You may have found the most up-to-date advice with reference to bathrooms.
Often when you are looking for better information relating to bathrooms, it'll be complex separating value packed information from reckless bathrooms submissions and help so it is imperative to know how to judge the information you are presented with.
Elegant Linens: Bath Linens & Towels
Sells Egyptian cotton hand towels, bath towels, bath mats, and wash clothes to interior designers and innkeepers.
Now we'd like to give you some advice which we think you should use when you are searching for information about bathrooms. You need to understand that the advice we are giving you is only relevant to internet information about bathrooms. Unfortunately we are unable to provide any advice or guidance for researching in 'real world' situations.
Linen Company: Hotel Shower Curtains
Sells wholesale linen products for hotels and restaurants including table coverings, bedding and bathroom supplies.
An excellent tip to follow when you are presented with information or advice on a bathrooms page is to ascertain who owns the site. This may show you the people behind the site bathrooms identifications The easiest way to find out who is behind the bathrooms website is to look on the 'about' page or 'contact' page.
All respectable sites giving you information on bathrooms, will nearly always have a 'contact', or an 'about', page which will record the site owner's contact details. The fine points should tell some advice about the owner's necessary expertise. You can then arrive at a decision about the vendor's insight and appreciation, to offer recommendations concerning bathrooms.
luni, 8 aprilie 2013
With a stylish bathroom vanity you can take pride in your bathroom's appearance!
With a stylish bathroom vanity you can take pride in your bathroom's appearance! An easy way to instantly improve your bathroom's image is to buy a stylish new bathroom vanity set. Bathroom vanity sets come in a huge range styles and finishes. They typically include a sink cabinet, a mirror and a stool or a chair. A vanity unit can become a stunning focal point of the room and also has a practical function. Combining practicality with elegance and style can be a surefire winner in any bathroom!
Your choice of vanity set can reflect your personality and individual style, as well as being a perfect fit with your bathroom's character and design. There are so many different types of vanities out there that it helps if you have a general idea of the style you're after. Perhaps you want a continuation of the theme from the adjoining room, be that a modern, antique or country look.
If your house has period features an antique vanity unit can add to its charm. There is a huge variety of vintage vanity sets available on the internet these days, including genuine Victorian sinks. If you are looking for a quintessential symbol of a bygone age, then the beauty and quality of an antique vanity can be a wonderful way to achieve this. Alternatively, there are many brand new vanity cabinets made in an old fashioned style and finished to suggest an aged look. Furniture styles with design features such as Queen Ann legs or decorative toe kicks are a popular choice.
Bathroom vanities can be tailor made to meet your specific requirements. For example, you can take you pick from a selection of different counter tops. And you can choose from a variety of sinks made from stone or porcelain, or even hand crafted from blown glass. You can select whether you want a polished wood, or a hand painted finish, as well as matching the hardware to your existing fixtures. The storage space inside the cabinet can also be adapted to your needs, by adding a door rack or hidden compartments for instance.
With some thought and creativity your bathroom vanity set can become a beautiful centerpiece of your room, something you can be really proud of!
Your choice of vanity set can reflect your personality and individual style, as well as being a perfect fit with your bathroom's character and design. There are so many different types of vanities out there that it helps if you have a general idea of the style you're after. Perhaps you want a continuation of the theme from the adjoining room, be that a modern, antique or country look.
If your house has period features an antique vanity unit can add to its charm. There is a huge variety of vintage vanity sets available on the internet these days, including genuine Victorian sinks. If you are looking for a quintessential symbol of a bygone age, then the beauty and quality of an antique vanity can be a wonderful way to achieve this. Alternatively, there are many brand new vanity cabinets made in an old fashioned style and finished to suggest an aged look. Furniture styles with design features such as Queen Ann legs or decorative toe kicks are a popular choice.
Bathroom vanities can be tailor made to meet your specific requirements. For example, you can take you pick from a selection of different counter tops. And you can choose from a variety of sinks made from stone or porcelain, or even hand crafted from blown glass. You can select whether you want a polished wood, or a hand painted finish, as well as matching the hardware to your existing fixtures. The storage space inside the cabinet can also be adapted to your needs, by adding a door rack or hidden compartments for instance.
With some thought and creativity your bathroom vanity set can become a beautiful centerpiece of your room, something you can be really proud of!
Why not add a Shower to your bathroom?
Why not add a Shower to your bathroom? If you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom and redoing or adding showers to them, consider all of your choices. The age we live in has allowed us many choices in what we want in our homes. We can choose from high end, high quality items to comfortable old favorites. When looking to redo or install a shower in your bathroom, you have many things to consider.
Start by knowing the size of the area you wish to install the shower. Or, if you have a previous shower already installed, removing the old will tell you whether any of the existing elements there will need to be repaired or replaced. Consider where the drains are located and how stable the flooring is. Once this information is obtained, you can move onto the design stages.
Taking a trip to the nearest home improvement store will give you many ideas. Don't want to leave the house? Check online stores and even specialty stores that can give you many, many choices. Bathroom showers come in many shapes and sizes and are made from different qualities of materials. Consider whether you want to have an open area surrounded by walls or more of a bathroom shower stall which is more enclosed with a door. Some very nice ones can be made out of stone and ceramics. Others, more commonly used, are made from steal or plastics. Finding what suits you needs and tastes is important. Remember to keep in mind the costs and the installation fees if you will not be installing it yourself.
Now you have the bathroom shower installed. Looks great right? Did you consider shower curtains to match the bathroom? You can find many designs at a department store of your choice. Bathroom shower curtains are easy to find and in most cases an inexpensive way to provide privacy. Or, perhaps, you shower has shower doors? Doors can be a great way to keep the water in the shower itself. Doors made of glass will be much heavier then those made of plastics, but either choice will come with a film like surface to allow some privacy.
Got it put together? Do you like the outcome of your project? Remodeling or installing can be a great way to add value and comfort to your home. Finding things that you not can use, but that you like as well, makes the project an enjoyable experience.
Start by knowing the size of the area you wish to install the shower. Or, if you have a previous shower already installed, removing the old will tell you whether any of the existing elements there will need to be repaired or replaced. Consider where the drains are located and how stable the flooring is. Once this information is obtained, you can move onto the design stages.
Taking a trip to the nearest home improvement store will give you many ideas. Don't want to leave the house? Check online stores and even specialty stores that can give you many, many choices. Bathroom showers come in many shapes and sizes and are made from different qualities of materials. Consider whether you want to have an open area surrounded by walls or more of a bathroom shower stall which is more enclosed with a door. Some very nice ones can be made out of stone and ceramics. Others, more commonly used, are made from steal or plastics. Finding what suits you needs and tastes is important. Remember to keep in mind the costs and the installation fees if you will not be installing it yourself.
Now you have the bathroom shower installed. Looks great right? Did you consider shower curtains to match the bathroom? You can find many designs at a department store of your choice. Bathroom shower curtains are easy to find and in most cases an inexpensive way to provide privacy. Or, perhaps, you shower has shower doors? Doors can be a great way to keep the water in the shower itself. Doors made of glass will be much heavier then those made of plastics, but either choice will come with a film like surface to allow some privacy.
Got it put together? Do you like the outcome of your project? Remodeling or installing can be a great way to add value and comfort to your home. Finding things that you not can use, but that you like as well, makes the project an enjoyable experience.
Which Lamp should you choose?
Which Lamp should you choose? With all the lighting choices out there, you may want to reconsider just purchasing a lamp for your lighting needs. Whether you are looking for interior lighting or outdoor lighting, you can find many options pretty easily. Lighting fixtures have become more then just a means for gaining light. They are stylish and fun. They can be useful, but also are decorations for your home. There are many types to choose from as well.
Some things to consider when choosing lighting are what your needs, tastes, and desires are. You will want something that will fulfill all these elements. Let us talk about outdoor lighting for a minute. Outdoor lighting can be many things. It can be posts or landscape lighting. You can outline the path to your home or put spot lights on certain points within the landscape. You can choose from many different styles and types, colors and designs. Solar or not. Bright or faint.
Home interior lighting is also quite versatile. If you are looking for kitchen lighting, you will want something that is bright and will cover the entire surface. While you may also want to add a dimmer switch in your dining area. The bathroom lighting can be relaxing and soothing by using subtle lights and lighting fixtures. In hallways, track lighting is a good option as it is many lights that can be pointed in any direction.
With so many options, it is easy to see why the average lamp isn't used as much any more. Now, that is not to say that lamps aren't part of your homes interior lighting scheme. There are many stylish, elegant, lamps that will fit into your plans. But, it is to say that they are not the only thing out there anymore. Now, to find these great types of lighting, try checking at local home improvement stores and even lighting specialty stores. Or, if you would rather check out your options at home, check online at the numerous online retailers.
There you can order hard to get items or specially designed items. There is no excuse, therefore, to not knowing what your options are. Trying new and exciting things will benefit your home for years to come.
Some things to consider when choosing lighting are what your needs, tastes, and desires are. You will want something that will fulfill all these elements. Let us talk about outdoor lighting for a minute. Outdoor lighting can be many things. It can be posts or landscape lighting. You can outline the path to your home or put spot lights on certain points within the landscape. You can choose from many different styles and types, colors and designs. Solar or not. Bright or faint.
Home interior lighting is also quite versatile. If you are looking for kitchen lighting, you will want something that is bright and will cover the entire surface. While you may also want to add a dimmer switch in your dining area. The bathroom lighting can be relaxing and soothing by using subtle lights and lighting fixtures. In hallways, track lighting is a good option as it is many lights that can be pointed in any direction.
With so many options, it is easy to see why the average lamp isn't used as much any more. Now, that is not to say that lamps aren't part of your homes interior lighting scheme. There are many stylish, elegant, lamps that will fit into your plans. But, it is to say that they are not the only thing out there anymore. Now, to find these great types of lighting, try checking at local home improvement stores and even lighting specialty stores. Or, if you would rather check out your options at home, check online at the numerous online retailers.
There you can order hard to get items or specially designed items. There is no excuse, therefore, to not knowing what your options are. Trying new and exciting things will benefit your home for years to come.
Where to Find Unique Shower Curtains -
Where to Find Unique Shower Curtains - Once upon a time, shower curtains were functional... and they were boring. Not today. Shower curtains are now decorative as well as useful. They can be bold and vibrant or simple and understated. A little looking can turn up some truly unique designs.
There are many options for those looking for something beyond the simple floral prints, stripes, polka dots, and solids. Bed Bath & Beyond, for example, offers a Life Magazine shower curtain. This unique design features reproductions of classic Life magazine photographs, and costs approximately $30.
Gallery Street offers truly unique shower curtains. For $135, the company will reproduce any photograph onto a fabric shower curtain. You can use photos of your family, vacation, pets, or anything else you desire -- talk about a one-of-a-kind shower curtain. You can also place favorite sayings, children's artwork, or personal drawings on the curtain. If you prefer, the company also offers a selection of professional artwork that can be reproduced on shower curtains.
The Bathroom Marquee offers a new idea in shower curtains. Their Out-a-Sight shower curtain folds neatly into a box when it is not being used.
Shower curtains are available in a number of styles to suit various professions and hobbies. For example, Bungalow Beach offers a curtain that is sure to appeal to surfers. The Longboards Shower Curtain costs $65 and features palm trees and surfboards. If you are looking for a unique gift for a hunter or fisherman, consider the unique shower curtains from Fish and Gifts. Fish and Gifts offers a shower curtain that features antique fishing lures. Using the art of Jon Q. Wright, this curtain is made in bold colors.
To add a touch of style or pizzazz to an otherwise merely functional room, consider a unique shower curtain. This will liven up your space and make it much more personal.
There are many options for those looking for something beyond the simple floral prints, stripes, polka dots, and solids. Bed Bath & Beyond, for example, offers a Life Magazine shower curtain. This unique design features reproductions of classic Life magazine photographs, and costs approximately $30.
Gallery Street offers truly unique shower curtains. For $135, the company will reproduce any photograph onto a fabric shower curtain. You can use photos of your family, vacation, pets, or anything else you desire -- talk about a one-of-a-kind shower curtain. You can also place favorite sayings, children's artwork, or personal drawings on the curtain. If you prefer, the company also offers a selection of professional artwork that can be reproduced on shower curtains.
The Bathroom Marquee offers a new idea in shower curtains. Their Out-a-Sight shower curtain folds neatly into a box when it is not being used.
Shower curtains are available in a number of styles to suit various professions and hobbies. For example, Bungalow Beach offers a curtain that is sure to appeal to surfers. The Longboards Shower Curtain costs $65 and features palm trees and surfboards. If you are looking for a unique gift for a hunter or fisherman, consider the unique shower curtains from Fish and Gifts. Fish and Gifts offers a shower curtain that features antique fishing lures. Using the art of Jon Q. Wright, this curtain is made in bold colors.
To add a touch of style or pizzazz to an otherwise merely functional room, consider a unique shower curtain. This will liven up your space and make it much more personal.
What to Look for in Bathroom Vanity Tops -
What to Look for in Bathroom Vanity Tops - Bathroom vanity tops offer many options to the discerning customer. Ideally, they should all have a strong, smooth surface that defies stains and spills, mild heat and impact. Some materials on the market are heat and burn proof. Product durability and appearance are important since the bathroom vanity top will be used often. Beyond these considerations there are the matters of style, design and function. Bathroom vanity tops come either standard or custom to suit your bathroom.
One-piece constructions come with the coved backsplash and the bowl formed into the top by the manufacturer, creating a smooth continuous surface, and eliminating dirt-catching hard to clean seams. If you choose a vessel sink, the splashguard would be inconsequential.
The choices of bathroom vanity tops can be overwhelming. Some basic types of materials are available to the homeowner, which help to narrow the choice based on what material is most appropriate for your bathroom furniture. Some of the most popular choices of vanity tops include: marble, stone, prefabricated and synthetic materials, slate and tiles. If you purchase your vanity top separately from your bathroom vanity cabinet and sink, you always have the option to install it yourself, and many of the prefabricated models come with standard faucet holes pre-drilled.
Design and style are guiding principles when refining your choice of bathroom vanity tops. From the simple, clean designs of contemporary rectangular and oval shapes, to more richly fluted scallop designs, you can begin to create a bathroom that carries your personal signature. Many bathroom vanity tops can be made to order allowing the more creative homeowners to express and define their personal vision. The top is one of the contributing factors to beautify your bathroom environment and should be carefully considered as an integral part of any bathroom vanity.
One-piece constructions come with the coved backsplash and the bowl formed into the top by the manufacturer, creating a smooth continuous surface, and eliminating dirt-catching hard to clean seams. If you choose a vessel sink, the splashguard would be inconsequential.
The choices of bathroom vanity tops can be overwhelming. Some basic types of materials are available to the homeowner, which help to narrow the choice based on what material is most appropriate for your bathroom furniture. Some of the most popular choices of vanity tops include: marble, stone, prefabricated and synthetic materials, slate and tiles. If you purchase your vanity top separately from your bathroom vanity cabinet and sink, you always have the option to install it yourself, and many of the prefabricated models come with standard faucet holes pre-drilled.
Design and style are guiding principles when refining your choice of bathroom vanity tops. From the simple, clean designs of contemporary rectangular and oval shapes, to more richly fluted scallop designs, you can begin to create a bathroom that carries your personal signature. Many bathroom vanity tops can be made to order allowing the more creative homeowners to express and define their personal vision. The top is one of the contributing factors to beautify your bathroom environment and should be carefully considered as an integral part of any bathroom vanity.
What are light fixtures used for?
What are light fixtures used for?
Light fixtures are something not many of us think about. But, the way we light a room can cause us to feel a certain way or enhance what we want to accomplish in that room. There are many types of light fixtures for all areas of the home and even outdoor lighting fixtures for landscaping designs.
Planning to remodel a room? Consider light fixtures as one element to change. For instance, bathroom lighting fixtures can be changed from a bulb in a ceiling light fixture to lights sockets over the vanity and recess lighting throughout the room. The effect can be stunning. And all from just changing the bathroom light fixtures. You may wish to change the lighting in your home from dull, standard light to contemporary lighting fixtures thus changing the theme and style of the room instantly.
To find styles and ideas about your lighting fixtures, try checking into them at your local home improvement store. They often have many, many options and can special order things that they do not regularly carry. Or, you may wish to check out the online retailers that offer even more options for all lighting needs. You will find them by doing a simple web search for lighting fixtures using your favorite search engine on the internet. You'll find many, many different websites to look into.
So, whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor lighting, contemporary or old style traditional, you will find many options to choose from. From different colors to different sizes and styles, there are many. You can find them online or in home improvement stores. And, when you do make the changes, you will notice that your home looks a little different. It may be subtle changes that make you see your home in a different light.
Light fixtures are something not many of us think about. But, the way we light a room can cause us to feel a certain way or enhance what we want to accomplish in that room. There are many types of light fixtures for all areas of the home and even outdoor lighting fixtures for landscaping designs.
Planning to remodel a room? Consider light fixtures as one element to change. For instance, bathroom lighting fixtures can be changed from a bulb in a ceiling light fixture to lights sockets over the vanity and recess lighting throughout the room. The effect can be stunning. And all from just changing the bathroom light fixtures. You may wish to change the lighting in your home from dull, standard light to contemporary lighting fixtures thus changing the theme and style of the room instantly.
To find styles and ideas about your lighting fixtures, try checking into them at your local home improvement store. They often have many, many options and can special order things that they do not regularly carry. Or, you may wish to check out the online retailers that offer even more options for all lighting needs. You will find them by doing a simple web search for lighting fixtures using your favorite search engine on the internet. You'll find many, many different websites to look into.
So, whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor lighting, contemporary or old style traditional, you will find many options to choose from. From different colors to different sizes and styles, there are many. You can find them online or in home improvement stores. And, when you do make the changes, you will notice that your home looks a little different. It may be subtle changes that make you see your home in a different light.
Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient
Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient There are a number of design features and fittings that can improve bathroom energy efficiency and reduce energy bills and greenhouse pollution. Remodelling your bathroom to make it more energy efficient will improve your home because doing it right will reap the benefits of health, safety, comfort and will save you money and energy.
1. Energy Efficient Hot Water System
Select an energy efficient hot water system and place it as close to the bathroom and laundry as possible to reduce pipe length and reduce heat loss.
2. Energy Efficient Labelled Ventilation Fans
Bathroom moisture is often controlled by the use of an exhaust fan. The fan sucks out the moisture-laden air, which is then replaced by drier outside air.
Install properly sized energy efficient labelled ventilation fans to control moisture in the air while you shower or bathe. By removing moist air and drying out your bathroom, a ventilation fan will help prevent mold and mildew. Fans help remove moisture, which can increase the level of humidity in your house. High humidity can damage building materials. Worse, high humidity can cause mold growth and mold may affect your family's health. Install self closing exhaust fans to avoid heat loss or gain when not in use
3. Energy Efficient Labelled Lighting
Another easy way to make your bathroom more energy efficient is to install energy efficient labelled lighting (e.g., Light Fixtures: suspended lights, ceiling-mounted lights, cabinet lights, recessed lights, or compact fluorescent bulbs). Attractive, energy-efficient lighting adds value to your home and reduces home energy bills.
4. Insulation - Insulate Walls and Ceilings
The walls behind tubs or showers are often poorly insulated and air-sealed. Opening these walls as part of the remodelling project provides an opportunity to ensure comfort by sealing air leaks with caulk or expanding foam and installing insulation. Also make sure to air seal around plumbing and electrical penetrations.
5. Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
If you are replacing windows, doors, and skylights, consider those with the energy efficient label. New technologies in the glass and frame systems help make your home more comfortable, and lower heating and cooling costs too.
6. Energy Efficient Showerheads
The shower is the largest user of household hot water. Install an AAA showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water consumed. AAA showerheads are available at many bathroom supply stores and hardware stores. A flow rate of approximately 7L per minute is considered as AAA for showerheads.
7. Water Pipes and Water Saving Devices
Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and save energy. Install water saving devices like water saving aerators and flow regulators in your taps. Select water saving taps that have a similar water saving rating.
1. Energy Efficient Hot Water System
Select an energy efficient hot water system and place it as close to the bathroom and laundry as possible to reduce pipe length and reduce heat loss.
2. Energy Efficient Labelled Ventilation Fans
Bathroom moisture is often controlled by the use of an exhaust fan. The fan sucks out the moisture-laden air, which is then replaced by drier outside air.
Install properly sized energy efficient labelled ventilation fans to control moisture in the air while you shower or bathe. By removing moist air and drying out your bathroom, a ventilation fan will help prevent mold and mildew. Fans help remove moisture, which can increase the level of humidity in your house. High humidity can damage building materials. Worse, high humidity can cause mold growth and mold may affect your family's health. Install self closing exhaust fans to avoid heat loss or gain when not in use
3. Energy Efficient Labelled Lighting
Another easy way to make your bathroom more energy efficient is to install energy efficient labelled lighting (e.g., Light Fixtures: suspended lights, ceiling-mounted lights, cabinet lights, recessed lights, or compact fluorescent bulbs). Attractive, energy-efficient lighting adds value to your home and reduces home energy bills.
4. Insulation - Insulate Walls and Ceilings
The walls behind tubs or showers are often poorly insulated and air-sealed. Opening these walls as part of the remodelling project provides an opportunity to ensure comfort by sealing air leaks with caulk or expanding foam and installing insulation. Also make sure to air seal around plumbing and electrical penetrations.
5. Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
If you are replacing windows, doors, and skylights, consider those with the energy efficient label. New technologies in the glass and frame systems help make your home more comfortable, and lower heating and cooling costs too.
6. Energy Efficient Showerheads
The shower is the largest user of household hot water. Install an AAA showerhead to reduce the amount of hot water consumed. AAA showerheads are available at many bathroom supply stores and hardware stores. A flow rate of approximately 7L per minute is considered as AAA for showerheads.
7. Water Pipes and Water Saving Devices
Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and save energy. Install water saving devices like water saving aerators and flow regulators in your taps. Select water saving taps that have a similar water saving rating.
Warming up the Bath
Warming up the Bath (ARA) - Of all the rooms in a house, family members most often find themselves trekking to the bathroom to begin and end their busy days. In today's bathrooms, we find only the most standard of conveniences in an environment that demands solitude, efficient use of space and the desire to maintain a level of comfort. According to a study by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), people are looking for larger, more luxurious bathrooms creating an aura of calm and peace.
With the cooler months looming around the corner, there are some savvy products and design solutions for any size bathroom that offer a simple approach to improving your bathroom's needs, while giving your family a sense of comfort in a room not-less traveled. Many of these ideas were featured by top designers in the 2003 NKBA National Design Competition.
Towel Warmers
Whether it is a small, medium or even a large master-suite bathroom, towel warmers add a versatile approach to displaying your fabrics, while offering an added benefit to keep your towels warm and dry. Most major manufactures of bath products offer towel warmers in their product lines and they can easily be purchased at many local retailers and dealers.
Heated Tile System
If you prefer the look of tiled flooring in your bathroom but can't get past the idea of stepping on that cool floor during the coldest of days, installing a heated tile system provides a desired level of comfort not to be overlooked. These systems can be easily installed by an NKBA professional when performing even the most basic bathroom renovation.
Insulating Windows
Windows in the bathroom often add to the appeal of inviting natural light into your sanctuary, but they also add to an unseen problem that is often overlooked. Probably the best location for losing heat from your bathroom, windows can conduct precious heat from inside right out into the cool air. This is especially a problem for those in older buildings with single pane windows. The easiest way to stop this free flow of your heat to the outside is to install a window insulating kit. These kits can be purchased from a number of local retailers and dealers and can be installed by an NKBA professional.
Temperature Control
To improve the safety of your shower area, installing pressure balances and control valves can minimize the scalding effect on children and adults of all ages. Pressure balance and control valves will prevent your faucet from spitting out water of extremely high temperatures in the event that cold-water pressure fails. This can happen if a sink or washing machine is being operated throughout the house while you are taking a shower.
Spa/Steam System
One of the more trendy developments in bathroom design is a spa/steam system. According to a study conducted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, more than two-thirds of the respondents (66 percent) stated these style systems to be a hot bathroom idea. A system such as this can create a luxurious spa-like environment without leaving the confines of your home. An NKBA Certified Bath Designer will be able to design a retreat that matches your desires and budget.
For more information on bathroom remodeling, contact the National Kitchen & Bath Association at (877) NKBA-PRO or visit their Web site at www.nkba.org. Let an NKBA professional add value to your investment by applying their experience and expertise to the job.
Courtesy of ARA Content
With the cooler months looming around the corner, there are some savvy products and design solutions for any size bathroom that offer a simple approach to improving your bathroom's needs, while giving your family a sense of comfort in a room not-less traveled. Many of these ideas were featured by top designers in the 2003 NKBA National Design Competition.
Towel Warmers
Whether it is a small, medium or even a large master-suite bathroom, towel warmers add a versatile approach to displaying your fabrics, while offering an added benefit to keep your towels warm and dry. Most major manufactures of bath products offer towel warmers in their product lines and they can easily be purchased at many local retailers and dealers.
Heated Tile System
If you prefer the look of tiled flooring in your bathroom but can't get past the idea of stepping on that cool floor during the coldest of days, installing a heated tile system provides a desired level of comfort not to be overlooked. These systems can be easily installed by an NKBA professional when performing even the most basic bathroom renovation.
Insulating Windows
Windows in the bathroom often add to the appeal of inviting natural light into your sanctuary, but they also add to an unseen problem that is often overlooked. Probably the best location for losing heat from your bathroom, windows can conduct precious heat from inside right out into the cool air. This is especially a problem for those in older buildings with single pane windows. The easiest way to stop this free flow of your heat to the outside is to install a window insulating kit. These kits can be purchased from a number of local retailers and dealers and can be installed by an NKBA professional.
Temperature Control
To improve the safety of your shower area, installing pressure balances and control valves can minimize the scalding effect on children and adults of all ages. Pressure balance and control valves will prevent your faucet from spitting out water of extremely high temperatures in the event that cold-water pressure fails. This can happen if a sink or washing machine is being operated throughout the house while you are taking a shower.
Spa/Steam System
One of the more trendy developments in bathroom design is a spa/steam system. According to a study conducted by the National Kitchen & Bath Association, more than two-thirds of the respondents (66 percent) stated these style systems to be a hot bathroom idea. A system such as this can create a luxurious spa-like environment without leaving the confines of your home. An NKBA Certified Bath Designer will be able to design a retreat that matches your desires and budget.
For more information on bathroom remodeling, contact the National Kitchen & Bath Association at (877) NKBA-PRO or visit their Web site at www.nkba.org. Let an NKBA professional add value to your investment by applying their experience and expertise to the job.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Vintage Magazine Ads as wall decorations
Vintage Magazine Ads as wall decorations Decorating with Vintage Magazine Ads
I have noticed a trend in decorating that I had no idea existed. It seems that many people are using vintage magazine ads as home decorations.
For example, if you have a home bar, you may be interested in framing some old Ballantines ale or Jack Daniels ads.
If your first car was a 1969 Chevelle, you may want to frame a vintage Chevrolet ad.
Colorful full page ads seem to spark the most interest although I have seen some really classic black and white ads. These ads from days gone by contain some truly classic looks that you just don't see today.
More than the classic looks, they provide a glimpse into a different time as well as how society viewed the world. For example, many of the cigarette ads from the 1940's - 1950's feature prominent actors, actresses and sports figures. This is something you would never see in today's "PC" world.
At the other end of the spectrum, many of these past ads portray American life at home. Families eating meals together, traveling together and well....just plain being together.
This trend lead me to start collecting and eventually selling these classic ads. Since creating my online store http://stores.ebay.com/A-Blast-From-the-Past-and-More I have heard some really great ideas. The latest was a customer that was going to wallpaper their bathroom with vintage soap and perfume ads. Truly creative!
I have noticed a trend in decorating that I had no idea existed. It seems that many people are using vintage magazine ads as home decorations.
For example, if you have a home bar, you may be interested in framing some old Ballantines ale or Jack Daniels ads.
If your first car was a 1969 Chevelle, you may want to frame a vintage Chevrolet ad.
Colorful full page ads seem to spark the most interest although I have seen some really classic black and white ads. These ads from days gone by contain some truly classic looks that you just don't see today.
More than the classic looks, they provide a glimpse into a different time as well as how society viewed the world. For example, many of the cigarette ads from the 1940's - 1950's feature prominent actors, actresses and sports figures. This is something you would never see in today's "PC" world.
At the other end of the spectrum, many of these past ads portray American life at home. Families eating meals together, traveling together and well....just plain being together.
This trend lead me to start collecting and eventually selling these classic ads. Since creating my online store http://stores.ebay.com/A-Blast-From-the-Past-and-More I have heard some really great ideas. The latest was a customer that was going to wallpaper their bathroom with vintage soap and perfume ads. Truly creative!
Varieties of Fabric Shower Curtains -
Varieties of Fabric Shower Curtains - If you are looking for an easy, inexpensive way to revitalize your bathroom, consider changing your shower curtain. Though we often take them for granted, shower curtains are at the center of a bathroom's d
Towel Radiators: Add a Luxurious touch to Your Bathroom
Towel Radiators: Add a Luxurious touch to Your Bathroom (ARA) - The thought of stepping from the shower or bathtub into a warm, fluffy towel speaks of the kind of luxury you expect to find in hotels and homes across Europe. But wouldn't it be great to have that kind of luxury in your own home?
Resembling ultra modern, extended towel bars in a multitude of colors and designs, the Zehnder towel radiators serve two purposes: providing an even, radiant heat source for a room and warming and drying the towels.
"They are a practical solution to heating bathrooms, mud rooms and spas because towel radiators are more than just towel warmers," says Kate Bosley of Zehnder. "The heat output effectively heats these spaces whether as a sole source or in combination with radiant floor heating or other conventional methods. And electric towel radiators allow you to heat the bathroom year round without turning on the central heating system."
"Now even a cool morning in June can be welcomed with a warm bathroom and a fluffy, warm towel. And they're even used in southern climates for drying out the bath and preventing sour, mildewy smells," adds Bosley.
Zehnder, which has been making radiators in Europe since 1930, provides an infrared programmable controller that allows for seven-day programming. The controller allows you the convenience and efficiency of programming the radiator to warm the bathroom and the towels before you wake up in the morning, and then again in the evening or whenever it is needed. It then shuts itself off to avoid wasting energy. This makes the product extremely energy efficient as well.
"You don't have to remember to turn it on at the last minute before a bath or shower or after you wake in the morning, or worse, leave it on in order to have a warm bath and towel when you want them," Bosley added.
All three models come in a range of sizes and colors. There are many standard colors and over 100 fashion colors to choose from. Also, the wireless programmable controller comes standard with every unit and gives you eight heat settings so you can use your radiator all year round.
For more information about Zehnder towel radiator, visit their Web site at www.zehnderamerica.com or contact Zehnder America Inc., 540 Portsmouth Ave., Greenland, N.H., (toll free) (888) 778-6701.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Resembling ultra modern, extended towel bars in a multitude of colors and designs, the Zehnder towel radiators serve two purposes: providing an even, radiant heat source for a room and warming and drying the towels.
"They are a practical solution to heating bathrooms, mud rooms and spas because towel radiators are more than just towel warmers," says Kate Bosley of Zehnder. "The heat output effectively heats these spaces whether as a sole source or in combination with radiant floor heating or other conventional methods. And electric towel radiators allow you to heat the bathroom year round without turning on the central heating system."
"Now even a cool morning in June can be welcomed with a warm bathroom and a fluffy, warm towel. And they're even used in southern climates for drying out the bath and preventing sour, mildewy smells," adds Bosley.
Zehnder, which has been making radiators in Europe since 1930, provides an infrared programmable controller that allows for seven-day programming. The controller allows you the convenience and efficiency of programming the radiator to warm the bathroom and the towels before you wake up in the morning, and then again in the evening or whenever it is needed. It then shuts itself off to avoid wasting energy. This makes the product extremely energy efficient as well.
"You don't have to remember to turn it on at the last minute before a bath or shower or after you wake in the morning, or worse, leave it on in order to have a warm bath and towel when you want them," Bosley added.
All three models come in a range of sizes and colors. There are many standard colors and over 100 fashion colors to choose from. Also, the wireless programmable controller comes standard with every unit and gives you eight heat settings so you can use your radiator all year round.
For more information about Zehnder towel radiator, visit their Web site at www.zehnderamerica.com or contact Zehnder America Inc., 540 Portsmouth Ave., Greenland, N.H., (toll free) (888) 778-6701.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Top Tips for Keeping Your Home Tidy
Top Tips for Keeping Your Home Tidy You've got so much tidying to do, so little time. So what's a person to do? You can either lower your standards and just ignore the mess, or you can think smart and keep your house tidy with little effort.
Unfortunately there is no way to avoid housework. But you can keep your house clean and sparkling in less than 30 minutes a day, if you just get organized.
The very first thing you need to do is gather all your cleaning supplies and place them in one spot, organized neatly. I do mean "all" your cleaning supplies, the
glass cleaner, the furniture polish, the wax, the cleaner, the dusting cloth - all of it! Next organize it in groups that make sense as to how you would use it. So if
you're going to do the windows you just have to grab all your window supplies, or if your cleaning the bathroom, you'd grab all the bathroom supplies. Use the old
KISS formula - "Keep It Simple Stupid." Don't make extra work for yourself.
Next place a clothes basket in every room where dirty clothes might land. Then train your household members to drop their dirty clothes in the hamper, and not on the floor. If it's in their room, it should be as easy to use as the floor. If you've got kids, get creative, with a hamper that's their favorite cartoon character or action figure. Make it fun!
Assign duties to other members of your house. Kids, even younger ones, can be good helpers. Give them tasks that they are capable of completing. As an incentive you can reward them. You can take them to a matinee or give them a treat if they complete their chores. If they get an allowance make them work for it. No kids, then you're on your own, unless you have a modern day husband
who participates in the household chores.
Be logical in your cleaning. There are two strategies that work well. With the first, you do a thorough cleaning once or twice a week. You choose a task, then start at one end of the house and move completely through the house until that task is done. Then start your next task. You'll save valuable time by not jumping from one task to the other.
The second strategy is favored by working woman and men, because it takes less than 30 minutes every day, and you don't have to look forward to cleaning house on your days off. With this strategy you do one room at a time, and set time limits as to how much time you'll spend in each room.. So lets say the kitchen gets 8 minutes, Bathroom gets 5, bedrooms get 5 each, and on and on, depending on how many rooms you have. You can adjust the 30 minutes up or down, but it should never be more than 45 minutes.
In the kitchen, wipe down the stove, fridge and dispose of any food that needs to be tossed. Wipe down the counter tops and the sink. Empty the dishwasher. Sweep the floor and give it a quick mopping.
In the bathroom pick up dirty laundry and toss in the hamper, wipe down the tub, shower, and sink. Clean the toilet last. Mop the floor if it needs it.
Bedrooms just need the beds made, dirty laundry picked up, and clothes put away. A quick dusting and vacuuming every third day is sufficient.
Tidy the living room, pickup books and "stuff" that are lying around. Wipe off tables. Dusting and vacuuming every second or third day is sufficient.
By doing laundry amongst other activities, you'll save yourself more time. Throw a load in while you're watching TV or making super. Fit it into other activities, so you're not faced with ten loads at the end of the week.
Get organized and cleaning your house will become a breeze. You'll have less stress worrying about it and more free time to enjoy the things you like to do!
Unfortunately there is no way to avoid housework. But you can keep your house clean and sparkling in less than 30 minutes a day, if you just get organized.
The very first thing you need to do is gather all your cleaning supplies and place them in one spot, organized neatly. I do mean "all" your cleaning supplies, the
glass cleaner, the furniture polish, the wax, the cleaner, the dusting cloth - all of it! Next organize it in groups that make sense as to how you would use it. So if
you're going to do the windows you just have to grab all your window supplies, or if your cleaning the bathroom, you'd grab all the bathroom supplies. Use the old
KISS formula - "Keep It Simple Stupid." Don't make extra work for yourself.
Next place a clothes basket in every room where dirty clothes might land. Then train your household members to drop their dirty clothes in the hamper, and not on the floor. If it's in their room, it should be as easy to use as the floor. If you've got kids, get creative, with a hamper that's their favorite cartoon character or action figure. Make it fun!
Assign duties to other members of your house. Kids, even younger ones, can be good helpers. Give them tasks that they are capable of completing. As an incentive you can reward them. You can take them to a matinee or give them a treat if they complete their chores. If they get an allowance make them work for it. No kids, then you're on your own, unless you have a modern day husband
who participates in the household chores.
Be logical in your cleaning. There are two strategies that work well. With the first, you do a thorough cleaning once or twice a week. You choose a task, then start at one end of the house and move completely through the house until that task is done. Then start your next task. You'll save valuable time by not jumping from one task to the other.
The second strategy is favored by working woman and men, because it takes less than 30 minutes every day, and you don't have to look forward to cleaning house on your days off. With this strategy you do one room at a time, and set time limits as to how much time you'll spend in each room.. So lets say the kitchen gets 8 minutes, Bathroom gets 5, bedrooms get 5 each, and on and on, depending on how many rooms you have. You can adjust the 30 minutes up or down, but it should never be more than 45 minutes.
In the kitchen, wipe down the stove, fridge and dispose of any food that needs to be tossed. Wipe down the counter tops and the sink. Empty the dishwasher. Sweep the floor and give it a quick mopping.
In the bathroom pick up dirty laundry and toss in the hamper, wipe down the tub, shower, and sink. Clean the toilet last. Mop the floor if it needs it.
Bedrooms just need the beds made, dirty laundry picked up, and clothes put away. A quick dusting and vacuuming every third day is sufficient.
Tidy the living room, pickup books and "stuff" that are lying around. Wipe off tables. Dusting and vacuuming every second or third day is sufficient.
By doing laundry amongst other activities, you'll save yourself more time. Throw a load in while you're watching TV or making super. Fit it into other activities, so you're not faced with ten loads at the end of the week.
Get organized and cleaning your house will become a breeze. You'll have less stress worrying about it and more free time to enjoy the things you like to do!
Time Saving Bathroom Cleaning Tips
Time Saving Bathroom Cleaning Tips The bathroom is often the most used room in the house and because of this the hardest to clean and keep clean. By incorporating a few time saving bathroom cleaning tips into your regular routine, you can cut your cleaning time, save money on cleaning products and enjoy a cleaner
bathroom for longer periods of time.
When cleaning the bathroom, always start with the mirrors and shower doors. By cleaning from top to bottom you will save steps. The dirt from the mirrors and wall can sometimes fall to the floor. If done first, the dirt can then be cleaned in one step when you sweep and mop the floors.
To clean the mirrors and shower doors, you do not need an expensive commercial cleaner. The best cleaner and one that doesn't leave streaks, is a simple solution of water, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Simply add water, 1/3 cup of vinegar and 1⁄4 cup of rubbing alcohol to a spray bottle and shake gently to mix. Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a clean white paper towel.
To clean grime and soap scum off the tub and shower stall you will need to use a two step process. First scrub the area with a white bristle brush to loosen grime and score the area so that a cleaner can penetrate it more readily. Next, spray or wipe on a concentrated orange-based commercial cleaning product. Allow the product to set for thirty minutes and the grime and soap scum should rinse right off.
After cleaning the tub and shower stall, coat the surfaces with an expensive car wax. If you do this twice a year it will help to repel dirt and cut cleaning time in half.
Another great time saving bathroom cleaning tip for your shower stall is to wipe away all of the water after each use. This will keep the dirt and grime from building up and make weekly cleaning a breeze.
After you have cleaned the big surfaces, it is time to clean the toilet and wipe down the counters, sinks and faucets. White vinegar is an inexpensive and effective cleaner for these jobs. Simply apply the white vinegar with a cloth and allow it to set for a few minutes. Then rinse the solution and wipe down the surfaces.
Other simple bathroom cleaning tips include the use of a bath rug outside the shower to collect water and dirt, the cleaning of your plastic shower curtain by tossing it in the washing machine with your dirty cleaning rags and the use of toothpaste and a scrub brush to shine and clean your ornate metal faucets.
bathroom for longer periods of time.
When cleaning the bathroom, always start with the mirrors and shower doors. By cleaning from top to bottom you will save steps. The dirt from the mirrors and wall can sometimes fall to the floor. If done first, the dirt can then be cleaned in one step when you sweep and mop the floors.
To clean the mirrors and shower doors, you do not need an expensive commercial cleaner. The best cleaner and one that doesn't leave streaks, is a simple solution of water, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Simply add water, 1/3 cup of vinegar and 1⁄4 cup of rubbing alcohol to a spray bottle and shake gently to mix. Spray on glass surfaces and wipe with a clean white paper towel.
To clean grime and soap scum off the tub and shower stall you will need to use a two step process. First scrub the area with a white bristle brush to loosen grime and score the area so that a cleaner can penetrate it more readily. Next, spray or wipe on a concentrated orange-based commercial cleaning product. Allow the product to set for thirty minutes and the grime and soap scum should rinse right off.
After cleaning the tub and shower stall, coat the surfaces with an expensive car wax. If you do this twice a year it will help to repel dirt and cut cleaning time in half.
Another great time saving bathroom cleaning tip for your shower stall is to wipe away all of the water after each use. This will keep the dirt and grime from building up and make weekly cleaning a breeze.
After you have cleaned the big surfaces, it is time to clean the toilet and wipe down the counters, sinks and faucets. White vinegar is an inexpensive and effective cleaner for these jobs. Simply apply the white vinegar with a cloth and allow it to set for a few minutes. Then rinse the solution and wipe down the surfaces.
Other simple bathroom cleaning tips include the use of a bath rug outside the shower to collect water and dirt, the cleaning of your plastic shower curtain by tossing it in the washing machine with your dirty cleaning rags and the use of toothpaste and a scrub brush to shine and clean your ornate metal faucets.
Tiles are the foundation stone for your stylish bathroom!
Tiles are the foundation stone for your stylish bathroom! Tiles can increase the value of any home. Ceramic tiles, mosaic tile, floor tile all add an extra quality to your home. Tile can be found throughout a home from the kitchen, bathrooms, and even the flooring. Tiles are widely available in most home improvement stores and also in specialty stores throughout the company. Finding the right tile for a home with the right color, design, and even pattern can seem overwhelming. But, the results of this project can be beneficial for years to come.
Ceramic tile is one of the strongest that can be purchased. It comes in many colors and textures as well as designs and patterns. Mosaic tiles, or tiles that form a pattern once laid properly are an elegant element that can be added to a home. Mosaic tiles also offer a wide range of selection.
Bathroom tiles add quality as well as extra security. They can protect drywall and paint from water damage if properly installed. Floor tiles provide the same level of protection. These tiles are usually easy to clean and maintain. While normal mopping and washing can be effective, often an extra measure to keep them up to standard is to scrub the grout and edges with a brush. Elbow grease being the best cleaning product. While this does not have to be done each time the tile is cleaned, doing it regularly will improve the look of the tile overall.
Proper installation is important when adding tile to a home. If done improperly, the tile can often break or chip away. Consider hiring a professional so that the tile lies smooth and even and looks its best. When choosing the tile, do not forget to choose a grout that will benefit it. Grout, or the substance that is used to fill in the cracks between tiles, comes in many different colors and qualities. Again, this item is widely available at home improvement stores.
Tile, whether mosaic tile or ceramic tile, can enhance the quality of a home. It is an added investment into a home and should be done so with the overall supervision of a professional.
Ceramic tile is one of the strongest that can be purchased. It comes in many colors and textures as well as designs and patterns. Mosaic tiles, or tiles that form a pattern once laid properly are an elegant element that can be added to a home. Mosaic tiles also offer a wide range of selection.
Bathroom tiles add quality as well as extra security. They can protect drywall and paint from water damage if properly installed. Floor tiles provide the same level of protection. These tiles are usually easy to clean and maintain. While normal mopping and washing can be effective, often an extra measure to keep them up to standard is to scrub the grout and edges with a brush. Elbow grease being the best cleaning product. While this does not have to be done each time the tile is cleaned, doing it regularly will improve the look of the tile overall.
Proper installation is important when adding tile to a home. If done improperly, the tile can often break or chip away. Consider hiring a professional so that the tile lies smooth and even and looks its best. When choosing the tile, do not forget to choose a grout that will benefit it. Grout, or the substance that is used to fill in the cracks between tiles, comes in many different colors and qualities. Again, this item is widely available at home improvement stores.
Tile, whether mosaic tile or ceramic tile, can enhance the quality of a home. It is an added investment into a home and should be done so with the overall supervision of a professional.
The right Shower Curtain will make your bathroom look great!
The right Shower Curtain will make your bathroom look great! A shower curtain can add the perfect touch to any bathroom. Whether you like simple pastel colors or more elegant designs, be sure to choose the shower curtain that compliments the look of the rest of the bathroom. Fortunately, there are many shower curtain designs to choose from. Patterns of almost all kinds and a full spectrum of colors are available, so be sure to hunt around till you find the shower curtain that is just right for your bathroom. While bathroom supplies and bathroom accessories are also very important to the way a bathroom looks, a shower curtain will more often than not be the focal point in any bathroom. Fortunately, most shower curtains are very inexpensive, though some of the higher quality models do tend to cost a little more.
The right shower curtain for your bathroom.
Knowing that there are so many different types of shower curtains, it may seem difficult to choose the right shower curtain. Also, some people know exactly what type of shower curtain they want but don't know where to find it. After all, finding bathroom supplies and bathroom accessories can be difficult. However, be sure to keep on looking till you find the shower curtain that is precisely right for your bathroom. Also be aware that are some not so traditional shower curtains available, such as a hook-less shower curtain, shower curtain frog, fabric shower curtain, and many other unusual types of shower curtains available. When you find the right shower curtain for your shower, it will make your bathroom look so much better you will hardly be able to recognize it.
The right shower curtain for your bathroom.
Knowing that there are so many different types of shower curtains, it may seem difficult to choose the right shower curtain. Also, some people know exactly what type of shower curtain they want but don't know where to find it. After all, finding bathroom supplies and bathroom accessories can be difficult. However, be sure to keep on looking till you find the shower curtain that is precisely right for your bathroom. Also be aware that are some not so traditional shower curtains available, such as a hook-less shower curtain, shower curtain frog, fabric shower curtain, and many other unusual types of shower curtains available. When you find the right shower curtain for your shower, it will make your bathroom look so much better you will hardly be able to recognize it.
The right bathroom light fixture will brighten up your bathroom.
The right bathroom light fixture will brighten up your bathroom. A bathroom light fixture may be just what the doctor ordered to brighten up a dark and gloomy bathroom. House lighting is important in every room in your home, but especially in the bathroom. House lighting using too few lights in any room, especially your bathroom not only makes the bathroom look gloomy, but also may be a potential health hazard. On the other hand, too many lights may make your bathroom seem harsh. Fortunately, a bathroom light fixture will provide your bathroom with the perfect amount of light.
There are many bathroom light fixture styles to choose from, including Modern, Craftsman, Tiffany, Classic, and many others. Regardless of what lighting style you choose, be sure that it will be able to adequately light the bathroom. Also be sure to choose a bathroom light fixture that will be easy to clean, so bathroom maintenance wouldn't be too much of a chore.
Tips on finding the perfect bathroom light fixture.
Considering that there are so many different styles and types of bathroom light fixtures, it may be difficult to choose the one that is right for you. Many people are turned away from light fixtures because of their price; after all, it is sometimes challenging to find the correct house lighting for any room. However, be aware that there are many discount light fixtures available. Also be sure to choose a bathroom light fixture that fits the style of the rest of your bathroom.
As installing a bathroom light fixture is often a complicated and difficult job it would probably be a good idea to hire a professional to get them installed, unless you have some experience in house electronics. Some other bathroom light fixture considerations are discount light fixture, bathroom supplies, bathroom fixture, lighting, bathroom, bathroom maintenance: all areas of importance when lighting up your bathroom.
There are many bathroom light fixture styles to choose from, including Modern, Craftsman, Tiffany, Classic, and many others. Regardless of what lighting style you choose, be sure that it will be able to adequately light the bathroom. Also be sure to choose a bathroom light fixture that will be easy to clean, so bathroom maintenance wouldn't be too much of a chore.
Tips on finding the perfect bathroom light fixture.
Considering that there are so many different styles and types of bathroom light fixtures, it may be difficult to choose the one that is right for you. Many people are turned away from light fixtures because of their price; after all, it is sometimes challenging to find the correct house lighting for any room. However, be aware that there are many discount light fixtures available. Also be sure to choose a bathroom light fixture that fits the style of the rest of your bathroom.
As installing a bathroom light fixture is often a complicated and difficult job it would probably be a good idea to hire a professional to get them installed, unless you have some experience in house electronics. Some other bathroom light fixture considerations are discount light fixture, bathroom supplies, bathroom fixture, lighting, bathroom, bathroom maintenance: all areas of importance when lighting up your bathroom.
The Right Bathroom Accessories will make your Bathroom unforgetable!
The Right Bathroom Accessories will make your Bathroom unforgetable! Bathrooms aren't just about the basics but are about the bathroom accessories! Bathrooms have become places to relax and unwind. They are not just for doing your business and leaving. People have spent time in designing a place to find peace and quiet! And the bathroom accessories that you have in there will help accomplish this!
Yes, bathrooms have toilets and bathroom sinks. Yes, there are reasons that we need these spaces in our homes beyond for the point of relaxing, but these rooms can be stylish and elegant or fun and relaxing just the same. Some might think, a toilet is a toilet. Go into any home improvement store and find the aisle of toilets. Yes, there are many to choose from. Its not just about which works the best. No, its about how the look and feel. There are lots of different options even for toilets!
Now consider the other bathroom accessories that you can customize to your liking to create the bathroom of your dreams. For instance, bathroom lighting fixtures. Bathroom light fixtures come in many options. Some may be bright and seem simple while others may be funky and fun. In different colors, shapes, styles these can add an added touch of sophistication or style. Or, maybe adding lighting that is dim and smooth as opposed to bright. This can create a great atmosphere for relaxing.
Other bathroom fixtures to think about are bathroom faucets and bathroom sinks to think about as well. In every aspect of the bathroom, you will find different styles, shapes, and colors all to help make the bathroom of your dreams. Many options can be put together to show an overall style of the bathroom. Many can carry the same theme throughout the bathroom as well. So, there are many things you can do to create a great bathroom.
Adding bathroom accessories will help you create the bathroom of your dreams. A place to come home to, to relax and find peace and quiet.
Yes, bathrooms have toilets and bathroom sinks. Yes, there are reasons that we need these spaces in our homes beyond for the point of relaxing, but these rooms can be stylish and elegant or fun and relaxing just the same. Some might think, a toilet is a toilet. Go into any home improvement store and find the aisle of toilets. Yes, there are many to choose from. Its not just about which works the best. No, its about how the look and feel. There are lots of different options even for toilets!
Now consider the other bathroom accessories that you can customize to your liking to create the bathroom of your dreams. For instance, bathroom lighting fixtures. Bathroom light fixtures come in many options. Some may be bright and seem simple while others may be funky and fun. In different colors, shapes, styles these can add an added touch of sophistication or style. Or, maybe adding lighting that is dim and smooth as opposed to bright. This can create a great atmosphere for relaxing.
Other bathroom fixtures to think about are bathroom faucets and bathroom sinks to think about as well. In every aspect of the bathroom, you will find different styles, shapes, and colors all to help make the bathroom of your dreams. Many options can be put together to show an overall style of the bathroom. Many can carry the same theme throughout the bathroom as well. So, there are many things you can do to create a great bathroom.
Adding bathroom accessories will help you create the bathroom of your dreams. A place to come home to, to relax and find peace and quiet.
The Growing Market for Scales -
The Growing Market for Scales - Although many people prefer not to step on them, there is still a large market out there for scales to monitor weight. From the medical scales at the doctor's office, to the digital scale in your bathroom, there are a wide variety of weight scales available.
Many people prefer to monitor their weight on weight scales at home. The modern scale comes in a variety of styles, sizes and prices. Many brands are good looking, sleek and stylish enough to be matched with the interior styling of your bathroom.
Digital scales have become much more affordable since they first debuted about a decade ago. They now come with additional features. The digital body fat scale by Taylor Precision Products, for example, allows four different users to input height age and gender. The scale then lets off a low-voltage current that calculates that person's body fat percentage as well.
Bathroom scales give people the freedom and comfort of monitoring their weight without self-consciousness. Another reason why many people choose bathroom weight scales is because the best way to weigh yourself is with minimal or no clothing; and the bathroom provides a private place to do so. Bathroom scales are an ideal way to monitor and manage one's weight.
Scales are also used outside of the home, however. A wide array of industrial scales can be used to measure manufacturing weights, food weights, and the weight of postal parcels. In addition, a separate line of scales made specifically for babies to weigh not only their bodies, but the amount of food they consume. Then there are pet-specific scales, which are ideal for measuring fidgety animals in the vet's office. With all the scales in the world, it's easy to get confused about the various types.
Many people prefer to monitor their weight on weight scales at home. The modern scale comes in a variety of styles, sizes and prices. Many brands are good looking, sleek and stylish enough to be matched with the interior styling of your bathroom.
Digital scales have become much more affordable since they first debuted about a decade ago. They now come with additional features. The digital body fat scale by Taylor Precision Products, for example, allows four different users to input height age and gender. The scale then lets off a low-voltage current that calculates that person's body fat percentage as well.
Bathroom scales give people the freedom and comfort of monitoring their weight without self-consciousness. Another reason why many people choose bathroom weight scales is because the best way to weigh yourself is with minimal or no clothing; and the bathroom provides a private place to do so. Bathroom scales are an ideal way to monitor and manage one's weight.
Scales are also used outside of the home, however. A wide array of industrial scales can be used to measure manufacturing weights, food weights, and the weight of postal parcels. In addition, a separate line of scales made specifically for babies to weigh not only their bodies, but the amount of food they consume. Then there are pet-specific scales, which are ideal for measuring fidgety animals in the vet's office. With all the scales in the world, it's easy to get confused about the various types.
The Cost of Remodeling a Bathroom -
The Cost of Remodeling a Bathroom - Before beginning any bathroom remodeling, you should create a budget. Pick an amount of money you can reasonably afford, and then check the costs of supplies to estimate what you can do in your remodeling project. It is wise to save about 20 percent of your budget to cover emergencies. They do happen. Keep in mind, too, the costs of professional help from plumbers or electricians. These services cost significantly more than doing the job yourself, so do whatever work you can. You may want to do your own painting, lay your tile, or decorate the new bathroom yourself. The extra work you do will let you be creative and have fun while saving money.
Online sites exist to help you estimate the cost of your bathroom remodeling. The Web sites have several remodeling scenarios to select; for example, adding a bathtub or redoing the walls. The calculators ask you your location, the size of your bathroom, the preparation work needed, and the amount and type of supplies you'll need. These sites are an easy way to plan your bathroom remodeling costs in minutes.
It also helps to talk with other people, either in person or online, who have remodeled their own bathrooms. They may alert you to great deals, products to avoid or unexpected costs they encountered. You can never do too much research. Check out the national averages of bathroom remodeling costs and get estimates from local contractors. If you are hiring someone to do work in your bathroom, don't be afraid to purchase the supplies. It may save significant costs.
The costs of supplies add up. A typical sink costs between $60 and $100, but higher-end sinks cost hundreds of dollars. Vinyl flooring is the cheapest, starting at around $3 a foot. Ceramic tile is usually triple the price of vinyl. Basic bathtubs cost a few hundred dollars, and whirlpool tubs thousands. Showers cost between $300 and $2,000. Traditional toilets cost under $200, but smaller or fancier toilets can cost up to $1,500. Paint costs around $50, wallpaper $60, and new accessories can cost anywhere from a few dollars to a hundred dollars. The important thing is to plan properly and shop wisely to keep a bathroom remodeling cost within your budget. You can always add more later on because after one bathroom remodeling experience, you will have the skills to tackle more.
Online sites exist to help you estimate the cost of your bathroom remodeling. The Web sites have several remodeling scenarios to select; for example, adding a bathtub or redoing the walls. The calculators ask you your location, the size of your bathroom, the preparation work needed, and the amount and type of supplies you'll need. These sites are an easy way to plan your bathroom remodeling costs in minutes.
It also helps to talk with other people, either in person or online, who have remodeled their own bathrooms. They may alert you to great deals, products to avoid or unexpected costs they encountered. You can never do too much research. Check out the national averages of bathroom remodeling costs and get estimates from local contractors. If you are hiring someone to do work in your bathroom, don't be afraid to purchase the supplies. It may save significant costs.
The costs of supplies add up. A typical sink costs between $60 and $100, but higher-end sinks cost hundreds of dollars. Vinyl flooring is the cheapest, starting at around $3 a foot. Ceramic tile is usually triple the price of vinyl. Basic bathtubs cost a few hundred dollars, and whirlpool tubs thousands. Showers cost between $300 and $2,000. Traditional toilets cost under $200, but smaller or fancier toilets can cost up to $1,500. Paint costs around $50, wallpaper $60, and new accessories can cost anywhere from a few dollars to a hundred dollars. The important thing is to plan properly and shop wisely to keep a bathroom remodeling cost within your budget. You can always add more later on because after one bathroom remodeling experience, you will have the skills to tackle more.
The Benefits of Hookless Shower Curtains -
The Benefits of Hookless Shower Curtains - Anyone who has ever hung traditional shower curtains will agree on one thing: hooks are a pain to use. You get one side hung and the other side comes unhooked. While you're reattaching that side, three hooks fall off. You fumble, you drop things. Before you get the whole thing hung, you are quite tempted to throw the curtain -- and the hooks -- out of the nearest window. There is an easier way.
Several different varieties of hookless shower curtains are now available. Though they all attach by different methods, each works with your existing standard shower curtain rods... and they all eliminate the hooks.
One such hookless shower curtain is available for $19.99 from AmeriMark. Equipped with a built-in flexible split-ring system, it simply fits over your curtain rod.
Another type of hookless shower curtain is one that utilizes ties. While each tie does have to be individually tied, you do not have to fumble with hard-to-use rings. One example is the Watershed Shower Curtain from Plow & Hearth. In addition to being hookless, this shower curtain also repels water, eliminating the threat of mold and mildew.
Some other hookless shower curtains use buttons, snaps, or Velcro to attach to the rod. While all of these methods have their own drawbacks, they do away with a lot of the hassle of dealing with hooks.
Hookless shower curtains are available at a variety of outlets. Try your local department stores, such as Target and WalMart. Many home improvement stores, like Lowe's and Home Depot, also sell shower curtains. In addition, they are available at bedding and home d
Several different varieties of hookless shower curtains are now available. Though they all attach by different methods, each works with your existing standard shower curtain rods... and they all eliminate the hooks.
One such hookless shower curtain is available for $19.99 from AmeriMark. Equipped with a built-in flexible split-ring system, it simply fits over your curtain rod.
Another type of hookless shower curtain is one that utilizes ties. While each tie does have to be individually tied, you do not have to fumble with hard-to-use rings. One example is the Watershed Shower Curtain from Plow & Hearth. In addition to being hookless, this shower curtain also repels water, eliminating the threat of mold and mildew.
Some other hookless shower curtains use buttons, snaps, or Velcro to attach to the rod. While all of these methods have their own drawbacks, they do away with a lot of the hassle of dealing with hooks.
Hookless shower curtains are available at a variety of outlets. Try your local department stores, such as Target and WalMart. Many home improvement stores, like Lowe's and Home Depot, also sell shower curtains. In addition, they are available at bedding and home d
The Benefits of Digital Scales -
The Benefits of Digital Scales - It's easy to use a digital scale to weigh yourself, and the results are even easier to read.
The best way to ensure that you are getting an accurate weight measurement is by getting a scale that only you use. A lot of people use the scales at their local gyms. Many of these scales work on a spring system. Every time a person steps on that scale the springs get a little more wear and this will change its accuracy. The locker room scale is rarely accurate, and that's why using a digital scale at home is best. Don't switch scales, either, the experts advise. Pick your scale and stick with it to ensure accuracy.
Choose one day a week to weigh yourself. On that day, after you wake up you should weigh yourself with your bladder and bowels empty, and no food or water in your system. This is the ideal time to obtain your most accurate weight.
There are many digital scales that are accurate to help you weigh in perfectly. A hot-selling scale is the GS-1 Siltec Glass Digital Bathroom Scale, which costs approximately $80. This scale has a 440-pound capacity and 0.2 lb readability. The style is modern, with a sleek glass platform. This digital scale incorporates four individual load sensors -- one at each corner of the scale to provide the utmost in accuracy. Most other scales only use only one load sensor with a mechanical leveler.
The Tanita HD-351 Digital Bathroom Scale is another modern style with the same specs as the GS-1. This digital scale sells for approximately $5 less, however, and has an oversized platform. The Tanita HD-372 Glass Lithium Digital Bathroom Scale has an extra-large display, 400-pound capacity, and usually sells for approximately $60. There are a wide range of solar digital scales and potable digital scales on the market as well.
The best way to ensure that you are getting an accurate weight measurement is by getting a scale that only you use. A lot of people use the scales at their local gyms. Many of these scales work on a spring system. Every time a person steps on that scale the springs get a little more wear and this will change its accuracy. The locker room scale is rarely accurate, and that's why using a digital scale at home is best. Don't switch scales, either, the experts advise. Pick your scale and stick with it to ensure accuracy.
Choose one day a week to weigh yourself. On that day, after you wake up you should weigh yourself with your bladder and bowels empty, and no food or water in your system. This is the ideal time to obtain your most accurate weight.
There are many digital scales that are accurate to help you weigh in perfectly. A hot-selling scale is the GS-1 Siltec Glass Digital Bathroom Scale, which costs approximately $80. This scale has a 440-pound capacity and 0.2 lb readability. The style is modern, with a sleek glass platform. This digital scale incorporates four individual load sensors -- one at each corner of the scale to provide the utmost in accuracy. Most other scales only use only one load sensor with a mechanical leveler.
The Tanita HD-351 Digital Bathroom Scale is another modern style with the same specs as the GS-1. This digital scale sells for approximately $5 less, however, and has an oversized platform. The Tanita HD-372 Glass Lithium Digital Bathroom Scale has an extra-large display, 400-pound capacity, and usually sells for approximately $60. There are a wide range of solar digital scales and potable digital scales on the market as well.
The Bathroom...the forgotten area of your home?
The Bathroom...the forgotten area of your home? The bathroom in your home is the one room that has undergone a complete transformation in the past several years. A transformation that is as far as how it is defined. Kitchens are to cook and eat in, living rooms are still for living and entertaining in and the garage still holds vehicles and junk (not to mention lot's of tools). But the bathroom has evolved so far beyond its traditional functions that to truly reflect its current status in many homes, "spa room" or the "retreat" might be more appropriate names for it.
Too often, the bathroom comes in second to the kitchen when it comes to deciding on which home remodeling project should be done first. The kitchen has retained and even built upon its position as the focal point of the home and a center of both socialization and function. But the master bathroom is still stuck in its hygienic role and remains a private area that doesn't get as many opportunities to impress visiting guests. Couple that with the fact that a bathroom renovation can be nearly as involved and expensive as a kitchen makeover and you have the makings for procrastination.
Today's bathrooms, particularly those incorporated into master suites, are being designed and built to be a source of luxury and relaxation. After all, for many parents the master suite's bath may be the only room in the home where they can truly enjoy some private time for relaxation away from the kids.
The world can be a very stressful place and having a nice, relaxing bathroom where you can de-stress can be very important.
Too often, the bathroom comes in second to the kitchen when it comes to deciding on which home remodeling project should be done first. The kitchen has retained and even built upon its position as the focal point of the home and a center of both socialization and function. But the master bathroom is still stuck in its hygienic role and remains a private area that doesn't get as many opportunities to impress visiting guests. Couple that with the fact that a bathroom renovation can be nearly as involved and expensive as a kitchen makeover and you have the makings for procrastination.
Today's bathrooms, particularly those incorporated into master suites, are being designed and built to be a source of luxury and relaxation. After all, for many parents the master suite's bath may be the only room in the home where they can truly enjoy some private time for relaxation away from the kids.
The world can be a very stressful place and having a nice, relaxing bathroom where you can de-stress can be very important.
Tasteful home decorating changes your house into a home!
Tasteful home decorating changes your house into a home! There is this undocumented story about Andrew Carnegie who kept postponing the decision to redecorate his home just because black, his default color of choice, was simply not used in home decorating those days! Mercifully today, you could well translate your home decorating ideas into alluring reality. For home interior decorating no longer means just coloring your walls in pastel shades and showing off your antiques - it is about using all the home decorating tips that one can get to highlight the most of what one possesses. Unless of course you wish to shrug the opportunity and call in a professional designer. But even this experience could be fascinating - what with "walk-throughs" in your "virtually" designed home before even a single coat of paint is applied! Yes, with home decorating, either way you always come up trumps!
Use home decorating tips to your advantage!
Your d
Use home decorating tips to your advantage!
Your d
Staying in Tune with the Change of Season
Staying in Tune with the Change of Season (ARA) - Now the summer is winding down, leaves will soon start turning color and falling from the trees, signaling the change of season. We'll enjoy brilliant colors for a short time, then there will be no color at all.
"Outside anyway," says Terri Mattson, an interior designer who works for Fifth Avenue Design in Minneapolis, Minn. This time of year, her company is overrun with phone calls from people looking for ways to bring color inside.
"Color plays such an important role in our lives," says Mattson. "It helps boost our spirits and keeps us going through good times and bad. I'm not sure if it's related to the economy or something else, but a lot of people are coming to us asking for ways to brighten up homes."
Mattson says the one of the best places to start is in the bathroom. "Earth tones are big this year. We've painted a lot of bathrooms that used to be white either cinnamon, ginger or terra cotta with blue and red or green and gold accents," says Mattson. "The transformation is amazing."
Painting the walls isn't the only update you can do in the bathroom. Some people also change out fixtures or re-tile. "Both expensive propositions," says Sue Kelley of Environmental Graphics, a Minnesota based company specializing in decorative products for the home. "There's a much easier, less expensive and less permanent way to get a new look."
Kelley's company manufactures a relatively new home decorating tool called Stick 'n Stile design appliqu
"Outside anyway," says Terri Mattson, an interior designer who works for Fifth Avenue Design in Minneapolis, Minn. This time of year, her company is overrun with phone calls from people looking for ways to bring color inside.
"Color plays such an important role in our lives," says Mattson. "It helps boost our spirits and keeps us going through good times and bad. I'm not sure if it's related to the economy or something else, but a lot of people are coming to us asking for ways to brighten up homes."
Mattson says the one of the best places to start is in the bathroom. "Earth tones are big this year. We've painted a lot of bathrooms that used to be white either cinnamon, ginger or terra cotta with blue and red or green and gold accents," says Mattson. "The transformation is amazing."
Painting the walls isn't the only update you can do in the bathroom. Some people also change out fixtures or re-tile. "Both expensive propositions," says Sue Kelley of Environmental Graphics, a Minnesota based company specializing in decorative products for the home. "There's a much easier, less expensive and less permanent way to get a new look."
Kelley's company manufactures a relatively new home decorating tool called Stick 'n Stile design appliqu
Some Like It "Hot": Ten Products to Keep Your Home Warm and Toasty This Winter
Some Like It "Hot": Ten Products to Keep Your Home Warm and Toasty This Winter (ARA) - The days are shorter, the nights are cooler and the winds are howling outside your home. Now is the time to "turn on the heat" with products that will keep you toasty throughout the long winter season.
These products will not only help you escape winter's chill, but the luxuries they offer may actually help you get out of bed on those cold mornings rather than hibernating under the covers.
"Based on the overwhelming array of luxury products manufacturers have recently introduced, homeowners want anything that makes their lives more comfortable at home. Whether it involves heating/warming accessories or spa-like home environments, it's part of the 'cocooning' phenomena that has resurfaced," says Stephani Miller, associate products editor for Remodeling and Custom Home magazines. "People are spending more time at home and they want to be comfortable. They want to use their home to its full potential, not just as a place to eat and sleep between workdays."
So what are the latest products for weathering winter in style and comfort? Read on to find out:
1. Heated floors
Nothing's worse on a winter's morning than having your feet hit the icy tile. To solve this problem, many homeowners are installing heated floors to keep their feet warm, without relying on wool socks or fuzzy slippers. There are two types of heated floors from which to choose -- the first involves plastic piping installed under the floor to circulate hot water. The second is an electric heating system consisting of electric wires placed under the floor. The cost can range from $4 to $10 a square foot, but many homeowners feel it's worth the expense.
And these floors aren't just for the bathroom. "Heated floors can be used just about anywhere: in kitchens with cold tile floors, in pool or spa enclosures, sunrooms, or any other room of the house where extra warmth is needed," notes Miller.
2. Heated towel bars
While heated floors require a major bathroom remodel, a quick fix to provide warmth in the bath is heated towel bars. These bars can easily be mounted to the wall and plug into a standard, 110-volt electric household outlet. What better way to pamper yourself after a shower than to get cozy in a warm, fluffy towel? They also provide the extra functionality of actually helping to heat up the bathroom. There are many shapes and sizes from which to choose, most costing between $200 to $300.
3. Warming drawers
"Many major appliance manufacturers have introduced warming drawers to their product lines to complement kitchen appliances. Designers are getting creative with these drawers and are using them in a lot of different ways, not just in the kitchen for keeping cooked food warm, but also in bathrooms or pool houses for warming towels," says Miller.
The advantage to drawers over heated towel bars is that they can actually make a towel hot throughout. They can also be used to warm other items -- such as robes, underwear and socks. The average price for a warming drawer is $600.
4. New showerhead
What better way to wake up in the morning than a hot shower? And, with the unique water delivery offered by Moen's Revolution massaging showerhead, its larger drops of water actually make the shower feel warmer. This showerhead takes ordinary water, spins each drop, and then twirls the entire stream. From a rain-like shower to a deep, therapeutic massage and anything in between, the showerhead provides phenomenal coverage and makes users feel enveloped in the water stream. The increased speed in movement of the water drops results in a perception of higher flow and higher pressure, in addition to the sensation of a massaging shower. Revolution showerheads start at $60.
5. Whirlpool tub or hot tub
While showering systems are popular because of their convenience, there are still some who prefer a long, hot bath on a cold night. Look for whirlpool tub models with special features such as aromatherapy and pulsating jets. For those with back or muscle pain, a whirlpool tub with jets can provide massaging relief for soreness and pinpoint certain areas of the body. If your current bathroom will not hold a large tub, consider adding a hot tub to your deck or patio area. Taking a dip in the hot tub on a cool winter's night may provide the perfect ending to a long day.
6. Heated toilet seat
You've heard of being on the 'hot seat' before, but now heated toilet seats literally put you there. These seats easily install in just minutes and plug into a standard household outlet. They heat to 25 degrees F above the average room temperature and feature uniform heat distribution. Heated toilet seats retail for approximately $100 and offer just one more way to beat the winter chill.
7. Shower control
Are you tired of waiting for the water in your shower to warm up every morning? Do you get in the shower after someone else changed all the settings? If you answered 'yes' to either of these questions, pamper yourself with Moen's ExactTemp, the first pressure-balanced thermostatic valve for residential use. Day after day, it lets you dial up your own personalized water temperature, set just the way you like it. Plus, as water volume in your hot water tank decreases, the valve's smart technology maintains your pre-set temperature and your comfort. The thermostatic control is also pressure balanced so you won't experience shower shock -- those uncomfortable surges in hot or cold water, such as when someone flushes the toilet.
8. Fireplace
Snuggling up with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book in front of a roaring fire is an ideal way to spend a cold winter's night. It is also a great way to heat a room with gas. Over the past several years, ventless gas fireplaces have become popular since no chimney or vent is needed and they can fit right up against a wall in any room of the house. Fireplace models now can give off between 10,000 to 40,000 BTUs and come in many different styles that look similar to their wood-burning counterparts. Prices start at $400.
9. Home sauna
For the ultimate in luxury, install a home sauna. Saunas feature a combination of heat (usually between 165 and 195 degrees F) and low humidity. There are many sauna kits available in a variety of sizes and layouts. A kit comes with wood panels, a pre-hung door, benches, an electric heater, thermometer and accessories. These kits are pre-wired and snap together in just a few hours and don't require any plumbing. Home saunas plug into a standard household outlet. Many wood options are available, but cedar and redwood are the most popular. Depending on its size and degree of sophistication, expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000.
10. Heated driveway
And, once you have all these "hot" amenities installed in your home, you certainly don't want to go outside to clean off your driveway. Instead, install a heated driveway, which has electric heating coils or hot water pipes below the surface of the concrete. The driveway automatically senses cold and turns on to melt the snow and ice. According to the latest figures, these driveways can cost between $12 and $21 per square foot.
There you have it, ten products to pamper you and safeguard your home with warmth, no matter what it's doing outside.
For more information about Moen products, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free (800) BUY MOEN/ (800)289-6636 or visit the company's Web site at www.moen.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
These products will not only help you escape winter's chill, but the luxuries they offer may actually help you get out of bed on those cold mornings rather than hibernating under the covers.
"Based on the overwhelming array of luxury products manufacturers have recently introduced, homeowners want anything that makes their lives more comfortable at home. Whether it involves heating/warming accessories or spa-like home environments, it's part of the 'cocooning' phenomena that has resurfaced," says Stephani Miller, associate products editor for Remodeling and Custom Home magazines. "People are spending more time at home and they want to be comfortable. They want to use their home to its full potential, not just as a place to eat and sleep between workdays."
So what are the latest products for weathering winter in style and comfort? Read on to find out:
1. Heated floors
Nothing's worse on a winter's morning than having your feet hit the icy tile. To solve this problem, many homeowners are installing heated floors to keep their feet warm, without relying on wool socks or fuzzy slippers. There are two types of heated floors from which to choose -- the first involves plastic piping installed under the floor to circulate hot water. The second is an electric heating system consisting of electric wires placed under the floor. The cost can range from $4 to $10 a square foot, but many homeowners feel it's worth the expense.
And these floors aren't just for the bathroom. "Heated floors can be used just about anywhere: in kitchens with cold tile floors, in pool or spa enclosures, sunrooms, or any other room of the house where extra warmth is needed," notes Miller.
2. Heated towel bars
While heated floors require a major bathroom remodel, a quick fix to provide warmth in the bath is heated towel bars. These bars can easily be mounted to the wall and plug into a standard, 110-volt electric household outlet. What better way to pamper yourself after a shower than to get cozy in a warm, fluffy towel? They also provide the extra functionality of actually helping to heat up the bathroom. There are many shapes and sizes from which to choose, most costing between $200 to $300.
3. Warming drawers
"Many major appliance manufacturers have introduced warming drawers to their product lines to complement kitchen appliances. Designers are getting creative with these drawers and are using them in a lot of different ways, not just in the kitchen for keeping cooked food warm, but also in bathrooms or pool houses for warming towels," says Miller.
The advantage to drawers over heated towel bars is that they can actually make a towel hot throughout. They can also be used to warm other items -- such as robes, underwear and socks. The average price for a warming drawer is $600.
4. New showerhead
What better way to wake up in the morning than a hot shower? And, with the unique water delivery offered by Moen's Revolution massaging showerhead, its larger drops of water actually make the shower feel warmer. This showerhead takes ordinary water, spins each drop, and then twirls the entire stream. From a rain-like shower to a deep, therapeutic massage and anything in between, the showerhead provides phenomenal coverage and makes users feel enveloped in the water stream. The increased speed in movement of the water drops results in a perception of higher flow and higher pressure, in addition to the sensation of a massaging shower. Revolution showerheads start at $60.
5. Whirlpool tub or hot tub
While showering systems are popular because of their convenience, there are still some who prefer a long, hot bath on a cold night. Look for whirlpool tub models with special features such as aromatherapy and pulsating jets. For those with back or muscle pain, a whirlpool tub with jets can provide massaging relief for soreness and pinpoint certain areas of the body. If your current bathroom will not hold a large tub, consider adding a hot tub to your deck or patio area. Taking a dip in the hot tub on a cool winter's night may provide the perfect ending to a long day.
6. Heated toilet seat
You've heard of being on the 'hot seat' before, but now heated toilet seats literally put you there. These seats easily install in just minutes and plug into a standard household outlet. They heat to 25 degrees F above the average room temperature and feature uniform heat distribution. Heated toilet seats retail for approximately $100 and offer just one more way to beat the winter chill.
7. Shower control
Are you tired of waiting for the water in your shower to warm up every morning? Do you get in the shower after someone else changed all the settings? If you answered 'yes' to either of these questions, pamper yourself with Moen's ExactTemp, the first pressure-balanced thermostatic valve for residential use. Day after day, it lets you dial up your own personalized water temperature, set just the way you like it. Plus, as water volume in your hot water tank decreases, the valve's smart technology maintains your pre-set temperature and your comfort. The thermostatic control is also pressure balanced so you won't experience shower shock -- those uncomfortable surges in hot or cold water, such as when someone flushes the toilet.
8. Fireplace
Snuggling up with a cup of hot cocoa and a good book in front of a roaring fire is an ideal way to spend a cold winter's night. It is also a great way to heat a room with gas. Over the past several years, ventless gas fireplaces have become popular since no chimney or vent is needed and they can fit right up against a wall in any room of the house. Fireplace models now can give off between 10,000 to 40,000 BTUs and come in many different styles that look similar to their wood-burning counterparts. Prices start at $400.
9. Home sauna
For the ultimate in luxury, install a home sauna. Saunas feature a combination of heat (usually between 165 and 195 degrees F) and low humidity. There are many sauna kits available in a variety of sizes and layouts. A kit comes with wood panels, a pre-hung door, benches, an electric heater, thermometer and accessories. These kits are pre-wired and snap together in just a few hours and don't require any plumbing. Home saunas plug into a standard household outlet. Many wood options are available, but cedar and redwood are the most popular. Depending on its size and degree of sophistication, expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000.
10. Heated driveway
And, once you have all these "hot" amenities installed in your home, you certainly don't want to go outside to clean off your driveway. Instead, install a heated driveway, which has electric heating coils or hot water pipes below the surface of the concrete. The driveway automatically senses cold and turns on to melt the snow and ice. According to the latest figures, these driveways can cost between $12 and $21 per square foot.
There you have it, ten products to pamper you and safeguard your home with warmth, no matter what it's doing outside.
For more information about Moen products, contact Moen Incorporated at 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, Ohio 44070-8022, call toll free (800) BUY MOEN/ (800)289-6636 or visit the company's Web site at www.moen.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Small Kitchen Remodeling Ideas -
Small Kitchen Remodeling Ideas - Any remodeling idea for a small kitchen must address the following issues: counter space, storage, built-ins, and pantry.
In order to make better use of your kitchen floor space, you need to put up the maximum amount of counters. Plan your design with deeper counters to cover as much of the area not occupied with appliances with counter space if the difference in floor space is a matter of a few square feet.
Squeeze as many cabinets into your design as possible. Deep cabinets that can hold plates should be located near the dishwasher, and large cabinets with slide-out drawers should be placed near the oven.
Another space-saving device is to include built-in facilities. You can have built-in ovens, microwaves and storage for small appliances. This will make your kitchen appear less cluttered. Built-in storage for foods like potatoes and onions and bread storage cabinets will also give the kitchen a cleaner look. You can also opt for waist-high, sliding shelves that hold mixers and toasters. Your small appliances can remain hidden in these shelves and still be easily accessible.
If there is no room for a pantry in your kitchen, consider converting a closet outside the kitchen area to store your cutlery, pots and infrequently used items. You can also include rollout pantries that can be pulled out to view the items you have, but rolled back into a space.
Choose a large sink. It will be easier for you to clean bigger pots and pans. Moreover, a large sink is a great place to stash your dirty pots. A large sink can also serve as a utility sink, too.
You can increase the efficiency of your small kitchen by putting a wire basket on the inside the cabinet or under the sink to hold trash bags and other frequently used items. You can mount an instant hot water heater on the sink to replace the sprayer or soap.
A tile back splash on all the walls above the counters, stove and sink make the kitchen easier to clean.
In order to make better use of your kitchen floor space, you need to put up the maximum amount of counters. Plan your design with deeper counters to cover as much of the area not occupied with appliances with counter space if the difference in floor space is a matter of a few square feet.
Squeeze as many cabinets into your design as possible. Deep cabinets that can hold plates should be located near the dishwasher, and large cabinets with slide-out drawers should be placed near the oven.
Another space-saving device is to include built-in facilities. You can have built-in ovens, microwaves and storage for small appliances. This will make your kitchen appear less cluttered. Built-in storage for foods like potatoes and onions and bread storage cabinets will also give the kitchen a cleaner look. You can also opt for waist-high, sliding shelves that hold mixers and toasters. Your small appliances can remain hidden in these shelves and still be easily accessible.
If there is no room for a pantry in your kitchen, consider converting a closet outside the kitchen area to store your cutlery, pots and infrequently used items. You can also include rollout pantries that can be pulled out to view the items you have, but rolled back into a space.
Choose a large sink. It will be easier for you to clean bigger pots and pans. Moreover, a large sink is a great place to stash your dirty pots. A large sink can also serve as a utility sink, too.
You can increase the efficiency of your small kitchen by putting a wire basket on the inside the cabinet or under the sink to hold trash bags and other frequently used items. You can mount an instant hot water heater on the sink to replace the sprayer or soap.
A tile back splash on all the walls above the counters, stove and sink make the kitchen easier to clean.
Simple Steps To Keeping Your Home Clean
Simple Steps To Keeping Your Home Clean The easiest way to keep your home clean and organized is to keep your home clean and organized on a daily basis. There are many small and seemingly insignificant steps you can take each day towards keeping your home guest ready.
In the living room pick up all the newspapers, catalogs and magazines that have collected. You can do this on a daily basis. Keep a bin for paper recycling. Put what you plan to read in a magazine rack next to your chair.
Before bedtime have the kids pick up any miscellaneous objects they might have left downstairs and have them put their toys back in the toy box.
Once a week you'll want to vacuum and dust the living room.
In the kitchen you'll want to make sure that you keep your sink free of dirty dishes on a daily basis. After each meal put the dirty dishes directly in the dishwasher and wash and dry any remaining pots and pans or dishes and put them away.
Wipe the countertops and table off after each meal. Disposable cleaning clothes come in handy for this. Don't let papers or the mail pile up in the kitchen on the counter. As soon as the mail comes in go through it and organize it.
Sweep and scrub your kitchen floor at least once a week.
In your bathroom you'll want to make sure that you rinse out of the sink, the faucet and rinse off the countertop when you're done. Keep Windex close by in case the mirror needs a quick cleaning.
When you're done in your shower make sure that you wipe the walls of the shower down with a cleaning cloth, like one pre treated with bleach. Leave a few inches open on each side of the shower curtain so that air can circulate through your shower and help dry it faster. Run your exhaust fan when you take your shower and then for a full twenty minutes afterwards.
The blue drop-ins for toilets really do a nice job of masking any dirt - but don't use it as an excuse to not clean. You toilet should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week. When you're done with the pre treated cloth in shower why not use it on the toilet too? A quick daily wipe can do wonders.
At least once a week you'll want to sweep and wash the bathroom floors. Your bath rug won't need to be washed once a week, but an easy way to freshen it is to put it in the dryer on low with a fabric softener cloth. This gets most of the hairs off of it and fluffs it up.
Seems simple enough!
In the living room pick up all the newspapers, catalogs and magazines that have collected. You can do this on a daily basis. Keep a bin for paper recycling. Put what you plan to read in a magazine rack next to your chair.
Before bedtime have the kids pick up any miscellaneous objects they might have left downstairs and have them put their toys back in the toy box.
Once a week you'll want to vacuum and dust the living room.
In the kitchen you'll want to make sure that you keep your sink free of dirty dishes on a daily basis. After each meal put the dirty dishes directly in the dishwasher and wash and dry any remaining pots and pans or dishes and put them away.
Wipe the countertops and table off after each meal. Disposable cleaning clothes come in handy for this. Don't let papers or the mail pile up in the kitchen on the counter. As soon as the mail comes in go through it and organize it.
Sweep and scrub your kitchen floor at least once a week.
In your bathroom you'll want to make sure that you rinse out of the sink, the faucet and rinse off the countertop when you're done. Keep Windex close by in case the mirror needs a quick cleaning.
When you're done in your shower make sure that you wipe the walls of the shower down with a cleaning cloth, like one pre treated with bleach. Leave a few inches open on each side of the shower curtain so that air can circulate through your shower and help dry it faster. Run your exhaust fan when you take your shower and then for a full twenty minutes afterwards.
The blue drop-ins for toilets really do a nice job of masking any dirt - but don't use it as an excuse to not clean. You toilet should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week. When you're done with the pre treated cloth in shower why not use it on the toilet too? A quick daily wipe can do wonders.
At least once a week you'll want to sweep and wash the bathroom floors. Your bath rug won't need to be washed once a week, but an easy way to freshen it is to put it in the dryer on low with a fabric softener cloth. This gets most of the hairs off of it and fluffs it up.
Seems simple enough!
Searching for the best opinion concerning bathroom vanities.
Searching for the best opinion concerning bathroom vanities.
Sometimes when you're trying to find the best information relating to bathroom vanities, you'll find it hard separating superior advice from reckless bathroom vanities suggestions and support so it's prudent to know how to judge the information you are presented with.
Now we'd like to offer you some advice that we believe you should consider using when you are trying to find information about bathroom vanities. Bear in mind the help we present is only pertinent to internet help on bathroom vanities. We don't offer any direction or assistance for conducting research offline.
A good hint to follow when you're presented with information and suggestions on a bathroom vanities webpage would be to confirm the sites ownership. This may show you who owns the site bathroom vanities credibility The easiest way to reveal who owns the bathroom vanities web site is to look on the 'about' page or the sites 'contact' page.
Any reputable website providing information regarding bathroom vanities, will nearly always have a 'contact', or an 'about', page which will list the site owner's details. The particulars should reveal a number of key indications about the owner's necessary expertise. This permits you to make an informed assessment about the webmaster's depth of experience, to advise you on the topic of bathroom vanities.
Sometimes when you're trying to find the best information relating to bathroom vanities, you'll find it hard separating superior advice from reckless bathroom vanities suggestions and support so it's prudent to know how to judge the information you are presented with.
Now we'd like to offer you some advice that we believe you should consider using when you are trying to find information about bathroom vanities. Bear in mind the help we present is only pertinent to internet help on bathroom vanities. We don't offer any direction or assistance for conducting research offline.
A good hint to follow when you're presented with information and suggestions on a bathroom vanities webpage would be to confirm the sites ownership. This may show you who owns the site bathroom vanities credibility The easiest way to reveal who owns the bathroom vanities web site is to look on the 'about' page or the sites 'contact' page.
Any reputable website providing information regarding bathroom vanities, will nearly always have a 'contact', or an 'about', page which will list the site owner's details. The particulars should reveal a number of key indications about the owner's necessary expertise. This permits you to make an informed assessment about the webmaster's depth of experience, to advise you on the topic of bathroom vanities.
Safety with Style in the Bath
Safety with Style in the Bath (ARA) - "Aaaaah ..." That's the sound we typically hear when most people enter the bath tub. Unfortunately, however, for many Americans the utterance is more like, "Ugh!" or "Ouch!" That's because according to the American Housing Survey, only about half of elderly disabled households have the home modifications they need.
But it's not just the aging that require a safe bath -- bathrooms can present numerous challenges, regardless of age. From the expecting mother whose center of balance may be a bit off-kilter ... to the "weekend warrior" who pulled a hamstring playing football with his old college buddies ... to the six-year-old who is now showering on her own and needs extra support in the bath ... everyone can benefit from universal design products. In fact, at one time or another in our lives, almost all of us will experience a temporary or permanent disability.
What Is Universal Design?
So, what exactly is universal design? And how do we go about implementing it into our homes? According to the experts, the definition of universal design is a home that is user-friendly, regardless of a person's age or limitations -- creating an environment that is safer, more functional and comfortable.
"The goal of universal design is to help people retain their independent lifestyles," says Brian Grant, senior product manager at Creative Specialties International, a division of Moen Incorporated, and a leading designer and manufacturer of the new Home Care line of bath safety items. "It's finding products that meet the perfect balance of safety and function, but with an appealing design. The best universal designs are those that blend seamlessly into the home and become an integral part of the room and its d
But it's not just the aging that require a safe bath -- bathrooms can present numerous challenges, regardless of age. From the expecting mother whose center of balance may be a bit off-kilter ... to the "weekend warrior" who pulled a hamstring playing football with his old college buddies ... to the six-year-old who is now showering on her own and needs extra support in the bath ... everyone can benefit from universal design products. In fact, at one time or another in our lives, almost all of us will experience a temporary or permanent disability.
What Is Universal Design?
So, what exactly is universal design? And how do we go about implementing it into our homes? According to the experts, the definition of universal design is a home that is user-friendly, regardless of a person's age or limitations -- creating an environment that is safer, more functional and comfortable.
"The goal of universal design is to help people retain their independent lifestyles," says Brian Grant, senior product manager at Creative Specialties International, a division of Moen Incorporated, and a leading designer and manufacturer of the new Home Care line of bath safety items. "It's finding products that meet the perfect balance of safety and function, but with an appealing design. The best universal designs are those that blend seamlessly into the home and become an integral part of the room and its d
Rustic Country Decor - How To Decorate Cottage Style Homes
Rustic Country Decor - How To Decorate Cottage Style Homes Rustic country decor and how to decorate cottage style homes are extensions of American country style decorating. In addition, traditions are borrowed from French, English and some Swedish country looks. Rustic country decor can be defined as coarse, charmingly simple, unfussy, unfinished and yet with endearing qualities. Rustic country decorating includes the use of natural woods, aged surfaces, rough finishes and simple lines. Cottage style homes are comfortable, modest, quaint homes that can be made of thick stone or log wood.
Floors in rustic country decor and cottage style homes are made with stone or wood materials. Wooden floors were traditionally constructed with boards that were bare and simply waxed and hand-polished (high-gloss varnishes did not exist). Sometimes the boards were painted with light colors. If you like floor coverings, use oriental rugs and throws for visual warmth and color. Rustic country decor is about handcrafted objects, simplicity, furnishings that you enjoy and connecting back to nature.
Rustic cottage furniture is commonly made with pine and perhaps painted with hand-painted designs such as flowers, birds, animals, country scenery or leaves. Use ladderback chairs, rocking chairs, benches, wicker furniture and Windsor chairs. A large rectangular table made of pine is a good option for your kitchen or dining room table. To give your furniture a rustic look, brush a coat of paint on the furniture piece, then rub most of the paint off. After it dries, apply wood stain unevenly for an older weathered appearance. It will be perfect and rustic looking!
Baskets can be used to store wood, pine cones, flowers, plants and needlework. Brass candle holders, oil or kerosene lamps, sconces, hurricane lamps, tin lanterns, recessed ceiling fixtures or a vintage wrought-iron or metal chandelier provide successful lighting for rustic country decor and cottage style homes. Colors used in rustic country decor or cottage style homes are neutral tones ranging from white to bone, earth tones, red barn, blues and greens.
For rustic country decor in the kitchen, use open shelves, hutches, buffets, plate racks and cupboards for storage. Often, country kitchen storage is crammed with stoneware pots, plain glazed earthenware and glass jars. Kitchen pots should be made of copper, steel or cast iron - cookware tends to be large and plain. Use open shelving in the rustic country kitchen to display plates, dishes and dinnerware collections. Natural woods, light colors and bright fabrics work great for window treatments. Adding a rustic butcher block island creates a wonderful visual effect as well as provides useful functionality.
A rustic country decor bathroom has neutral tones or soft colored walls, antique-looking lighting, and wooden antiques or antique reproduction cabinets and vanity. Knowing how to decorate cottage style homes and bathrooms can result in creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, country style antique brass faucets and old-fashioned country cabinets provide the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to spend time there. Plain white towels are recommended instead of patterned or bright modern patterns. Use wicker or wire baskets to keep your sponges, loofas and shampoos handy near the tub or shower.
Understanding how to decorate cottage style homes means including items like quilts, antique furniture or reproductions, flea-market pieces, trunks, chests, armoires, stenciling, wallpaper, adirondack chairs, flower wreaths and bistro chairs. These types of elements give cottage style homes the kind of rustic country decor that is simpler, very personal and warmly inviting.
Whether in a seaside setting, an urban environment, a countryside location or a wooded mountain retreat, cottage style homes are cozy and unassuming, combining the past with the present. Read all you can find and learn what creating the rustic country cottage means to you no matter where it is located. Enjoy expressing your personality and showing what the definition of home means to you.
Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing
Floors in rustic country decor and cottage style homes are made with stone or wood materials. Wooden floors were traditionally constructed with boards that were bare and simply waxed and hand-polished (high-gloss varnishes did not exist). Sometimes the boards were painted with light colors. If you like floor coverings, use oriental rugs and throws for visual warmth and color. Rustic country decor is about handcrafted objects, simplicity, furnishings that you enjoy and connecting back to nature.
Rustic cottage furniture is commonly made with pine and perhaps painted with hand-painted designs such as flowers, birds, animals, country scenery or leaves. Use ladderback chairs, rocking chairs, benches, wicker furniture and Windsor chairs. A large rectangular table made of pine is a good option for your kitchen or dining room table. To give your furniture a rustic look, brush a coat of paint on the furniture piece, then rub most of the paint off. After it dries, apply wood stain unevenly for an older weathered appearance. It will be perfect and rustic looking!
Baskets can be used to store wood, pine cones, flowers, plants and needlework. Brass candle holders, oil or kerosene lamps, sconces, hurricane lamps, tin lanterns, recessed ceiling fixtures or a vintage wrought-iron or metal chandelier provide successful lighting for rustic country decor and cottage style homes. Colors used in rustic country decor or cottage style homes are neutral tones ranging from white to bone, earth tones, red barn, blues and greens.
For rustic country decor in the kitchen, use open shelves, hutches, buffets, plate racks and cupboards for storage. Often, country kitchen storage is crammed with stoneware pots, plain glazed earthenware and glass jars. Kitchen pots should be made of copper, steel or cast iron - cookware tends to be large and plain. Use open shelving in the rustic country kitchen to display plates, dishes and dinnerware collections. Natural woods, light colors and bright fabrics work great for window treatments. Adding a rustic butcher block island creates a wonderful visual effect as well as provides useful functionality.
A rustic country decor bathroom has neutral tones or soft colored walls, antique-looking lighting, and wooden antiques or antique reproduction cabinets and vanity. Knowing how to decorate cottage style homes and bathrooms can result in creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, country style antique brass faucets and old-fashioned country cabinets provide the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to spend time there. Plain white towels are recommended instead of patterned or bright modern patterns. Use wicker or wire baskets to keep your sponges, loofas and shampoos handy near the tub or shower.
Understanding how to decorate cottage style homes means including items like quilts, antique furniture or reproductions, flea-market pieces, trunks, chests, armoires, stenciling, wallpaper, adirondack chairs, flower wreaths and bistro chairs. These types of elements give cottage style homes the kind of rustic country decor that is simpler, very personal and warmly inviting.
Whether in a seaside setting, an urban environment, a countryside location or a wooded mountain retreat, cottage style homes are cozy and unassuming, combining the past with the present. Read all you can find and learn what creating the rustic country cottage means to you no matter where it is located. Enjoy expressing your personality and showing what the definition of home means to you.
Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing
Remodeling Online
Remodeling Online Remodeling Plans
Making remodeling plans for a house helps you to ensure that your home meets all your needs. It also adds value to your home in the long term. After all, you will spend at least half your working life paying off the first mortgage on your house
Making remodeling plans for a house helps you to ensure that your home meets all your needs. It also adds value to your home in the long term. After all, you will spend at least half your working life paying off the first mortgage on your house
Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes
Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes Are you tired of the way your bathroom looks? Don't feel bad, a lot of folks are in the same boat. The bathroom is one room in the home that can look drab and run down very easily. And what if you don't have an unlimited budget to make changes in the fixtures and plumbing? Well take heart, there is lots that you can do for very little money that will totally and radically improve the decor of your bathroom.
One of the biggest problems with bathrooms is their tendency to get cluttered. You know, towels hanging all over the place, bath products on top of the vanity and on the shower floor, and things like that. So if you really want to make a 100% improvement in your bathroom clean up the clutter.
Fortunately, that is very easy to do and inexpensive. If you go to any WalMart or Target store, you will find plenty of organizer products for use in the bathroom. They are also very cheap. So get some of them and start to install them so that the most used products and items are within easy reach of wherever they would be used in the bathroom. If you make the storage spot convenient most people will continue to put it back in it's place after they use it. If you make the storage spot even a little difficult to access, you will see those items left all around wherever someone finds a spot for it.
Next, get some extra towel racks and install them so that there is a towel holder within easy reach of almost anywhere in the bathroom. Extra towel holders mean that even used towels can have a spot to be hung up instead of just left lying over the tub or shower stall door. Another advantage decor-wise of having extra towel bars is that you can use some of them to put up fancy towels for show that will really pick up the appearance of the room and highlight the colors that you used in your bathroom design.
Another simple and easy change to the appearance of any bathroom is the flooring. If you don't like what you see, change it. Fortunately, most bathroom floor spaces are fairly small and so not much material is needed. There are several options that you can choose from including vinyl sheets, ceramic tile, or vinyl tile squares. If you want simple and easy, stick-on vinyl tiles are probably the way to go. You can get them at a local Home Improvement store and they are usually very inexpensive too, and you can get some great looking designs that look very close to actual ceramic tile at a casual glance. Armed with a small cutter to trim the tiles when needed or shape them around an object on the bathroom floor, you are ready to go. If you make a mistake, peel up that tile, throw it away and use another one. Simple and easy!
Finally, buy some new towels for the bathroom. Get some great new colors and designs that are eye-cathcing and pleasing. Again, not much money invested for lots of return in visual appeal.
Change out the door knobs on your vanity and closet, and change the shower curtain and rings if you have one.
Just a few of these inexpensive changes in a bathroom can go a long way to changing that tired, old, cluttered, bathroom into one that makes you proud to show it off, and a pleasure to use.
One of the biggest problems with bathrooms is their tendency to get cluttered. You know, towels hanging all over the place, bath products on top of the vanity and on the shower floor, and things like that. So if you really want to make a 100% improvement in your bathroom clean up the clutter.
Fortunately, that is very easy to do and inexpensive. If you go to any WalMart or Target store, you will find plenty of organizer products for use in the bathroom. They are also very cheap. So get some of them and start to install them so that the most used products and items are within easy reach of wherever they would be used in the bathroom. If you make the storage spot convenient most people will continue to put it back in it's place after they use it. If you make the storage spot even a little difficult to access, you will see those items left all around wherever someone finds a spot for it.
Next, get some extra towel racks and install them so that there is a towel holder within easy reach of almost anywhere in the bathroom. Extra towel holders mean that even used towels can have a spot to be hung up instead of just left lying over the tub or shower stall door. Another advantage decor-wise of having extra towel bars is that you can use some of them to put up fancy towels for show that will really pick up the appearance of the room and highlight the colors that you used in your bathroom design.
Another simple and easy change to the appearance of any bathroom is the flooring. If you don't like what you see, change it. Fortunately, most bathroom floor spaces are fairly small and so not much material is needed. There are several options that you can choose from including vinyl sheets, ceramic tile, or vinyl tile squares. If you want simple and easy, stick-on vinyl tiles are probably the way to go. You can get them at a local Home Improvement store and they are usually very inexpensive too, and you can get some great looking designs that look very close to actual ceramic tile at a casual glance. Armed with a small cutter to trim the tiles when needed or shape them around an object on the bathroom floor, you are ready to go. If you make a mistake, peel up that tile, throw it away and use another one. Simple and easy!
Finally, buy some new towels for the bathroom. Get some great new colors and designs that are eye-cathcing and pleasing. Again, not much money invested for lots of return in visual appeal.
Change out the door knobs on your vanity and closet, and change the shower curtain and rings if you have one.
Just a few of these inexpensive changes in a bathroom can go a long way to changing that tired, old, cluttered, bathroom into one that makes you proud to show it off, and a pleasure to use.
Personalizing Your Next Kitchen or Bathroom Makeover
Personalizing Your Next Kitchen or Bathroom Makeover (ARA) - There are certain things you can always count on this time of year -- warmer temperatures outside, birds flying home after a long winter, more daylight and people getting the itch to finally renovate that kitchen or bathroom that's been bothering them for years.
In fact according to Kitchen & Bath Business magazine, more than $70 billion will be spent in 2004 to do just that. People spend months (and thousands of dollars) drawing up plans, shopping for appliances and fixtures, color matching cabinets or countertops, picking out that oversized corner tub and deciding which type of faucets and accessories will best highlight all of the other decisions they make.
Today, there are thousands of choices in the faucet category. Traditional styles, contemporary styles, and now, there are even "transitional" styles that will look good in either setting. As a shopper, not only do you get to choose the style, you get to choose the finish. There's chrome, brushed chrome, nickel, brushed nickel, satin nickel, chrome with satin nickel accents, brass, brushed Brass, polished brass, and the list goes on.
So why do manufacturers of these faucets offer so many choices in styling and finishes? "Personalization," says Jeff Pratt, vice president of sales for Danze, a manufacturer of decorative plumbing products including kitchen and bath faucets, bath accessories and showerheads. "Years ago, there seemed to be a few standard finishes and styles in both kitchen and bath faucets," says Pratt. "Now consumers expect -- and deserve -- a variety of choices so they can bring their lifestyle and individual personality into their home."
According to Pratt, the ability to purchase decorative, beautiful styles and finishes used to be more exclusive to those who could afford to spend a lot of money on their renovation or new construction project. But, with manufacturers like Danze on the scene, high fashion and design are more attainable for the mainstream homeowner.
"Everyone wants a beautiful faucet, bath accessory or showerhead to accent the new environment they're creating, but not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on those components alone," says Pratt. "Danze can offer consumers both a unique style with a gorgeous finish and a great price. We call it affordable luxury."
Luxury has definitely been a hot topic among consumers doing kitchen makeovers in recent years. High-rise kitchen faucets, over-sized pull-down faucets and pot fillers have all seen a spike in sales across the country. Homeowners at varying socio-levels are striving for the high-end, commercial-grade kitchen.
Part of the commercial-grade residential kitchen includes enhancing the functionality of the space, which often means multiple faucets. It's now common to see a primary sink/faucet, a faucet behind the stove and a bar/convenience sink either within the center island or in an alcove space just off the main room.
But luxury isn't limited to the kitchen. Bathroom renovations have seen tremendous growth within recent years. Whether it's an elegant powder room or an expansive master bedroom suite, bathroom faucets, accessories and shower systems continue to lead the way in accenting (or determining) a room's personality.
As vessel lavatory sinks soar in popularity, so do their companion faucets. These wall mount faucets provide simplicity and uniqueness that can soon become the focal point of any lavatory vessel sink environment.
Styling in the bathroom has also evolved over recent years. "Transitional" styling has now complemented the traditional and contemporary style offerings. "The Danze Bannockburn Collection is the industry's newest introduction in transitional styling," continues Pratt. "It uses elements of both traditional and contemporary styling, allowing it to be at home in either environment. And, this latest collection showcases a new, beautiful finish called brushed brass."
So what should you keep in mind as you choose from the thousands of decorative products available for your kitchen or bath project? Here are a few helpful hints:
* Select faucets and accessories that are within scale of other elements in the room. If you're putting in an over-sized integrated kitchen sink, be bold with a high-rise pull-down faucet. If a large stovetop is in your plan, install a pot filler on the back wall to make filling pots or large pans easier.
* Carry the styling and finish throughout the entire room. As you choose the faucet for your bathroom project, make sure your bath accessories are available in that same style and finish. It keeps the personality you brought to the room consistent (not to mention it adds beauty to even the smallest detail -- robe hook, toilet paper holder, towel bars, etc.).
* Don't sell yourself short in the shower. Unique showerheads and shower systems continue to grow in popularity and can also bring a bit of customization to your bathroom. Watch for fun and interesting showerhead styles such as spinning showerheads, ceiling mounts, large 10-inch downpour showerheads and stylish hand-held personal showers. Again, keep the styling and finish compatible with other fixtures in the room whenever possible.
* Research a product's quality. A pretty faucet isn't pretty if it leaks or doesn't operate smoothly. Find products that offer solid brass construction, ceramic disc valves and other high-quality components that ensure a long-lasting, reliable product. You don't want to renovate that same room next Spring!
* Compare prices. Luxury doesn't have to mean high prices. Shop around for the styling and finish that you prefer and then compare prices with other brands that offer a similar style. More manufacturers entering the category means the affordable luxury mentality will bring more value to consumers.
The choices you have available to you for that next home remodeling project are endless. So bring out that personality, extend it into your home and enjoy it. Because no matter who you are, where you come from or what personality traits you possess, we all want the same outcome at the end of this process -- a beautiful room with great styling and design.
For more information on the beauty and variety of the Danze line or for a retailer nearest you, call (877) 530-3344 or visit www.danze-online.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information or additional photography options, please contact Linda Bendt at (612) 747-3638.
In fact according to Kitchen & Bath Business magazine, more than $70 billion will be spent in 2004 to do just that. People spend months (and thousands of dollars) drawing up plans, shopping for appliances and fixtures, color matching cabinets or countertops, picking out that oversized corner tub and deciding which type of faucets and accessories will best highlight all of the other decisions they make.
Today, there are thousands of choices in the faucet category. Traditional styles, contemporary styles, and now, there are even "transitional" styles that will look good in either setting. As a shopper, not only do you get to choose the style, you get to choose the finish. There's chrome, brushed chrome, nickel, brushed nickel, satin nickel, chrome with satin nickel accents, brass, brushed Brass, polished brass, and the list goes on.
So why do manufacturers of these faucets offer so many choices in styling and finishes? "Personalization," says Jeff Pratt, vice president of sales for Danze, a manufacturer of decorative plumbing products including kitchen and bath faucets, bath accessories and showerheads. "Years ago, there seemed to be a few standard finishes and styles in both kitchen and bath faucets," says Pratt. "Now consumers expect -- and deserve -- a variety of choices so they can bring their lifestyle and individual personality into their home."
According to Pratt, the ability to purchase decorative, beautiful styles and finishes used to be more exclusive to those who could afford to spend a lot of money on their renovation or new construction project. But, with manufacturers like Danze on the scene, high fashion and design are more attainable for the mainstream homeowner.
"Everyone wants a beautiful faucet, bath accessory or showerhead to accent the new environment they're creating, but not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on those components alone," says Pratt. "Danze can offer consumers both a unique style with a gorgeous finish and a great price. We call it affordable luxury."
Luxury has definitely been a hot topic among consumers doing kitchen makeovers in recent years. High-rise kitchen faucets, over-sized pull-down faucets and pot fillers have all seen a spike in sales across the country. Homeowners at varying socio-levels are striving for the high-end, commercial-grade kitchen.
Part of the commercial-grade residential kitchen includes enhancing the functionality of the space, which often means multiple faucets. It's now common to see a primary sink/faucet, a faucet behind the stove and a bar/convenience sink either within the center island or in an alcove space just off the main room.
But luxury isn't limited to the kitchen. Bathroom renovations have seen tremendous growth within recent years. Whether it's an elegant powder room or an expansive master bedroom suite, bathroom faucets, accessories and shower systems continue to lead the way in accenting (or determining) a room's personality.
As vessel lavatory sinks soar in popularity, so do their companion faucets. These wall mount faucets provide simplicity and uniqueness that can soon become the focal point of any lavatory vessel sink environment.
Styling in the bathroom has also evolved over recent years. "Transitional" styling has now complemented the traditional and contemporary style offerings. "The Danze Bannockburn Collection is the industry's newest introduction in transitional styling," continues Pratt. "It uses elements of both traditional and contemporary styling, allowing it to be at home in either environment. And, this latest collection showcases a new, beautiful finish called brushed brass."
So what should you keep in mind as you choose from the thousands of decorative products available for your kitchen or bath project? Here are a few helpful hints:
* Select faucets and accessories that are within scale of other elements in the room. If you're putting in an over-sized integrated kitchen sink, be bold with a high-rise pull-down faucet. If a large stovetop is in your plan, install a pot filler on the back wall to make filling pots or large pans easier.
* Carry the styling and finish throughout the entire room. As you choose the faucet for your bathroom project, make sure your bath accessories are available in that same style and finish. It keeps the personality you brought to the room consistent (not to mention it adds beauty to even the smallest detail -- robe hook, toilet paper holder, towel bars, etc.).
* Don't sell yourself short in the shower. Unique showerheads and shower systems continue to grow in popularity and can also bring a bit of customization to your bathroom. Watch for fun and interesting showerhead styles such as spinning showerheads, ceiling mounts, large 10-inch downpour showerheads and stylish hand-held personal showers. Again, keep the styling and finish compatible with other fixtures in the room whenever possible.
* Research a product's quality. A pretty faucet isn't pretty if it leaks or doesn't operate smoothly. Find products that offer solid brass construction, ceramic disc valves and other high-quality components that ensure a long-lasting, reliable product. You don't want to renovate that same room next Spring!
* Compare prices. Luxury doesn't have to mean high prices. Shop around for the styling and finish that you prefer and then compare prices with other brands that offer a similar style. More manufacturers entering the category means the affordable luxury mentality will bring more value to consumers.
The choices you have available to you for that next home remodeling project are endless. So bring out that personality, extend it into your home and enjoy it. Because no matter who you are, where you come from or what personality traits you possess, we all want the same outcome at the end of this process -- a beautiful room with great styling and design.
For more information on the beauty and variety of the Danze line or for a retailer nearest you, call (877) 530-3344 or visit www.danze-online.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information or additional photography options, please contact Linda Bendt at (612) 747-3638.
Mirrored Cabinets Add Functionality and Fashion to Bathrooms
Mirrored Cabinets Add Functionality and Fashion to Bathrooms ARA) - In today's homes, the bathroom is becoming a symbol of luxury and relaxation as homeowners equip these spaces with spa-like amenities such as multiple-head showers, whirlpool tubs, plush towels, soaps and candles. But it is hard to maintain that feeling of spa serenity when the bathroom is strewn with all the necessities of day-to-day life and grooming.
Toothbrushes, makeup, toiletries, hair products and other such items have to go somewhere. But if they end up in a jumble on the bathroom countertop, the appearance is not very soothing. Especially in older, smaller bathrooms but also in many newer ones it can be a challenge to find enough conveniently located storage space.
Whether you're looking for a design statement or are in need of a functional bathroom storage space, a good option is a mirrored cabinet. While once medicine cabinets were basically a hole in the wall with a mirror as a door, today's products offer ample storage as well as enhance the design elements in the room.
For example, mirrored cabinets by Robern, a leader in stylish bath storage innovation, offer options such as a safety lock-box to provide security for personal items like prescriptions and jewelry; mirrored, lighted interiors, so you don't have to close the cabinet to see yourself; and an interior electrical outlet where you can recharge and store small electrical devices such as a cell phone or an electric razor.
Because medicine cabinets can be recessed into the wall to achieve a flush, clean look, homeowners are not giving up any valuable space in the bathroom when they add one. And they don't have to compromise their design sense, either. There are cabinets to complement a wide variety of styles and fit any d
Toothbrushes, makeup, toiletries, hair products and other such items have to go somewhere. But if they end up in a jumble on the bathroom countertop, the appearance is not very soothing. Especially in older, smaller bathrooms but also in many newer ones it can be a challenge to find enough conveniently located storage space.
Whether you're looking for a design statement or are in need of a functional bathroom storage space, a good option is a mirrored cabinet. While once medicine cabinets were basically a hole in the wall with a mirror as a door, today's products offer ample storage as well as enhance the design elements in the room.
For example, mirrored cabinets by Robern, a leader in stylish bath storage innovation, offer options such as a safety lock-box to provide security for personal items like prescriptions and jewelry; mirrored, lighted interiors, so you don't have to close the cabinet to see yourself; and an interior electrical outlet where you can recharge and store small electrical devices such as a cell phone or an electric razor.
Because medicine cabinets can be recessed into the wall to achieve a flush, clean look, homeowners are not giving up any valuable space in the bathroom when they add one. And they don't have to compromise their design sense, either. There are cabinets to complement a wide variety of styles and fit any d
Master Bedroom Organization
Master Bedroom Organization In a perfect world your master bedroom should be a haven in which you and your spouse can retreat from the world and enjoy each other. Unfortunately, the same type of clutter and dust that invades every other room in your house can spill over into your master bedroom.
One of the easiest ways to spiffy up your master bedroom on a daily basis is make the bed. It's a simple as that. If you aren't someone who routinely makes the bed you'll be amazed how much better a room will look and how quickly you'll be hooked. A great facelift for a bedroom is also a simple one, it's called a "bed in a bag". These sets come with comforters, coordinating sheets, pillow shams and bed skirts. If you have a visible bathroom attached to the master bedroom it's nice to carry your color theme through to the bathroom too.
Clear off the top of your dressers. As with all flat surfaces these will tend to gather papers too. If you don't have a home office where you keep bills and other important papers, get an organizer. A good way to organize bills and papers is in an accordion folder. They can be organized alphabetically or by month. Just get them off your dresser!
Now onto the vanity. It's time to part with what you really don't use. Bottles left sitting anywhere just become dust collectors and if you haven't used that perfume in the past two years, you probably aren't going to. You can pick up some small and nifty storage boxes and use one for lipstick, one for eye makeup, and one for foundation. It's a good time to go through all your make up and get rid of what's old.
If you don't already have one, get a laundry basket for your room. These can also be decorative items. Get those clothes up off the floor. Get a shoe rack for your closet and put your shoes in the closet when you change clothes after you get home from work. Shoes left lying around in a bedroom don't just look bad - they can be a health hazard. More than one person has hurt him or herself tripping over shoes on the way to the bathroom during the night.
Now that we've beautified the bed and are going to keep it made, cleared off the tops of the dressers and organized the papers. Picked up the shoes and dirty clothes from off the floor it's time to run the vacuum.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your master bedroom.
One of the easiest ways to spiffy up your master bedroom on a daily basis is make the bed. It's a simple as that. If you aren't someone who routinely makes the bed you'll be amazed how much better a room will look and how quickly you'll be hooked. A great facelift for a bedroom is also a simple one, it's called a "bed in a bag". These sets come with comforters, coordinating sheets, pillow shams and bed skirts. If you have a visible bathroom attached to the master bedroom it's nice to carry your color theme through to the bathroom too.
Clear off the top of your dressers. As with all flat surfaces these will tend to gather papers too. If you don't have a home office where you keep bills and other important papers, get an organizer. A good way to organize bills and papers is in an accordion folder. They can be organized alphabetically or by month. Just get them off your dresser!
Now onto the vanity. It's time to part with what you really don't use. Bottles left sitting anywhere just become dust collectors and if you haven't used that perfume in the past two years, you probably aren't going to. You can pick up some small and nifty storage boxes and use one for lipstick, one for eye makeup, and one for foundation. It's a good time to go through all your make up and get rid of what's old.
If you don't already have one, get a laundry basket for your room. These can also be decorative items. Get those clothes up off the floor. Get a shoe rack for your closet and put your shoes in the closet when you change clothes after you get home from work. Shoes left lying around in a bedroom don't just look bad - they can be a health hazard. More than one person has hurt him or herself tripping over shoes on the way to the bathroom during the night.
Now that we've beautified the bed and are going to keep it made, cleared off the tops of the dressers and organized the papers. Picked up the shoes and dirty clothes from off the floor it's time to run the vacuum.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your master bedroom.
Making the most of a small bathroom
Making the most of a small bathroom In bathroom terms at least, bigger doesn't have to be better - It's all just a case of making the most of the modest proportions you're presented with! And what's more, designing a bathroom that's small on space usage but big on style and functionality should be a lot more fun.
The Click Bathrooms guide to maximising a modest bathroom follows three simple principles...
1 - Make it seem bigger
A great way of tackling a bathroom with limited dimensions is by creating the illusion of space. First and foremost, aim to colour your walls in lighter shades such as whites, creams and pastels, thereby avoiding the darker colours that dramatically reduce the sense of space inside a small room.
Good lighting is also a vital tool in expanding the look of your bathroom. By illuminating areas that are prone to shadows with strong directional lights you'll find that the room opens up even further.
Finally, attempt to generate a feeling of space through the clever use of mirrors, which positioned correctly can literally make a room appear to double in size. For maximum effect, adorn the back wall of the room with one or more large mirrors, or a number of smaller mirrored tiles.
2 - Utilise hidden or difficult spaces
Time to get creative and think outside the box; can you utilise space that isn't immediately visible? Start at the bottom by identifying any available low-level spaces - under bath storage is a great way to keep towels and toiletries out of sight for a start. If you're struggling to free up low-level space, wall hung ceramic ware can provide vital extra ground room.
Then it's time to target the high-level spaces - stylish hooks and hangers can effectively replace the need for bulky closets, whilst a large ladder style heated towel rail can happily accommodate all necessary towels and dressing gowns.
Don't just give up on the difficult or unusual spaces your bathroom may present to you. Corner fitting WCs and basins can squeeze in to the tightest of spots, whilst short projection bathroom furniture and ceramic ware options should also prove equally economic with space.
3 - Get multifunctional
If space is really at a premium, try selecting bathroom fittings and fixtures that serve more than one purpose. Choosing a combined shower bath will allow you the option of relaxed bathing or rapid and refreshing showering without occupying the amount of space otherwise needed. Then there's the dual functionality of the heated towel rail, working as both a radiator and a storage feature, or bathroom cabinets that provide shelf space, lighting and mirrors.
Finally, look to combine individual bathroom items to create harmonious multifunctional bathroom features. An inset ceramic basin can be housed on top of a short projection vanity unit to create a stylish washstand with ample low-level storage.
For more advice on space saving bathroom techniques, be sure to visit Click Bathrooms
The Click Bathrooms guide to maximising a modest bathroom follows three simple principles...
1 - Make it seem bigger
A great way of tackling a bathroom with limited dimensions is by creating the illusion of space. First and foremost, aim to colour your walls in lighter shades such as whites, creams and pastels, thereby avoiding the darker colours that dramatically reduce the sense of space inside a small room.
Good lighting is also a vital tool in expanding the look of your bathroom. By illuminating areas that are prone to shadows with strong directional lights you'll find that the room opens up even further.
Finally, attempt to generate a feeling of space through the clever use of mirrors, which positioned correctly can literally make a room appear to double in size. For maximum effect, adorn the back wall of the room with one or more large mirrors, or a number of smaller mirrored tiles.
2 - Utilise hidden or difficult spaces
Time to get creative and think outside the box; can you utilise space that isn't immediately visible? Start at the bottom by identifying any available low-level spaces - under bath storage is a great way to keep towels and toiletries out of sight for a start. If you're struggling to free up low-level space, wall hung ceramic ware can provide vital extra ground room.
Then it's time to target the high-level spaces - stylish hooks and hangers can effectively replace the need for bulky closets, whilst a large ladder style heated towel rail can happily accommodate all necessary towels and dressing gowns.
Don't just give up on the difficult or unusual spaces your bathroom may present to you. Corner fitting WCs and basins can squeeze in to the tightest of spots, whilst short projection bathroom furniture and ceramic ware options should also prove equally economic with space.
3 - Get multifunctional
If space is really at a premium, try selecting bathroom fittings and fixtures that serve more than one purpose. Choosing a combined shower bath will allow you the option of relaxed bathing or rapid and refreshing showering without occupying the amount of space otherwise needed. Then there's the dual functionality of the heated towel rail, working as both a radiator and a storage feature, or bathroom cabinets that provide shelf space, lighting and mirrors.
Finally, look to combine individual bathroom items to create harmonious multifunctional bathroom features. An inset ceramic basin can be housed on top of a short projection vanity unit to create a stylish washstand with ample low-level storage.
For more advice on space saving bathroom techniques, be sure to visit Click Bathrooms
Making space at home
Making space at home Make Space At Home
Clear out excess furniture and accessories from the interior of your home as much as possible. If a piece of furniture is too big for the room, or is crowding the room, put it in storage, have a garage sale, or give it to a deserving charity.
This also goes for decorations, oversized stuffed animals, and other items that you may have collected over the years. Anything that takes up space should be considered, and if it's not necessary, you'll want to clear it out.
Nothing is more effective at opening up a house than getting rid of clutter. It will look immeasurably more spacious without all of your extra things in the way.
Go through your house and clear off all of the horizontal surfaces, kitchen counters, and bathroom countertops.
This means that you won't be leaving any magazines, knick-knacks, or other various items to add to a cluttered appearance in your home. Either pack them or get rid of them in some other way.
Pay special attention to keeping hallways and doorways clear. Not only will this make people feel that you have a spacious home, if you're considering selling, they can easier imagine their own things inside of it.
visit www.easyhometips.com for some of the webs best home improvement info, ideas and resources.
Clear out excess furniture and accessories from the interior of your home as much as possible. If a piece of furniture is too big for the room, or is crowding the room, put it in storage, have a garage sale, or give it to a deserving charity.
This also goes for decorations, oversized stuffed animals, and other items that you may have collected over the years. Anything that takes up space should be considered, and if it's not necessary, you'll want to clear it out.
Nothing is more effective at opening up a house than getting rid of clutter. It will look immeasurably more spacious without all of your extra things in the way.
Go through your house and clear off all of the horizontal surfaces, kitchen counters, and bathroom countertops.
This means that you won't be leaving any magazines, knick-knacks, or other various items to add to a cluttered appearance in your home. Either pack them or get rid of them in some other way.
Pay special attention to keeping hallways and doorways clear. Not only will this make people feel that you have a spacious home, if you're considering selling, they can easier imagine their own things inside of it.
visit www.easyhometips.com for some of the webs best home improvement info, ideas and resources.
Maintaining Your Sanity
Maintaining Your Sanity Keeping Your Home Organized Pt.3
Finally, the last stages of maintaining your organization... and you thought this section would never come!
Maintaining the Laundry
I recommend doing laundry daily, depending on the size of your family. If you have at least 3 kids, do some every day. For example: baby laundry is handled differently than adult laundry. You shouldn't use fabric softener for baby laundry, but it's fine to use with adults' clothes. So choose a day to do only baby laundry. Choose a different day to do adult laundry. Do your oldest child's laundry on a given day (maintain that day on a weekly basis), your next child's laundry the following day, etc. If you keep up on it, it won't become a Mt. Vesuvius and overwhelm your home again.
If you find laundry tedious, sort and pre-treat while you're watching TV, for example. It takes moment to pluck a piece of clothing out and check it for stains, squirt it with pre-treater, and then put it in the dirty basket, ready for the wash. Folding can be done the same way. Once it's folded, I recommend putting it on the recipient's bed (not in the basket). This way, it must be put away before retiring for the night and you won't live from a laundry basket full of clean clothes.
If you have things that need ironing, do it when the laundry is clean and hang it up. Be done with the task and make sure that clean, ready-to-wear shirts or blouses are smiling at you when you walk in the closet in the morning.
This is easier said than done, I understand. But what I've discovered is that if you put your home on a schedule, things won't overwhelm you. You'll know that vacuuming will be done on one day and that laundry will be done on another. You'll not resent walking in to the bathroom, because it will make you smile to see a shiny sink when you turn on the light. And you'll know that YOU are special enough to have a clean bathroom, not just the company that comes to visit.
You'll have peace of mind knowing that if a package comes to your door, you won't kill yourself getting to it and won't be ashamed to throw the door open for the UPS guy or mail carrier.
Most of all, you'll have the appreciation of your family, and you'll know that you're setting up good habits for your children to observe and repeat in their own homes. No matter what the Mastercard ads say, THAT is priceless.
Finally, the last stages of maintaining your organization... and you thought this section would never come!
Maintaining the Laundry
I recommend doing laundry daily, depending on the size of your family. If you have at least 3 kids, do some every day. For example: baby laundry is handled differently than adult laundry. You shouldn't use fabric softener for baby laundry, but it's fine to use with adults' clothes. So choose a day to do only baby laundry. Choose a different day to do adult laundry. Do your oldest child's laundry on a given day (maintain that day on a weekly basis), your next child's laundry the following day, etc. If you keep up on it, it won't become a Mt. Vesuvius and overwhelm your home again.
If you find laundry tedious, sort and pre-treat while you're watching TV, for example. It takes moment to pluck a piece of clothing out and check it for stains, squirt it with pre-treater, and then put it in the dirty basket, ready for the wash. Folding can be done the same way. Once it's folded, I recommend putting it on the recipient's bed (not in the basket). This way, it must be put away before retiring for the night and you won't live from a laundry basket full of clean clothes.
If you have things that need ironing, do it when the laundry is clean and hang it up. Be done with the task and make sure that clean, ready-to-wear shirts or blouses are smiling at you when you walk in the closet in the morning.
This is easier said than done, I understand. But what I've discovered is that if you put your home on a schedule, things won't overwhelm you. You'll know that vacuuming will be done on one day and that laundry will be done on another. You'll not resent walking in to the bathroom, because it will make you smile to see a shiny sink when you turn on the light. And you'll know that YOU are special enough to have a clean bathroom, not just the company that comes to visit.
You'll have peace of mind knowing that if a package comes to your door, you won't kill yourself getting to it and won't be ashamed to throw the door open for the UPS guy or mail carrier.
Most of all, you'll have the appreciation of your family, and you'll know that you're setting up good habits for your children to observe and repeat in their own homes. No matter what the Mastercard ads say, THAT is priceless.
Linens and Things for your Bathroom!
Linens and Things for your Bathroom! Linens and Things is a store that specializes in everything linen! Really, it is like a home store with so many options for everyday uses and even the extravagant uses of everyday things. Other stores like Bed, Bath and Beyond and Bath and Body works are similar in what they carry. But, let us talk about linens n things first.
This store, like the others offer many products. Most of these have to do with the home. You will find items for the bedroom like sheets, comforters, and blankets as well as curtains and window sashes. You will find bathroom stuff as well. Items like towels, rugs, curtain rods and other bathroom accessories. You will also find trinkets and fun items to add life to your home. You will find other things for your home as well. Things for your kitchen, for organizing your home and for your children. Linen and things is a great store, for much more then linens! You may decide to pick up a few things for your bath or your kitchen and come home with loads of fun things for your home.
Bed Bath Beyond is another store with similar items. But, its name is deceiving. There is much more then bed and bath accessories in these stores. Bed Bath & Beyond, for instance has all kinds of small appliances in every shape and size imaginable. There are things for every area of the house and every area of life as well. Another great services these stores offer is bridal shower registries! This is a great place for a couple to pick out items they would like to have in their new home and allow friends and family members to purchase them for their bridal shower. Registries are an invaluable tool because, instead of purchasing an item and hoping the couple will like it, you can see the exact items they want. Also, these registries keep track of items that are already purchased so as to limit the number of duplicates a couple gets. Purchases are electronically added to the list so that the next person searching for items for the couple will see which items have already been purchased.
Linens n Things is a great store for someone who is just starting out or the person who seems to have everything. There are many items to choose from and services beyond the simple bed store as one might think. So, take the time to travel to one of their stores and check them out. Don't want to leave home? These stores also offer great online selection and easy shopping. Great stores for anyone looking for something new and different or the old standard stand by.
This store, like the others offer many products. Most of these have to do with the home. You will find items for the bedroom like sheets, comforters, and blankets as well as curtains and window sashes. You will find bathroom stuff as well. Items like towels, rugs, curtain rods and other bathroom accessories. You will also find trinkets and fun items to add life to your home. You will find other things for your home as well. Things for your kitchen, for organizing your home and for your children. Linen and things is a great store, for much more then linens! You may decide to pick up a few things for your bath or your kitchen and come home with loads of fun things for your home.
Bed Bath Beyond is another store with similar items. But, its name is deceiving. There is much more then bed and bath accessories in these stores. Bed Bath & Beyond, for instance has all kinds of small appliances in every shape and size imaginable. There are things for every area of the house and every area of life as well. Another great services these stores offer is bridal shower registries! This is a great place for a couple to pick out items they would like to have in their new home and allow friends and family members to purchase them for their bridal shower. Registries are an invaluable tool because, instead of purchasing an item and hoping the couple will like it, you can see the exact items they want. Also, these registries keep track of items that are already purchased so as to limit the number of duplicates a couple gets. Purchases are electronically added to the list so that the next person searching for items for the couple will see which items have already been purchased.
Linens n Things is a great store for someone who is just starting out or the person who seems to have everything. There are many items to choose from and services beyond the simple bed store as one might think. So, take the time to travel to one of their stores and check them out. Don't want to leave home? These stores also offer great online selection and easy shopping. Great stores for anyone looking for something new and different or the old standard stand by.
Kitchen and Bath Solutions
Kitchen and Bath Solutions (ARA) - Home improvement has become one of our country's greatest pastimes. Americans spent an estimated $214 billion on home improvements, maintenance and repairs in 2001, according to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies research report issued in February 2003. Just how and where that money is spent can make a big difference when it comes to investing in your home.
Of all the rooms in your house, bathrooms represent the greatest and fastest return on your remodeling investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, more than 80 percent of your bathroom remodeling expenses can be recouped within a year of resale. Not every room in the house offers such a return. Surprisingly, kitchens are sixth on the list with just over 60 percent of the costs returned. Only bathroom additions beat bathroom remodeling with returns over 90 percent.
Despite today's homeowner remodeling craze, you should weigh the pros and cons of taking on an entire bathroom project alone. Knowledge -- including admitting your strengths and weaknesses -- is the key to successfully completing any project on time and under budget. Ask yourself the following remodeling questions to ensure you are making the best decisions for your investment.
Is it a Remodel or Makeover?
"The first consideration should be the scope of work," says Rick Peters, remodeling expert and author of "MoneySmart Makeovers: Bathrooms." He asks: "Do you understand your home's plumbing systems, such as where the waste/vent stack is?"
If the remodeling project involves more than cosmetic fixture replacements or surface redecorating, it may be time to call in an expert to assess your home's plumbing and pipe placement. Peters suggests the following checklist:
Call a remodeling contractor when:
* Moving a toilet, sink, tub or shower
* Removing or adding walls
* Installing venting that runs through the roof
All of these projects require specific skills and knowledge of your local building and plumbing codes.
Try the following makeover projects yourself:
* Replacing a faucet, sink or toilet using existing plumbing
* Installing shower or shower-tub combination doors
* Installing new accessories, such as shelves or light fixtures
* Painting, tiling or wallpapering
These projects require some skill base, but even a first-time do-it-yourselfer may be able to complete them in a reasonable timeframe.
What's the Real Deal on What You Want?
Tempted by what looks good? Check out the quality. Does that new faucet have rubber washers or plastic valves? A client of mine bought a faucet five years ago with plastic valves and it lasted exactly four and a half years. Cheaper versions of the real thing are not repairable and have to be replaced entirely. This means you are spending twice as much in 10 years as you would once in a lifetime for a better faucet.
Look for quality fixture manufacturers such as American Standard. The company's Champion Toilet featuring America's Best Flushing System, includes a Worry-Free Decade Warranty that covers the whole toilet inside and out. American Standard's faucets come with a lifetime warranty on the washerless watertight seal, the function and the finish. Most of its sinks and toilets are made of vitreous china that resists dirt and bacteria. Even the acrylic tubs are made tougher with a fiberglass bonding for extra strength.
Bottom line: "Your bathroom takes a daily beating," says Peters. "Buy quality."
Is There a Great Cover-up Waiting for You?
A number of times, I've ventured into bathrooms that have been madeover by covering damaged tiles or walls with acrylic panels. "Sure it looks better, but the problem is still there," says Peters. "In fact, panels like these hold in moisture and mildew that was the problem in the first place, and now it will get worse. Make sure leaks and damage are repaired and not just covered up."
Peters also suggests using a mildew resistant drywall. "Standard drywall can't stand up to the moisture in the air, even with proper venting," he notes.
What's your pay-off in investing time to answer these important questions before you start? You'll end up with a successful bathroom remodeling project that adds to the value and enjoyment of your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Of all the rooms in your house, bathrooms represent the greatest and fastest return on your remodeling investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, more than 80 percent of your bathroom remodeling expenses can be recouped within a year of resale. Not every room in the house offers such a return. Surprisingly, kitchens are sixth on the list with just over 60 percent of the costs returned. Only bathroom additions beat bathroom remodeling with returns over 90 percent.
Despite today's homeowner remodeling craze, you should weigh the pros and cons of taking on an entire bathroom project alone. Knowledge -- including admitting your strengths and weaknesses -- is the key to successfully completing any project on time and under budget. Ask yourself the following remodeling questions to ensure you are making the best decisions for your investment.
Is it a Remodel or Makeover?
"The first consideration should be the scope of work," says Rick Peters, remodeling expert and author of "MoneySmart Makeovers: Bathrooms." He asks: "Do you understand your home's plumbing systems, such as where the waste/vent stack is?"
If the remodeling project involves more than cosmetic fixture replacements or surface redecorating, it may be time to call in an expert to assess your home's plumbing and pipe placement. Peters suggests the following checklist:
Call a remodeling contractor when:
* Moving a toilet, sink, tub or shower
* Removing or adding walls
* Installing venting that runs through the roof
All of these projects require specific skills and knowledge of your local building and plumbing codes.
Try the following makeover projects yourself:
* Replacing a faucet, sink or toilet using existing plumbing
* Installing shower or shower-tub combination doors
* Installing new accessories, such as shelves or light fixtures
* Painting, tiling or wallpapering
These projects require some skill base, but even a first-time do-it-yourselfer may be able to complete them in a reasonable timeframe.
What's the Real Deal on What You Want?
Tempted by what looks good? Check out the quality. Does that new faucet have rubber washers or plastic valves? A client of mine bought a faucet five years ago with plastic valves and it lasted exactly four and a half years. Cheaper versions of the real thing are not repairable and have to be replaced entirely. This means you are spending twice as much in 10 years as you would once in a lifetime for a better faucet.
Look for quality fixture manufacturers such as American Standard. The company's Champion Toilet featuring America's Best Flushing System, includes a Worry-Free Decade Warranty that covers the whole toilet inside and out. American Standard's faucets come with a lifetime warranty on the washerless watertight seal, the function and the finish. Most of its sinks and toilets are made of vitreous china that resists dirt and bacteria. Even the acrylic tubs are made tougher with a fiberglass bonding for extra strength.
Bottom line: "Your bathroom takes a daily beating," says Peters. "Buy quality."
Is There a Great Cover-up Waiting for You?
A number of times, I've ventured into bathrooms that have been madeover by covering damaged tiles or walls with acrylic panels. "Sure it looks better, but the problem is still there," says Peters. "In fact, panels like these hold in moisture and mildew that was the problem in the first place, and now it will get worse. Make sure leaks and damage are repaired and not just covered up."
Peters also suggests using a mildew resistant drywall. "Standard drywall can't stand up to the moisture in the air, even with proper venting," he notes.
What's your pay-off in investing time to answer these important questions before you start? You'll end up with a successful bathroom remodeling project that adds to the value and enjoyment of your home.
Courtesy of ARA Content
Abonați-vă la:
Comentarii (Atom)