Transform Your Bath Into a Luxurious Spa Retreat

March 5th, 2009
Joy Pendergrass asked:


Let’s talk bathrooms. Oh, I know, it’s a taboo subject, but I’m talking about bathroom renovation! As more and more homeowners are choosing to upgrade their existing homes rather than sell in this market, customizing bathrooms has become a popular option. And if you’re going to do a complete bathroom remodel, why not transform your bath into your own personal spa sanctuary? It’s not as difficult, or expensive, as you might think and the options for customization are nearly endless. Give up the clunky, outdated cabinetry, the boring, built in standard tub and hum drum look and opt for something unique.

So let’s talk bathrooms, let’s talk about the most personalized, luxurious, beautiful bathrooms possible. Even a basic bathroom reno, where you leave the existing footprint and floorplan, can benefit from the addition of custom quality items like vanities, faucets, lighting, and even Aquatic Whirlpools. Let’s start with the vanity. Forget those boxy, built in things that remind you of your first apartment. You’re a grown up now, shouldn’t your bathroom reflect it? Even tiny bathrooms and powder rooms have space for a cabinet style sink vanity, and if it’s your master bath that’s being transformed, you’ve probably got space for something more generous. From sleep and modern lacquer finishes to old world design, the only limit is your imagination and budget. Take plenty of measurements and then go shopping. If you haven’t looked at bathroom fixtures in a while, you’re going to be surprised. Want something that looks like a hand-carved antique? Not a problem. Modern sink vanities look like beautiful pieces of furniture, and that’s the way you should shop for your new vanity. Consider it furniture. Think about style, quality, finish, everything you would think of if you were buying a new dining room table.

Once you’ve selected your vanity cabinet, it’s on to the sink basin itself and the faucets and fixtures. It’s not just a question of drop in or under mount anymore. Now there are above counter options in china, glass and metal in just about every shape and color imaginable. All of which allows you to create exactly the look you want from sleek and modern to looking like an antique bowl perched upon a charmingly old cabinet - that it also has modern plumbing is the best part! Since we’re talking personalized and luxurious, this is the place to forget the bargain-basement big-box store sink and opt for a quality product like Porcher, Cantrio, Decolav, Le Bijou or one of the other quality manufacturers. Keep up the quality and opt for faucets that complements your new fabulous cabinet and basin. Faucets are available in any variety of finishes and styles to coordinate with your décor; they’re not just the old, functional but boring, chrome or brass of days past. Beautiful and stylish options from companies like Rohl, Cheviot, Whitehaus and Santec faucets are easy to come by and worth the splurge to make your bathroom the ultimate spa retreat.

But what’s a personal spa retreat without an Aquatic Whirlpool tub? Your spa bathroom should be as individual as you are, and what better way to relax and enjoy your new space than with a beautiful new tub. There are whirlpool and air tub systems that can even fit in the same footprint as a standard tub. So what’s the difference between a whirlpool tub and an air tub? The simplest explanation is: an air tub introduces gentle bubbles of air into the water and a whirlpool system creates forceful jets of water and air mixed together. Since an air tub does not require the same pump system as a whirlpool tub, they do take up less space. The only other major component in your luxury bath reno is the commode and, if you already have one or are adding one, a bidet. Add new floor tiles and paint, and you’ve got the basics of your fabulous personal spa retreat done.

Spend your time, and budget, on the big stuff, the vanity, sink basin, faucets and tub and flooring - those are the parts of your room that will be the same for years to come, and where splurging on quality will reap years of enjoyment in your purchase. After you’ve got the basics of the room built, it’s time to “dress” your spa retreat with all the little things; towel bars, shower curtain rods, linens, bath mats, candles, etc. Everything you need to make the room a relaxing, special, personal retreat fit for royalty. And why not? Your home is your castle, and you are the king or queen of your domain!



FREDERIC
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Soak Away Stress With A Hot Water Bath

March 3rd, 2009
Rachel Yoshida asked:


It is a wonderful feeling to walk in your own front door at the end of a long hard day at work wherever it might have been. We lead such hectic lives anymore that it is usually such a relief to be able to come home and rest and relax for a few hours before we go to bed to sleep, then get up the next morning and start all over again.

It can be difficult to get all the things done at home in the evenings after you have already worked all day. For many couples with children or single parents as well, the work is not over just because you completed eight hours or more at your paying job. There will be plenty to do afterwards like fixing up some sort of passable dinner, helping with homework, or who knows what else.

By the time we get all of this done and possibly add a few more house cleaning chores on top of that, we can be totally exhausted. Before bedtime, we can find ourselves all wound up after putting in such long and laborious hours. What will make most of us feel better is to know that we can have a nice long soak in a steamy deep bath. It is just what the doctor ordered.

Soaking in a hot tub of water before bedtime can be just the ticket to soothe away all the stress and tensions of the day. Throw in some foaming bath powder or bubbles, get a good book, and just rest for a little while. There are so many different kinds of soaps and body washes available today and all the different scents can simply be heaven to lie back and smell while you soak. There are all kinds of body scrubbers that will invigorate your skin and ease muscle strain away.

If you are a shower person, you just might not know what you are missing. The very next time that you have a really hard day, try going home and having a good hot soak in the bathtub. Lock the door and turn off the phone if possible so you will not be disturbed. You might even light a few candles for ambiance. Get out that book you have been trying to get started on and give tub soaking a try. You just might discover that the bath tub can be your new best friend.



GIUSEPPE
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Mounting a Shower in an Existing Bath Tub

March 3rd, 2009
Getar asked:


After a long day of hard work, I am looking forward to go home and enjoy my bath in my bath tub. I will fill it up with warm water and some passion fruit bubble bath. One evening, as I am enjoying my bath, I saw my bath tub shower, it is leaking. It looks like it needs to be replaced. What a night? I will need the bath tub shower the next day which is going to be a long day for me. I got four meetings to attend. Who will replace my bath tub shower? Who will buy the materials for me? I need a bath tub shower that will fit the color and style of my bath tub and my bath room. I love my bath room so much, that is why it needs to be perfect. I need to call my handyman. Unfortunately, he will be available Saturday, it is only Tuesday.

The next day, after my lunch meeting, I went to the nearest do-it-yourself store. I need to find the perfect bath tub shower. After an hour of searching, I saw a cute and fancy metallic silver bathtub shower. I told myself, this is my new bath tub shower. I instantly paid for it. While, paying for it, I thought, I can take a leave on Thursday to fix my own bath tub shower. It’s been a while since the last time I fix my own bathroom. So, I research in the Internet some do-it-yourself strategies to fix my bath tub shower. Here is what I found…..

Mounting a permanent bath tub shower in an existing bath tub is a complicated job. Why is this job complicated? For a simple reason, it is a messy job. Any wallboard and tile should be taken away in order to gain contact to the water pipes so the shower can mount a water line from the bath tub faucet to the shower. Subsequent to the installations of the pipe wall should be reconstructed and protectively covered.

Before doing the whole procedure, it is advisable to turn off the water at the bath tub’s water valves or the main valves for the house. How to mount the bath tub shower in a hassle-free method?

• Secure the bath tub- Before installing the bath tub shower, first cover the drain of the bath tub. Lay a thick cloth or bath tub liner over the bath tub to avoid falling debris from falling while mounting the bath tub shower. Remove the tiles and put a hole in the wall where you will put the bath tub shower.

• Disassemble the bath tub faucets; you will never need this when you already had installed the bath tub shower.

• Remove the spouts of the bath tub with an Allen wrench.

• Gain accessibility to the pipes using a hammer and chisel.

• Remove the faucet body and loosen the faucet from the water heater and cooler of the bath tub.

• Reconnect all the pipes.

• Finally, install and support the bath tub shower.

This is going to be a lot of hard work. On the second thought, I will wait for my favorite handyman. I don’t want to get tired.



GILBERTO
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Valentines Bubble Bath Fun

February 27th, 2009
Shayla Moore asked:


Valentine’s Day and romance go hand in hand. On this day, love is in the air, causing it to be the most romantic day of the year for many couples. If you are treating your lover to a special surprise and you want to offer her something that you haven’t considered in prior years of your relationship, you should try something different. This year entice her with the warmth and relaxation of a luxurious and sensual bubble bath.

Of course, this shouldn’t be just any bubble bath. This should be a bubble bath with you. She will simply adore the intimacy and romance that is offered to her. Additionally, there are many things that you can do to make the event more special for her.

Creating the Mood

Creating the right environment for your bubble bath fun is going to be vital. While you are going to have to be in the bathroom that is not to say that you can not transform your bathroom into a magical place for her for just one night.

Consider making use of the following items:

Candles (Place them along the tub, on the sink, and or in other safe areas around the room)

Roses/Flower Petals (Resting in vases around the room and or in petals along the bubbles)

Music (Choose her favorite romantic sounds for the evening)

Champagne Wine (Use your best crystal champagne flute to offer her a glass of bubbly)

High Quality Bubble Bath (The event is a bubble bath after all, so make sure you are using the best bubbles you can find in a scent that she loves)

This will create a wonderfully sexy environment for your bath time activity. For best results, have the room completely transformed into this small paradise when she walks in. The bath and everything should be prepared so when she walks in it is only a matter of slipping into the tub.

Beginning the Bath

Once the mood has been set it is time to bring your lover into the bathroom for her bath. If you want to make an impression, take a few minutes to kiss her and tell her your feelings of her. While doing this you can undress her and lead her into the bathroom for her relaxing soak in the tub.

Get her initial reaction before saying anything. Lead her to the tub and help her to step into the tub before doing anything yourself. You might find that in the beginning you’d rather stay outside the tub so that you can wash her or that you’d rather let her enjoy the tub while you remain on dryer land.

Bath Time Enhancements

If you’re looking to have some fun while your lover enjoys her bath you could easily add some enhancements that will be sure to please her. She will love the thoughtfulness of the gesture because she will not only enjoy the pleasure you give her with these enhancements, she will also be able to use them herself whenever the mood strikes her.

You also might want to consider a nice piece of lingerie for when the bath time excitement is over. Something nice to slip into will make her feel sexy and will give you the enjoyment of having something to remove something later.



MARC
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Seven Easy Steps to Create the Ultimate Bubble Bath

February 25th, 2009
Phillip Fuller asked:


Does the thought of creating just the right atmosphere and ambience for a bubble bath for the special lady in your life make you break into a cold sweat? Would you know how, or where, to start? Here are seven easy steps to create a bubble bath she’ll remember.

1.) Planning

Planning is a key element. Have the bubble bath, candles, music, towel, a plush robe and favorite slippers available and ready. One weekend night might work best.

Eliminate as many distractions as possible. If there are children in your (or, your special lady’s) life, perhaps the children should have the night spent at a grandparents or friends house.

Or, maybe take the kids to the movies and plan a few other acticities … something they will enjoy; don’t worry about staying out too long. For her relaxation, is there really such a thing?

Oh, one more thing, unplug the home phone and turn off the cell phones.

2.) Bubble Bath

Does she have a favorite scent? If so, try to find a bubble bath with that scent. A Bath & Body shop might just be the ticket. Don’t like to go the mall and fight traffic? There are plenty of websites that feature Bath & Body products, for example: simplybestgifts.com

Lavender is the fragrance most renowned for its relaxation benefits. You may also wish to consider chamomile, vanilla and sandalwood.

3.) Candles

Candles may help with the relaxation too. Use calming colors to relax, such as pale blues, greens, white, or violet. You may wish to try to match the scent of the bubble bath to the scent of the candle. Of course, a simple candle without fragrance is perfectly fine, too.

4.) Music

Music has the power to heal … the power to help one relax. Pick something soft, pleasant, easy to listen to. One personal suggestion, try the music of Daniel Kobialka,

healingmusictherapy.com. Listen to a few of the samples there to see if your lady would enjoy it.

5.) Towel

Have a nice, fluffy, large towel available for her when she gets out. Don’t worry about it being too large. Ladies tend to favor larger towels, especially freshly cleaned and soft.

6.) Plush Robe

Long and soft … what is your lady’s preference? Notice what she looks at when in Victoria’s Secret, or other lingerie stores. Is it terry cloth, satin, or perhaps a light cotton robe?

7.) Slippers

Slippers can be as plush, or as practical, as your lady likes. If she doesn’t currently have a pair of slippers, ask her what she’d like to have. Make sure they’re the right size … maybe sneak a peak at her other shoes if you’re not sure.

Remember, this is a night for HER … to relax, to unwind. Allow her as much time as she needs.



VERNON
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New Lifestyles With Bed And Bath Innovations

February 17th, 2009
James Brown asked:


People are able to enjoy exciting new lifestyles with the innovative capabilities that are in the bed and bath products offered today. People used to use only candles to scent the home, but scent trails are now coming from fountains, humidifiers, diffusers, and powders and other bed and bath innovations that are contained in state-of-the-art dispensers that make scent available 24-hours a day. With the push of a button, all worries about smells in the home are totally gone.

Some bed and bath innovations are orchestrated to work on schedules. Some will keep the tub squeaky clean without lifting a finger and bath products like fizz balls will make the water take on a character that is both soothing and exciting at the same time. People can also style their hair in far less time than they used to because of the styling wands, curlers and straightening wands have state-of-the-art sensors built-in to all of them.

With the innovative hair care products on the market today, people can develop a new hairstyle every day. The holding power of hair gels has taken on more importance and the hair care industry has developed gels that transform to mousse in an instant. People can now be more on the go than they ever were in the past because of the bath products they use each day. When equipped with miniature bottles of spritz, mousse, hairspray, and glitter, a female can make a fashionable impression on a certain someone in only a minute if not less.

Plain and drab bathrooms are outdated with the new bathroom ensembles on the market today. Bathing is fun once again and people have more than ducks to keep them occupied too. Women can enjoy a self-luxuriating lifestyle today because there are plenty of bath products that pamper. A woman can choose to laze an hour away soaking in fragrant bubbles, or showering in a mist of pure fragrant bliss. The heat activated bath products are exhilarating and refreshing and people are bathing longer because of them.

Everyone can enjoy space age technologies when they go to sleep each night. The space age polymers in pillows today are offered in some very innovative shapes. Bed designs have gone from water to foam and on to air with individual controllers. People are able to take control over the quality of the sleep they get and seem well rested in the morning because they made a switch.

New bedding can encourage a new lifestyle too because many innovative themes are available and one will be sure to match a certain mood, and people are discovering that they can be playful, sensuous, or very serious with the sheets they put on their beds. People are able to change bedroom styles in an hour or so with the innovative bed in a bag ensembles for bedding that are available today. Some curtain designs allow more light to drift in, and others block light totally. A person can adjust the room light to exactly where they want it and not have to get up to do it.



CLAUDETTE
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The Benefits of Bath Salt

February 16th, 2009
Mayoor Patel asked:


With the many things that we add to our bath, like bubbles, perfumes or oils, you may wonder what the purpose of using bath salt instead. One of the reasons is that using them augments the salt in your bath water which is known to diminish the bacteria that is on your skin. This bath water additive allows the body to discard the excess dead skin quicker and helps to protect the body’s skin from illness. It can also help to soften the skin while making it healthier, smoother, and moister.

If you want to try these salts the first thing to do is to be certain to put them in as the water is running into the tub. If you pour them in after the bath is filled they will not dissolve properly and so there will be no benefits to having put the bath salt into the bath. This is because they take a little time to properly dissolve and if you put them in at the beginning they will have that time. Some people use them scented while others prefer no scent. The thing to remember is that the delicate scent that is added will not be detrimental to your skin so if you like the scents it is okay to use them.

If you have an interest in using these for your bath then you have two chooses. You can purchases at a variety of stores, including online, or you can make them yourself. There are many recipes available, again you can find these online, that will show you how by buying a few simple items you can not only make bath salt but you can make attractive bottles of it to give as gifts. Most of what you need you can get at the supermarket or drug store. These ingredients include Epsom salts, baking soda, food coloring, glycerin and essential oils. Find a good recipe to learn how to make this treat for your bath. Remember that the purposes behind the bath salt are twofold.

First, they are essential in creating a relaxing atmosphere in which you can allow the troubles of the day to melt away as your body responds to the soothing elements within the bath salt. Second, they are a great way to allow your body to discard dead skin cells, leaving you feeling cleaner and more refreshed than you would otherwise. This combination of benefiting both body and mind cannot be beaten. Whether you buy your own salt bath combination or choose to make one for yourself, make sure the end product will provide you with the right results.



DEANDRE
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Hello world!

February 16th, 2009
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Air Baths Offer Effervescent Relaxation

February 7th, 2009
Jane Anderson asked:


Having an air bath can be one of the most effective ways to relax the mind and body.  While millions of air bubbles swirl around you, the bath can provide a targeted massage that is gentle and soothing.  Owning an air bath allows you to get spa relaxation benefits in the privacy of your home.

Types of air tubs that are available

Depending on your needs, there are different features that you can choose from when purchasing your air tub.  For those who want a very soothing experience, choosing a tub that will give you a calming soak is important.  Some tubs allow you to use oils and bath salts for extra relaxation.  This type of tub will allow you to relieve stress after a long day and provide the soothing comfort you desire. 

Another type of air tub is one with a jet feature.  This feature can give you a targeted massage and relieve muscular tension.  Those with frequent back aches will benefit from this type of air tub which will relax muscles with heat and give a deep-tissue massage for as long as you’d like.  There are also several different types of jets available depending on your individual preferences. 

Health benefits of owning an air tub

There are many health benefits associated with using an air tub.  Having regularly scheduled relaxation time is one of the most experienced benefits a tub can give.  When having some relaxing time is a regular activity, your stress levels are reduced giving you a better chance at staying healthy and avoiding illness. 

Another health benefit of the tub is soothing muscle tension.  If you experience regular aches and pains this can help calm some of these issues. 

Additionally, there are many forms of hydrotherapy that can be used with an air tub.  This can help promote healthy organ function and digestion, along with calming the nervous system and relieving some insomnia.  The health benefits are endless in owning an air tub. 

Providing relaxation and comfort, the air tub is an excellent addition to any home.



PETER
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Bath Accessories for Easy Bathroom Makeover

February 7th, 2009
Anna Woodward asked:


Recognizing the latest trends in bathroom designing, everybody sees the potential for their own bathrooms with just a little accessorizing and a few small changes. No need to change out the shower and fixtures!

Bath accessories have undergone a tremendous change in the way they are designed with increase in utility and comfort levels.

Today, so many quality bathroom accessories are manufactured and available in the market that you may have a tough time choosing the right one to enhance the look and feel of your room. Beautiful accessories can really transform it into a spa-like atmosphere.

At first thought, many people think that decorating is going to be expensive. We know that this secluded corner of the house needs to be clean and functional, but what about beautiful and chic?

The idea to glamorize this private area of your home has been gaining momentum, and people have become more conscious about the look and feel of the powder room, besides the practicality.

Smart decorating can give any room an inviting appeal, and when it comes to the bathroom, it’s no different. We all want it to smell clean and fresh, but let’s move beyond just clean and into the realm of fabulous! (Fabulous on a budget at least.)

4 quick, easy and inexpensive ways to freshen up with bath accessories: door hardware, cabinet hardware, and paint and aromatherapy.

1. New Cabinet Hardware

New cabinet hardware is such an easy way to transform the look of your bathroom! Various knobs and handles enhance the beauty of doors and drawers of the cabinets under the basin or on the wall.

Choosing the right cabinet hardware that perfectly suits your bathroom is a difficult task as many aspects need to be considered. You should consider the design of the cabinets when choosing new hardware.

Whether you are looking out for a decorative cabinet hardware, simple cabinet hardware or an antique cabinet hardware, it’s important to research well before you make a purchase decision.

Also, you want to consider buying new cabinet hardware that attaches the same as any existing knobs you may have. If your handles have two screws attaching them to the cabinet doors, buy new styles and shapes of handles, but make sure they have the same two screws, so you won’t have to drill more holes.

It should be mentioned that if the handles have two screws, you want to measure the distance between the screws. These can differ also.

2. Matching Bath Accessories

If you are considering new cabinet hardware, you want to look at new bath accessories in towel bars, toilet paper holders, towel rings, and shower rods, all in matching styles.

You can match all of these things regardless of if its style is Italian, French, traditional or modern.

Some of the more popular patinas are chrome and brushed nickel, with oil rubbed bronze being the newest trend.

3. Fresh Coat of Paint

The wonders of a fresh coat of paint! Even if you choose the same color, a fresh coat without all of the nicks and marks can make the room feel so clean.

If your room looks drab and dull, you can add a touch of bright colors to enlighten the room and try some textures in painting as well.

Don’t forget the paint sheen - this can make a huge difference.

Flat paint has a matte finish. It doesn’t reflect light and is good at hiding bumps and nicks on the wall.

Satin paint (sometimes called eggshell), has a slight shine, and it lasts longer and is more stain resistant than flat.

Semi gloss paint has more luster than satin paint and is easy to clean. It’s best if you think you may be scrubbing the walls.

Gloss paint is hard and shiny and hides. It’s most stain resistant, but it enhances imperfections on the wall surface that it is used. It is usually used for base boards, trim and cabinets.

4. Aromatherapy

Now that you have everything looking so great, buy a few scented candles to increase the spa appeal. Or go flameless with a plug-in oil warmer in a clean scent to really make this your escape!

Once you are done with remodeling and the recreation of your bathroom, indulge in a nice long bubble bath and pamper yourself.



CARMELA
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