Simple, Modern Tips for Bathroom Safety

This updated guide covers practical steps to make bathrooms safer for children, older adults, and people with limited mobility. Key actions include improving lighting, using slip-resistant flooring and grab bars, installing GFCI-protected outlets, controlling water temperature, securing hazardous items, and keeping a first aid kit and emergency access options available. Many measures are inexpensive and easy to implement.

Why bathroom safety matters

Bathrooms are a common site for slips, burns, and other injuries because water, hard surfaces, and electrical devices often share a small space. A few practical changes - planned around the needs of children, older adults, or people with limited mobility - can greatly reduce risk.

Lighting and layout

Good lighting cuts accidents. Install bright, even lighting and consider a night light or motion-activated fixture to guide late-night trips. Keep pathways clear and make sure floor drains or a gentle slope help water flow to prevent pooled water.

Flooring and surfaces

Choose slip-resistant flooring or add anti-slip strips and mats in showers, bathtubs, and near sinks. Secure mats with non-skid backing and replace worn adhesive strips or mats promptly.

Grab bars and reachable controls

Install sturdy grab bars near showers, tubs, and toilets to help people steady themselves. Mount controls - such as soap, shampoo, and shower controls - within easy reach of a seated position. Consider a handheld shower head and a shower seat for users who need to sit while bathing.

Electrical safety

Keep electrical devices (hair dryers, razors, radios) well away from water and unplug them when not in use. Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection for bathroom receptacles to reduce the risk of electric shock - this is required by many modern electrical codes.

Temperature control

Set your water heater to a safe maximum (commonly 120°F / 49°C) to reduce scald risk. For additional protection, consider anti-scald devices such as thermostatic mixing or pressure-balance valves on showers and tubs. ¹

Storage and child safety

Store cleaners, medications, and sharp objects in locked or high cabinets. Use childproof latches on cabinets and keep small items out of reach. Clearly label household chemicals and transfer them to original containers when possible.

Doors, locks, and emergency access

Use a privacy latch that allows emergency access from the outside in case someone becomes incapacitated. Keep a charged phone or an emergency call device accessible and post emergency numbers near the bathroom.

First aid and regular checks

Keep a basic first aid kit nearby and check supplies regularly. Inspect grab bars, mats, showerheads, and electrical devices periodically for wear and replace items that show damage.

Small changes, big difference

You don't need an expensive remodel to improve safety. Small, inexpensive steps - better lighting, slip-resistant surfaces, secure storage, and simple assistive fixtures - go a long way toward preventing common bathroom injuries.

1. Confirm current National Electrical Code (NEC) or local code requirements for GFCI protection in bathrooms.
2. Verify local or national requirements/recommendations for anti-scald devices (thermostatic mixing valves or pressure-balance valves) on shower/tub fixtures.