One of the most underrated rooms in the home is also one of the most important – the bathroom. Not only is it a place of personal hygiene; it’s also a place to relax and unwind, and a playful area for kids.
If you have the chance to design or redo your family bathroom, here are some things to think about:
Obviously, the size of the bathroom is important when considering what needs to be available. Everyone has their own preferences, but in most cases the bathroom needs to have a toilet, a bathtub and a basin.
In order to cater for the smallest members of the family, it’s always a good idea to keep a stool or a little step handy, so they can reach necessary spots by themselves, with ease and autonomy. Similarly, towel bars and hooks should not be placed too high, so as to allow for efficient and easy toilet training, washing hands or brushing teeth.
When it comes to the basin counters, it’s best to choose a design without sharp edges, and one that doesn’t protrude too far forward. This will not only take up space, but will also increase the risk of corner bashings. You also want the little ones to reach the taps on their own.
A bathtub is essential for kids. Not only is it a play pot, but it’s also safer to have them sit in a pool of water than stand in a shower, even once they are able to stand. Make sure there is a sticky mat at the base of the bath to prevent slipping. A textured rug just outside the tub is great for absorbing splashes, and keeps feet warm in winter before climbing into the bath.
You can attach a corded showerhead to the bath for rinsing hair or to cater for those who prefer to shower. When this option is selected, it’s important to consider shielding the water from splashing all over the bathroom floor. Shower curtains will require a complementary railing, or you can install a glass door or sheath separating the tub from the rest of the room. Depending on your style and further finances, you can even install two showerhead taps, making it possible for a couple to shower simultaneously or for young toddler siblings to playfully shower next to each other as they graduate from tub to shower.
Because light is generally favoured in the bathroom, a mirror will cater for all hygienic requirements, cosmetic applications and even administering medicine to little ones. Traditionally mirrors are placed above the basin, where they are most functional, but you can select a wall in the bathroom for a large mirror; this also makes the room look bigger. You can measure your kid’s height with a water crayon, stick foam animals on the mirror while the bathtub dries.
Colours and tiling are entirely stylistic preferences. Crisp, cool, lighter shades are more predictable, but your bathroom need not necessarily be a neutral, monotone spot. Just remember that a family bathroom reflects multiple personalities, so floral, romantic or dramatic prints and designs might not be as much fun for toddlers, and may make them spend less time there.
Also, be cognisant of bathroom furnishings and walls. An air filter should be present to ensure no mould or bacteria build-up as a result of steam. Remember that fancy, decorative items in the bathroom are not particularly categorised as child-friendly.
A rack that will hold soaps, shampoos and other paraphernalia is a great idea for open storage, if you don’t have small cupboards or choose not to install them. And a breathable laundry basket in the corner of the room will prevent accumulation of laundry on the floor.
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