Thursday 28 May 2009

Have the Time of Your Life With Jacuzzi Bathtubs

If you want to have a luxurious bathing experience, you must consider Jacuzzi bathtubs. You have the option of creating your own personal spa with the touch of a button on the multi-speed motor. The strength of your massage is controlled by you. If you prefer a low speed for gentle, soothing water currents, you make that choice. Perhaps your day was completely overwhelming and a deep muscle penetration is what you need. The different models along with the varying options will provide the right bathing experience, since Jacuzzi models are not a one tub fits all. We are different, and our bodies require different things.


One of the many Jacuzzi bathtubs that offer a holiday break for your body is the Cortina whirlpool that comes with eight powerful massaging jets. The Cortina also has a contoured backrest and a circular shape that brings total relaxation and restoration to your body. The underwater lighting system features 256 color combinations that will dazzle your bathing experience. You can also appreciate to other features of this Jacuzzi model such as: multi-speed motor; digital controls; cleansing system; RapidHeat inline heater; slip resistant bottom; exclusive self-leveling base system; and, the exclusive bath control system. You will pay $6,352 for the Cortina whirlpool, choosing from black, almond, white and oyster.


The Duetta is another selection of Jacuzzi bathtubs that is designed for two. Unwind with your partner or spouse with the variety of performance options that come with this $4,000 model. The in-line heater, water level sensor (to prevent overspills), and the Wave Pulse bath control system are included to simply add to your experience. You will also enjoy the exclusive self-leveling base system, multi-speed motor and a slip resistant bottom. The lush oval whirlpool design has 12 jets in the chromatherapy model, and 16 jets in the illumatherapy model.


The Elara is one in the line of Jacuzzi bathtubs that gives you the opportunity to soak in a warm, soothing bathtub to give you an invigorating experience. You will enjoy total relaxation and become revitalized with the foot and back massage you receive in this model. Pay just $4,200 and you will get all of the standard features that come with a Jacuzzi, plus the patented adjustable Silent Air Induction system. Have the time of your life and get a clean body at the same time.


Wednesday 27 May 2009

Tips For Decorating Your Bathroom - Avoid Costly Mistakes

The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house and it often reflects your style and taste. However, there are a few issues that make it different from other rooms in the house in that there is plumbing to consider, electrical safety and resistance to damp, water and mould. Therefore, if undertaking a complete renovation or just decorating the bathroom these factors need to be taken into account.


It is possible to decorate the bathroom on a budget if prior proper planning is done. The following factors need to be taken into account:


Curtains: curtains can be used as both a window dressing and to cover the shower area. They can give your bathroom a very stylish look. However, they must be able to withstand moisture and staining and in the case of the shower curtain should be waterproof. Most home depots sell pre-made curtains ready to hang.


Bathroom lighting: lighting can set the mood in the room and nowhere is this more appropriate than in the bathroom. That is why the use of candles is very popular in the bathroom as they can give a very romantic feel. However, the bathroom should also have the opportunity to switch on lights lighting which is essential for performing routines such as shaving and applying makeup.


Bathroom fixtures: these come in many styles such as modern and traditional Victorian. They also come in various materials which can significantly affect the style of your bathroom. Stainless steel will give a modern clean look to the bathroom. Gold can give a very luxurious look but must not be overdone. A brass effect can give a very antique or traditional feel.


Shelving: adequate shelving is essential in most bathrooms, to place items such as towels, perfumes, makeup and shaving equipment. Bathroom vanities can also provide the same function as shelves but they have the advantage of having doors which can hide all these items and give a more clean, uncluttered look to the bathroom. Bathroom vanities and shells come in a variety of materials from the more expensive wood to the cheaper laminates.


Colour: this is very important in providing the overall look and feel to the bathroom. Colour is very important in setting the mood. Colours such as light blue which can be very cold and other rooms of the house can provide a fresh clean feel to the bathroom. Any paint applied to the walls must be resistant to water, damp and mould growth.


Flooring: this needs to be a waterproof surface. One of the most popular choices for bathroom flooring is tiles. They are relatively inexpensive unless choosing exotic materials like marble. They are durable and often non-slippery. Any porous surfaces such as wood and cork should be sealed to prevent ingress of water.


When designing a new bathroom proper planning can prevent costly mistakes. These tips can put you on the right track to making the right choices in your next renovation project.


The bathroom is unique within the house in that they have to be stylish yet resist damp, water and mould. Any bathroom renovation project can become costly if not properly planned. This article provides tips to make your next bathroom remodeling project a success.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_P_Peterson

Sunday 24 May 2009

Six Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Green

Making homes "Green" is a significant force in the home building industry today. They offer home owners increased energy efficiency and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping the environment on a daily basis. But some home owners can't afford to move into a green home either because of the cost or because they already live in a home in which they are already happy. For those people, there are still ways to make their home more efficient. Following are six ways to make the bathroom in your existing home more efficient and environmentally-friendly.

Install a Water-Saving Shower Head

This might be the hardest part about a more efficient bathroom. That's not because a new shower head is difficult to install, but we all like a shower with a great volume of water flowing. It just feels so good. If you're serious about having a more efficient bathroom, though, this is one of the biggest steps you can take.


Install a More Efficient Toilet

If you have an older bathroom with an older toilet, it's time to get a consider installing a new toilet. Newer toilets are "low flow," meaning that they use only about one-third of the water as older toilets do when you flush. Instead of putting your old toilet out to the curb, check with a local recycling center to see if there is a way to recycle it. If you can't afford to replace your toilet, place a two-liter bottle filled with sand in the tank. That will reduce the amount of water your toilet uses with each flush.


Use Organic Products

With organic products being the new trend, it's easy to find organic shampoos, conditioners, soaps and anything else you might use in the bathroom. In many ways, organic products are not only good for the environment, they are also better for your skin and your hair. It's a win-win situation!


Fix Any Leaky Faucets

Leaking faucets waste more water than you might think. Fortunately, most of the problems are easy to fix and you can do it yourself. Other problems might require you to call a plumber. But if you truly care about the environment, that's a small price to pay for creating a better world.


Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

This is probably the most simple thing you can do to help save the environment. Simply buy a few energy-efficient light bulbs and replace the old ones. The new ones cost slightly more, but since they last longer and use less energy, you're actually paying less in the long run.


Take a "Navy Shower"

You know how you turn the faucet off when you're brushing your teeth? Use that same concept when you take a shower. Turn the water on and rinse off. Then turn the water off and lather up and shampoo your hair. Turn the shower back on and rinse off. This step is fairly extreme, but it's great for people who are serious about making their bathroom as efficient as possible.


As you can see, there are some very inexpensive ways to make your bathroom more efficient. Many of these tips can be done in less than five minutes with barely any extra cost to you. Why not try a few of these suggestions and start helping the environment today?


When you're looking for Boulder real estate in Colorado, try AutomatedHomefinder.com.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrienne_Rockwell

Friday 22 May 2009

Tile Ready Shower Pan - 5 Tips Before You Buy

Look, building a shower pan the old fashion way is a big hassle. The pros don't even agree on the best way to get it done. That's why a tile ready shower pan looks so good. You can forget all the mortar and mud tricks and get a leakproof shower just like a pro. Watch out for the tricks though. Like...


Cheap shower pans won't do.


A cheap shower pan from the box building supply store won't do. Those are made for a different purpose. See, they are too flimsy. Here's why that won't do...


It's in the base.


See, ceramic tile must sit on a perfectly rigid base. Know why? Cracks... If the tile base moves, the grout and maybe the tile will crack. That's disaster and that's why you need a shower base made for tile. It's heavier and tougher too. Then there's this...


What about size?


Bet your shower space isn't standard. Now what? Two choices. One is to do the carpenter work and fit the space to the shower base. The other is to somehow get a custom shower base. That may be possible. But it won't be cheap. Here's another bump...


Where's the drain?


It matters. There's a standard location for a drain. Otherwise, two choices again... Change the plumbing or a custom shower base. No other way...


The better way...


But, there is a solution! One company makes parts that you can use to put together a tile ready shower pan in any size and shape you want. Custom size is no problem. Funny thing is, this is what many pro tile setters are moving to. Many tile setters no longer build traditional masonry shower pans. They just use the easier method and get the best results.


Get free ideas to get the best and the easiest tile ready shower pan on our website. Check it out.


Al Bullington invites you to visit http://InstallingCeramicTile.net for answers to your tile shower questions.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Al_Bullington

Monday 18 May 2009

Consider Bathroom Bowl Sinks For Your Next Remodeling

Bowl sinks in the bathroom are becoming more and more popular every day, due in part to the modern design influence becoming en vogue. More and more people are investing in their bathrooms to increase sinking property values, as bathroom renovations will produce 80 to 90 percent returns on the initial investment; more than an investment in any other room in your house will.


These sinks offer a great deal of flexibility of design in a bathroom as well as the convenience needed in the usefulness of such an important room in your home. Many people prefer this type of sink to their more common installed counterpart units, due to the modern design element that bowl sinks bring into a bathroom. They can be installed on almost any type or vanity or surface of your choosing, and you can find all types of bowl sinks to fit all your design needs and ideas.


A new design type that has been emerging recently with bathroom design is installing a bowl sink into a regular piece of bedroom furniture as cabinetry. An old bureau works perfectly for bowl sinks, as the unit is installed on the top of the piece of furniture and the plumbing can be concealed by the piece of furniture. Bowl sinks are made in a vast array of styles, colors, and sizes. Recently, more manufacturers have been producing these units in many bold colors for flexibility within the design element of your renovated bathroom. They also come in a great selection of eclectic shapes, such as square, rectangular, circular and many other variations.


They may also be custom made, so you can get the specific unit you desire for your remodeled bathroom. These units are also composed of many different types of materials such as porcelain, stainless steel and marble, and can be etched or painted to enhance the decor of the bathroom. Although in recent years, more uncommon materials have been used to make bowl sinks, for example, wood, like teak and birch, has been used to produce bowl units. However, these materials are on the higher end of the price range and have some extra cleaning concerns so if you're on a tight budget you may be better off going for the more common materials. But these sinks are very aesthetically pleasing nonetheless and will add that "wow" factor to the room, surely becoming a topic of conversation for any visitor to your house. And as the saying goes: "You get what you pay for!".


There is also a very a wide price range when it comes to buying these units. You can find them for as low as fifty dollars, ranging all the way up the price scale to around ten thousand dollars. Bowl sinks can be an affordable option for your remodeled bathroom, but they can also break the bank depending on your design choices. So, choose carefully and according to your design needs and tastes; as well as your budget. Happy shopping!


You can learn more about undermount bathroom sink, and get much more information, articles and resources about bathroom sinks by visiting bathroom sink unit


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derek_Farley

Saturday 16 May 2009

Prevent Water From Damaging Your Bathroom!

There is a ton of water that goes in and out of your bathroom every day. Here are some tips that can save you a lot of time and money by keeping your bathroom safe from water damage.


The hard part about the bathroom is that most of the water pipes are located inside of walls, where you can't exactly check them easily.


So the way that you can look for water damage within your bathroom is to check for any signs of moisture or water damage in the bathroom's floors and walls. If you see a little bit of warping or staining, then call a repairman to make sure that there isn't a leak. Also, don't just check the bathroom. Go into the rooms that share walls with the bathroom. Sometimes the water spot will go through the other side of the wall, but the problem is caused by a leaking pipe in the bathroom.


Next, the toilet is one of the most problematic areas in the bathroom. There are many pipes to and from the toilet, and the seal between the floor and the toilet can also be a cause of leaks. And, like we said before, no one wants to have to deal with toilet water. So it is a good idea to periodically check for leaks and signs of moisture around the toilet. If the flooring around the toilet is moist or soft, it is very likely that something is leaking and causing damage, so you will want to call a repairman.


Finally, you should check out the exhaust fan because if the fan isn't working properly, the moisture can build up on the walls and cause damage over time. If there is a lot of mold or moisture on the fan, then it is probably not working right.


You will also want to check the shower area of the bathroom for water damage. Since so much water travels through the shower area every day, damage can happen very quickly if a problem is not noticed immediately. You will want to periodically look at the caulking that seals off the crack between the bathtub and the flooring. If there are cracks or the caulking is loose, water will be able to seep in and cause damage. Also, you should check for cracked grout or missing tiles. When there are missing tiles or cracked grout, water can build up underneath the tiles, damaging the walls underneath.


Gary Kent Hamilton is the SEO Expert for Right Way Contracting and Restoration Services - a leading nationwide specializing in 24/7 emergency service water damage restoration, water damage repair, fire and smoke damage restoration and crime scene clean up company.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Kent_Hamilton

Thursday 14 May 2009

Popular Bathroom Tile Shower Designs

When selecting the ideal shower design for your bathroom, there are several aspects of the project to consider before a final decision is made. Firstly, how large is your bathroom? If you have a small sized bathroom, you will not want to overwhelm it with a large tile design. Doing this will only make the bathroom appear smaller and will throw off the balance of the bathroom. After all, that is what you are looking for isn't it?


On the other hand, if your bathroom is so massive that you can hear a slight echo when words are spoken, the worst thing you can possibly do is to pick a shower tile design that is too small and intricate. Intricate designs work best with small bathrooms, and vice versa. As a rule of thumb, keep your bathroom tile shower design proportionate with the overall size of the bathroom.


Here are some of the most popular bathroom tile shower designs:


Glass

As of late, glass bathroom tile shower designs are becoming more and more popular. The most up and coming variation of glass tile is called the "mosaic" effect. The mosaic effect is made up of thousands of tiny square glass tiles, usually in a variation of shades within the same base color. Glass tiled showers also attract the eco-activists because glass tiles are often composed of recycled glass. Aside from granite, glass tiles are by far the most expensive bathroom tile shower design of the bunch.


Subway

Subway tiles may very well fall into the retro category; however subway tiles have remained one of the most popular shower design options for over half a decade. If applied correctly, shower tiles are the most seamless and clean-lines options available. Want another reason to choose subway tiles for your shower re-tiling? They are by far the most cost effective shower tiling solution.


Granite

Since the turn of the 21st century, it seems that the design pros have been obsessed with granite tiles, and not just for the bathroom. Interior designers love to use granite tiles as kitchen and bathroom counters, kitchen and bathroom floors, kitchen backdrops and of course, as shower tiles. The nation has spoken; the most luxurious option for bathroom tiles is granite. Yes, granite tiles in a shower look extremely lavish in a shower, however this beauty will come with a hefty price tag. Using granite is the most expensive shower tiling solution.


You can learn more about bathroom tile patterns, and get much more information, articles and resources about bathroom tiles by visiting bathroom tile designs


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derek_Farley

Tuesday 12 May 2009

Glass Block Shower Enclosure - 5 Ideas For a Quality Finished Project

You've probably heard the adage, "Beauty is only skin deep - it's what's on the inside that matters." For construction projects this saying should definitely be taken to heart. Many people have paid out big bucks for work that looked excellent when the contractor left but did not stand up to the test of time because of shortcuts taken in the building process. In designing a glass block shower enclosure it's the hidden quality in the materials and workmanship which eliminate an expensive re-do. This article will explore useful tips to "get 'er done" (as Larry the Cable Guy might say) right the first time.


Quality tips for your shower project

Idea 1 - It begins with the shower base - Since glass blocks cannot be cut it's important to choose the type and size shower pan or base while you're in the design process. The advantages and disadvantages of the three basic types are explained below:


Acrylic bases - The advantages are they have no seems, are easy to clean and are simple and quick to install. Some disadvantages of acrylic bases is that they are available in limited sizes (there is currently a 60" x 32" and 60" x 34" models for tub to shower conversions & a 72" x 51" for a larger walk in shower in white and biscuit colors), cannot be customized, and it is sometimes difficult to fit the base into rooms that are getting remodeled.


Custom mud set pan bases - The most common method used in more stylish custom showers is the custom mud set pan base. This base is created on site and it's advantage is it can be customized to size and then tile, granite or marble installed over it. The disadvantage is the process is messy, time consuming, and if it's not done right will be more prone to leaks and water damage down the road.


100% Waterproof Extruded Polystyrene Foam Bases - Extruded polystyrene bases can be customized and are 100% waterproof because this material (like a styra-foam coffee cup) does not absorb water. Other advantages include shorter installation times, a neater installation, and improved quality because the pan is pre-slopped in the factory. The disadvantage is the initial purchase price is higher.


Idea 2 - Use Quality Materials on the Adjoining walls - The construction underneath the walls adjoining to the block should not be overlooked. Most projects today use water resistant materials like green board or masonry boards. Although these materials will work if the materials installed over them are done correctly (meaning the finished tile, granite, acrylic walls that are fastened onto the adjoining shower walls), sometimes grouted joints fail leading to water and mold problems. Consider using a Wedi building panel to eliminate future problems. This backer material is waterproof because it uses a core foam interior (closed cell system) and a polymer and cement based outside which makes it ready for tile right after it's installed. In addition the panels are light and not messy to cut.


Idea 3 - Reinforce and anchor the glass block shower wall - When building your shower wall don't skimp on what's inside the wall to ensure it's got the rigidity and support needed for long term performance. The two most popular reinforcement and anchoring systems are either (a) vinyl stack horizontal and vertical spacers or (b) galvanized wire reinforcing and panel anchors. The vinyl stack spacers are non-porous and generally easier to use for those who are less familiar with glass block shower enclosure installations. In most cases it is recommended to anchor your wall every 24" in height to the adjoining walls.


Idea 4 - Use prefabricated glass block wall sections - Laying blocks unit by unit at the site is time consuming and requires a higher skill level. A way to make the project easier and improve quality is to purchase prefabricated wall sections. These panels can be designed in sizes and configurations that make them simple to install (with the vinyl stack spacer system mentioned above you can literally stack one glass section on top of another). With vinyl stack after all the panels are set and anchored, the wall can be grouted with the same material you're using in the adjoining walls for color consistency.


Idea 5 - Get Qualified Help - Let's face it - you don't go to your family doctor if you need heart surgery. Success will usually begin with finding the right contractors and suppliers to help you through the process. If you're not a do-it-yourselfer try to seek out contractors that have successfully performed glass block shower and walk in shower installations. If you'd like to tackle this project on your own you will find the pre-made wall sections and vinyl stack systems to improve the finished quality and make your life easier.


Now that you're equipped with these 5 ideas you're ready to get started with your glass block shower stall project.


Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey - nationwide factory direct suppliers & installers of glass block shower enclosures and stalls and Vinyl Stack Prefabricated glass block wall sections for showers, windows, bars, and walls. In addition Mike's bath tub and shower liner division, The Bath Doctor, is an installer of designer and installer of tub to shower conversion systems. Call now for assistance with the design and supply of your next glass block shower or tub to shower conversion project.


Nationwide 877-668-5888

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/ - glass block, glass block shower, glass block shower enclosures

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/products-showers.aspx glass block shower enclosure, glass block shower stalls, glass block shower design, glass block walk in showers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Foti

Sunday 10 May 2009

Shower Room Floor Mats - For Comfort and Safety

Nothing is worse than stepping out of a hot shower and standing on the cold bathroom floor. Even if we can bear the cold surface beneath our feet, we end up leaving a small puddle of water on the floor. This is very dangerous, especially if we have senior citizens or toddlers at home, who could slip on it and fall. Mopping the floor every time we take a shower is obviously not a viable solution. This is where shower mats step in.


A shower mat placed on the floor right outside the shower chamber will give us a spot where we can comfortably stand after we exit the shower. The mat will not feel too cold and will soak up most or all of the water that we carry on our feet. But these benefits are not all we need from shower mats. In order to be safe for use, we have to make sure the mats stay safe for long term usage. These are the criteria an ideal shower mat would have to fulfill:


1. Quick drying: A shower mat should not just soak up the water; it should also get dry reasonably fast so that the next person can use it. Bamboo mats are best in this regard because these dry up within 15-20 minutes on an average.


2. Absorbent: This is the prime purpose of the mat, so it should also be noted. Thankfully, most shower mats fulfill this criterion adequately, except rubber mats.


3. Fungus resistant: This is a very important criterion because it can directly affect the health of the users. A mat that dries faster will also resist fungus better. Rubber mats are most resistant, while bamboo mats follow closely. Cotton mats are not fungus resistant, and hence need to be washed frequently in hot water.


4. Comfortable to the feet: This is another point to be noted. Here, the cotton scores more any other material by a huge margin. Nothing can beat the soft comfortable feel of cotton beneath one's feet. Bamboo mats are in the second place in this case.


5. Easy on the wallet: Rubber mats are usually the cheapest, but also provide minimal comfort. Cotton mats are quite expensive. Bamboo mats can fit most people's budgets adequately, and also scores high on most other fields.


Before buying a shower mat, it would be good to consider the pros and cons above types of mats. Bamboo is the most versatile, but if comfort is the most important factor, cotton is definitely the best. It just needs to be washed regularly in order to keep it safe for use.


Shower mats are great to have around in bathrooms. Besides ensuring comfort to the feet, these can help keep the bathroom safe for use by people with reduced mobility.


I recommend Duragrid Floor mat for shower rooms. It is manufactured with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agents.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gardner_Wilkinson

Best Way To Clean A Bathroom: How To Clean A Stinky Bathroom

There’s nothing worse than a stinky, smelly bathroom. It’s not only bad on your eyes and nose, but a dirty bathroom is a real health risk too. Lots of germs and mold can build up, exposing everyone who enters to an array of bugs and viruses.


The good news is that dirty, smelly bathrooms can be turned into squeaky clean, even pleasant places to conduct your personal business. It helps to take on one section of the bathroom at a time.


You can break it down into: sink, bathroom mirror, shower, toilet, floor, mats and rugs.


Sink

If your bathroom sink has a counter, the first thing you want to do is clear off all the clutter on top of the counter. Items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, facial creams, lotions, shavers, grooming items, and such can be neatly organized into storage baskets or bins. Fit as much of these items beneath the sink or on storage shelves, etc.


Use a gentle cleanser to clean the sink basin and the counter. Be sure to thoroughly clean the area around the faucet, since that can get grimy. Dry with paper towels or a soft cloth.


Bathroom Mirror

This is probably the easiest thing in the bathroom to clean. You want to spray on some mirror cleanser and wipe clean with a paper towel or soft cloth. Make sure you clean the whole mirror and not just a portion of it. A clean mirror is less likely to steam up completely.


Shower

The shower is probably the one area that people hate cleaning the most, especially if it is full of dirt and grime. However, this is a necessary chore and if it is kept clean on a regular basis, it’s not such a big deal.


Dirty tiles can be cleaned with a solution of one part white vinegar and four parts water. You can also use a spray cleanser that prevents the build up of mold.


Grout can be cleaned with a solution of one part bleach to six parts water. Use an old toothbrush to do the scrubbing. A grout cleaner is also just as good.


Toilet

Toilets can be cleaned quickly using a disposable toilet cleaner that has a plastic handle that you keep for future use. Of course, you can use the standard toilet cleaning brush with a commercial bowl cleaner. Try to clean the toilet regularly to avoid foul odors and stains. You can use prepared cleaning wipes to clean the top and sides.


Floor

You no longer have to use an old fashioned mop to clean your bathroom floor. You can use one of the new steam cleaning mops or a mop with disposable cleaning heads. It’s really important to keep the floor clean of hair and dirt, because germs can be picked up and carried by the feet.


Mats and Rugs

Bathroom rugs should be washed once or twice a month. Scrub rubber mats with a good detergent or cleaner and scrub brush. Rinse thoroughly. Do not let slime build up on them. If you already have a really slimy mat, you may want to toss it in the trash and buy a new one.


Lastly, add some life to your newly cleaned bathroom with framed or laminated pictures, fake flowers, a jar with sea shells, fancy soaps, etc.


Friday 8 May 2009

Walk in Tub Or Walk in Shower - Which Option?

There are some people that are just more comfortable taking a shower rather than taking a bath. Walk in tubs are a great option for those who suffer from limited physical movement, but there is also the option of installing a walk in shower to provide essentially the same safety and ease of accessibility.


In the last decade more and more homes were built with bathtub/shower combinations, but with the rise in the retiring baby boomer generation, these obsolete accommodations are beginning to disappear and being replaced with newer and safer alternatives.


The most notable feature of a walk in shower is that they sit flush with the floor of your bathroom. This eliminates the hazard of having to step up into the shower enclosure and thus removes the fear and anxiety of tripping or falling and risking injury.


These showers can be installed in any existing bathroom and come in a extensive variety of shapes and sizes and with an ample selection of accessories to enhance the safety and enjoyment of showering. There are many options in just choosing the type of showerhead to be installed, from a hand held showerhead, pulsating/massaging showerheads, rain showerheads, or multiple heads. An additional option with many of these showers is a shower valve with scald protection that can be set to a maximum temperature to protect against possible scalding. Many of these showers can be outfitted with comfortable seats for anyone that has difficulty with standing in a shower for any length of time, some can even be purchased with padded seats for additional comfort.


These walk in showers can be something as simple as a chrome enclosed area with sliding glass doors to something as elegant as a "wet room" with steam shower capabilities. Your imagination or your budget is the only constraints when deciding how you want to design your own personal walk in shower.


If you are dealing with the reality of physical limitations or if you have a loved one that is dealing with this situation a walk in shower is definitely an option that can be explored. Additionally, if you are a caregiver and the stress and strain of caring for the needs of an individual is making life rather difficult, this is an option that can be considered.


As everyone ages it becomes increasingly important to be able to attend to their own personal and very private hygiene, with the introduction of walk in showers and walk in bathtubs more people dealing with the reality of limited physical capabilities, will be able to sustain their ability to remain in their homes and live with dignity and independence.


If you are concerned about personal hygiene and you live with limited mobility you can also explore using a walk in shower or if you need information on walk in tubs visit our site http://www.walkintubsinfo.com/


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martha_Wood

Monday 4 May 2009

Green Updates For the Bachelor Bathroom

The Bachelor Bathroom: Green & Parsimoniously Clean


1. Dual Flush Toilets: Give your bathroom an earthy update with a modern, Macus Trade dual flush toilet. These eco-friendly toilets utilize two different flushing mechanisms so that the environment, your wallet and even female house guests are content.


2. Toilet Paper: Compliment the efforts of your dual flush toilet with some EPA compliant toilet paper. Biodegradable toilet paper does your rump, your pipes and the earth a favor.


3. Green Magazines: Nothing accessorizes your dual flush toilet and compostable toilet paper better than some eco-chic reading material. Natural Home Magazine will give you the motivation to finish up your bathroom green-over.


4. Cleaning Solution: Make your chrome shower head sparkle with multi purpose Biokleen spray. It's the perfect, non-toxic solution to all of your dingy bathroom woes. Safe to use around children and pets, this ultra-hygienic cleaner will appease even the toughest of critics


5+6 Bath Mats and Towels: Step out from under your shower and on to a soft and renewable bamboo bath mat. A luxurious bamboo towel will leave you and potential shower buddies with a renewed, dry clean.


7. Bamboo Vanity: Understate your vanity by installing an easily-renewable Bamboo furniture piece under your faucet. A cool bamboo piece lets you care for the planet as you do your look and gives her plenty of storage space.


8. Liquid Soap: Wash off with non-chemical liquid hand soap. Free of synthetics, perfumes, preservatives, it will keep your hands soft to the touch.


9. Compact Florescent Light Bulbs: Show off the newly-made over splendor of your green bathroom with energy-saving light bulbs. They last longer and shine brighter than your standard bulb.


10. Candles: If you're looking for a sexier hue, opt for beeswax candles. They last longer, they're smokeless and hypoallergenic.


dual flush toilet is the best way to start your green product pursuit.


Friday 1 May 2009

Bathroom Decor Made Elegant

Besides the bedroom, the other room that you would want to have a lot of privacy in is the bathroom. While a bedroom may also qualify as a private area in the house, it is only in the bathroom that you are able to do the most private of all your cleaning rituals, which is cleaning your whole body. Some people take a few minutes to take a bath while others who indulge in the activity can take as much as an hour or more to finish! If in your case you are one of those who stay long inside the bathroom, then wouldn't it be nice to have a unique bathroom decor?


There are people who really think and take time out and even spend so much to give their bathrooms a sense of their identity. They want to make sure that when somebody else uses the room, a part of their self is expressed through the bathroom decor and accents that they have inside it. Others just want to make their guests at home and as comfortable as they can be when using their bathrooms.


If you are at a loss on what unique bathroom decor can be used to magically transform your bathroom without having to spend too much, then luxury bath rugs are the answer. In choosing these rugs, make sure they match the dominant color or the tiles in your bathroom. Aside from the color, take into consideration that the rug will serve not only as a bathroom decor but also as moisture controller so pick out one that is made of absorbent material.


The size of your luxury bath rugs will also matter. Decide whether you want the whole rug to cover the entire floor or will it just be enough to cover half of the floor area. Remember that when you choose not to cover every inch of the bathroom floor, the amount of bare floor should be even on each side of the rug. If you find it hard to decide how much area to cover, first use some adhesive tape to mark your area choices and then choose which is best.


Using bathroom rugs as bathroom decor can be fun. Depending on what theme or identity you would like your bathroom to express to every user, you can play with stripes, checks or solid colors and other designs that are eye-catching and visually appealing. Of course, take into consideration all the other items in your bathroom so that the rug you choose will match them. You don't want to change your basic bathroom items since this will mean added cost again.


A bathroom decor can certainly create special effects in your bathrooms. They can entertain people when taking long baths and minimizes the boredom of doing a daily routine. You don't need to invest on expensive items as decorations. All you need is a little creativity and imagination to glam up your bathroom. With just the right designs, colors and sizes, you can transform your ordinary bathroom into a luxurious place for pampering.


If you enjoyed this information about Interior Design, then you are going to love these orange rugs.


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