Creating a Bathroom for the Kids
Posted by
Kim York on Thu, Jan 26, 2012 @ 09:23 AM
So, my son turned 3 years old this year and has graduated to his own “big boy” bathroom. No problem, I just ran out to the store and bought some cute choo-choo train decorations-done. Wait! He can’t reach anything, there are water stains on the cabinet doors and they are chipped up from the step stool banging into them, he has smashed his fingers umpteen times, and what is this sticky stuff I am stepping in all over the floor?! Time for a re-do!
A complete bathroom remodel can be a little pricey, and you may decide that eventually they will just “grow into it.” Either way, below are some ideas that can make your little one’s life a little easier.
Think soft-close...everything
If you are ordering new cabinets you can get cabinet doors and drawers with soft-close hinges. Another option is to purchase the kits to install on the existing cabinets to do it yourself and keep the cost down. And may I even suggest a soft-close toilet lid for all the slamming that goes on!
Height is a factor
If you can order custom cabinets, they will make it fit to your exact specifications. However, for a better cost solution, the shortest standard height for factory made cabinets is about 29 inches, which is should accommodate the munchkins. There are also toilets made for children with a lower height of 10 inches.
Clean this mess
When choosing your cabinets you will want to make sure they are waterproof. Wood cabinets can be stained or painted with a waterproof paint. Another idea is to opt for either a laminate or Thermofoil cabinet, which on top of looking great are very easy to clean. A soft damp cloth and a gentle cleaning solution should get those little fingerprints off in no time.
There are plenty of kid-friendly options for your bathroom, but remember, they grow quickly. Keep in mind functionality with easy fixes for now - unless you want to do an expensive remodel again in a few years.