Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home. Wet, hard surfaces cause falls, hot water scalds, and electricity near water can shock. Simple changes make a big difference, especially for children and older adults.

• Homeowners
• Families
• Older Adults

Prevent falls

• Install grab bars beside the toilet and in the tub or shower, anchored into wall studs or with proper anchors rated for body weight. A towel bar is not a grab bar.
• Use non-slip mats or strips in the tub and shower and a rubber-backed mat outside the tub. Replace worn mats.
• Use a shower chair or bench and a hand-held shower head if balance is a problem.
• Clean up spills and keep the floor dry. Keep soap and shampoo within easy reach.
• Provide good lighting and night lights.
• Consider a raised toilet seat or a walk-in shower for those with limited mobility. See Aging in Place and Fall Prevention at Home.

Prevent scalds

• Set the water heater to 120 degrees F or lower to prevent scalds, particularly for children and older adults. See Water Heaters.
• Use anti-scald faucets or shower valves, and test the water before getting in or putting a child in.
• Never leave a young child in a bath unattended, even for a moment.

Electrical safety

• All bathroom outlets should be GFCI-protected. Test them monthly. See GFCI
• Keep hair dryers, razors and radios away from water; unplug them after use
• Do not use extension cords or portable heaters in the bathroom unless approved for it
• Never touch electrical devices while wet or standing in water
• Use only fixtures rated for damp or wet locations

Air, mold and chemicals

• Run the exhaust fan during and after showers, and fix leaks to prevent mold. See Mold at Home.
• Store medicines, cleaners and razors up high or locked, away from children. See Medication Safety and Household Chemicals.
• Never mix bleach and ammonia or acids when cleaning.
• Install a lock or latch on the door that can be opened from outside, and teach children to stay out without an adult. See Childproofing.

Last updated: October 8, 2026