Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
As a new parent or a parent-to-be, childproofing the house tends to be a daunting task. A big part of this task, and often the most overlooked one, is childproofing your bathroom. You may initially think of the kitchen as being the most dangerous room, but in reality, the bathroom can pose equal, if not more risks to your little one.
Why the Bathroom is a Potential Danger Zone
Among the myriad of items in your bathroom, from medicines to cleaners, razors, and appliances, all pose potential hazards for children. This also includes fixtures such as toilets, bathtubs, and sinks, which can be sources of accidents if not properly secured. And let’s not forget, water can be a danger in itself when it comes to children.
Every bathroom should include safety measures to ensure your little one is protected at all times. The good news is you can find plumbers who are experts in not just ensuring your bathroom is in tip-top shape, but also in making it safer for your curious toddler.
Turning to a Plumber for Assistance
It may sound odd at first, but a plumber can be a crucial ally for parents when childproofing their bathroom. Their plumbing expertise can assist with tasks that not only help to keep the bathroom hazard-free but are also beneficial for your plumbing system in general.
Handles and Faucets
Bathroom taps are often a source of fascination for young children, leading to possible water wastage or worse, a toddler who has managed to scald themselves with hot water. Plumbers can install safety covers on taps, or better yet, fit thermostatic mixing valves that regulate the water temperature, minimising the risk of burns or scalds.
Toilet Locks
Toilets also seem to be rather exciting for children. Not only can they pose a risk of injury with lids slamming down, but also a risk of potential drowning. Also, your child wouldn’t be the first to use the toilet bowl as a toy box requiring drain unblocking tools to get it up and working again. A plumber can fit a toilet lock to ensure the lid stays closed and out of the reach of curious hands.
Securing Water Heaters
Water heaters may not be located in the bathroom themselves but are intrinsically linked to it. They pose a risk as they are often set at maximum temperatures. A plumber can secure these heaters at a safer temperature, effectively reducing the risk of burns.
Unseen Plumbing Issues
Plumbers also ensure that there are no unseen plumbing hazards such as leaks and loose tiles that can cause someone to slip. Small issues like these may seem insignificant initially but can lead to major accidents, which can be especially precarious when children are involved.
Additional Measures for Childproofing Your Bathroom
Beyond the work a plumber will do, there are additional steps you can take to ensure the bathroom is a safer environment for your children.
Adding Non-Slip Mats
Non-slip mats can be placed both inside the tub and around the bathroom floor to avoid slips or falls when the floor becomes wet.
Safe Storage
Be mindful to store any hazardous materials such as cleaning products, medicines, and razors in high cabinets, far from a child’s curious fingers.
Supervision
Lastly, never underestimate the importance of supervision. This is the best way to prevent any accidents from happening in the first place.
Conclusion
When it comes to childproofing your bathroom, consulting with a professional plumber is certainly a good idea. Not only will their expertise protect your children’s safety, but they can also assist in maintaining the overall health of your plumbing system in the process. As parents, our children’s safety is paramount, and in providing a safe environment, we give ourselves peace of mind.
Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
