According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, between 1990 and 2007, approximately 791,200 children under the age of 18 were treated in US emergency departments for injuries related to bathroom and showers. The highest number of injuries involved children who were 2 years old, with those 4 years old or younger accounting for over half (54.3%) of all injuries. These statistics highlight the importance of implementing safety measures in bathrooms, particularly for young children.

The bathroom is a vital part of any household, but it can also be a source of potential hazards for young children. Implementing child-friendly safety measures is crucial to ensure their well-being in this space. In this article, we will discuss key strategies for securing cabinets, installing non-slip mats, and preventing drowning hazards in the bathroom.

Securing Cabinets and Drawers

One of the first steps in childproofing your bathroom is to secure cabinets and drawers that may contain hazardous items. Here’s what you can do:

• Childproof Latches: Install childproof latches on bathroom cabinets to prevent little ones from accessing medicines, cleaning supplies, and other potentially harmful items.
• Height Placement: Keep toiletries and medications in higher cabinets, out of reach of children. Reserve lower cabinets for non-hazardous items like towels and linens.
• Safety Straps: Consider using safety straps that anchor cabinets to the wall, adding an extra layer of protection against accidental tipping.

See recommended safety straps:

Non-Slip Mats: A Must-Have

• Bath Mats with Suction Cups: Opt for bath mats equipped with strong suction cups to ensure they stay securely in place, preventing slips and falls.

• Textured Surface: Look for mats with a textured surface for added grip, especially in the shower or bathtub.

Preventing Drowning Hazards

• Close the Lid: Always keep the toilet lid closed when not in use. This simple habit can be a lifesaver.
• Supervision is Key: Never leave young children unattended in the bathroom, especially when there’s water involved.
• Toilet Locks: Install toilet locks to prevent young children from accessing the water, reducing the risk of drowning accidents.

See recommended Toilet Locks

Grab Bars: Adding Stability

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) emphasizes the importance of grab bars in the bathroom. These bars provide additional support and stability:

• Strategically Placed Bars: Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub to provide support and stability for all family members, especially the elderly
• Textured Surface: Look for grab bars with a textured surface to ensure a secure grip, even when hands are wet
• Professional Installation: It’s essential to have grab bars properly installed to ensure they can bear weight in case of a slip or fall

See recommended grab bars

Prioritizing bathroom safety is a small effort that goes a long way in preventing accidents and maintaining a secure environment for everyone. By securing cabinets, installing non-slip mats, and taking precautions against drowning hazards, you can transform your bathroom into a sanctuary of relaxation and well-being. Remember, a safe bathroom is a happy bathroom, where everyone can confidently go about their daily routines without worry.