As your family grows, so do the needs of your home, and one essential area that requires thoughtful consideration is the bathroom. Designing a family-friendly bathroom ensures that it accommodates the varying requirements of every family member, from young children to teens and adults, and as a mother of two under the age of three, I am still learning the pros and cons to what works well in a family bathroom. Let's explore some key tips for making your bathroom a suitable and functional space for a growing family.
1. Safety First:
Safety should be the top priority when designing a family-friendly bathroom. Install slip-resistant flooring and shower trays to prevent accidents. Consider rounded or soft-edged fixtures to minimise the risk of injuries, especially with young children around. Install grab bars in the bathtub and shower area to provide extra support for all family members, especially seniors. Even the simplicity of a bath mat with ducks on it gives your little one confidence in the bath, and peace of mind as a parent.
2. Ample Storage:
With a growing family, storage space becomes crucial to keep the bathroom organised and clutter-free. Incorporate plenty of storage solutions, such as cabinets, shelves, and baskets, to accommodate everyone's toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials. If you have young children, consider adding smart storage solutions for bath toys. Mesh bags or suction cup organisers can keep toys tidy and easily accessible, or even have a specific box for all their toys that is stored in an airing cupboard, or their bedroom.
3. Double Up on Sinks:
If space permits, consider installing a double vanity or two sinks. This allows multiple family members to use the bathroom simultaneously, making morning and bedtime routines more efficient.
4. Adjustable Fixtures:
Choose fixtures that can be adjusted to suit different family members. For example, a handheld shower head with a flexible hose is convenient for bathing young children, while an adjustable-height shower head can accommodate varying heights in the family.
Now as my little ones grow, they will eventually want to use the shower, however I am going to have to reconsider the type of shower we have because my little girl doesn't enjoy water over her head. I currently have a fixed head single outlet rainfall shower, however I don't feel this is going to be suitable long term and eventually will need to change it to a dual outlet to accommodate the fixed head and a handset.
5. Kid-Friendly Features:
Incorporate kid-friendly elements, such as step stools for little ones to reach the sink or a low-profile bathtub for easy access. You can also use colourful and playful accessories to create a child-friendly ambiance.
6. Easy-to-Clean Surfaces:
With a busy family, cleaning the bathroom can be a frequent task. Opt for easy-to-clean surfaces, such as tile or waterproof wall panels, to simplify maintenance and keep the bathroom looking fresh and hygienic.
7. Consider Future Needs:
As your family continues to grow, think about future needs. Design the bathroom with features that can adapt as your children grow older or to accommodate elderly family members if needed. For example, comfort height toilets may not be suitable for young children for getting on and off easily, but they would be suitable particularly for taller individuals or those with mobility issues, eg; bad back or bad knees.
8. Family-Friendly Decor:
Choose a decor theme that appeals to all family members. A neutral and timeless design with pops of colour through accessories allows for flexibility and can suit the changing tastes of children as they grow older.
Before I conclude, here are my Top Three Family Bathroom Things to Consider;
1) Freestanding bath - If this is your main bathing area for young kids, consider the practically of this. Kids like to splash, so you could end up with water pooling is hard to reach places. Also bare in mind most freestanding baths have higher sides so this could affect children getting in and out safely, also you as a parent leaning over into the bath could be more challenging then a standard bath.
2) Digital Showers - How many times have you had to tell your teenage daughter to hurry up out of the shower? How many times have you found that perfect temperature, for it to be lost when someone else who prefers it hotter? Digital showers have more features that allow you to personalise your showering experience with different user preferences. Furthermore, you now have the ability to turn your shower on or off through an app on your phone. Perfect for when someone has out stayed their welcome.
3) Robe Hooks - This may seem like a strange one to consider, but if you have the space it's a perfect little accessory to have in your bathroom. How often do you find towels on the floor, hung over the shower screen or bath or just crammed into the heated towel rail? Giving each member of the family a specific hook for their towel will eliminate the mess and keep you bathroom looking tidy.
In conclusion, designing a family-friendly bathroom involves thoughtful planning and consideration of everyone's needs. Safety, ample storage, adjustable fixtures, and kid-friendly elements are key factors to keep in mind. By creating a space that accommodates all family members and considers their varying needs, you'll have a bathroom that fosters harmony, efficiency, and enjoyment for every member of your growing family.
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