Sunday, June 7, 2009

Empower Your Shower

After a long hard day at work or caring for your home or even attending school, nothing is quite as soothing as a hot, steamy, relaxing shower. And nothing's worse than having your relaxing shower time interrupted with a weak water pressure, lukewarm temperatures or a shower stall so small you can't even see your toes. Instead of putting up with your shower's annoying idiosyncrasies, now is the perfect time to undertake this simple home remodeling project by revamping your shower!

Create the Perfect Ambiance

One of the most crucial elements to your perfect shower is the ambiance. What many homeowners forget is that the ambiance of your bathroom is much more than having the right shower head or a plush carpet. Your ideal bathroom-and shower-will stimulate most of your senses, providing a deeply rejuvenating and satisfying experience. In order to create the desired atmosphere, try to view your shower as any guest would so that you can make the appropriate changes.

Let There Be Light

Bathroom lighting is perhaps the single-most memorable aspect to any bathroom. How often have you said or overhead individuals complaining of inadequate lighting or lights that make someone "look bad"? Chances are, your bathroom falls into the inadequate category. Be sure that there are ample light fixtures available-both overhead as well as vanity lights; this prevents casting unsightly shadows on your face when you powder your nose. Additionally, the wattage of your lights should be bright enough to illuminate the room yet not too strong as to create a glaring effect. While you are assessing your light fixtures, be sure to check out the home hardware accessories that are literally providing the light. Sometimes rust spots and bugs (yuck!) are found in and around the light screws. Finally, use natural light to your advantage, too. By allowing natural sunlight to stream into your bathroom; this will give the room a welcoming, natural feel.

Your Nose Knows

The second biggest offender in bathroom designs is the scent of your bathroom. Attempting to disguise or cover up foul odors does exactly the contrary-only combining a mixture of chemicals that creates a far worse odoriferous scent. If you insist on using aerosol sprays, opt for the light and fresh citrus scents. For a touch of luxury, also include pleasant-smelling wickless candles or infusers to achieve a spa-like effect. Some smells recommended are soothing chamomile, relaxing lavender, invigorating peppermint or the classic natural vanilla. Just be sure that you do not go overboard and purchase too many competing fragrances!

Tune It Out

Long, steamy showers are a great way for you to literally tune out what's going on around you. Children may be racing through the hallway, the laundry is piling up and your kitchen smoke alarm may be sounding. If the sound of steadily falling water is not enough to distract you and let your mind wander, consider other alternatives. Nowadays, shower-friendly AM/FM radios and even CD players can be the easiest solution. Whether you want to sing and dance or simply relax, having your favorite music within reach will absolutely help you unwind.

Pure, Plush Luxury

Admit it, you hate emerging from your shower and standing on cold tiling flooring. You might also be guilty of hopping around your bathroom mid-shower in search of that misplaced razor. Again, think as a guest would and make everything easily accessible. Not only does this mean splurging on a comfortable bath mat, but it also requires adding the extra niceties that spas are known for. Don't try to be too modern, however. No one likes difficult bathroom cabinet knobs when their hands are slippery; go for the tried and true styles like simple steel drawer pulls and waist-high towel holders. Also, try to include a portable "necessity" stand near your shower to stylishly hold last minute accessories such as razors, soap, shampoo, conditioner, toilet paper and a loofah.

Jim Richardson is Vice President of Your Home Supply (YHS), the definitive website for Home and Garden products and information on a variety of home improvement products. Your Home Supply offer selections on shower heads, bathroom lighting and home hardware. Visit them now at http://www.YourHomeSupply.com

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