How do I make a "bath tub" for two small kids (ages 14 months & 27 months) in a walk-in handicap shower?

Question

I just moved into a house that has no bath tub, just a walk-in handicap shower. My two little ones HATE showers, so I need to find a way to give them baths. I can't think of anything other than setting a plastic storage tub in there, but there HAS to be a better way. Is there a product that will convert this shower into a small tub? Or do you have an ideas on how I can accomplish this?

And please keep in mind that I would have to move this something everyday as I use the shower, so it needs to be easy to drain, lift, and move out of the way frequently!

Answer 1

We are mid remodel and just had this same issue. our kids love taking baths but are also like the spray from the shower. We solved the dilemma by using a large rectangular plastic laundry basket. Its pretty stout- Rubbermaid I think with large holes in the sides only. That way the water fills up enough for you to scoop it and wash hair but at the same time doesn't become a problem when trying to dump it out by being heavy and getting water everywhere as you would with a large tub. Best part is that it pulls double duty by taking all of the clothes to the basement at the end of the night when all of the kids are in bed.

Finally- TMI, but if you have issues getting the kids accustomed to a shower, take an old ride on toy that they like (no stickers on it please) and put it in the shower. Ours love pretending that its a car wash that they almost don't notice the shower spray.

Best of Luck

Jason

Answer 2

When I was really little, my mom used tubs. How about a really big cool chest (with the lid removed!) most of them have drain plugs.

Or maybe you could talk to the owner (or a contractor if you are the owner) to see about installing a more non-handicapped friendly shower/tub stall. As the kids get older, your choices for easy to move and drain "tubs" will shrink pretty fast, and until they get about four and a half feet tall, the shower spray will be directed right at their faces, and they will continue to dislike showering.

Answer 3

You might start by checking into japanese tubs. They are made for small spaces. Also, there are therapeutic type tubs that have a door that opens and allows you to step in without stepping over. Then you can sit down, or on a ledge if you can't get all the way down and back up due to back injury, etc. A local contractor for handicap accessable homes should be able to help.

Answer 4

I was at Home Depot recently and came across a shower insert that actually had an area you could fill with water for a bath. You had to step into it like a tub. It's not really big enough for full grown people but perfect for kids. Do you own or rent? It could get pricey.

Answer 5

your on the right track with the storage tub the only other alterative is the old galvinised wash tubs like they used in th 20's and 30' like my gramdmother used on the farm . there isn't a convertable tub that matchs plumbing codes so they do not make one .

Answer 6

if the floor are is big and of a suitable hight then could you not put a plug in the water outlet, or try and buy a suitable tub that has a drain tap that you can empty so it can be moved easy for you

Answer 7

If you go to a baby supply store they actually have blow up bath tubs, that have a drain in the bottom. They are very convienent. They range in sizes too.

Answer 8

Check out your feed store for drink tubs for large animals. Like horses or cows that are used in small pens.Some are made out of mylar or plastic or metal.

Answer 9

How about a hand held shower handle with a hose instead. You can screw it where the shower head is now.

Answer 10

what about a small inflatable swimming pool? You can get really small ones