6 Important Bathroom Safety Tips

Soap, water, and hard, slippery surfaces make bathrooms some of the most dangerous areas in the house. Create a hazard-free T&B with these practical tips from interior designer Hannah Acab-Faustino, PIID: 

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1. Install proper lighting.

"Keep the bathroom well-lighted at all times," says Hannah. "Install general lighting, wall lighting, and concealed lighting directed to the floor to avoid accidents. 

2. Go for unglazed tiles. 

"Choose floor tiles that are non-slip," advises Hannah. This is important because bathroom floors are prone to getting wet and slippery. Go for safer, unglazed ceramic tiles for your floor, and save the glazed tiles for your walls. 

3. Install grab bars. 

"Install grab bars in the shower and toilet areas," says the designer. "This is not only true for the elderly, but also for kids." These help you get out of the shower easily, as well as keep your balance while in the tub or shower. 

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4. Hide chemical cleaners away. 

"Put chemicals and household cleaning agents inside compartments and make sure to lock it properly." This will ensure that your kids won't accidentally grab or play with them. Also, store medicines away from sunlight in secure containers. 

5. Install outlets in dry areas. 

The worst kind of bathroom accident is electrocution. "[Mount] electricial outlets away from water sources," cautions Hannah, "and above counter height (900 to 1,000mm). If using water heaters, make sure they aren't easily accessible to curious toddlers. 

6. Lay down bath mats. 

Lay a non-slip mat in your bathtub and put rubber guard on your faucets. This could avoid possible accidents inside your tub, and the rubber guards will also provide another level of safety inside your bathroom. 

This article is from the RL Notebook ("101: Safety First") of the March 2011 issue of Real Living Magazine. Main photo by CapitanGeneral.