Toolkit 1: Existing Homes
Bathrooms and Toilets
Bathrooms and toilets can be busy, sensory‑rich spaces. For some autistic people they can also be places where noise, temperature, or unexpected sensations feel overwhelming. Setting up the space in a predictable, calming way can make showering, toileting, and everyday routines easier and more comfortable.
Use extractor fan after finishing in bathroom rather than during ◆
For autistic people sensitive to noise, try using the extractor fan only after finishing in the bathroom rather than during showering or bathing. Still make sure it is used so that moisture is reduced in the room.
Some extractor fans have an automatic shut off that turns the fan off after a set period of time that means remembering to turn it off again later is not needed.
Use bathmats, stacked towels, and rugs to reduce echoes ◆
Bathrooms often have hard, reflective surfaces that amplify sound. Soft items like bathmats, stacked towels, and small rugs can help absorb noise and reduce echo, making the space feel calmer. In wet areas, rubber‑backed or quick‑drying mats work best because they stay stable underfoot and dry fast.
Check mirrors and reflections ◆
Large mirrors can feel overwhelming or distracting for some autistic people, particularly younger tamariki. If reflections are uncomfortable, consider covering part of the mirror, using a smaller mirror, or placing it where it’s not in direct line of sight during routines.
Adjust toilet flush if possible ◆◆
Toilet flushes can be loud and startling, especially in small bathrooms where sound echoes.
Toilet flush noise can be reduced by choosing a toilet with a quieter flush setting. Or adjust the cistern so it uses less water per flush – this often softens the sound. Some dual‑flush systems allow you to reduce the water level yourself. Older or single‑flush toilets may need a plumber to adjust the mechanism or install a quieter‑flow valve.
Install a bidet toilet seat for more comfortable cleaning ◆◆
A bidet can make toileting more comfortable by using water instead of relying only on toilet paper. This can be helpful for autistic people who are sensitive to touch or find wiping uncomfortable or inconsistent. A bidet toilet seat can be added to many existing toilets without major work and allows for more controlled, predictable cleaning. This can support independence, reduce irritation, and improve overall comfort.
A basic non-electric bidet seat can be installed by a home DIYer, and as it does not require any drilling is renter-friendly. An electric option may require the addition of a compliant power outlet if one is not available near the toilet already, and this may require an electrician.
Use a weighted shower curtain ◆
If a shower curtain is the only option, a weighted curtain can reduce movement and prevent it from blowing inward. A weighted curtain is where weights are sewn into the bottom hem of the shower curtain or attached both sides with magnets, so it doesn’t move around as much and is less likely to come into contact with someone’s skin. This can help those who find unexpected touch or movement from a curtain distressing.
Check water pressure and spray pattern ◆
Some autistic people are sensitive to how water feels on their skin. Adjusting the showerhead to a gentler spray, or choosing one with multiple settings, can make showering more comfortable. Others may prefer a stronger spray to feel clean. So, experimenting with different options can help find what works best.
Use a handheld shower head ◆
A handheld shower head can make bathing more comfortable by giving more control over where the water goes and how it feels. A handheld shower head is a flexible shower fitting that can be held in the hand or placed in a bracket, allowing the water to be directed gently and predictably. This can help if overhead spray is overwhelming, for those who prefer to wet one part of the body at a time, or for those who want more control when washing hair and avoiding water on the face.
If permanently installing a new shower head isn’t an option, for homes with a bathtub, a non-permanent option is a shower attachment for the bath tap(s). They have a rubber attachment that slides over the bath tap(s).
Install a heated towel rail ◆◆◆
A heated towel rail can make drying off more comfortable by keeping towels warm, soft, and ready to use. A heated towel rail is a wall‑mounted bar that gently warms towels between uses, helping them dry faster and stay fresh. This can be helpful for people who find cold or damp towels unpleasant, or who are sensitive to abrasive textures. A warm towel can feel softer and more predictable on the skin.
This will need an electrician to wire in, as bathrooms are “wet zones” and electrical work in them must be done by a professional.
Install a radiant heat lamp ◆◆◆
A radiant heat lamp can help people dry off gently without relying on towels or moving air. A radiant heat lamp is a bulb that gives off infrared heat rather than light. This can be helpful for people who find towels too abrasive on their skin, or who are uncomfortable with the feeling of air from heaters or fans. It provides steady warmth in a predictable and calming way.
This will need an electrician to wire in, as bathrooms are “wet zones” and electrical work in them must be done by a professional.
Ensure daily items are accessible and easy to see ◆
Keep everyday items like shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, and towels in consistent, easy‑to‑reach places. Open shelves, clear containers, or a small tray for daily items can reduce searching and make routines easier to start.
Predictable placement helps people move through routines smoothly. This can also make shared bathrooms easier to navigate for whānau, partners, flatmates, or support workers without losing the predictability of the setup.
Minimise product variety ◆
Too many bottles or products can be visually overwhelming and make decision‑making harder. Keeping only the essentials in the shower or on the vanity can help the space feel calmer and easier to navigate.
Create a predictable laundry spot ◆
A consistent place for used towels or clothes (like a basket or hook) can make transitions in and out of the shower smoother and reduce clutter in small bathrooms.
Check hot water safety ◆
Accidental scalding can happen quickly, especially for those who find it difficult to sense temperature changes. This risk can be reduced by setting a safe maximum temperature on the hot water system.
Limit water temperature to 40-45°C (measured at the tap with the water all the way on “hot”), as scalding can occur at a water temperature as low as 50°C.
Many modern systems have an adjustable thermostat that can be changed directly, but older cylinders or systems without accessible controls may require a plumber to adjust the temperature safely. A plumber can also install a tempering valve, which mixes hot and cold water to keep tap water within a safer range. These steps help keep bath and shower water more predictable and comfortable.
Use slip-resistant mats ◆
Use slip‑resistant mats, especially in the shower and around the bath. This can be as simple as a bathmat with a rubber base.
This reduces the risk of falls and can make the space feel more predictable underfoot. This is especially useful for those with balance or proprioceptive differences.
Use a suction grab bar or handhold ◆
As a renter-friendly option, suction grab bars are sold at most hardware stores. They work best on smooth surfaces like glass or acrylic shower linings. They usually do not stick well to painted walls or some tiles, so you will need to check if they suit your space.
Choose slip‑resistant flooring and surfaces ◆◆◆
To ensure the whole bathroom is slip resistant, if replacing the flooring in the bathroom, chose flooring with non-slip vinyl or tiles.
Install permanent grab bars or handholds ◆◆◆
Installing grab bars or handholds near the shower, bath, and/or toilet can support balance and confidence. These are often suggested for mobility needs, but they can also help with slippery surfaces or balance.
If replacing the showerhead with an adjustable one, you can install a 2-in-1 combination, which is where the rail that holds the showerhead is rated as a grab rail as well and can support weight, unlike most typical shower rails. This is likely to be a large project requiring a builder, as extra “blocking” (extra wood in the wall that can be drill into) is needed inside walls to support grab rails.
Provide a clear bathing routine visible from bath/shower ◆
Having a simple, predictable sequence that is visible from the bath or shower can make the routine easier to manage. Having a board with visual cues in a consistent order for washing hair, body, and face can support independence and reduce overwhelm.
