When it comes to fall prevention, the bathroom is one of the riskiest rooms in the house. Slippery floors, awkward spaces, and poor lighting all add up to a place where one wrong step can lead to a serious injury.
The good news? You can make your bathroom much safer, and it doesn’t always have to break the bank. Here are a few practical upgrades to create a fall-resistant bathroom—without sacrificing comfort or independence.
1. Add Grab Bars in Key Places
Grab bars aren’t just for commercial bathrooms anymore—they’re stylish, sturdy, and incredibly helpful. The two most important spots?
- Inside the shower or tub
- Beside the toilet
They give you something to hold onto when standing, sitting, or catching your balance—and they’re easy to match to your bathroom’s style.
2. Throw (Away) the Throw Rugs
Throw rugs may look nice, but they’re a common tripping hazard. Replace them with non-slip mats that grip the floor and stay in place. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
3. Light the Way
Falls often happen at night, when lighting is low and vision is limited. Consider adding night lights or motion-sensing lights so you’re never walking into a dark bathroom. Your toes—and your hips—will thank you.
4. Reconsider the Tub
Getting in and out of a standard bathtub is one of the hardest and most dangerous movements as we age. You’ve got options:
- Upgrade to a walk-in shower
- Or for a cheaper alternative, install a tub cut or tub insert to reduce the step-over height
Both reduce fall risk and make bathing easier for anyone with mobility concerns.
5. Use Non-Slip Shower Mats or Shower Flooring
Just like with floors, a slick shower surface can spell disaster. Non-slip mats inside or slip-resistant flooring in the shower or tub help prevent slips when soap and water are involved. Make sure they’re secured well and cleaned regularly.
6. Rethink Where You Store Soap and Shampoo
If you need to bend down or stretch to reach the soap, it’s time to move things around. Place toiletries on easy-to-reach shelves or dispensers at waist height. This reduces the chance of slipping while twisting or reaching.
Final Thoughts
Creating a safer bathroom doesn’t have to mean a full remodel. Just a few smart upgrades can reduce fall risk and make daily routines much easier.
Need help knowing where to start? COR Freedom specializes in home safety solutions and can recommend the right changes for your home, your goals, and your budget.