By Kerry Hale

The Ultimate Guide to Bathroom Accessibility

  • Thursday 18 July 2024
  • 4 minute read

Improving accessibility in your bathroom involves making the space work for you and your needs. Whether switching to a wet room or installing a digital shower, there are plenty of ways to improve accessibility and future-proof your bathroom.

Read on and discover how to create your ultimate accessible bathroom for independent living.

Why future-proof your bathroom?

Accessible bathrooms are a great investment for yourself and your loved ones. They help protect you against slips, trips and falls and provide peace of mind for loved ones. For people with disabilities or mobility needs, future-proofed bathrooms help insure against any potential accidents.

What is an accessible bathroom?

Accessible bathrooms put your safety first. They’re specially designed with non-slip surfaces, walk-in showers and bathtubs, grab bars and user-friendly controls to make life easier and minimise the risk of injury.

Design ideas for accessible bathrooms

Accessible bathrooms have more equipment, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look great. They can be personalised to suit your needs and space. Sleek handrails are functional and stylish, and open-plan bathrooms are roomy and minimalist. There are plenty of designs to choose from

Wet rooms

Wet rooms are sealed to prevent humidity and water damage. They are single-level and can be fitted with accessible enclosures, so there’s no need for bulky step-in shower cubicles or drop-in baths.

Accessible enclosures

Accessible shower enclosures have sliding, folding or half-height doors for easy entry and waterproof seals to prevent spills. They’re curbless or level-access for step-free entry and wide enough for wheelchairs and walkers

Digital showers

Digital showers use smart technology for precise control. Mira digital showers feature thermostatic temperature stability to prevent scalds and keep showering safe for all. Personalise your settings, adjusting temperature, spray pattern and pressure for the perfect shower.

Shower controls

Smart showers are user-friendly, featuring light-up displays for those with limited visibility and push-button control to make showering easier for everyone.

Adjustable shower heads

Adjustable shower heads might be more manageable, offering a greater range of motion for those with accessibility needs. Dual shower heads provide the flexibility of adjustable shower heads and the spray coverage of fixed shower heads.

Over-bath showers

Over-bath showers offer the benefits of baths and showers, the ideal accessible solution for shared bathrooms. When fitted with a shower seat, bath and shower controls are easily managed from a seated position.

Non-slip shower trays

Non-slip shower trays are textured to prevent slips and falls while bathing. Anti-slip shower mats are also available and easily installed.

 

Visit our accessible bathroom accessories guide to explore every option.

Shower seats

Shower seats offer support for those with mobility needs, easing pressure on the legs. You might find it easier from a seated position to wash thoroughly without awkwardly stretching, balancing and risking injury.

Grab rails

Grab rails also offer stability and can be positioned throughout the room, near taps and toilets, and in showers and baths.

Shower curtains or doors

You’ll need to consider whether a shower curtain or door is right for you when you design your bathroom. Glass doors can impede wheelchairs and walking aids, and you may be more likely to injure yourself by falling against the glass. Shower curtains are more flexible and can be easier to operate

Bathroom storage

There are many accessible bathroom storage solutions to keep your accessible bathroom clutter-free. Recessed washbasins for wheelchair users can be fitted with low-level cabinets on either side for easy access. Other accessible storage solutions include pull-down cabinet shelves, open storage and roll-out drawers. Bathroom ottomans are a great solution for those with accessibility needs because they double as seats

Non-slip floors

It’s important to avoid glossy flooring when designing your accessible bathroom. Instead, choose vinyl flooring that’s non-slip coated and water-resistant, or opt for smaller tiles with more grout to improve grip and reduce the chances of slips and falls.

Lighting

Sufficient lighting is essential for those with visibility issues or mobility needs, as impeded vision can lead to accidents. Low-wattage waterproof lights should be fitted above showers, baths, toilets and taps for safety.

Extractor fans

Extractor fans help you manage the humidity and temperature of your bathroom. This is especially useful for those with respiratory or thermoregulation issues who must ensure a controlled environment

Independent living

From wet rooms and walk-ins to shower seats, showerheads and shower trays, discover the Mira independent living range and create your ultimate accessible bathroom. Mira Advance electric showers are designed for safety and reliability, featuring audio enhancement, temperature control and visual optimisation.

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