Designing a bathroom for children can be a fun and rewarding project, but it also requires some careful planning and attention to detail. Children have different needs and preferences than adults, and they also face more risks and challenges in the bathroom. Therefore, it is important to consider some factors that can make the bathroom more suitable and enjoyable for them, such as:
- Safety
- Accessibility
- Functionality
- Style
- Storage
Safety
Children are more prone to slips, falls, burns, and injuries in the bathroom, so it is essential to make the space as safe as possible. Some safety measures include installing anti-slip mats or tiles on the floor and in the bathtub or shower, using low-flow faucets and showerheads that prevent scalding, covering sharp edges and corners with cushions or bumpers, locking away any hazardous items such as cleaning products, razors, or medicines, installing grab bars and handrails for support, and providing adequate lighting and ventilation.
Accessibility
Children may have difficulty reaching or using some of the fixtures and features in the new bathroom, so it is important to make them accessible and user-friendly. Some accessibility tips include choosing a sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower that are appropriate for their height and size, installing a step stool or a ladder for them to access higher cabinets or shelves, adding a handheld showerhead or a tap extender for easier washing, and using easy-to-operate knobs, handles, and switches.
Functionality
Children have different needs and routines than adults in the bathroom, so it is important to make the space functional and adaptable for them. Some functionality suggestions when fitting a bathroom include creating separate zones for different activities, such as bathing, brushing, and dressing, providing multiple hooks, towel bars, and robe hooks for hanging wet items, adding a bench or a seat for comfort and convenience, and incorporating a laundry basket and bin for easy cleanup.
Style
Children have different tastes and preferences than adults, so it is important to make the new bathroom reflect their personality and interests. Some style ideas include choosing a colour scheme, theme, or motif that they like, such as animals, sports, or cartoons; adding fun and whimsical accessories, such as rugs, curtains, or wall decals; and using bright and cheerful lighting.
Storage
Children have different items and belongings than adults, so it is important to provide enough storage space for them. Some storage solutions include using open shelves, baskets, or bins for easy access and visibility, installing drawers, cabinets, or closets with labels for sorting and storing, adding hooks, racks, or rails for hanging robes, towels, or clothes, and using wall-mounted or over-the-door organisers for saving space and maximising storage.
