Recovery

Bathroom Safety After Surgery

Choose a preferred language

If your movement is limited during recovery, ask a family member or friend to help prepare your bathroom. This helps make it safer and more comfortable while you heal. Use the tips below as a guide. Know that some equipment you’ll need won’t be ordered until you’re ready to go home.


Bathroom safety tips

Try the following tips for staying safe:

  • Prevent slips and falls by using nonslip bathmats on your bathroom floor and in your tub or shower.

  • Watch out for hazards, such as wet floors.

  • Use grab bars in your shower or tub for support as you get in and out. Also have them by your toilet.

  • Install a hand-held shower hose.

  • Keep the soap and shampoo within reach

  • Sit on a bath bench or shower chair while you bathe.

  • Use a long-handled sponge to wash hard-to-reach areas.

  • If you had surgery that limits bending, use a commode chair or elevated toilet seat to raise the height of your toilet.

  • Talk with your occupational therapist if you need more instructions in using bath aids.

Bathroom with safety equipment.

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP

Online Medical Reviewer: Jonas DeMuro MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN

Date Last Reviewed: 01/15/2007

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
heart stethoscope icon

Find a Doctor

Browse our network of pediatric experts.

Find a Doctor
heart cross icon

Departments & Services

Explore specialized care for every need.

View Departments & Services
hospital icon

Find a Location

Find expert pediatric care close to home.

Find a Location
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Before Surgery: Preparing Your Home

You can make life easier and safer for after your surgery. Reduce household hazards now, before your surgery. By planning ahead, you'll have less to worry about during recovery.

Read article
OB/GYN
Taking a Sitz Bath

A sitz bath is a type of therapy done by sitting in warm, shallow water. Learn why and how a sitz bath is done.

Read article
Wellness
Guarding Your Health and Safety

Accidents happen, and they can cause more lasting damage to your health than illness or disease. You can prevent most accidents. Take steps now to guard your health and safety at home, at work, and on the road.

Read article
Wellness
Transfer: Wheelchair to Toilet

If your loved one will use a wheelchair, you need to know about transfers. For safety's sake, learn how to help your loved one in and out of the wheelchair. One basic method is shown here.