7 Bathroom Safety Upgrades That Don't Make Your Home Look Clinical

Home safety products have traditionally had a design problem. They often look like they belong in a hospital rather than a home. Fortunately, homeowners no longer have to choose between creating a more supportive bathroom and creating a beautiful one. Thoughtful product selection can help you achieve both.

Here are seven places to start.

1. Modern grab bars

Forget the institutional look many people associate with traditional grab bars. Clean profiles and finishes such as brushed nickel, matte black and polished chrome can coordinate with faucets, towel bars and shower fixtures. Placement matters, too. Grab bars should be appropriately installed for their intended use and mounting surface.

2. A streamlined shower seat

A shower seat can add comfort and convenience without dominating the room. Choose a size appropriate for the shower and look for stable construction designed for wet environments. Some models fold or have adjustable heights to accommodate different spaces.

3. A handheld shower system

A handheld showerhead can make showering more flexible and can be particularly convenient when used with a shower seat. Choose a design that coordinates with your existing shower hardware for a more integrated appearance.

4. Slip-resistant surfaces

Slip resistance doesn't have to mean covering a beautiful bathroom with industrial-looking materials. Depending on your space, options may include appropriately rated bathroom flooring, shower surfaces or purpose-designed bath mats.

5. Toilet support

Getting on and off the toilet can become easier with additional support. Options include toilet safety frames, support rails and raised toilet seats with arms. Choose a solution based on the user's needs, available space and compatibility with the existing toilet.

6. Better bathroom lighting

Good lighting can improve visibility without sacrificing atmosphere. Consider layered lighting that combines overhead illumination with vanity lighting and subtle motion-activated lighting for nighttime use.

7. Keep essentials accessible

Shampoo, towels, toiletries and other frequently used items should be easy to reach.

Wall storage, shower organizers and accessible shelving can reduce unnecessary reaching while keeping the bathroom clean and organized.

Build a bathroom around confidence

Creating a more supportive bathroom doesn't require turning it into a medical environment. Start with the places where additional support, visibility or accessibility could make everyday routines easier. Then select solutions that complement the way your home already looks and feels.

That's the philosophy behind EverHome:

Thoughtful products for safer, more comfortable and more independent living.