Beyond a Walk-In Bathtub: Additional Ways to Make Bathing Safer
2 min read
Nobody wants to give up their independence while bathing—and thanks to walk-in tubs, those with reduced mobility often don’t have to. The low step and entry door make it possible to get in safely and unassisted in and out of a tub. But there are still plenty of risks involved with bathing for those who have reduced mobility. Here are a few other things you can do to make bathing alone safer for you.
Have Everything Nearby
Before you step into your tub, make sure you have everything you might need for your bath close by. Ensure the remote for controlling your tub’s jets and lights is where it should be, your towel is accessible, and anything you want to use during your bath (book, phone, tablet, music player, etc.) is within easy reach. You don’t want to be standing and leaning over the edge of your tub to try to reach anything.
Install a Towel Bar
In relation to the above, make sure you have a towel bar installed close by your tub. Some walk-in tubs will already have a towel bar installed on the outside of the entry door, but if yours doesn’t, hang one up close by so that you’re never without your towel. Walking across the floor with wet feet to grab it after your bath is an unnecessary slipping hazard.
Use a Bath Mat
Wet feet on tile are always a slipping hazard, whether you have your towel with you or not. Minimize the risk of slipping and falling after your bath by placing a bath mat right outside the entry door of your tub. You’ll make your baths a little safer while keeping your feet warm and toasty by keeping them away from the cold tile.
Keep Mobility Aids Close
If you rely on a cane or walker to get around, don’t try to get into the tub without it. Even if you feel like you can get into the tub fine, you might feel differently when you get out. It is always better to have your mobility aid close by in case you need it.
Add Grab Bars
Walk-in tubs always come with safety handles installed inside the tub. However, it might be worth installing a few in the areas around your tub as well. Place one outside your tub, where you stand to put on your bathrobe. Place one at the bathroom doorway to ensure the change of flooring doesn’t trip you up. Anywhere you might need a little extra balance is an excellent place for a grab bar or safety handle.
These habits and additional features will make using your walk-in bathtub even safer so that you can bathe independently with total confidence.
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