a curious toddler waddling around.   

Why Age Matters in Bathroom Design

Although bathroom design should factor in your child’s age, keep in mind that you don’t have to make it too specific since they’re likely to age beyond it in a few years. Refrain from installing fixtures at a low height, as it will cost you more in the long run. Instead, invest in normal-sized bathroom cabinets that come with open space below for steps—having enough storage space comes in handy when they become teens and use it for stowing their grooming items.

For more advice on kid-friendly bathroom design, ask the home improvement experts at Factory Direct Kitchen & Bath. As the factory-direct retailer of Wellborn Cabinet™ in Lineville, AL, they offer an extensive range of quality storage solutions, from ready-made to custom cabinets, to homes across Clay County. Call (256) 396-6533 to request a project estimate or check out their website for design inspirations.