Small Bathroom Design Tips

Small bathroom ideas for a bathroom remodeling project maytake some time to assemble, but it can make your small bathroom more pleasant and more functional as well.


List specific items you want in your new bathroom, and some of the problems you want to solve by finding small bathroom ideas.


Determine how much of a remodel you are undertaking. You may want to start fresh and do a full remodel, or maybe your small bathroom will benefit with just a small amount of renovation.
Changes you want to make in your bathroom will depend on how it is used, and who uses it.



Your small bathroom design will vary depending on if it is a main bathroom, or a master bath. Each has it's own needs.


The individual needs and age of users is an important factor. In the case of children, height and usage has to be factored in.


You may wish to give a master bath the feeling of a private sanctuary with special amenities such as a shower with massage jets, or a two person soaking tub. Review carefully what you most want in case that space or budget require making one choice over another.


When selecting color choices for your bathroom walls, floor and surfaces, stay with the lighter tones. Lighter colors will brighten the room and add visual space.


Flooring takes up a lot of space in this smaller room and patterns with a lot of detail should be avoided. Vinyl sheeting in one piece with a simple all over pattern is good, as well as larger tiles. When tiling, use grout that is as close in color to tile as possible for less contrast.


A glass shower door rather than a shower curtain adds visual space. A sliding door on a shower consumes less real space than one that swing out into the room.


Utilize light from a window if possible without sacrificing your privacy. Some bathroom windows are placed high enough not to be a problem. If you must cover your window for privacy, keep the window treatment sleek and simple.


Cabinetry should be kept light as well. Install streamlined cabinetry in light tones, preferably closed. Open shelves attract things such as knick knacks. Better to have your storage closed. This gives a unified look, and the eye travels accross it, adding again to visual space. If you are keeping your old cabinetry, consider sanding and re-staining it if it is dark in color. Stains come in wood tones as well as actual colors.


Use towel rings instead or rods. They consume less space and they give a more elegant look to a small bathroom.


If you are not going to use the current fixtures, consider replacing them with smaller models. Many bathroom fixtures are created with small bathroom design in mind. They are scaled down models that serve the same need while conserving space.


Another small bathroom idea, depending on the shape of your bathroom, is corner fixtures. In some specific situations, utilizing corner space is a good option. There are corner bathtubs, corner toilets, and corner pedestal sinks, as well as corner vanities.


When you have put all your small bathroom ideas together, created your design, and finished your bathroom remodel it is time to enjoy and be proud of your new space. Small spaces need to be kept up on a regular basis. A small mess in a small space takes on larger proportions in the mind's eye. Take just five minutes a day to scan the room and quickly put out of sight those things that may have gotten left laying around.

Comparing Shower Head Water Filters

Shower Head Water Filters Compared
By Julie Perry

I wanted to give you some advice about shower head water filters. I compared the five best-selling shower head filters on the market and here's what I found.

Two of the water filters for shower heads, Shower-wise and Paragon, only reduce chlorine by 50%. Yet, the cost of use is higher than that of one brand that does more. But, the biggest problem is that shower head water filters need to remove more than just chlorine.

You see, anytime that water is chlorinated, dangerous toxins called THMs are released. These toxins become airborne in the bathroom. We inhale them and absorb them through our skin. In addition, there are other dangerous contaminants that also become airborne. They are referred to as volatile organic compounds or VOCs.

Only three of the five shower head filters remove VOCs and THMs. So, I narrowed my comparison to include only those three. I started with the most expensive one.

Wellness Enterprises makes water filters for shower heads, as well as for drinking water and the whole house. Their shower head water filters currently cost $249.00. They make only one model and no wand is included, so you cannot easily use it for filling the tub.

Wellness shower head filters are more expensive than the others primarily because of the health claims that they make about their products. Their water filters for shower heads are supposed to support the body's ability to resist bacteria and fungus. In addition, the waters from their shower head filters are supposed to have antioxidant activity, which would be great, if not impossible.

There is no scientific evidence to support any of their claims. I have searched and searched.

While there is reliable research and data indicating that inhalation of THMs and VOCs is hazardous to our health and may even cause cancer, there is nothing that I can find supporting the claims made by Wellness.

The next water filters for shower heads that I want to mention are Jonathan Beauty. I have a lot of respect for the hairdresser whose name is behind these shower head water filters. Before he found another answer, he would recommend that clients shampoo with bottled water, especially before a photo shoot or other important assignment.

My only problem with Jonathan's water filters for shower heads is that we don't have to pay quite that much. $95 is reasonable enough, but we can get shower head filters that do the same thing for $67.99.

The estimated cost per month is $9.25. That's not bad, but we can get water filters for shower heads that, again, do the same thing and pay only $7 per month. My question is why pay more when you don't have to.

This is a situation similar to many others. Jonathan does not himself make his products. Someone else does.

Whenever you can buy anything direct from the manufacturer, you save money. The same is true for shower head water filters. Hopefully, that will help you make the best choice.

Julie Perry graduated with a Diploma in Applied Science and is a fully qualified Naturopath. On her web site http://www.healthysafewater.com - you will find out a practical and simple way to always have fresh, healthy water throughout your home. Learn what to look for in choosing shower head water filters.

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Choosing a Medicine Cabinet

Choosing a Medicine Cabinet

By Dan Auer

Are you trying to fit a lot of things into a not-so-big space? When it comes to organization, medicine cabinets are closets in miniature. They are a great addition to any bathroom, keeping all of your bathroom essentials in one spot - organized, clean, and easy to find. Medicine cabinets often do triple duty in a bathroom - most importantly by keeping items organized. They also often function as the all important bathroom mirror while adding a bit of style and décor. You can cater your medicine cabinet to your own needs. Left-handed? No problem! Just choose a medicine cabinet with reversible mounting!

Swing Door

The swing door operates much like a traditional cabinet with one side hinged. Swing door cabinets really look nice hung over a pedestal sink.

Side Wall

The side wall cabinets are mounted in an area other than above the sink and are longer in taller than the other styles. These are great for storing larger things like shampoo and conditioner bottles.

Tri View

Tri-view medicine cabinets have three panels. In some models the center is simply a mirror and the two side section open, and in other models all three sections open for storage. This type of cabinet is great for more than one person. One side can be his, while the other is hers - or in most households, both sides are hers, and his stuff gets thrown under the sink!

Surface mounted styles are simply mounted on the wall and secured into studs. Recessed or semi-recessed medicine cabinets may need a little more planning and installation time, but give a cleaner appearance.

All styles of medicine cabinets feature options for mirror location. Choose from the basic mirror option on the outside of a closed door, a mirror on the back of the cabinet interior, or a mirror on the inside as well as outside of the door, which may allow for mirror viewing while cabinet is open. Mirrors allow for more mirror space without investing in a bigger medicine cabinet. Choose from double-mirrored doors, swing-out magnifying mirrors, sliding doors, triple doors, or even heated mirrors so you can see yourself even through steam.

Medicine cabinets come in various sizes and are available in many popular finishes from natural wood to metal. For a pure storage option, non-mirrored styles are also available. Remember, medicine cabinets are in a highly trafficked room, so don't keep anything in there that you
wouldn't want others to see!

Visit Faucet.com for faucets, sinks, kitchen accessories, medicine cabinets and other bathroom accessories. We offer expert phone service and large order discounts.

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Clawfoot Tubs For all Time

Clawfoot Bathtubs Have Weathered the Test of Time
By Christopher W Smith

After decades of sleek, modern fiberglass tubs and chrome, people everywhere are coming to appreciate the comfort and functionality of the old-fashioned clawfoot tubs. People love relaxing in the large tubs which enhance the character of any bathroom. In fact, just changing the tub can change the entire mood of the bathroom making it one of comfort and warmth. If you've been thinking about installing this type of tub in your bathroom, this article will give you some tips to help you on your way.

Antique clawfoot tubs were made of extremely heavy cast iron. They were not only difficult to maneuver into a room; they also required that floors under them be shored up to hold the extra weight. Plus, they could rust. Manufacturers are now producing modern acrylic versions of this classic tub that retain the charm of the old tubs without all the weight.

clawfoot tubs are freestanding, so it isn't possible to hide all of the pipes in the walls like it is with modern tubs. Most people try to situate the tubs so that as much of the plumbing as possible is hidden. If this isn't an option for you, you can try putting a skirting around the tub to hide the pipes or else using copper pipes which make more of a fashion statement.

Clawfoot bathtubs require special cleaning, especially the vintage models. Harsh chemical cleansers may damage the surfaces. After using a mild cleanser to clean your tub, it's still necessary to completely wipe the tub down immediately to make sure you aren't leaving any harmful residue.

As mentioned before, if you do decide you want an antique cast iron clawfoot tub, you've got to make sure that it isn't too heavy for your existing floor. This is most important when installing the tub on the second floor or above a basement area. Cast iron is extremely heavy, and you certainly don't want your tub crashing through the floor into the room below.

If you have the space for a large, roomy clawfoot tub in your bathtub, you may want to think seriously about installing one. Close your eyes and picture yourself reclining in your new clawfoot bathtub, soaking away your troubles in a mountain of bubbles. Nice, isn't it!

Visit us for more information on bathroom decoration ideas, bathroom renovations and cheap bathroom renovation ideas.

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Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Remodeling Ideas For Your Bathroom

There are many great bathroom remodeling ideas that you can use in your home without a great deal of expense. By taking the time to use some of the bathroom remodeling ideas, you are actually improving the value of your home. Not only do you enjoy the benefits of a newly remodeled bathroom, you can actually invest in your home.

Shower Curtain Changes

Shower curtain change is probably one of the most inexpensive bathroom remodeling ideas that you can do to your bathroom. You will be amazed at how much a bathroom actually changes when you switch the shower curtain. The good news is that you can use virtually any theme for a bathroom shower curtain to match the existing color scheme. What is the cost for this bathroom remodeling idea? The cost is approximately $2 to $10.

Rug Changes

A good rug change is another one of the least expensive bathroom remodeling ideas that you can use. Simply clean the old rug and store it. Add a new rug and your bathroom is almost instantly changed. What is the cost for this bathroom remodeling idea? The cost is approximately $5 to $20.

Faucets

Faucets can really define a bathroom. For example, an antique theme would look nice with copper faucets. A modern decor would look nice with space saver faucets. You can easily change faucets without having to replace your sink, shower or tub. Faucets are easy to exchange out and relatively quick. You can do this in about half an hour. What is the price for this bathroom remodeling idea? This should cost you around $10 to $40 depending on the replacement faucets. Be sure to save old faucets and you can have a collection to change every few months to give your bathroom a new look.

Mirror Cling Ons

Did you know that you can purchase cling ons? These are around a $1 each. This is a great way to give your bathroom a new look and spice it up some. You don't have to be an artist. The cling ons are removal and can be used over and over. You can even purchase ones that are for specific themes to change your bathroom frequently. What is the price for this bathroom remodeling idea? This should cost you $1 to $5.

J. Priddy writes on a variety of topics and is available for hire for short article pieces, essays, SEO web content, blog content and eBooks. More of her articles may be read here Associated Content

Bathroom remodeling ideas are as varied as your imagination. Sometimes consulting a friend, and online site, or a magazine can help to jumpstart some fresh new ideas.

Bathroom Deisgn-Choosing Colors

The Correct Use of Color in Bathroom Design

Whether you are building a new bathroom or remodeling your existing bathroom, you will find that the bathroom is an important place to find relaxation and provide you with a private retreat from the world. Remodeling a bathroom becomes necessary because like everything else that undergoes changes in our homes, bathroom styles, colors, and designs go out of style, and this leads to the overall look of your bathroom becoming old and worn over time.

At one time, when you wanted to select a color for your plumbing fixtures, your only choice was white. You could only add color to your bathroom with accessories like shower curtains, rugs, or through the type of backsplashes, flooring and countertops.

There was even a time in the 1940s that is was popular to incorporate colors such as cotton candy pink and sea green into the bathroom.

Upon entering your bathroom just what do you want it to indicate about your personality? Selecting just the right color scheme can create the impression you want it to make.

Color does more than add life and personality to a bathroom, color can influence the mood of a bathroom. For example, studies have shown that red can quicken the pulse and breathing rate, as well as increase appetite. Yellow, especially soft yellows can make people feel happier. When used as a accent bright yellow can attract attention and brighten up a bathroom. As with kitchens you can also use color to influence how large or small a bathroom can feel.

Creating the right color schemes for your bathroom is no easy task. If you feel you do not have the skills to it yourself you really should let a bathroom design professional help you make the right decision.

You can create balanced, unified color schemes that are pleasing to the eye using harmonious colors. In starting any decorating or home remodeling project one of the first decisions to make is what color scheme you are going to go with.

There are so many countless ways to use color within the bathroom. What is important to remember is that the colors should coordinate and complement each other. What is difficult about coming up with a color scheme for your bathroom is choosing the paint color. There are many different painting techniques that can not only combine color schemes but combine textures as well.

If you have a bathroom that adjoins the bedroom you may want to provide a smooth transition as you move into the bathroom. For example the flooring you might select for the bathroom would look best in a tile or vinyl that is similar in color to the beige carpet used in the bedroom. This helps to create just the right transition between the two rooms with the walls painted in the same color as the walls in the bedroom.

Try to select colors of similar densities for a balanced look so that one color does not overpower another. Pick three or four colors that all stem from the same primary color.

James Mahoney is the author of many bathroom design articles and has a site about bathroom design ideas and trends at Bathroom Designers Ideas.com.

or go here for a new way of looking at bathroom decor

Walk In Baths Features

By Jj Smith

Walk In Baths have many bespoke features to help improve access and the bathing experience for the user. Some features will be offered as standard on a walking in bath ''package'' whilst others will be added extras. It is important to understand these features and what is including in your quote, before making the decision to buy.

We have complied a list of main features to help you research;

Thermostatic Mixer Taps - The addition and quality of the mixer tap is vital to a walking bath as the user will be sat in it when filling. It is thus essential that the water is easily controlled, filling at the correct temperature and at a sufficient rate.

Quick Fill - As with the above fill time is a key factor when deciding on a walk in baths. Manufactures now offer different ''quick fill'' systems that increase the flow of water and reduce filling time.

Grab Rails - The accessibility of grab hand rails is an important factor in the safety of a walk in bath.

Slip Resistant Floor - Look closely at the fool material to ensure it offers good grip when wet to improve safety. Some walk in baths offer the option of a rubber mat to help improve grip.

Safety Seating - Some walk in baths can be fitted with a seat to help accessibility and use.

Quick Drainage - As with the mixer tap drainage time is crucial as the user will be in the bath as it empties. If a bath takes to long to empty the user may suffer from the cold, especially if they are elderly. Some walk in baths can now be fitted with dual drainage systems that can half the time the bath takes to empty.

Hydrotherapy System - This creates a Spa / Jacuzzi effect using jets mounted around the bath. These systems can be beneficially for some medical conditions or simply to ease aches and pains.

Walk in baths features

Walk in baths can be very beneficial for the right situation and need. Find more options in bathtub style.

Trimming Bathroom Remodeling cost

Your bathroom remodeling cost is best kept in line by good planning. Determining the cost of your bathroom remodel is sort of a circular action.

Estimates can be made for the cost of a bath remodel, but they can't be very accurate until you have decided just what your specific remodel will entail.

It is necessary to take a good look at your existing bath and decide whether you need a full remodel, or if a partial remodel will do the trick. This is something only you can determine.
Ask yourself some questions:

* Why do you want to remodel?

* What is not working for you in your existing bath?

* Does your bath simply need updating?

* Which fixtures, if any, can be a part of your newly remodeled bath?

Once you have answered these questions, and decided whether to do either a full remodel or only a partial remodel, it is time to begin some intensive planning.

Determine which fixtures and surface materials you are going to replace. Start with the floor and make a detailed list. Once you have done this, you should do some comparison shopping.

If you are adding some extras, and not just replacing what is already a part of your bathroom, you need to shop for these as well, and make a list of what you need and the price range.

This is when you can start developing a budget. Once you know the real cost of what you need. Consider how much you can do yourself, and at what point you will need to call in an expert. You may be able to do most of the work, but wiring and some plumbing is best left to professionals. The cost for this needs to be factored in.

Once you have a rough estimate of the cost of remodeling your bathroom, add an extra 10%. There are often things in a remodel that you can't anticipate, and it is best to have a cushion to help cover these costs.

Often during the remodel of any room you may reach a point where you need to make some trade-offs to keep the budget in line. Be prepared to make different choices here and there, and still stay as close as possible to having the bathroom you desire.

Above all, don't rush into a remodel before you have developed a good plan, and determined a close estimate of the cost entailed. A little extra time and good planning will pay you rewards down the line.

Medicine Cabinets Value In a Small Bath

A medicine cabinet can be of real value in a small bath. Let's face it, most of us do not have large palatial bathrooms like those featured in high end decorating magazines, and every inch of space needs to be used to the max.

A medicine cabinet in a small bath or one of modest size can contribute a lot on a daily basis. If you need to prove this to yourself, just take everything out of your medicine cabinet and place it on your vanity top. You may be hard pressed to have enough room.

Whether your bathroom will accomodate a recessed medicine cabinet or one that is surface mounted, it provides a lot of storage for toiletries, medicines, and grooming needs that are used everyday. And they are stored in a manner that is convenient to their use.

In a smaller bathroom taking advantage of wall space is a very practical measure, and this is exactly what a medicine cabinet does.

Fortunately there are many attractive styles in medicine cabinets today whatever your style preference. With so many stylish and attractive choices available, the medicine cabinet can add value from a decor standpoint as well as being a workhorse for your storage needs.

Whether you favor Mission style, Art Deco, Traditional, Country, or Contemporary there is a stylish medicine cabinet that will not only house many of the things you need and use on a daily basis, but will add to the overall decor in your bathroom.

Contemporary is very popular today, and the Nutone City Traditional medicine cabinet strikes a cord with many young homeowners. This sleek black framed cabinet is a generous 5-1/4 inch deep and offers the options of opening right or left.

As well as being offered in all the many style preferences, medicine cabinets also have the option of being recessed or surface mounted. For special situations, there are also corner mount medicine cabinets.

You will also find the added feature of lighted medicine cabinets that have lighting built in. This makes one less shopping decision and solves some of your lighting needs.

If you are remodeling a bath, or redecorating, and need to replace your existing medicine cabinet, do some intensive shopping and you are bound to find just the right medicine cabinet for your storage needs as well as your preference in bath decor.