Dinosaur paw Device Integrates Hygiene Cues Into Everyday Play
Dinoosh is a handwashing tool designed to support hygiene habit-building in young children through tactile and visual interaction. The project by Tejas Vashishtha and Aarya Ghule adopts a character-based form, a dinosaur paw, to create a familiar object that integrates seamlessly into daily routines. Its design aims to shift handwashing from an externally prompted activity to a self-directed practice by embedding cues directly into the product’s geometry and material behavior.
The device features a soft, ergonomic body that children can hold comfortably, with a paw-shaped soap imprint that dispenses gel when squeezed. Textures on the surface guide the hand’s movement during washing, encouraging correct rubbing motions. The spacing of the dinosaur ‘fingers’ aligns with a child’s hand, helping clean areas that are commonly missed. A series of ridges along the back provides a stable grip during scrubbing.
all images courtesy of Tejas Vashishtha and Aarya Ghule
Color-Change System Provides Built-In Handwashing Guidance
A thermochromic color-change system offers a built-in 20-second timing cue. As the child rubs their hands and the material warms slightly, the soap transitions to a different color, indicating when washing is sufficiently thorough. This visual feedback reduces the need for external reminders and supports consistent habit formation.
The design process incorporated research in child ergonomics, behavioral psychology, and safe-use material selection. Early sketch studies explored the integration of a character-like silhouette with functional washing requirements. The main body is produced through HDPE blow molding for durability and lightness, while smaller elements are injection molded for accuracy and ease of assembly. Thermochromic pigments were selected to provide a clear, intuitive signal without requiring electronic components.
easy-to-open flip lid at the bottom to protect the soap inside and maintain hygiene
a built-in loop keeps dinoosh within reach, whether hung in the bathroom or clipped to a bag
the soap-releasing area sits below the surface, so kids’ hands don’t come in contact with it directly while dispensing
when squeezed, the dispenser releases soap gel in a defined dino paw shape, adding a surprising and fun factor
dinoosh introduces a dinosaur paw handwashing tool for children’s daily routines
as children scrub, a gradual color change acts as a playful visual cue, encouraging them to keep washing for 20 seconds
tactile and visual cues guide children toward self-directed handwashing
surface textures help direct correct rubbing motions during washing
project info:
name: Dinoosh
designer: Tejas Vashishtha, Aarya Ghule
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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