Summer is the season of outdoor adventures, pool days, beach trips, and backyard fun. But with all that sunshine and playtime comes extra mess — think sandy feet, wet swimsuits, and sunscreen-covered hands. When you’ve got kids, the bathroom can quickly become ground zero for the chaos. Designing a bathroom that’s both functional and family-friendly can help you manage the mess without sacrificing style.
Whether you’re remodeling or making small upgrades, here’s how to create a kid-friendly bathroom that handles summer like a pro.
1. Durable, Easy-to-Clean Surfaces
Kids aren’t exactly known for being tidy — especially after a long day in the sun. Choosing surfaces that can take a beating and clean up quickly is essential.
- Flooring: Opt for water-resistant, non-slip materials like luxury vinyl plank, ceramic tile, or porcelain. These options resist moisture and are a breeze to mop up.
- Countertops: Quartz is a great choice for its stain resistance and low maintenance. Avoid porous materials like marble that can be stained by sunscreen or toothpaste.
- Walls: Consider installing tile halfway up the wall or using a wipeable paint finish like satin or semi-gloss for easy cleaning.
2. Hooks, Hampers & Hidden Storage
Organization is your best friend during the summer. The more smart storage solutions you include, the easier it is to keep everything in its place.
- Towel Hooks or Peg Rails: Install multiple hooks at kid-friendly heights so towels, suits, and beach bags don’t end up on the floor.
- Built-In Hampers: Add a laundry chute or basket to collect damp clothes and towels before they can pile up.
- Cubby Storage or Baskets: Use labeled bins for sunscreen, goggles, and bath toys to keep counters clutter-free and items easy to grab.
Bonus tip: Include a waterproof basket or mesh bag for wet swimsuits so they don’t sit on the counter or drip on the floor.
3. A Rinse Zone That Works Hard
Summer means dirt, sand, and chlorine — and your bathroom needs a washing station that’s up to the task.
- Handheld Showerheads: A detachable showerhead makes it easier to rinse sand from feet and shampoo out of squirmy hair.
- Step Stools: Keep a sturdy stool nearby so little ones can reach the sink for washing hands and brushing teeth independently.
- Low Shelving in the Shower: Install shelves or niches at child height to hold shampoo, body wash, and bath toys.
You might even consider a second showerhead or sprayer in a larger shower space to accommodate multiple kids at once after a beach day or pool party.
4. Bright, Cheerful Design That Grows with Them
Kid-friendly doesn’t have to mean cartoonish. Choose a design that feels fun and fresh but can mature with your children.
- Color Scheme: Think summery hues like aqua, coral, sunshine yellow, or mint green. These colors are playful yet sophisticated enough to grow with your family.
- Accessories: Use colorful towels, bath mats, and artwork to add personality — all of which can be easily swapped as your kids’ tastes change.
- Safety Features: Choose rounded-edge fixtures and anti-scald faucet settings to keep little ones safe without compromising design.
5. Embrace the Mess (But Plan for It)
No bathroom can completely eliminate the chaos of summer, but smart planning makes all the difference. Design a space that anticipates muddy feet, dripping swimsuits, and sticky sunscreen hands — and you’ll find yourself less stressed and more prepared for the whirlwind of the season.
Ready to Remodel?
If your current bathroom can’t keep up with your active family, it might be time for an upgrade. Whether it’s a full renovation or a few key changes, we can help you design a kid-friendly space that’s practical, durable, and still looks great all year round.
Let’s turn that summer mess into a manageable masterpiece.
