10 Things to consider including in an accessible bathroom

Everyone knows the bathroom is a sacred space. But for people with disabilities, like mobility issues, the elderly, and those with special needs, it can be hard to navigate. This is why prioritising accessibility is necessary while renovating or planning your bathroom designs.

To create a bathroom designed for accessibility, ensure it complies with Australian Standard 1428.1. For example, sinks, mirrors, and grab rails should be at a certain height for easier use. But that’s not all your new bathroom will need! For a complete list of what to include in your disabled bathroom renovations, read more below!

1. Sliding doors

Which is better: Outward-opening doors or sliding doors? Sliding doors are preferable as they’re easier to open and give anyone access in an emergency. They’re perfect for all bathroom sizes, too! They don’t take up too much space and eliminate the difficulty of swinging it open. Plus, it’s an easy way to add style to your space while still being mindful of the needs of every family member.

2. Pedestal sink

Bathroom sinks usually have cabinets underneath them for storing toilet paper, cleansers, and more. For your disability bathroom renovation, make sure it’s a pedestal sink—mounted on the wall and has no cabinet underneath—with enough knee space for wheelchairs! These types of facilities are beneficial for aged care down the line.

3. Single-handle faucet

Tap handles come in various designs, such as automatic sensor taps and those with longer levers! For an accessible bathroom, go for single handles, as the small motion of opening and closing the tap is easier to maneuver instead of twisting it open. Functional and stylish, all in one.

4. Lower or tilted mirror

Whether your bathroom is for seniors or people with mobility issues, a lower or tilted mirror will benefit them greatly. Either one will help your loved ones see themselves better without standing up! Mounting them on walls is better for safety, reducing the risk of bumping into them. This is also a neat way for anyone to access their vanities, should they need to do a touch-up or self-care routine.

Avoid putting a medicine cabinet behind the mirrors, too, as it can be difficult for them to reach. Instead, go for lower open shelves or cabinets so they can effortlessly access all the products they need.

5. Grab rails in the bath

Grab rails come in a variety of shapes and sizes. When you or your loved one feel unsteady or need some support moving, a grab bar will be there for you! It’s one of the best accessible bathroom accessories in the shower or bath, where one usually needs help sitting, standing up, or walking.

6. Flat, walk-in shower space

Steps and uneven floors are dangerous for seniors and people with locomotor issues as they might miss them and accidentally fall. To keep you and your family safe, opt for a flat, walk-in shower space with no sliding doors or bathtubs.

Place shampoos, loofahs, and other bath products on a lower shelf so everyone can reach whatever they need!

7. A shower seat or bench

A must-have in any bathroom renovation for a disabled person or difficulty with mobility. If you or your loved one struggle to stand continuously while bathing, install a functional seat or bench! This could be a fold-down bench, a portable stool, or a mounted/fixed bench.

8. Anti-slip shower mats

Safety is of utmost importance when doing a bathroom renovation for the disabled. If you’re worried about slipping in the shower with water on the floor or slippery tiles, install a removable anti-slip shower mat. However, check it’s flat before bathing to prevent stumbles and accidents.

9. Raised toilet

ADA guidelines require toilet seats to be between 43-48cm (17-19 inches) high as it’s the most comfortable height for all users! Wondering how it’ll make a difference? A higher toilet seat makes it easier for seniors and people with mobility issues to sit, stand, and transfer to a walker or wheelchair!

Install a toilet paper dispenser near the toilet so there’s no need to get up and find it, and a bidet for those who can’t twist and turn to clean themselves.

10. Lower light switches

When working with a bathroom designer, consider the height of the new bathroom user when installing light switches. If you want all bathrooms in your home accessible, ensure the light switches are lowered for anyone using a cane, a walker, or a wheelchair.

Build a bathroom everyone can easily use

Before hiring a bathroom contractor for their services and officially starting the renovations, make a checklist of what you want your accessible bathroom to have! Ideally, it should have a pedestal sink, a higher toilet, lower light switches, grab bars or rails, and a flat shower area—so everyone who lives in your home (or visits) can use it without any complications.

While building an accessible bathroom can take more time, effort, and money, working with a reputable bathroom renovation expert is essential instead of doing it yourself. Airtasker has a variety of professionals to choose from. The best one will consider your budget, design requirements, the amount of bathroom space you have, ventilation, and plumbing, and you will be aware of the guidelines for disabled bathrooms!