How to Make Your Bathroom Wheelchair Accessible

Creating a wheelchair-accessible bathroom in your private home isn’t just about convenience — it’s about safety, dignity, and empowering independence. For individuals who use a custom wheelchair or face mobility challenges, a standard bathroom setup can pose daily hazards and frustrations.

At NPL Home Medical, we understand that making your home more accessible isn't just a renovation — it’s a life-enhancing upgrade. That’s why we’ve created this in-depth guide to help Ohio homeowners modify their bathrooms for better accessibility using smart layout changes, proper durable medical equipment, and thoughtful design.

Important: This article focuses exclusively on modifications for private residences. It does not cover commercial or public buildings.

Why Private Home Bathroom Accessibility Matters

For anyone using a custom wheelchair or with limited mobility, traditional bathrooms often present serious barriers. Tight corners, slippery surfaces, and poorly positioned fixtures can make basic routines like bathing or using the toilet both difficult and dangerous.

Modifying your bathroom for accessibility creates a safer, more comfortable environment — and it can support aging in place, post-surgery recovery, or lifelong conditions. It can also make caregiving more manageable for family members.

Step-by-Step Guide: Creating a Wheelchair-Accessible Bathroom in a Private Ohio Home

Here’s everything you need to consider when designing an accessible bathroom using practical adaptations and durable medical equipment that meet the needs of wheelchair users.

1. Start With the Right Door Width

Doorway width is one of the first adjustments to make. Most standard interior bathroom doors are only 28–30 inches wide, which may not accommodate a custom wheelchair.

• Aim for at least 32 inches of clear passage width (36 inches is ideal).

• Install offset hinges to add 1–2 inches of space.

• Consider space-saving solutions like sliding or pocket doors to maximize maneuverability.

Flat or beveled thresholds are essential for seamless wheelchair entry.

2. Install Grab Bars for Safety and Stability

Grab bars are an essential feature in any wheelchair-accessible bathroom. They provide support and stability for those who may have difficulty standing or sitting. Grab bars should be installed in several areas of the bathroom, including near the toilet, shower, and bathtub.

When installing grab bars, it is important to ensure that they are securely fastened to the wall. They should also be installed at the correct height and distance from the wall.

Key locations:

• Beside the toilet

• In and around the shower or tub

• Near the sink (optional)

Ensure grab bars are installed into wall studs or with strong anchors and placed 33–36 inches above the floor.

3. Choose a Toilet That Supports Easy Transfers

A traditional toilet may be too low for users in a custom wheelchair. Look for an ADA-compliant or “comfort height” toilet — typically 17 to 19 inches high — which aligns better with most wheelchair seat heights.

Other considerations:

• Leave 18 inches of space from the toilet center to each wall

• Ensure 48 inches of clearance in front for wheelchair positioning

• Add a raised toilet seat if replacing the toilet isn't feasible

Grab bars flanking the toilet can make transfers safer and more secure.

The toilet is one of the most important features of a wheelchair-accessible bathroom. It is essential to choose a toilet that is the right height and has enough space around it for a wheelchair to maneuver.

A standard toilet is usually around 15 inches high, which may be too low for some wheelchair users. A raised toilet seat can be installed to provide extra height and make it easier to transfer from a wheelchair to the toilet.

It is also important to consider the placement of the toilet. The toilet should be positioned so that there is enough space on both sides for a wheelchair to transfer onto the seat. There should also be enough space in front of the toilet for a wheelchair to maneuver.

4. Install a Roll-In Shower or Wet Room

A roll-in shower removes the need to step over a threshold, offering seamless entry for those in a wheelchair. These showers are becoming increasingly popular in Ohio private homes, not only for accessibility but for resale value.

Ideal specs:

• At least 36 inches wide by 60 inches long

• Slip-resistant flooring

• A fold-down shower bench (DME)

• Handheld showerhead mounted on an adjustable rod

• Sturdy grab bars

A custom wheelchair user will benefit from an open shower design that minimizes tight turns or awkward entries.

5. Use a Bathtub Transfer Bench If Needed

Not ready to part with your tub? A bathtub transfer bench is a simple piece of equipment that allows the user to sit down outside the tub and slide in, reducing fall risk.

Look for:

• Width of at least 24 inches

• Weight capacity of 300 lbs or more

• Adjustable legs and anti-slip feet

Be sure to create enough room next to the tub for a custom wheelchair to approach at a comfortable angle.

6. Install a Wall-Mounted, Wheelchair-Friendly Sink

A wall-mounted sink provides knee clearance underneath, making it ideal for wheelchair users.

Key design notes:

• Height should be around 34 inches

• Provide at least 27 inches of clearance beneath

• Choose single-lever or touchless faucets for ease of use

Avoid traditional vanities, which often block access. Use pull-out storage or wall-mounted shelves for sinkside items.

7. Switch to Lever-Style Handles and Faucets

People using custom wheelchairs may have limited dexterity or reach. Lever handles are easier to operate than traditional round knobs.

Install them on:

• Doors (bathroom and closet)

• Sink and shower faucets

• Bathroom cabinets

You might also consider hands-free faucet systems.

8. Choose the Right Flooring

Flooring in a wheelchair-accessible bathroom should be:

• Slip-resistant

• Smooth and firm (no plush rugs or thick grout lines)

• Water-resistant

Best materials:

• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring: Affordable, smooth, and waterproof

• Rubber flooring: Durable and cushioned

• Textured porcelain tile: Be sure to check for high slip-resistance ratings

Avoid anything glossy or slick, especially when wet.

9. Prioritize Good Lighting and High-Contrast Design

Lighting plays a huge role in fall prevention and navigation, especially at night. Consider:

• Bright overhead LEDs

• Motion-sensor night lights

• Task lighting near mirrors and sinks

High-contrast design (e.g., dark floor with light walls) helps users distinguish between surfaces more easily — especially beneficial for aging adults or those with low vision.

10. Create Accessible Storage Solutions

Storage needs to be reachable from a seated position, so avoid high cabinets and deep drawers.

Try:

• Open shelving at 30–48 inches height

• Pull-out baskets or drawers

• Wall-mounted dispensers for soap or shampoo

• Accessible storage that integrates with durable medical equipment, like shower caddies on adjustable poles or towel racks on fold-down bars

Keep daily essentials within arm’s reach to reduce strain or the need for assistance.

11. Add Emergency Assistance Features

In private homes, emergency systems are optional — but incredibly valuable.

You might include:

• Call buttons mounted by the toilet or shower

• Voice-activated smart assistants

• A corded alert system connected to a caregiver

These features enhance safety, especially for people who live alone or use a custom wheelchair without a caregiver present.

Final Thoughts

Adapting your bathroom for wheelchair accessibility in a private home is one of the most impactful ways to improve independence and quality of life. Whether you're adjusting for a custom wheelchair, recovering from surgery, or planning for aging in place, every modification you make contributes to safety, comfort, and peace of mind.