The price of your bathroom cabinet

Now ladies, this is one for you to think about. According to a recent report featured in the Daily Mail the average woman has £2,000 worth of beauty products inside their bathroom cabinets.

According to the article women on average will leave at least 14 beauty products in the cabinets unopened. It was discovered that women tend to use the same beauty products each day as part of a daily ritual. Over 1/6 of the products were never used but kept just in case a special occasion arises and the un used product is needed. Many women surveyed admitted the products had been left for many years in the cupboards building each year. On average this amounted to approx 65 various jars and bottles in the cupboard. Does this sound like you? Is your bathroom cupboard full of unused products which are worth a small fortune? If this is you then maybe it is time to give your bathroom cupboard a good clear out, start selling your unopened beauty products and make some money at the same time!

How dirty is your handbag?

Every woman tends to love their handbags but according to a separate study conducted by the company Initial Washroom Hygiene; it was found that on average a ladies handbag contains more germs than that of a toilet flush handle. Your handbag may be the talking point in conversations for all the wrong reasons. We may all wash our hands after using the toilet but our handbags come into contact with so many surfaces they are the perfect breeding ground for germs. It is very unlikely that you will get ill from your handbag’s bacteria but you can still take precautions to prevent the spread of any germs. The survey discovered that  leather handbags are overall the worst culprits due to their spongy material properties.

It is advised never to carry any fruit in your handbag as it is very unlikely that you will wash your hands before taking a bite of your apple.  If you are one of those people who love to text whilst on the toilet this is a bad idea for hygiene purposes and if you don’t want germs on your phone give it a good wipe down after taking it into the bathroom. If it has never crossed your mind to clean your handbag now may be the right time or why not treat yourself to a new one and maybe now you will think twice about putting your handbag on the bathroom floor!

If you want your bathroom to be free from mould and mildew then ventilation is key in any bathroom. The key is to make sure you get the correct sized fan for the bathroom space.

Bathroom fans help improve airflow and they work by extracting moist air from the room. Lingering odours will also be banished from the room if you invest in a good bathroom fan design. New build homes have to comply to strict guidelines for ventilation so you will find most issues with ventilation appearing in older properties.

Due to the amount of water that is used in a bathroom water and moisture are an everyday issue to combat. Where there is moisture this will result in the build up of mildew and mold if the area isn’t kept well ventilated. Many people dis like the look of vents in the walls and eventually these are covered when painting or tiling. This is not a good idea and will result in numerous issues later down the line. Now bathroom extractor fans look a lot more sleek and modernised rather than the traditional designs that were unsightly. You will find that even opening a window when showering will still leave moisture in the air and is not a long term solution.

Bathroom extractor fans for households come in two main sizes which are 100mm and 150mm. The 100mm size in most cases will suffice but the larger fans may be considered in bathrooms greater than three metres squared. A more powerful fan may be required in specialist bathroom situations such as particularly cold or north facing bathrooms.

Bathroom extractor fans can be installed in the ceiling or in the wall depending on which model is purchased. Many bathroom extractor fans are quiet even when they operate resulting in less noise pollution in the home. If you are unsure as to which fan will work in your bathroom then consult with the manufacturers, retailers or bathroom installer.

Minimalism in your bathroom is not only aesthetically pleasing it also adds to the tranquillity of the overall design, allowing you to relax in the comfort of your own bathroom.

Smooth streamlined surfaces create an uncluttered look and teamed with natural colours and accessories it gives an effortless appeal in any bathroom. The less clutter the better for any minimalist space is the better design option. A few accessories to compliment the design can add to the serenity of the bathroom.

Earthy tones and textures are very much in this year taking inspiration from delicate colours and wood grains. Stone and wood are the main natural elements seen in a contemporary UK bathroom design. The JTNatural shower trays represent all that today’s natural bathroom is about combining sleek design with natural colours.

Rain style shower heads to create a tranquil showering experience will again add to the overall experience of using the bathroom. Organic sanitary ware and fixtures will look visually appealing and provide the best additions to bathrooms that have limited space.

Bathroom taps should be modern in design and the more compact the better. The less space that the tap intrudes into the basin the better, making the basin look larger and less cluttered.

Mirrored cabinets and wall hung cabinets with closing cupboards will create a more streamlined look hiding all bathroom clutter and toiletries. Again wood finishes are currently a favourite as are white gloss so they disappear into the background of the walls.

Decluttering a bathroom will make all the difference and help to clear your mind. Your perspective of a room can change immediately once it has been cleaned to start afresh. This may even be the first step for your revamp of the bathroom to start again and to gain new ideas of the layout and how to evolve the bathroom design to suit your tastes.

You do not have to spend a fortune to transform your bathroom design into a haven. Here are five simple steps will help you to achieve a spa like experience in the comfort of your own home.

Enjoy an invigorating showering experience with a large fixed shower head and sleek shower valve. Mixer showers are ideal for an ultra modern look in any bathroom design. You can choose from a combination of fixtures to suit your showering needs.

Next invest in a heated towel rail available in both white and chrome finishes. The heated towel rails are ideal for a variety of bathroom shapes and sizes. Heated towel rails primarily heat your towels whilst adding a feature to your otherwise bland bathroom wall.

Bathroom taps are a sure way of updating your bathroom design without a significant cost. Waterfall style taps are popular now for the more contemporary bathroom look. The open spout design cascades the water into the bath and basin. Lever handles on the bathroom taps are most common allowing even the wettest of hands to have a firm grasp of the tap handle.

Bathroom mirrors are not only used to highlight a certain area or wall in the bathroom they will reflect any natural light making the room appear larger. Mirrored cabinets are also ideal when looking for added storage cleverly concealed from the naked eye. Mirrors with lights also add a touch of glamour into any bathroom space giving a “Hollywood” feel.

No spa bathroom space is complete without a whirlpool bath integrated into the design. The jets will help soothe muscles and give you the perfect relaxation at any point throughout the day. You can choose from a variety of systems tailored to suit your requirements. A whirlpool bath will most likely be the most costly addition to the bathroom definitely the most rewarding.

Whirlpool Bath

The bathroom is more than just a functional room; time well spent in there can have a positive impact on your mood, creating calm after a hectic day or boosting energy for planned activities and events.

A luxury bathroom is a great place to relax and unwind or to freshen up for the day ahead and can also add value to your home. High performance bathroom products, opulent design styles and unique features can help to create a bathroom space that feels indulgent and enjoyable. Here are five ways to achieve maximum luxury in the comfort of your own bathroom:

Create Space

In many homes the bathroom is one of the smallest rooms in the house which is why large bathrooms always feel luxurious. Space means there is more room for bathroom features so you can think big with the bathroom suite, shower enclosure, and bath and still have room for bathroom furniture to hide away clutter and mess.

Space can be created using clever interior design tricks such as installing a wall-mounted bathroom suite to increase floor space and choosing large wall and floor tiles in light, neutral colours.

Double up

There is no need to share in a high spec bathroom. A double sink basin, mounted on a worktop is both practical and makes a striking feature in the room. Luxury should be about having it all so, if possible, opt for a separate bath and shower enclosure and his and hers cupboards.

Big Bath

Baths are becoming rare in many modern bathrooms because they take up space and are less speedy and economical than showers. However, few things are more relaxing for the mind and body than lying back in a deep, fragrant bath.

There are some stunning options available such as an elegant freestanding bath that is both deep and beautifully designed, or stimulating whirlpool baths which provide the invigorating power of a Jacuzzi in your own home.

Super shower enclosure

Modern shower enclosures are powerful, stylish and include features that enhance your experience. Tower showers, for example, include a variety of shower head nozzles and water jets to target different areas of the body for both cleanliness and muscle stimulation.

From the position and style of the shower tray, to how the shower doors open, to type of water flow, you can handpick each individual aspect and create a shower that is unique to you and your home.

Top spec toilet

It may not sound luxurious but, as it is the most used item in the bathroom suite, even the humble toilet can get a makeover. Modern toilets use less water which will save on bills over time. If you want the full luxury treatment, Japanese-style toilets are available with bidet water jets and seat warmers.

We spend a lot of time in the bathroom so any improvements are a good investment but it is possible to go one step further and create the ultimate in high performance and luxury. Not only will the bathroom look good and be enjoyable to use, you will reap the benefits of an inviting space that is designed to make you look and feel fantastic every day.

Shower trays are not just a small detail, they can make a big difference to how you use and enjoy your shower enclosure.

The right shower tray can create space in your bathroom, support the design of your shower cubicle, change the way you get in and out of the shower, and ensure your shower is working correctly and leak free.

The basics

The first thing to consider is the shape and there are four to choose from:

• Square shower trays

• Rectangular shower trays

• Quadrant shower trays – Space saving with two straight sides and a curved radius

• Offset Quadrant shower trays – One long straight side, one shorter straight side and a curved radius

A small, square shower tray or quadrant shower tray is the best option for smaller bathrooms and larger rooms could incorporate a rectangular or offset quadrant shower tray.

Glass shower doors can be bought to match the shape and dimension of your chosen shower tray to complete the enclosure to bespoke specifications.

Depending on the shape of your bathroom, it is usually easiest to position the shower cubicle in the corner of a room though you may have a recessed area or space which is ideal for a shower. Tray sizes range from 700mm x 700mm up to 1700mm x 800mm so there is flexibility in the size to meet specific requirements.

The details

Shower trays can be fitted differently, depending on the design of your shower enclosure. The traditional cubicle has a raised shower tray so you step up into it and the plumbing and pipework is hidden underneath.

Modern shower trays can be low profile which means they are fitted flush to the floor. This compliments a contemporary wet room style and is ideal if you just want to walk in and out of the shower without a step.

It is important that the tray you choose is durable and hard wearing as it will get a lot of use. UK manufacturers such as Just Trays and MX, make products in a stone resin mix with an acrylic cap and offer a 25 year guarantee. They are not just strong but they look great as well and come in a range of colours and finishes to suit most bathroom design schemes.

Choosing a shower tray may not seem like a big deal but it will make a big difference to the space in your bathroom and your experience of a powerful and leak-free shower. They are the foundation for a long lasting, high performance shower enclosure that will look and feel fantastic in any bathroom.

Remodelling your bathroom can save money on wasted energy and protect the environment, whatever the size of your job.

Eco-friendly features come as standard with most quality bathroom products which means there are plenty of things you can do to make a difference on a small or large budget. Large amounts of water – 70% of household use – and heat are used in the bathroom every day so even small changes will make a noticeable difference to household bills over time.

Thinking about protecting the environment both inside and outside your bathroom will help to plan a space that is fresh, healthy and stylish without compromising on performance. Here are a few ideas of how to spend your money to get the maximum results:

The Bathroom Suite

• The toilet uses more water than anything else in the house so if yours has not been replaced for a while you could be flushing away money. Modern toilets save 25% of water usage with a smaller cistern and duel flush option
• Bathroom sink basins are used for washing teeth and hands, shaving cleaning and lots more and leaks and drips account for a lot of wasted water. Replace the taps with low flow options that offer high performance but use less water and have ceramic washers that never wear out
• Save additional water by turning off the taps while you shave and clean your teeth.

Baths v Showers

• Install water saving taps and shower heads which could save 25-60% of water usage and are cheap and easy to fit
• Thermostatic shower controls and bath taps maintain a steady hot water temperature without wasting extra energy
• Electric showers heat the water independently and use the least energy to provide a powerful hot shower at any time of the day
• Mixer showers are available with a low flow shower head and thermostatic controls
• Baths use more heat and water than a shower  so only run the minimum amount of water you need and consider recycling it on garden plants

The Bathroom Environment

• Choose natural materials for wall and floor tiles such as ceramic, stone or porcelain as they are easy to clean and long lasting
• Shower trays, baths and sink basins are also available in natural materials such as stone, resin or marble
• Glass shower doors or glass bath screens are more water resistant, easier to clean, and more hygienic than a shower curtain
• Ensure the bathroom has suitable ventilation, either from a window or an extractor fan, to clear steam and humidity and prevent problems with bacteria mould and damp

The Smaller Details

• Cleaning products are made from harsh chemicals and leave behind traces on tiles, baths and sinks so use eco-friendly cleaning brands or natural materials such as vinegar and water
• Some toiletries and soaps use natural products instead of chemicals, and recycled toilet paper is available which reduces deforestation
• Replace old light bulbs with energy saving ones

Even a small gesture can make a big difference to the environment and simply fixing a tap or changing a light bulb is a step towards a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. To get the maximum benefits of improved health and save money on energy and water bills consider ‘green’ bathroom options as part of your design and create a healthy, modern and stylish environment without co promising on performance.

For a fresh, clean and fragrant bathroom, ventilation is essential and lack of air could be causing a range of unpleasant problems that affect your health and home.
Clearing the air in your bathroom is essential to creating a safe, clean environment and protecting the room from the damage caused by warm and damp conditions.
Airing the bathroom has the following benefits:

• Clearing steam, heat and humidity
• Removing stagnant air
• Preventing the growth of mould, mildew and bacteria
• Eliminating damp and unpleasant smells that can linger in the air

Ventilating your bathroom

Natural solution
The easiest thing to do is open a window after you have a bath or shower to let out the steam. Windows let in fresh air and also provide natural light which is a bonus for a healthy, clean bathroom environment as it helps to prevent the growth of mould and mildew which thrive in dark, damp conditions. If the window is small or does not open then it is possible to boost the airing ability by cutting a small hole in the glass and installing a fan.

Adding an extractor fan
Not all homes have the option of natural ventilation and there has been a rise in the number of en-suite rooms and second bathrooms in unusual spaces that don’t have a window, such as lofts or under-stairs cloakrooms.
Here are a few things to consider:

• If possible, fit a fan to the external wall of your house though this depends on the location of your bathroom
• Position the fan directly above the bath or shower to remove moisture and steam immediately
• Interior rooms may require ducting to reach the outside so get a professional opinion and price before you commit to a second bathroom
• Buy a fan with the right capacity to clear all the steam from your room. Measure the space and calculate it in cubic metres to work out the required size
• Fans need to be cleaned from time to time to ensure they are working to full capacity

Ventilation is as important to your bathroom as choosing a bathroom suite because it has a major impact on cleanliness, health and functionality. Whether you have a window or a fan, it needs to be able to adequately clear steam and moisture from the room to prevent damp, mould and mildew which smells bad and can damage fixtures and fittings. Prevent humidity and unpleasant odours and create a bathroom space anywhere in your property that looks and smells fresh, clear and enjoyable.

In 2012 wet wall soared in popularity as it became a firm favourite for UK bathrooms. We never look forward to cleaning the bathroom with those nasty hidden corners so these panels offer people the perfect opportunity to opt for a low maintenance and cleaner friendly option.

Wet wall panels are a great way to create a feature wall in a bland bathroom adding texture and colour to create a modernised space.The boards are approx 11mm in depth and made from marine plywood so that if any moisture comes into contact with the panels it will not swell or affect it in anyway.The wet wall panels are supplied 2400mm high and 1200mm wide and can be easily cut using the right tools.

Mark wilson of WD Bathrooms says, “Feedback from professional plumbers and fitters has told us that they have no problems with installation of these panels when carried out correctly and the customers are more than happy with the results.”

We look at the reasons why?

The advantages of wet wall:

• Can be easily cut down to size to suit your requirements
• Can be used as a feature splash back behind shower enclosures, baths or to cover the complete bathroom
• The panels require no grout just adhesive to bond them to the wall
• End caps and trims available to create a tidyier finish
• There are over 30 various patterns and colours to choose from
• Made from WBP plywood, specifically made to work within moist areas such as the bathroom or kitchen
• Require little or no maintenance once they have been installed

A sharp and stylish bathroom can add value to your property and improve your home life but many people are put off making a change because they worry about how much it will cost.

Renovating your bathroom does not need to cost a fortune and there is plenty you can do to transform the look and functionality of your bathroom without getting in debt. Set your budget and stick to it and, if you can’t afford to rip out your bathroom and start from scratch, here are a few other things you can do that will have a major impact without a big price tag:

1. The bathroom suite

There are affordable and stylish packages available, which even include fixtures such as taps, for a few hundred pounds. The cheapest option is to swap like for like and install a toilet, sink basin, bath and/or shower in the same place as the existing ones, as this will save on plumbing costs. An existing bath can be revamped by adding new bath panels without replacing the whole tub.

1. Freshen up fixtures

If there is nothing wrong with your existing bathroom suite but it is looking a little worn, it may just need a change of taps and handles or a new showerhead to sharpen it up again. They may only seem like small changes but shiny new chrome or brass fixtures can make all the difference and save the hassle and expense of changing the toilet, sink basin or bath completely.

1. Swap doors

New shower doors or a change of bath screen can make a big difference to an existing shower area. Replace old or outdated doors with new hinged, bi-fold or sliding shower doors to give a clean, sharp look to a tired shower enclosure.

1. Create space

Space can make a big difference to look and feel of your bathroom. Create a light and airy atmosphere by repainting the woodwork and walls in white or a lighter colour and re-grouting between existing tiles. A bathroom mirror or mirrored cabinet will give the illusion of more space and the cabinet will also provide storage space and make the room clutter free.

1. Attention to detail

Overhaul the small features in your bathroom and make a big difference to the look and feel of the room. New towels and bathmats, soap dishes, toilet roll holders and brushes, and even changing the handles on bathroom furniture, will all have a noticeable impact for a small expense.
Whether you are planning to change your bathroom suite or simply update some of the smaller details there is lots you can do to freshen up your existing bathroom on a budget. Set your limit and take time to consider what could really do with changing and you can upgrade and add value to your home and lifestyle without splashing out on a complete overhaul.