3 Ways to Childproof a Three Handle Tub Shower Faucet
One of several types of bathtub setups, a three handle tub shower faucet presents additional opportunity for a baby or young child to twist, turn and otherwise be tempted by something shiny and metal. While three handle faucets are stylish and offer greater temperature control while bathing or taking a shower, finding a way to childproof is necessary when baby takes a bath. Should the child accidentally turn on the hot water faucet, since it's not tempered by a mix of cold water, it could lead to scalding. That is something no parent wants to experience, so preempt a child's curiosity through childproofing measures.
Reasons for Childproofing a Three Handle Faucet
Besides unknowingly turning on the hot water faucet and getting scalded by it, three handle faucets may present other problems. A parent may wish to cover the faucet itself in order to prevent accidental bumps or, should the child slip in the tub, they won't hurt themselves if they fall into it. After a long day of parenting, giving a child a bath can test the nerves. The last thing a parent wants is for their child to continually turn on either the hot or cold water, let alone the shower control. As the water fills up in the tub, a playful child might find that if they twist the middle handle, the shower comes on. While it may be new and exciting to them, most parents don't want to get hit in the face with a stream of water.
3 Tips for Childproofing a Three Handle Faucet
There are 3 basic ways one can go about childproofing their three handle tub shower faucet. All involve preventative action, but one method is handled elsewhere, one eliminates the handles from view and the last frustrates the child's attempts at moving the handles.
- Turn Down the Heat: The first thing a parent can do to childproof their three handle faucet is to turn down the temperature of the hot water. Since hot water has its own handle, the risk of scalding is more pronounced. Go to the water heater and find the temperature select dial. It should be set at no higher than 120 degrees F. This temperature is ideal, for it still allows for comfortable showers and baths without the dangers of scalding little ones who fiddle with the handle.
- Hide the Handles: This may be the trickiest method to try, for children are smart and like to find ways around obstacles. When giving a child a bath, consider using faucet covers made of soft foam. While these are designed primarily for the faucet itself, it may fit over the handles as well. This technique, more than the others, relies upon a parent's vigilance while giving their child a bath.
- Use Handle or Knob Locks: Depending on the type of handles they are, pick up 3 knob handle locks or 3 lever handle locks. These are same childproofing devices that fit over regular household doors. Knob locks will generally fit over smaller, crossed shower handles, while lever locks work for lever-type shower faucet handles.
