Hey there, fellow home enthusiasts! Today, I want to dive into a topic that might not get as much attention as it deserves – keeping our bathroom floors dry. We often underestimate the impact of excess moisture in our bathrooms, but let me tell you, it’s more than just a minor inconvenience. Maintaining a dry bathroom floor is not just about aesthetics – it’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and hygienic space for everyone at home.
Growing up in Trinidad in the 1980s, things were a bit different back then. Our family shower was in an enclosure outdoors with a wooden pallet on concrete that quickly dried in the sunshine. Now, our homes have evolved and we mostly have slick tiled surfaces in indoor bathrooms.
Not only can a wet bathroom lead to slipping accidents, but it can also be a breeding ground for mould and mildew which has been shown to cause adverse health effects such as asthma. Paying attention to this is especially important for the safety and well-being of our children or older family members.
Here are ten tips you can implement to help keep your bathroom floor dry and maintain a clean safe space.
1. Use Bathroom Floor Mats and Rugs
Bathroom rugs and mats are a convenient solution for maintaining a dry bathroom floor. Some of the common rugs on the market are made from highly absorbent microfiber material that can quickly soak up water and help to keep the floor dry. Ensure that it has non-slip backing which will keep it stable and prevent them from sliding.
Sourcing rugs that are durable yet machine washable is a must to keep them clean and hygienic and can withstand regular use. There are many available in various colours and sizes to match your decor and space.
2. Install a Shower Curtain
If your shower has an enclosure with a door, then the obvious solution is to close the door when showering to avoid water splashing outside of the enclosure.
If, however, this is not an option the next best alternative is to install a shower curtain. A shower curtain can not only be a beautiful accessory to add to the aesthetic of the bathroom, but they play a considerable role in keeping the water contained in the shower area.
When searching for a shower curtain, ensure that it is waterproof or water-repellant to prevent water from soaking through. Easy to install and remove as well as easy to clean and maintain. Also, make sure that the size is appropriate for your shower area.
Make sure to keep the shower curtain closed during showers to prevent water from splashing onto the floor.
3. Keep Bath Towels Nearby
Try to place your towels as near as possible to the shower or bath for easy access. This allows you to dry off quickly after the shower without having to walk a distance to get the towel, leaving a trail of water behind you. Not to mention that this helps to save time and can get you feeling warm sooner as stepping out of the shower can leave you feeling cold.
4. Dry Off in The Shower
Especially with young children who may be anxious to run out of the bath, taking a few minutes to remove as much water off the body as possible before stepping out of the shower will certainly help to keep the bathroom floor dry. This simple practice not only minimizes water drips and trails, but also instils good habits in children regarding bathroom cleanliness and safety. Teaching them about the potential hazards of a wet floor and the importance of drying off can go a long way in creating a hygienic and accident-free bathroom environment. And, as mentioned before, keeping the towel nearby will make this whole process easier, ensuring a smooth transition from bath time to dry floors.
5. Use a Shower Caddy
Stainless steel caddies tend to be durable and resistant to rust, which are suitable for the humid bathroom environment. They also prevent the growth of mould and mildew and are also easy to clean and maintain.
6. Squeegee Shower Doors
Particularly if your shower stall is made out of glass or acrylic it is a good idea to invest in a squeegee and incorporate the habit of using it to quickly remove excess water after each shower. This simple practice can yield significant benefits, especially when it comes to maintaining a dry bathroom floor.
Shower stalls with glass or acrylic doors can be prone to water spots and droplets after showers. These water remnants, if left unattended, can easily end up on the bathroom floor when the door is opened, contributing to unwanted wetness. By keeping a squeegee handy and dedicating a mere few seconds to swipe the water off the door and walls, you not only prevent water from spilling onto the floor but also eliminate the potential for water stains and residue buildup on your shower surfaces.
When selecting a squeegee, opt for one with a comfortable grip and a high-quality rubber blade that efficiently clears the water. Keep it within arm’s reach in the shower for easy access.
7. Use a Shower Splash Guard
A shower splash guard is a smart and practical solution to tackle the issue of water spilling in your bathroom. These simple accessories act as a barrier, stopping water from escaping your shower or bathtub onto your bathroom floor.
Splash guards are designed to work with your shower curtain, keeping it snug against the shower walls. This prevents splashes and spills, ensuring water stays where it should and avoiding wet floors. They’re versatile too, fitting both showers and bathtubs and made from waterproof materials to withstand water exposure. Installing them is easy, as many models have simple setups.
Cleaning them is a breeze as well– a quick wipe or rinse keeps them in good shape. These guards team up with your shower curtain to prevent leaks and add tidiness to your bathroom. So, if you want an easy way to keep water where it belongs, consider adding a shower splash guard to your bathroom setup.
8. Keep the Bathroom Well-Ventilated
Keeping the bathroom well-ventilated is crucial to dissipating moisture and maintaining a dry bathroom floor. Also, proper ventilation helps to avoid water damage and build-up of mould and mildew that thrive in a damp environment. It will help to improve the air quality and remove unpleasant odours.
If your bathroom has an exhaust fan, turn it on during and after showers or baths. Allow it to run for a few minutes after showering to draw out moist air. Some exhaust fans come with a sensor that automatically switches them on or off depending on the humidity level.
If you have windows, open them to allow fresh air to circulate and assist in dissipating moisture.
9. Use A Dehumidifier
In a nutshell, a dehumidifier works by drawing moist air into it through a vent and passing this air over cold coils. This causes the water in the air to condense and drip down into a catchment container. The dry air is then reheated and released back into the air.
They are usually easy to operate and can be quiet and energy-efficient. Always consider the size of the space in which it is to be used before purchasing a dehumidifier.
10. Keep The Bathroom Clean
I always admired my dad’s penchant for keeping an immaculate bathroom; he was an absolute boss at keeping surfaces dry after use. This is definitely one habit that can help to remove excess water and moisture in the bathroom.
Regularly clean and wipe down bathroom surfaces and dry any wet spots on the floor promptly. This will also help to keep the bathroom clean and hygienic. An absorbent mop can be used or floor towels which can later be added to the wash for easy cleanup. If using ordinary towels, it is best to keep towels for cleaning the bathroom separate from towels to dry the body.
In conclusion, maintaining a dry bathroom floor isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and hygienic space for everyone in the household. From using absorbent mats and shower curtains to incorporating simple habits like squeegeeing and proper ventilation, these practical tips can make a substantial difference in preventing water-related accidents and maintaining the overall cleanliness of your bathroom.
Remember, it’s the small, consistent efforts that often yield the most significant results. By following these strategies, you’re not only enhancing the functionality and safety of your bathroom but also ensuring a more pleasant and worry-free experience for you and your loved ones. So, let’s embrace these practices and step onto dry, comfortable bathroom floors every day!
What are your favourite tips for keeping your bathroom clean and dry? Let us know in the comments.
