Bathroom Interiors

Boost Your Bathroom’s Beauty On A Budget!

Boost Your Bathroom's Beauty On A Budget 1

Your bathroom should be a special place where you can go to get some much needed rest and relaxation. You can shut out the world and the rest of the family to just chill out for twenty minutes or more. But what happens when your oasis has turned into a grubby little room? It is so easy to let the bathroom’s condition slide into a disaster area. The amount of heat and water combined with the usual lack of ventilation spells certain doom if you don’t keep on top of it. Here we look at some ways to bring the bathroom back from the brink. As a bonus, most of these tips have your wallet’s limitations very firmly in mind.

Deep Clean

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Before you attempt any kind of makeover on your bathroom, you need to really tidy the place up. There will be mould and damp in places that you didn’t really think about. Get to work using some heavy duty bathroom cleaner and don some rubber gloves to protect your skin. Use water with vinegar to remove the calcium from the taps. Make sure that every surface, including the bath and shower, has been cleaned before assessing your next move.

Walls/Tiles

Boost Your Bathroom's Beauty On A Budget 3 A nicely tiled bathroom by The Kitchen Place (they also design bathrooms) of Australia

It is fairly likely that your bathroom walls will be a tiled affair, but if they are paint then you should do the obvious and repaint carefully. With the tile situation, you should be able to look at your freshly cleaned surface and see if there is any damage. If you are lucky to still have a perfectly tiled bathroom, please move on to the next section. But if you are faced with a few damaged areas, you can tackle these in a few easy steps:

Remove the whole tile and take care not to damage the connecting tiles.
Locate an identical replacement – maybe some left over from the last tiling job?
Apply some tile adhesive to the substrate area.
Place the new tile into the space and press firmly for one minute.
Grout the joints and allow to dry.

Floor

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This is usually the worst spot in any bathroom because of the way water gravitates towards the floor. If you have a carpet and it is looking worse for wear, remove it and dispose of it carefully. Instead of replacing the carpet with another one, you have a few options:

Tile Floor
Laminate Floor
Vinyl Floor

The Tiled floor is going to be expensive and the laminate floor is fairly labor intensive for such a small room. But the vinyl floor is going to be fairly inexpensive and very easy to install. Try and think of a theme that does not upset the walls and ceiling design.

Accessories

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If your taps have seen better days, you can replace them fairly cheaply, especially if you just look to replace the upper part of the unit. You can buy some inexpensive accessories like a mirror and a nice laundry basket to make the room look more homely.

Keep It Clean

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A really clean bathroom.

Hopefully you can start to enjoy your bathroom more frequently but remember to do a deep clean ever week and this way you can keep it looking fresh for much longer!

All Images used above courtesy: The Kitchen Place of Melbourne, Australia

Today’s guest blog is submitted by Jack Logan. He is a freelance writer who writes on a myriad of topic. He recommends new kitchens Melbourne to his readers who want to renovate their house without spending obscene amount of money.

Filed Under: Bathroom Interiors Tagged With: bathroom, bathroom decor, bathroom renovations

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel

by Andrew Scherer · Leave a Comment

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel 1 Photo Courtesy: Copper Sinks

Add up all the time you spend in the bathroom each day and you might be surprised. Then do the math and it turns out that the time that the average person spends in their bathroom each year adds up to well over a week in most cases. Given that so much time is spent in this one small room, it only stands to reason you should do all you can to make that time as enjoyable as possible.

The good news here is that there’s just so many products readily available on the market that you can use to make your bathroom all that it should be when your remodel project is complete. Some are common sense and you probably already know about them. Then some of the more clever ones are newer features that you may want to hear about before you get started.

1. Custom Hand Crafted Tile Murals

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel 2 Affordable artwork for your home has been available for some time now thanks to the opening up of the global market. Skilled artisans in far-flung regions of the globe like Spain, Mexico, and Japan are now producing amazing works for Western homes that you don’t have to break your budget to acquire. So now custom handcrafted tile murals are making their debut on bathroom and kitchen walls across the US and Canada.

These aren’t assembly-line tile murals either. Rather, these are genuine works of ceramic art that are produced by individual artists from start to finish that come ready to go right out of the box. In fact, there are even online venues now where you can have your own designs reproduced in a ceramic mural, just as you have it drawn, and then shipped directly for your project.

2. Shower Sound System

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel 3 Water proof shower sound systems have been around for some time now, so this is really nothing new. What is new, however, is how low prices have come in recent years and how many features they now contain. These are state-of-the-art sound systems that you can buy and hang over the shower spigot or faucet, so there’s no installation required.

If you want to go a few steps further than that, there are also more elaborate systems that include multiple waterproof high fidelity speakers that are designed to be mounted directly into the shower wall. Don’t worry either, because they’re fully waterproof and come guaranteed to stand the test of time, so you get your money back if they end up leaking.

Left: Speakers in Shower – Photo Courtesy: Pete

3. A Bathroom Mirror that’s Also a TV

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The “Cybertecture Mirror” – Image Courtesy: Playing Futures

One of the more clever innovations to make its debut on interior design show room floors are flatscreen TVs that pull double duty as a bathroom mirror. When they’re in the ‘off’ mode they look and function just like any other bathroom mirror. Then when you click them on with their handy remote they instantly become a full-featured flatscreen television.

These TVs are manufactured specifically for the wet environment of a bathroom, so the water has no effect on them whatsoever. They’re also loaded with common sense, user friendly features like the option of performing both functions at one time. So you can actually watch TV with them while you’re also using the mirror!

4. Today’s Better Jacuzzi Tub

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Jacuzzi Tub – Photo Courtesy: Michael Dorausch

Jacuzzi bathtubs have been around for decades now but along the way they garnered a well-earned reputation for being expensive and problematic. They were great when all the components worked as they should, but for the price they cost all too often that just wasn’t long enough. That all has changed though, and this is why installing a Jacuzzi tub is #4 on this list.

Now they’re more affordable, better made and, just as important, they’re also easier to service, because even the best made Jacuzzi tub has components that eventually wear out. They’re also easier to install too, so they fit right in just like a normal tub, so you can even do the installation work yourself if you’re up to it.

5. A Hand Formed Copper Sink

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Copper Vessel Sink with Vine Design by Copper Sinks

A handcrafted copper sink will bring the element of timeless beauty to your new bathroom. These amazing works of functional art are produced from start to finish by indigenous peoples of southern Mexico using the very same handcrafted tools that their ancestors used to form copper into bowls plates and works of art for generations past.

Keep in mind here that with trends in bathroom design coming and going with each passing decade, something like this will never go out of style. They’re surprisingly affordable too, just as easy to install as any other bathroom sink that you can buy at your local warehouse hardware store and then they never chip or crack, so they last pretty much forever.

6. LED String Lighting

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel 7 You don’t need to start in with a bathroom remodel job to install LED string lighting underneath your cabinets or around your mirror. This is because not only are LED string lights more affordable than they have ever been but they’re also so easy to put in place because it requires no wiring. They just plug right into a standard wall outlet.

LED light defuses more evenly than standard lighting, so it’s softer and easier on the eye without the glare of standard lighting. Then, because it uses longer-lasting crystals instead of light bulbs, you no longer have to worry about replacing burned-out bulbs. It’s also safer for bathrooms too because at only 12 volts, it’s very low-voltage.

7. High Tech Anti-Slip Tile Coating

7 Creative Ideas for Your Next Bathroom Remodel 8 Finally, you don’t have to look too deep to see the benefit of new high-tech anti-slip tile coating. It’s a little known fact that the the one room that you are most likely to be injured in is the bathroom and the injury is most likely to result from a slip. So while this isn’t something that you’ll appreciate by looking at, you’ll for sure appreciate it when you’re walking on a wet floor.

It goes right on directly out of the container just like paint, and is perfectly clear, so it doesn’t affect the look of a tile floor in any way. It doesn’t chip, cloud up or flake over time and has long service life too. So one application can last for years. It’s simply a matter of painting it on and then forgetting about it, other than when you realize the fact that your bathroom floor is no longer slippery when wet.

The Bottom Line

If you take a moment to go over the above listed ideas, one thing you’ll find most of them having in common is that they’re readily available and easy to install. So you really don’t need to wait for the job to start in to get going with your upgrades. Also, don’t forget that when it comes time to sell your home, your bathroom and your kitchen are the two best rooms to invest your money in if you’re looking to make your home more attractive to buyers and get maximum return on your home improvement investment dollars.

Filed Under: Bathroom Interiors Tagged With: bathroom decor, bathroom remodeling

Why People are Adapting More to Water Saving Shower Heads

by Tauseef Hussain · Leave a Comment

Tre Mercati Chess Shower Head Chrome And Matt Black by QS Supplies of UK

The world over, people are aware of how critical the supply of clean water is to human health and to the health of the environment, and subsequently most households do all they can to avoid wasting this precious resource. However, beyond the environmental reasons for saving water is another need that is becoming just as pressing – stretched household budgets!

Increasing Costs

Many households are bearing higher costs for utilities such as gas, electricity and water at the same time as living through extremely difficult economic times. It’s these increasing budgetary pressures that have people embracing all manner of ways to cut the costs of living. By reducing water usage consumers can make a direct positive impact on their budget and that is good news not only for their bank balance but also for the environment.

Making Savings

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Phoenix Shower Blade 2 With Waterfall by AQVA Bathrooms of UK

Installing dual flush toilets, fitting grey water diverters and reducing the frequency of baths are some of the more popular ways of saving water within the home, but what of water guzzling showers? Water saving shower heads have in the past proven to be less than impressive when it came to user experience. Poor water flow and a general sense of dissatisfaction is what early water saving devices delivered. However, nowadays people are adapting well to water saving shower heads since both their form and function have improved beyond what anyone might ever have previously imagined.

Improved Design

Today’s water saving shower heads can be found with multiple settings so each user can make adjustments to the settings to suit their individual needs. Many devices boast an array of options such as wide stream, narrow stream, massage or pulsating, gentle mist and even right down to a slow drizzle, should that suffice. Water saving shower heads that comprise a single setting are more affordable than multiple setting devices although neither are extremely expensive.

Not only are these water saving devices affordable, they are often backed by a Government funded scheme, which is another reason why home owners are adapting to them more. In addition, manufacturers have learned to deliver aesthetically pleasing designs that also offer optimum functionality along with water savings – so fitting a water saving shower head no longer means compromising on interior design elements.

Going Green

Another reason that water saving shower heads have become more accepted is due to the overwhelming evidence that the health of the planet is reliant on every single person doing their little bit to save the environment. People have finally come to understand that if each of us takes care of the world’s precious resources then the planet will be preserved for the future.

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Crosswater Rio Shower Head with Light at QS Supplies

Although many of us have memories of extremely long hot showers under tremendous amounts of water that left us feeling totally relaxed and rejuvenated, these days we must keep in mind the impact we’re having on the planet and on our finances. The costs of capturing, cleaning, storing and piping water to our homes is great and those costs are passed on to each household.

By fitting water saving shower heads you will save money, save water and discover that these devices have improved so much that you can still enjoy your shower immensely. When you tell others of your positive experience you will encourage them to adapt to this ultra efficient device too, and for that the planet and future generations will thank you.

Author Bio : Tauseef Hussain is a media blogger and writes for Designer Bathrooms, the on-line store for designer shower heads. You can follow him on twitter @usef4u

Filed Under: Bathroom Interiors, Eco-Friendly Ideas Tagged With: bathroom, bathroom decor, bathroom remodeling, tips to renovate bathroom

How to Keep Your Bathroom Germ-Free

by Adelaide Irene · Leave a Comment

There are little tips and proper methods of cleaning that can help keep your bathroom as germ-free as possible – Pictured bathroom designed by Ultimate Bath Systems.

Bathrooms are one of the most germ prone rooms in any house. This is due to the fact that they are a moisture-dense space that is often of warmer temperatures than the rest of the house from the use of hot water. This makes for the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria – including mould. Not to mention, this is also the one place in the house where people go to get clean after becoming dirty, as well as going to the bathroom. You can only imagine how much dirt and bacteria can build up over time with multiple people using the bathroom multiple times a day. It is obvious that bathrooms need to be cleaned in order to get rid of unwanted germs, but there are little tips and proper methods of cleaning that can help keep your bathroom as germ-free as possible. Read on to learn what they are.

Starting With the Obvious

Photo Courtesy: Tom Small

Before you even start to think about ways to clean your bathroom, you should start at the root of the issue. Bathrooms become dirty and grow bacteria because we use them. If no one ever used a bathroom, bathrooms would stay very clean for a long time. If you want to reduce the amount of germs and bacteria in your bathrooms, be sure to practice proper personal hygiene. After all, so many of the germs spread in the bathroom because we are touching the toilet then the sink and then the door handles. This means washing your hands with warm soapy water after going to the bathroom. Wipe up any water you spill on the sink while washing your hands or brushing your teeth. Dry your hands with either disposable towels or hand towels, but be sure to hang the hand towel up to dry afterwards as to not allow bacteria to grow. The longer a wet cloth or towel stays wet, the higher the chance bacteria will begin to grow on it. If everyone in your household can practice these simple personal hygiene steps, there will be much less bacteria and germs being spread around in your bathroom.

Keep it Covered

One of the best tips for stopping the spread of germs in your bathroom is to close the lid on the toilet before you flush it. That is exactly what it is there for. Did you know that every time you flush the toilet, particles of whatever is inside are thrown into the air as far as 6 feet away? Now think about all of the objects that are within a 6 foot radius of your toilet – most likely everything, including your toothbrush. By keeping the lid closed while flushing the toilet, you are stopping this catapult of germs from being sprung across the entire bathroom.

After learning about the above information, another thing that should be kept covered in the bathroom is your toothbrush. Not everyone will always remember to close the lid on the toilet when they flush, so to be extra safe keep your toothbrush in either the medicine cabinet or drawer, or buy a plastic toothbrush cap to keep over the head. Remember to wash the cap regularly if you choose to go this route.

Preventing Mould

Since bathrooms create so much moisture and become so humid, it becomes an easy place for mould and mildew to grow. It is always a good idea to be proactive when it comes to mould, rather than waiting for it to arrive before dealing with it. One of the best ways to do this is to keep your bathroom fan running while showering or bathing, and leave it running post shower until the mirrors have cleared up and the condensation is no longer on the walls. If you want to go the extra mile, consider painting your ceilings with mould-resistant paint made especially for the bathroom. This paint prevents mould from forming and growing on it which is a great way to be proactive. If you want to renovate your bathroom, ask the professional bathroom renovation company to do this for you before the job is complete.

Disinfectant Cleaning

When it comes time to clean your bathroom, use disinfectant cleaners. Regular soap and water won’t always kill all the germs, especially in areas where they have built up. It might be a good idea to keep a container of disinfectant wipes under the sink, or if you have small children, higher up where they cannot reach them. To make cleaning less overwhelming, use disinfectant wipes every day to keep the space germ free. Simply wipe down the outside of the toilet bowl and the toilet seat and then toss the wipe in the garbage. Next, wipe down the sink, counter and faucets and throw that wipe away. Finish by wiping down the light switches and door handles and then you’re done! This way, come your weekly cleaning of the bathroom, the time you spend cleaning will be greatly reduced. Disinfectant sprays also work well in place of the disinfectant wipes.

Photo Courtesy: Rubbermaid Products

When you fully clean your bathroom each week, be sure to focus on the inside of the toilet and the bath and shower. Use a special toilet cleansing gel around the inner rim of the toilet, and let it work its magic while you clean the rest of the bathroom. Once you are done, scrub the inside of the toilet with a toilet brush and flush the gel away. Your toilet will sparkle in no time. As for your bathtub and shower, use a disinfectant cleaning solution to wipe down the walls and wash the inside of the tub. When you are done, simply rinse it away with the shower head. And lastly, finish with the floors, being sure to throw any bath mats and towels into the laundry bin.

By following these simple tricks and cleaning tips, you will be able to keep your bathroom as germ-free as possible. Try to practice these ideas every day in order to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould.

Author Bio

Adelaide Irene is a freelance writer and stay at home mom of 2 with special interests in home improvements and renovations. She also works alongside a bathroom renovations company – Ultimate Bath Systems.

Filed Under: Bathroom Interiors, Home Cleaning Tagged With: bathroom, home cleaning, home improvement tips, tips to renovate bathroom

Super Design Tips for a Super Stylish Bathroom

by Crispin Jones · Leave a Comment

Stylish Moroccan Bathroom – Photo by ParisSharing

After your kitchen, your bathroom is one of the main rooms that can help sell your house. But even if you aren’t planning on selling up, a stylish bathroom can turn a functional room into a relaxing retreat that oozes style.

If your bathroom is looking a bit tired, think about what changes you could make to up its style stakes. Small, simple touches might all be that’s needed to bring a design together. Some new towels can brighten a room up, and a heated towel rail is not only functional but stylish as well. Adding some spotlights can create a relaxing ambience. New taps can smarten up a bathroom suite without needing to replace it.

Think about what your needs are first, and how much spare cash you’ve got, before making any major changes. If you want a complete re-design then bear in mind that it’s going to be costly.

Size matters

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Photo Courtesy: Paragon Apartments

Consider size. Obviously, the bigger your bathroom, the more space you’ve got to play around with, but even small rooms can be made to feel bigger. Adding a mirror can give a sense of space as can pale, reflective flooring. Mounting shelves onto walls can free up valuable floor area, making the room seem bigger. If you want a shower and a bath, but don’t have the room for both, then having a shower over the bath makes perfect sense for maximizing your space. But if you do have a good-sized bathroom, then adding a chic piece of upholstered furniture such as small chair or chaise longue can really make the room stand out.

Declutter

If bottles and potions are starting to build up on the side of the bath or shelves, then ask yourself if you really need them all. Could you incorporate some extra storage space into your bathroom to tidy these away?

Get repairs done

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Photo Courtesy: EvelynGiggles

Cracked tiles, loose fixtures and fittings and mouldy areas are all problems that need addressing, and can transform your bathroom no end. They needn’t be costly either. But make sure you do the job properly. If there’s something you don’t know how to do, then consider getting a plumber or builder in, especially if making radical changes. A botched job will be expensive to put right again, so never skimp on any installation work required.

Your bath is one of the main features of your bathroom, so consider what state it’s in. A chipped shower tray can be fixed with some shower repairs to make it look new again. And if your coloured suite is looking dated but you don’t have the funds to replace it, then bath resurfacing work can turn it into a gleaming white, a more preferable and modern colour choice.

Inject your personality into the bathroom to make it unique. Select fixtures and fittings in keeping with your personal tastes and the character of your home. There are many different sizes and shapes of sinks and baths, so if you are going to get your old ones replaced, take time to consider which are going to maximize the space and add style as well.

This post was written by Crispin Jones on behalf of Hometech,the shower repairs and bath resurfacing specialists. To find out more about shower repairs and bath resurfacing click here.

Filed Under: Bathroom Interiors