Grab Bars and Beyond: Stylish Safety Features for Bathrooms

What is most important to you when remodeling your bathroom? For some, it’s creating a more beautiful space, while others want to add features that will help prevent injuries. When you hire Express Bath, you don’t have to choose between safety and aesthetics. We proudly install stylish safety features for bathrooms so homeowners can feel safe and secure while using their beautifully designed spaces. 

Our bathroom remodeling experts are here to ensure that all of your bathroom safety concerns are addressed. We’d love to chat with you to learn about your biggest worries and tell you more about the products that will work best in your space.

To get started, please call us at 256-292-9322 or contact us online today. 

Modern bathroom with safety features such as a barrier-free shower, grab bar, and shower seat

Stylish Safety Features for Bathrooms

Consider adding any (or all!) of the following features to create a safer bathroom: 

Grab Barsbathtub and shower with a grab bar

Grab bars offer essential support and stability for individuals with mobility challenges. Strategically placed in showers and alongside bathtubs, grab bars provide a secure handhold that helps prevent slips and falls, significantly reducing the risk of bathroom-related injuries. 

Modern grab bars come in a variety of finishes and designs, allowing them to blend seamlessly with contemporary bathroom decor while maintaining functionality. By incorporating these stylish yet practical features, you can create a safer environment without compromising on aesthetic appeal. 

Accessible Storage

Thoughtfully designed pull-out shelves and storage bins can make everyday toiletries and cleaning supplies more accessible, reducing the need for bending, reaching, or straining. These storage solutions can be customized to match your bathroom’s aesthetic, using high-quality materials that complement the overall decor. 

Innovative designs like under-sink organizers, wall-mounted cabinets, and vertical storage options can maximize space while maintaining a sleek, clutter-free appearance. 

Anti-Scald Valves

Did you know there are about 5,000 serious injuries from scalding tap water each year? Anti-scald valves are designed to automatically regulate water temperature, preventing it from exceeding safe levels and reducing the risk of burns. 

Available in various designs that seamlessly blend with contemporary faucets and showerheads, these valves ensure safety and comfort without compromising style. By incorporating anti-scald technology, homeowners can enhance the safety of their bathrooms, providing peace of mind and a luxurious bathing experience for all family members. 

Barrier-Free ShowersSleek new barrier free shower with shower safety features

Characterized by their level entries and lack of thresholds, barrier-free showers eliminate tripping hazards, making them ideal for elderly family members, those with disabilities, and people with mobility challenges. The sleek, open design offers easy access while creating a modern, spacious look that can be customized with frameless glass enclosures and contemporary fixtures. 

Adding a barrier-free shower into your bathroom design helps to create a chic space that prioritizes safety without sacrificing style. 

Slip-Resistant Flooring

Another important and stylish safety feature for any bathroom is slip-resistant flooring. Designed to minimize the risk of slips and falls, especially in wet areas, these floors come in a variety of materials, all engineered to provide a firm grip underfoot. 

Modern slip-resistant flooring options come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to create a chic and cohesive look that complements your overall bathroom design. 

Raised Toilet Seat

Raised toilet seats are a practical bathroom safety feature that significantly enhances accessibility and comfort. These seats elevate the toilet height, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues, the elderly, and those recovering from surgery to sit down and stand up with minimal strain. 

Available in various designs, raised toilet seats can seamlessly blend with any bathroom decor, from sleek modern aesthetics to classic styles. Many models feature ergonomic designs and cushioned surfaces, that add a touch of comfort to your space. Some even come with integrated arms or handles that provide additional support, making the bathroom safer. 

Walk-In TubsRane walk in bathtub

Another option to consider for your remodel is a walk-in tub. Our walk-in tubs are elegant and highly functional bathroom safety options, combining accessibility with luxurious design. These tubs come with a low-threshold door, allowing easy entry and exit, which is particularly helpful for those with mobility challenges. Walk-in tubs also feature built-in seating, slip-resistant surfaces, and strategically placed grab bars, enhancing safety and comfort. 

Available in several styles and finishes, walk-in tubs can be customized to fit seamlessly into any bathroom decor, whether contemporary, traditional, or anything in between. Integrating a walk-in tub into your space can strike the perfect balance between safety and style. 

Proper Lighting

The right lighting in your bathroom is key to creating a functional and visually appealing space. Well-planned lighting design can illuminate the room effectively while minimizing shadows and glare so it’s easier to move around the space. LED fixtures, recessed lighting, and stylish pendant lights can enhance visibility and ambiance, making everyday bathroom tasks easier and safer. 

Adding proper lighting during your remodel can help reduce the risk of accidents and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the space. 

Shower SeatsNo-threshold shower with a shower seat

Shower seats or benches offer a comfortable and secure place to sit while bathing, adding elegance and convenience to any bathroom. Available in numerous designs, materials, and finishes, shower seats can complement any bathroom decor, from sleek and modern to traditional and rustic. 

Whether you opt for a built-in bench or a fold-down seat, you can create a spa-like atmosphere while ensuring safety and accessibility. Shower seats also pair well with other bathroom accessories we’ve mentioned like grab bars and slip-resistant flooring for added security. 

Rounded Edges

When you choose vanities, countertops, and fixtures with softly curved edges instead of sharp corners, you can create a more visually appealing space while reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Rounded edges add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the bathroom, without you having to worry about injuries like you might with sharp edges. 

Whether incorporated into sleek modern designs or classic traditional spaces, rounded edges offer a subtle yet impactful way to prioritize safety without sacrificing style. 

Smart Home Bathroom Features

Have you considered adding smart home features to your bathroom? From voice-activated lighting and temperature controls to automated faucets and mirrors, these cutting-edge technologies add a modern flair to the bathroom while providing convenience and accessibility for users of all abilities. 

When you incorporate these innovative technologies, you can create a bathroom that, while stylish, also prioritizes safety and comfort for all members of the family. 

Who Benefits From Adding Safety Features to the Bathroom?

Adding the above safety features to your bathroom can benefit many different people. Let’s take a closer look at how various people in your life will appreciate a safer bathroom. 

Seniors

With mobility often compromised due to age-related conditions, such as arthritis or balance issues, safety features provide essential support, making it easier for seniors to navigate the bathroom safely. 

By incorporating safety measures like grab bars and shower seats, elderly individuals can confidently maintain their personal hygiene routines while reducing the likelihood of slips, falls, and other accidents and preserving their dignity and independence. 

Those With Disabilities

For individuals with disabilities, bathroom safety features are essential to enhance accessibility and independence. Adding the right features to your home can make navigating the bathroom easier and safer, promoting autonomy and self-care. 

When you remodel your bathroom to incorporate these features, it will make it easier to streamline daily tasks and reduce physical strain while fostering a sense of dignity, comfort, and well-being. 

Children

While many bathroom safety features are geared toward seniors, children also greatly benefit from adding these accessories to your space. Slip-resistant flooring, for example, can help you feel confident that your children are at a lower risk of injury while walking on wet surfaces. 

When you integrate these safety measures, the bathroom can become a nurturing space where your children can gain independence and self-care skills while you have peace of mind that your little ones are protected. 

Those Recovering From Surgery or Injuries

Bathroom safety features can facilitate a smoother and easier recovery process when recovering from surgery or injuries. Features like shower benches and grab bars provide extra support and stability, helping you perform daily hygiene tasks with reduced strain and risk of further injury. 

Updating your bathroom to include safety features lets you set your focus on your recovery journey.

Caregivers

Caregivers also benefit from bathroom safety features, as these amenities can enhance the well-being of those under their care. Incorporating these accessories can help reduce the risk of accidents and minimize the need for constant supervision, giving caregivers peace of mind. 

Adding these safety features, the bathroom can become a safer and more efficient space, allowing caregivers to provide quality care with confidence and ease. 

Here to Help You Create a Stylishly Safe Bathroom

Now that you know more about the different safety features for bathrooms, which ones do you need in your space? Whether you want to make small changes in your bathroom or are ready for a full renovation, our experts at Express Bath are here to help every step of the way.

Call us at 256-292-9322 or contact us online to request a free quote today.

Experience Bath Safety Month with Express Bath

This National Bath Safety Month, make the safety of your loved ones a top priority. Fast-track your way to a secure bathroom experience by reaching out to Express Bath today. Transform your space and indulge in the luxury of safety. 

While you’re here, check out these resources that put a spotlight on how we prioritize safety when designing your bathroom remodel:

tub to shower conversions safety

Shower-to-Tub Conversion: Is It Worth It?

When you’re planning a bathroom remodel, it can be hard to decide how to prioritize the changes you want to make. Is your primary goal to make your bathroom safer? Or maybe making design changes is more important? Our experts at Express Bath are here to help you decide which updates are most worth it. A shower-to-tub conversion is one update our customers ask us about often. 

If you’re trying to decide whether to convert your shower to a comfortable soaking bathtub, this guide can help. When you’re ready to get one step closer to creating the bathroom of your dreams, please call us at 256-502-9587 or contact us online to request a free quote. 

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A Shower-to-Tub Conversion Is Worth It If…

If you relate to any of the following, then a shower-to-tub conversion could be the perfect choice for your bathroom remodel. 

benefits of a walk-in tub

You Want to Create a More Accessible Bathing Area

As you get older, it’s not uncommon to realize that it’s harder to stand for long periods of time. In that case, converting your shower area to a walk-in tub is a great way to make your bathroom more accessible. 

Our walk-in bathtubs are designed with safety in mind, featuring:

  • A secure, easy-to-use door with a low threshold
  • A comfortable heated or cooled seat
  • Grab bars that make it easy to climb in and out
  • A handheld shower head for safe bathing
  • Premium water jets 

Converting your shower to a walk-in tub is the perfect way to create a safer bathing experience for seniors planning to age in place. 

You Want to Simplify Your Cleaning Routine

Are you sick of scrubbing your shower each week, only for it to still look grimy after it’s all said and done? All of our bathtubs are made from high-quality acrylic, which is easier to clean compared to tiled showers. 

When you replace your old shower with an acrylic bathtub, you’ll appreciate that the material has silver ion technology, which helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. As a result, it will be easier to keep your bathing area clean so you can get more time back in your day. 

You Want an Easy Way to Bathe Kids and Pets

If you have small children or dogs, you know that bathtime can feel nearly impossible if you only have a walk-in shower. The easiest way to make bath time a breeze is to replace your shower with a bathtub. 

Most kids love to splash around in the bathtub, so they will actually enjoy bath time, which makes your life easier. Dogs are also much easier to clean when contained in a bathtub, so the next time Fido has a little too much fun playing in the mud, you won’t have to take a trip to the groomer. 

You Want to Improve Your Home’s Value

Do you plan to sell your home in the next few years? If so, it’s important to keep prospective buyers in mind when remodeling your bathroom. The majority of buyers want at least one bathtub when buying a home, particularly if they have young children. 

If you currently only have walk-in showers in your home, then converting one to a bathtub can be a high-value project that will make your home appeal to more buyers when you decide to sell. 

You Want to Take Advantage of the Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Did you know that soaking in a hot bath can benefit your health? Hydrotherapy can help those with poor circulation and arthritis better manage those conditions in the comfort of their own home. 

This can not only help you stay more comfortable, but it can also help you save money by allowing you to take advantage of hydrotherapy at home instead of at a spa. 

You Want to Create a More Relaxing Space in Your Home

No one can deny that soaking in a warm bath is one of the most relaxing things you can do after a long day. If you want to create a little slice of heaven in your bathroom, converting your shower to a tub is the best way to do it. 

Our bathtubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can create a comfortable, relaxing space you’ll use nearly every day. 

Express Bath Showroom

Trust Express Bath for Your Shower-to-Tub Conversion

Now that you’ve read this post, do you feel like a shower-to-tub conversion is the right choice for your family? If so, you can trust the experts at Express Bath to complete your project for a price that works with your budget. To get started, please call 256-502-9587 or contact us online.

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Your Complete Guide to Jacuzzi® Bathtub Maintenance

Jetted Jacuzzi® bathtubs are a luxury addition to any home, providing a relaxing and soothing bathing experience. They also come with a whole host of benefits; Jacuzzi® tubs are low maintenance, durable, and easy to install. To ensure your Jacuzzi® bathtub remains in top-notch condition and continues to deliver the ultimate hydrotherapy experience, proper maintenance is essential. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the essential steps and best practices to maintain and care for your Jacuzzi® tub effectively. If you don’t yet have a tub but you’re interested in how we here at Express Bath can create the bathroom of your dreams, call us at 256-330-6478 or contact us online.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is the foundation of Jacuzzi® bathtub maintenance. A clean tub not only looks appealing, but also operates optimally. Begin by using a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces of the tub. Be sure to clean the jets, air injectors, and other components to prevent the buildup of soap scum, bacteria, and mold. 

It’s also recommended to run an empty cycle with warm water and a cleaning solution once a month. This helps to flush out any residue from the jets and internal plumbing. 

Flushing the Jets

Over time, debris and minerals can accumulate in the jets, affecting their performance. To address this, it’s crucial to flush the jets periodically. 

Start by filling the tub with warm water and adding a designated jet cleaner. Run the jets for 10-15 minutes to flush out any buildup. For a deeper clean, consider using a pipe-cleaning product specifically designed for Jacuzzi® bathtubs. 

Inspecting and Sealing

Regular inspections are vital to identifying and addressing any potential issues with your Jacuzzi® bathtub. Check for any signs of damage, cracks, or leaks in the tub’s structure. If you notice any issues, it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent further damage. 

Additionally, ensure that the seal around the bathtub is intact to prevent water leakage. If you observe any deterioration or areas where the sealant has come loose, reseal the tub to maintain its watertight integrity. If you need a hand, don’t hesitate to reach out to your trusted experts here at Express Bath.  

balancing water chemistry for Jacuzzi® bathtub maintenanceBalancing Water Chemistry

Proper water chemistry is vital to the longevity of your Jacuzzi® bathtub. Test the water regularly, using a water testing kit to maintain the right pH and alkalinity levels. Imbalance of water chemistry can cause corrosion and damage to the bathtub’s components. 

Use a water testing kit to measure the pH, alkalinity and sanitizer levels of the water. Adjust the chemicals as needed to maintain a healthy balance. Additionally, be cautious about the type and amount of chemicals you introduce into the water, as excessive use can damage the tub’s surface. 

Replacing Filters

The filters in your Jacuzzi® bathtub play a crucial role in maintaining water clarity and quality. They trap debris, oils, and other particles, preventing them from re-entering the water. Over time, these filters can become clogged and less effective.

Replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or when you notice reduced water flow. Typically, filters should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. However if you notice an issue, replace them immediately. Additionally, clean the filters regularly to prolong their lifespan.

Emptying and Refilling

Regularly emptying and refilling your Jacuzzi® bathtub is essential for maintaining a fresh and clean bathing experience. Depending on usage, aim to drain and refill your Jacuzzi® bathtub every 1 to 3 months.

When you empty the tub, take the opportunity to thoroughly clean the surfaces and jets. Use a mild cleaner to wipe down the interior, paying attention to areas prone to residue buildup. This routine will keep your Jacuzzi® bathtub pristine and inviting for each use. 

white tub with an elderly woman

Other Best Practices for Jacuzzi® Bathtub Maintenance

Use Recommended Cleaning Products

Always use cleaning products recommended by the Jacuzzi® bathtub manufacturer. These products are specifically formulated to be gentle on the tub’s surfaces while effectively cleaning and disinfecting.

Mind the Water Temperature

Avoid using excessively hot water in your Jacuzzi® bathtub. High temperatures can cause damage to the tub’s components and may also affect the effectiveness of the jets and air injectors. 

Limit the Use of Bath Oils and Salts

While adding bath oils and salts can enhance your bathing experience, excessive use can leave residue in the tub and potentially clog the jets. Use them sparingly to avoid maintenance issues. 

Properly Caring for Your Jacuzzi® Tub

Your Jacuzzi® bathtub is a valuable investment that deserves proper care and maintenance. By incorporating the steps outlined in this guide and following best practices, you can ensure that your Jacuzzi® bathtub remains in excellent condition for years to come. 

Remember, a well-maintained Jacuzzi® bathtub not only provides a relaxing retreat but also adds significant value to your home. Make Jacuzzi® bathtub maintenance a routine, and relish the blissful and revitalizing bathing experience your tub offers. Remember to regularly clean, inspect, and balance the water chemistry and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Keep your luxury intact, ensuring every soak is a rejuvenating escape. 

If you need more information on how to properly maintain your Jacuzzi® bathtub, please call 256-330-6478 or contact us online.

Is a Tub to Shower Conversion Right for Your Bathroom Remodel?

Did you know that the average person spends about 190 days of their life bathing? That’s equivalent to more than 6 months! You don’t want to spend all that time in a space you don’t truly love. If your bathtub is no longer serving you, consider a tub to shower conversion to upgrade your space and make bathing a luxurious experience every day. 

Continue reading to find out if it makes sense to convert your old bathtub into a beautiful new shower.

You Have Another Bathtub in Your Home

For resell purposes, and as a matter of practicality, you’ll want to have at least one bathtub in your home. While you might not use your tub every day, it’s nice to have one on hand if you have young children, you want to bathe your pets, or you’re hosting guests. If you only have one bathtub in your home, converting it to a shower may not be the best option. 

You Want Your Bathroom to Look and Feel Bigger

Since a bathtub takes up more room than a shower, converting your tub can make your bathroom look and feel larger. By installing a shower, you’ll get more square footage back in your bathroom that you can use for storage space or other functionalities that fit your family’s needs. 

You Want Your Bathroom to Look More Modern

Does your current bathroom’s design feel outdated? You can make your whole bathroom look more modern by replacing your old tub with a sleek new shower. Our showers come in a variety of different styles and colors so you can create a space that looks straight out of a design magazine.

You Want to Boost Your Home Value

Whether you’re planning to sell your home in the next few years or not, increasing your home value is never a bad thing. Open, modern, and luxurious bathroom spaces appeal to buyers, so remodeling your bathroom is one of the highest-value projects you can do in your home. 

You Want to Lower Your Water Bill

Now, we can’t promise that you’ll save hundreds of dollars on your water bill by replacing your tub with a shower. But, bathtubs require much more water than showers. So, if you replace your long soaks with showers instead, you just might notice your bill go down. 

You Want Your Space to Be More Accessible

Perhaps most importantly, replacing your bathtub with a shower can make it easier for you or your loved ones to bathe. As we get older and our mobility levels change, stepping in and out of a tub becomes more of a tripping hazard. Our showers have a low threshold so you don’t have to worry about tripping. They also come with available safety features like grab bars and built-in seating, which is perfect if you’re planning to age in place. 

Schedule Your Tub to Shower Conversion Project

Now that you’ve read this guide, you should have a better idea of whether a tub to shower conversion makes sense for your home and your family. If you’re ready to transform your space, look no further than the Express Bath team to tackle the project. 

We have special offers to make your bathroom remodel more affordable than ever. Contact us today to get started!

Supporting Our Community: Pedal Into Spring 5K Run

Here at Express Bath, we recognize the importance of supporting our community and giving back whenever possible. On April 23, 2022, we were proud to be one of several local business sponsors at the Pedal Into Spring 5K Run to support local children in need. 

The event, put on by No Fences Cowboy Church of Morgan County in Falkville, AL, consisted of a 5K and 1-mile fun run fundraiser in an effort to raise money for local kids in need. The donations raised from the Pedal Into Spring 5K Run event will go towards purchasing 100 bicycles for students who attend Sparkman, Danville, and Falkville schools. 

The Church’s mission is to show the goodness of Jesus and bring joy to children in the area through the gift of a bicycle that they can enjoy for years. Event organizer, [INSERT NAME HERE], said after the event, “The race went great, thanks to all of our sponsors! It was so much fun and we can’t wait to get the bikes out to the kids in our community.”

If you’d like to help support this incredible cause that gives back to Alabama youth, you can make a donation here

Thank you to all of our customers who make it possible for us to give back to those in need. We couldn’t do it without you!

Make Your Life Easier With Walk-In Tubs

Bathrooms can be very dangerous for people of all ages. In fact, according to the CDC, there are about 235,000 visits to the emergency room each year because of injuries in the bathroom. However, many of these injuries can be prevented by practicing bath and shower safety.

If you are looking for a bathroom solution to keep you safe, you should consider getting a walk-in tub. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of walk-in tubs and more!

1. Safer Alternative

First and foremost, having a walk-in bathtub is a much safer alternative to a shower or another type of tub. There are many injuries that commonly occur in bathtubs and showers.

These injuries are a daily occurrence and include slips, trips, and falls. These can lead to head injuries, neck injuries, and more.

However, walk-in tubs eliminate the risk. Rather than stepping over a tall bathtub wall to get into your tub or shower, walk-in tubs allow you to simply step into your shower. There is a small ledge that acts as a threshold to your tub. It is low enough to walk over so you won’t lose your balance as you enter or exit your tub!

The door to your walk-in tub also seals to prevent water from leaking out while you bathe. This means that you can let the water drain entirely from your tub before you get out of the tub, reducing the risk of slipping.

These tubs also include safety rails and other features that increase the safety of a walk-in tub. A walk-in bathtub is a great option for people of any age!

2. Great for Hydrotherapy

Another great benefit of walk-in tubs is that they are good for hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is also used as water therapy. It can help with many injuries, types of pain, and chronic conditions.

In walk-in bathtubs, they include many jets and massage features that help people with many types of pain. For example, these tubs can help with joint pain, arthritis, and even stiffness!

Another benefit of hydrotherapy through walk-in tubs is that they can improve your circulation. Whether you struggle with diabetes, a heart condition, or poor circulation, this is a great option that can help you with your health problems.

3. Allows Independence

If you are looking for a great bathroom feature that allows you to retain your independence as you age, a walk-in tub is a perfect option. One of the main benefits of these tubs is that they allow you to age in place.

Rather than moving to an assisted living or retirement center when you get older, having safety features in your home will let you live in your current home for longer.

This also means that you will not need help from another person when you are bathing. The easy access to the walk-in tubs makes it easy to get into, even if you use a wheelchair, a walker, or anything else to keep you mobile.

Having a walk-in tub means you will retain your independence for longer and will be able to complete your daily tasks on your own.

4. Great for Relaxation and Stress Relief

A walk-in tub is a great option for anyone that is looking to have better relaxation and more stress relief!

As was mentioned above, many walk-in tubs come with air or water jets that massage you as you bathe. Whether you use these for pain relief or hydrotherapy, the jets can help anyone relax.

They will loosen your muscles and improve your circulation. When you have better circulation, you also are able to relax and sleep more deeply.

Not only do walk-in tubs help you relax, but you can also use the jets to target specific areas of your body that need help relaxing. These tubs add a luxurious, spa-like experience to your bathtub!

Walk-in tubs are also more comfortable than regular tubs, especially when you are unable to stand in a shower for long periods of time. The tubs have deeper water levels which will help keep your entire body warm while you bathe!

If you want a more relaxing and comfortable way to bathe, a walk-in tub is a great solution for you!

5. Adds Value To Your Home

A walk-in tub also adds value to your home. If you are unsure if the investment is worth it, just know that it will make your home more marketable if you do decide to sell it in the future.

Not only will it make your home more attractive to older buyers, but it can also increase the number of offers you get on your home!

While walk-in tubs are not cheap, they can be viewed as an investment. In fact, you may recoup over 50% of your investment when you sell your home. By adding a walk-in tub, you will be able to have a luxurious bathroom and a more valuable home.

Get Walk-In Tubs Installed Today!

Walk-in tubs are a great alternative to other types of baths. Not only are they safer for everyone, but they also add value to your home, help with stress and pain relief, and more! If you want help with your bathtub replacement, it is important to get the help of a professional.

For walk-in bathtubs in Northern Alabama, Express Bath can help! Our team of bathroom contractors can completely transform your space with bath and shower installation and can give you a beautiful and luxurious bathroom. Contact us today to learn more about our products available, to discuss your bathroom remodel, and more!

7 Potentially Life-Saving Bathtub Safety Tips for Seniors

According to the CDC, about 36 million seniors fall each year, resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury death among the aging population.

With that being said, bathtub safety should be a top concern for those who are aging in place, and loved ones alike.

If your current bathroom is not safe, it may be time to look into a bathtub replacement or even a bathroom remodel. A bathroom contractor can inspect your bathroom and make recommendations to improve safety in your home.

Still, there are some life-saving bathtub safety tips that every senior should follow.

1. Use Night Lights

Bathroom falls can be fatal. To reduce fall risk, automatic night lights or motion sensor lighting are used to help seniors find their way at night.

2. Install Grab Bars

Bathtub safety bars such as grab bars or handrails can save a life when a senior has a slip. Many seniors rely on towel bars to help them keep their balance, however, those are not designed to support much weight.

Grab bars are best wall-mounted in the bath or shower and next to the toilet, as well. Although there are suction cup bars available, it is best to purchase the ones that bolt in place. This will prevent the risk of injury from a suction cup bar that slips off the wall.

3. Apply Gripping Tape and Non-slip Mats

When it comes to bathtub safety, seemingly small details such as using gripping tape and non-slip mats are very important.

Gripping tape can be applied to grab bars and handrails to ensure these are slip-resistant when wet.

Non-slip mats or bathtub safety strips should be placed in the bath or shower. You can also place non-slip rugs on the floor outside of the tub and in front of the toilet or sink. This will help prevent slips and falls on slippery, wet tiles.

4. Use a Handheld Showerhead

Handheld showerheads are convenient as they allow seniors to stand or sit while they bathe.

These come in lightweight options that won’t cause strain on hands or arms. There are also some available with large hand-dials that are easy to turn to change spray settings.

It is also best to look for a showerhead with a long hose and flexibility, providing ease of movement.

5. Install a Raised Toilet Seat With Arms

Another easy-to-install option for seniors and loved ones who are concerned about bathroom safety is a raised toilet seat with arms. This device makes it easier for older adults to sit and get up from the toilet.

6. Purchase a Good Shower Chair

Many seniors have limited mobility or balance issues. A shower chair or transfer bench can provide the support that a senior needs to get in and out of the tub as well as bathe comfortably without fear of falling.

7. Consider a Bathtub or Shower Replacement

Sometimes the best move one can make for their safety as they age in place is to have their bathtub or shower replaced. There are options such as tub to shower conversions, which can provide greater handicap accessibility by eliminating barriers that seniors must maneuver over with bathtubs.

Bathtub Safety Is a Priority

With the number of falls, injuries, and deaths that occur each year for seniors, it is undoubtedly urgent for bathtub safety features to be prioritized. These tips can minimize the risk of slips and falls if followed. Don’t forget that bathtub maintenance is always important to keep your tub in great condition.

If you are still concerned about whether your bathroom is safe and wish to learn more about remodeling options, please contact us. We will be happy to make recommendations and help meet your needs!

7 Warning Signs for Replacing Your Bathtub

If your tub is making bath time more cringe-worthy than calming, it might be time to start looking at making a change.

Updates like a bathtub replacement can boost the value of your home and improve your bathroom’s appeal. As your tub starts to show its age, the wear and tear become increasingly unsightly and potentially dangerous.

How do you know when to replace your bathtub rather than repair it? What bathtub issues are big enough to justify the time and expense? Is your tub or jacuzzi tub in poor condition regardless of any bathtub maintenance you do.

If you’re trying to decide if it’s time, here are some definite signs you need to replace a bathtub.

1. Leaks, Cracks, or Chips

When you notice damage to the structure or surface of your tub, it’s just a matter of time before it starts to fail at its one job – holding water.

Tiny chips may not seem like a big deal, but they grow into cracks, and cracks allow for leaks. Water can start pooling outside the tub, getting into your floor and walls. Eventually, you end up with mold, mildew, and wood rot in the space around the bathtub.

With a leak, you might wonder – “is my bathtub beyond repair?” The answer is almost always yes because leaks are difficult to repair and constantly return.

2. Staining

No one wants to take a bath in an unclean tub, right? As the surface of the tub ages, stains can start to get so deep into the tub that you can’t scrub them out. They make the bathroom look unappealing, and you never quite feel like it’s clean.

3. Mold and Mildew

Your bathtub might have surface cracking too small to see, but you’ll notice it if you have a constant issue with mold and mildew growth. It seems minor to start, but it will keep coming back as long as those tiny cracks are there. It looks terrible, hurts the value of your home, and can be a health risk.

4. Accessibility

The older you get, the more difficult it is to get in and out of the tub. If the sides are too high, it can be hard to feel safe moving in and out even with rails and non-slip surfaces.

If you have mobility issues with your current tub, it might be time to consider a walk-in tub or conversion of the bathtub space to a shower.

5. Size and Comfort

If you have an older house with an older tub, you might not use it. Older homes had bathtubs designed with much smaller dimensions. These tubs can be too narrow and too short to feel comfy when sitting in them.

Most renovating homeowners who upgrade their Birmingham or Huntsville bathtub choose a soaking tub to get a deeper and larger space than the standard options.

Ready for a Bathtub Replacement?

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to start seriously considering a bathtub replacement. A new tub brings better safety and comfort to your bathroom, not to mention a sense of joy from not having to look at the old one anymore!

Contact us to talk about the bath and shower replacement services we offer here at Express Bath. We can help you pick out a tub that meets your needs and budget as part of a complete remodel or a simple upgrade.