It may be the smallest room in the house, but the bathroom makes a big impact, especially with so many stunning options now available in tiling, baths and vanities.

A bathroom remodeling project can add thousands of dollars to a property and, at the same time, enhance family life. But some of the new luxury options can be a little impractical when they’re used regularly by kids. 

It’s important to make great decisions that are affordable and add value to your home.

Here’s our guide to remodeling for a family-friendly bathroom that’s beautiful and practical. 

Make bath-time the best time

A bath is essential, as every parent knows. It’s a great place to calm down the kids and get them ready for the evening and bedtime. Acrylic baths offer the best value and safer option than say, an iron bath. The new freestanding baths are the height of luxury, but with kids splashing everywhere, mess can quickly build up in hard-to-access corners. Get the best of both worlds by choosing the styles that look like they’re freestanding but actually fit flush to the wall. 

Get your head around the shower

Select an adjustable, detachable showerhead and hand shower to cater for every age group. It’s especially practical for washing hair and will allow you to ‘hose down’ kids on the occasions when they need it, like after a muddy sports day. Hand-helds also makes cleaning the shower easier because you can get into the corners and rinse off tiles properly.

Flushed with success

No one enjoys scrubbing the bathroom. Reduce dust and mess build up around the S bend and awkward spots by choosing a unit that runs flush to the wall, or hangs from the wall. It will make cleaning so much easier. Also, choose a soft-closing seat to prevent it slamming down. 

Sinks and vanities

Make sure your vanity doesn’t have sharp edges. Avoid protruding basins as this reduces the risk of children bumping their heads. If you have space, consider installing a double vanity so there’s no fighting over the tap at teeth-brushing time. Vanity tops can be stained or scratched easily if you choose the wrong materials. Quartz and stone are high-end materials that are scratch-resistant and come in a variety of designs and colors. They’re better for high traffic and splash areas than say, timber. Glass for your shower recess and glossy porcelain tiles will maintain their original luster even with punishing usage.

Tile tips

Avoid the temptation to choose a white tiled floor. It will show dust, dirt and hair minutes after you’ve cleaned it. Go for a more beige or sandy color, or consider a texture that will make regular wear less noticeable. Make sure the floor tiling is non-slip. A good choice is mosaic tiling because its many grout lines offer greater grip. Tile to the ceiling if this is practical, especially behind the bath. That way the kids can splash to their hearts’ content, and you don’t have to worry about the paintwork. 

Don’t get into hot water

Ask your bathroom designer about new devices that stop children from being scalded by hot water. A temperature-control feature in the bathroom will keep the children safe and be an asset if you wish to sell your home in the future. Easy-grip lever-handle taps can help avoid accidents, too, and they’re easier for kids to manage.