Accessible bathroom

According to DIN, disabled bathrooms suitable for wheelchair users or people with disabilities need a manoeuvring space of at least 1.50 x 1.50 metres in front of each of the toilets. The washbasin also needs to have enough space below to allow wheelchair access and be positioned at a height of around 80 centimetres. There must be level access to the shower and, once again, 1.50 x 1.50 metres of space is required for a wheelchair. A 90-centimetre space is needed on one side of the toilet.

An accessible bathroom has manoeuvring spaces of 1.20 x 1.20 metres. An accessible toilet has 20 centimetres of space all around and there must also be a certain amount of legroom below the washbasin.

Although the building standard 18040-2 provides important guidelines for bathroom conversions for disabled or elderly users, it is important to consider your own individual situation. It is not always possible or necessary to implement all the specified criteria. In domestic settings, there is the option of working with a specialist company with accessible bathroom ideas to help plan and install a bathroom tailored to your needs. This company can advise you on the options for your home and help you select suitable products.

Clear spaces are essential to allow users to move around with a wheelchair, walking frame or other mobility aid. If you have enough room, aim for a space of 1.50 x 1.50 metres in front of the toilet. In a smaller bathroom, you can use a few simple tricks to maximise the manoeuvring space. Remove baskets, shelves, plants and other decorative items from the floor! Use built-in cupboards, wall shelves and alcoves to store your bathroom utensils. Always make sure these are at an accessible height.

Not every door is wide enough for a wheelchair to pass through. Depending on whether you are planning an accessible bathroom, a wheelchair-friendly bathroom or a disabled bathroom, it is important to be aware of the appropriate dimensions. The dimensions required for an accessible bathroom are 80 centimetres wide by 205 centimetres high. A width 90 centimetres and the same height will allow wheelchair access. Additionally, the door handle should be fitted at a height of 85 centimetres to be within easy reach of wheelchair users. Doors must open outwards to allow other people to enter in the event of an emergency.

A level-access shower is particularly important if you are planning an accessible bathroom or disabled bathrooms. There must be level access the shower without any steps or thresholds and sufficient freedom of movement is required, even with a shower wheelchair. Many Villeroy & Boch collections feature elegantly designed level-access shower trays, including Lifetime Plus or ViCare.

Make sure the controls in a disabled shower are within easy reach. The same applies for an accessible shower, where there should also be room for a shower chair. If the bathroom is very small, a folding shower seat is an alternative. The Villeroy & Boch ViCare collection includes various models that can be elegantly integrated into the bathroom design. A non-slip floor covering helps to prevent accidents, while grab handles offer additional support. Avoid any decorative items in the shower.