How To Design a Pet-Friendly Bathroom

Designing a bathroom that works for both people and pets is a practical move. If your dog or cat gets regular baths at home, the setup can either make life easier or turn every cleaning into a fight. A few smart choices during a remodel or even a small update can save you time, mess, and stress. When you design the right bathroom for your furry friends, it can make your life a whole lot easier.

Choosing the Right Floors

When working in your bathroom, you should start with your floors. Avoid wood and cheap laminate is going to be one of your best moves. Both of those materials absorb water and scratch easily. You are going to be better off with going with tile or sealed concrete. These materials can take the splash from a pet bath and they won’t get damaged by claws. Textured surfaces also help pets get better footing, which keeps them from slipping around during bath time as well.

Have a Handheld Showerhead

This one may seem simple but it is essential. A handheld showerhead gives you control, especially when rinsing hard-to-reach spots like under the belly or around the tail. It also helps when washing paws after a muddy walk. Look for a model with a pause function so you can stop the flow without changing the temperature. This will quickly become one of your favorite features in your bathroom.

A Low-Entry Wash Area

If you have a larger bathroom or are planning a renovation, consider a walk-in shower with no step or a built-in pet wash station. These let your dog walk right in, which means no heavy lifting. For smaller pets, a deep laundry-style sink at counter height can work well. Just make sure it drains properly and has a spray attachment.

Having Cabinets That Lock

Pets are naturally curious and if they smell something interesting in a cabinet, they will try to get into it. That means you need cabinets that can lock or at least latch firmly. Store cleaning products, soaps, and anything sharp or breakable in those spaces. Even items that seem harmless, like shampoo, can cause problems if your pet decides to chew the bottle.

Keep Towels Close By

Once your pet is in the bath, you do not want to run across the house for a towel or brush. Install a few open shelves or hooks near your wash station. Keep a small basket or container with pet-only supplies. Having everything in one spot saves time and reduces the chance of water ending up all over the floor.

How Plumbers Can Help

Some updates, like adding a new faucet or drain, need more than a wrench and good intentions. If you plan to change the layout or add a dedicated pet wash area, a licensed plumber should be part of the plan. Idaho Falls plumbing can make sure the drain lines handle extra use and that any new fixtures are installed without creating future leaks. If your tub already drains slowly, get it looked at before you start using it for dog baths. A bathroom built with pets in mind is easier to clean and safer for everyone. A few smart upgrades now can make bath time much less of a chore later.