The Clean Routine
Get the kids moving in the morning – make bath time less of a chore with a few simple ideas
Image courtesy iStockphoto
Children's daily routines include certain cleaning rituals that shouldn't be skipped – brushing their teeth, washing their hands, taking a bath, etc. But it's hard to tackle those tasks when it's a chore to even get them near a sink or tub.
That's when it's time to get them excited about their bathrooms, according to two members of the American Society of Interior Designers – Kristen Koetz, owner of Design Paradigm in Wilsonville, Ore., and Vicky Serany, a principal designer for Southern Studio in Apex, N.C.
Koetz and Serany offer the following ideas for setting up a functional and kid-friendly bathroom:
1) In a small bath, a simple shower curtain that is washable in soft colors will compliment the overall feeling without taking it over. (Koetz)
2) Think outside the box and re-purpose everyday products for the bath: small beach buckets and toys can be used for toothbrush, cosmetic or bath toy storage. Kitchen storage jars can be used for cotton swabs and bath soaps. (Serany)
3) Keep walls and ceilings easy to adapt as the family grows or as needs change. (Koetz)
4) Don�t use bright, overcomplicated tile or fixtures. White, bisque, or ivory fixtures remain timeless. (Koetz)
5) For small children, always incorporate a step stool and use single lever faucets that easily manage the water flow and temperature. (Serany)
6) Consider lowering the temperature on the water heater to prevent accidental scalding and always keep electrical appliances away from water. (Serany)
7) Keep vanities and countertops functional with roomy countertop space that is easy to maintain and round countertop edges for safety. (Koetz)
8) For teenagers, allow plenty of storage space for bath, hair and cosmetic products as they develop their own personal style. (Serany)
9) Change out the towels and bath mats, and rugs to suit the kid�s individual preferences. Mix and match, and rotate in different varieties. (Koetz)
10) Traditional towel bars are difficult for children to use effectively. Instead, replace the towel bars with a set of three hooks and kids will actually use them! (Serany)
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