Handicap Bathroom Designs

If you or someone else in your household is handicapped, having a suitable bathroom inside your home is important. Whether you operate a wheelchair or experience difficulty getting around for other reasons, you need an accessible bathroom. Discover handicap bathroom designs that are intended to make your life easier.

Pay special attention to doorways

To accommodate a wheelchair, make sure your bathroom doorway measures at least 32 inches wide. Install a sliding door or a model that swings outward into the hallway when it opens, so you do not block the doorway in case you fall and need help. Place the bathroom light switch within easy reach of the door.

Allow plenty of space

If you use a wheelchair, you need enough room to maneuver this device around the bathroom safely. Calculate the amount of space that is necessary to roll it inside, access the facilities, turn around and exit. Even if you do not ride in a wheelchair, keep clutter to a minimum to reduce the risk of falling or bumping into items.

Take measurements

For easy access, choose a toilet that stands about 18 inches high with grab bars lined up parallel to the floor. Install your sink at a maximum height of around 30 inches if you operate a wheelchair, or place it at about 40 inches high if you can walk but are unable to bend fully. While seated in the wheelchair, check that you can reach the faucet without difficulty.

Pick an appropriate shower or tub

If you install a walk-in shower whose floor is on a level with the rest of your bathroom, you can ride your wheelchair inside this structure. The typical walk-in bathtub is elevated about 4 inches, so it stands much lower than a standard tub does. For additional safety, add non-slip flooring and a handheld shower.

Make life more convenient for you or your handicapped friends and relatives when you add special accommodation arrangements to your home. As you design your bathroom, keep your unique needs in mind. Implement handicap designs to create an inviting, easy-to-use bathroom.