Plan your new kitchen with these kitchen safety design features.
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where family members gather to cook, eat, and share moments together. However, it can also be a space where accidents and injuries are likely to occur. At About Kitchens and Baths, we prioritize creating kitchens that are not only beautiful and functional but also safe for everyone. Here are some of the best kitchen safety design features to consider when preparing for your next kitchen renovation.
Non-Slip Flooring
One of the most critical aspects of kitchen safety design is the flooring. Non-slip flooring materials such as textured tile, vinyl, or rubber can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls, especially in a room where spills are common. If you prefer hardwood or laminate, consider adding non-slip mats or rugs in high-traffic areas like in front of the sink and stove.
Rounded Edges and Corners
Sharp edges and corners on countertops, cabinets, and tables can be hazardous, particularly for young children and older adults. Opt for rounded or beveled edges on all kitchen surfaces to minimize the risk of injury. This small change can make a big difference in preventing bumps and bruises in a busy kitchen.
Accessible Storage Solutions
Design your kitchen with accessibility in mind to ensure everyone, regardless of age or mobility, can reach what they need. Pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and lower cabinet drawers make accessing pots, pans, and other kitchen essentials easier without straining. Additionally, consider installing cabinets with soft-close mechanisms to prevent fingers from getting caught.
Adequate Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for both safety and functionality in the kitchen. Ensure that all areas, especially work zones like the stove, sink, and countertops, are well-lit. Under-cabinet lighting can provide additional illumination, reducing shadows and making it easier to see what you’re doing. Consider installing dimmable lights so you can adjust the brightness according to different tasks and times of day.
Childproof Locks and Latches
If you have young children, installing childproof locks and latches on cabinets and drawers is crucial to kitchen safety design. This precaution helps keep dangerous items like knives, cleaning supplies, and small appliances out of reach. Magnetic locks are popular because they are easy for adults to operate but challenging for children.
Safe Appliance Placement
The placement of appliances can significantly impact kitchen safety. Keep microwaves and other small appliances at counter height to avoid reaching up or bending down, which can lead to spills or accidents. Ensure the stove is located away from high-traffic areas to prevent accidental bumps and burns. Additionally, opt for induction cooktops, which stay cool to the touch and reduce the risk of burns.
Fire Safety Features
Fire safety is paramount in any kitchen design. Install a smoke detector and consider adding a heat detector for an extra layer of protection. Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach, and ensure that everyone in the home knows how to use it. For added safety, consider installing a stovetop fire suppression system that automatically extinguishes flames in the event of a fire.
At About Kitchens and Baths, we are dedicated to helping you design a beautiful and safe kitchen. Contact us today to start planning your dream kitchen with safety at the forefront.
PROFESSIONAL DESIGN AND REMODELING SERVICES FROM ABOUT KITCHENS AND BATHS
About Kitchens and Baths has the Annapolis community abuzz with excitement over our stellar home renovation services. With an approximate timeline of only three weeks and two days for project completion, we outshine the competition in our reliability. From tear-out to design, all aspects of each renovation project are handled in-house by our expert team. We ensure customer satisfaction and consistent quality for all remodeling services. Visit our showroom to meet the About Kitchens team and discuss your design goals. Our home renovation services are versatile and detail-oriented, supporting all styles, features, and rooms. While kitchens and bathrooms are our primary focus, we also channel our skills to assist home office and laundry room renovations. The sky’s the limit! Call us at 410-573-0877 or email us at aboutkitchensandbaths@yahoo.com or fill out our contact form today!