Island blog
From the latest bathroom trends, to expert advice & tips on how to look after your bathroom
Crosswater Guest Blog: How To Create A Luxury Bathroom At Home
The bathroom is a space that many of us go to un-wind. An ideal setting for a peaceful soak or to rinse off after a long day - the bathroom offers a relaxing sanctuary that delivers on both comfort and warmth. Luxury bathroom design is something many homeowners desire, with more and more consumers now looking to replicate elegant, spa-like wash rooms and hotel-inspired schemes in their own homes.We’ve teamed up with design experts from Crosswater to discuss some of the ways you can create a luxury bathroom at home:
Elegant Storage Solutions
Bathrooms can often become cluttered whilst coping with the demands of everyday life, which if not kept on top of, can detract from the overall aesthetic. By investing in good storage, you can keep the room looking clean and organised all year round – allowing you to take full advantage of the tranquil space. Vanity units offer ample storage, providing a stylish place to store skincare, toiletries and other self-care items neatly out of sight. At Crosswater, we have an array of vanity units in different configurations to suit bathrooms of any shape or size. With freestanding, wall hung and even corner-units specially designed for smaller spaces, there is a unit to suit any space. Available in a range of different finishes, it’s easy to find a unit that complements your existing décor. For large bathrooms, we would suggest opting for two basins – introducing another basin into your bathroom will allow you to imitate the premium look seen in many hotel bathrooms whilst also creating additional counter space.
Enhance The Shower Experience
A walk in shower epitomises luxury whilst providing an accessible showering experience for all to enjoy. From shower trays, to enclosures and luxury showerheads – you can truly personalise the experience by selecting pieces from a range of different collections. For added indulgence introduce a rain showerhead like the MPRO Stream to maximise comfort; the relaxing stream from above is soothing and delivers an experience similar to a hotel. To ensure a cohesive bathroom scheme, match your shower accessories to your existing brassware.
A Finishing Touch
Finishing touches can range from simply styling the space with soft furnishing – robes, fluffy towels and candles, to integrating a range of practical yet aesthetic accessories. By introducing hardware in the form of towel rails, toilet roll holders and even brassware – you can enhance the luxury look and feel of a space. One of the most important things to consider when selecting pieces for your bathroom is colour. Pair neutral shades – white, cream, grey and soft brown, with luxurious looking brassware to transform your space. Our MPRO brassware, available in brushed brass, will add an elegant touch to any bathroom scheme, whilst offering a perfect contrast to white ceramic basins. We hope that we have inspired you to recreate a luxury bathroom in your own home, to take a look at the Crosswater products on offer – visit your local Island Bathrooms showroom, where their experts will be on hand to assist you with your bathroom design.
Why Baths Are Good For Your Health
Almost everyone loves a good bubble bath, they're so calming and relaxing. Unfortunately, adults don't get to take as many baths as they want. There are a number of reasons for this; they aren't as convenient as showers and just no spare time to take time out of their day. We are here to explain to you that not only are baths a great way to relax there are also lots of health benefits.
Baths Can Delay Aging
According to dermatologists, taking baths can reduce aging and adult acne. Why? Baths help lower cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can increase acne and induce premature aging. In order to get the full benefit with regard to cortisol, you have to make sure to moisturize fully after your bath, so your skin doesn’t get dehydrated.
Baths Can Relieve Sore Muscles
Many of us know that heat is a great solution when our muscles are sore. Applying heat to inflamed or sore muscles can help your muscles relax. In a bath, you are fully submerged in warm water, which relieves the muscles throughout your body. Additionally, bath additives such as Epsom salt can help relieve aches and pains as well.
Baths Are Just As Clean As Showers
A lot of people feel that baths are dirtier than showers since the water isn’t draining, but this actually isn’t true. According to Hygiene Experts, showers are better than baths only when you’re dirty or sweaty from being outdoors or exercising. If you’re just washing off from a normal day, a bath will get you just as clean as a shower. Plus, the steam from a bath can open up your pores and release the dirt.
Baths Can Lower Blood Sugar Levels
If your doctor has ever told you to watch your blood sugar levels and try to keep them low, baths may be a great option for you. Scientists in the U.K. recently discovered that taking a hot bath can actually reduce your blood sugar levels. Our blood sugar rises after we eat, and the amount it rises is one of the risk markers for diabetes, so keeping your blood sugar down can be really beneficial to your health. Obviously, baths should not replace healthy eating and a good exercise regimen, but it can be a great addition!
Baths Are good For Your Skin
Hot water is known to dehydrate your skin, so many people think showers are better than baths in the skin department, but that’s actually not the case. Your body has natural oils that it needs, and both showers and baths can strip your body of these nourishing oils. The difference between the two bathing methods is that you can put additives — like essential oils, mineral salts, bath bombs, oatmeal, honey, etc. — into your bath. These additional bath time ingredients can moisturize and replenish your skin. Just don’t forget to slather on the lotion to lock in the moisture when you get out of the tub!
Baths Are Good Stress Relivers
Many adults take baths for one reason: stress relief. Sitting in a bath forces you to stop multitasking and just take a few moments for yourself. According to Tub Yoga, increasing your body temperature can improve circulation, calm your nervous system, detoxify your body, and release endorphins. These endorphins make you feel good and can get rid of the stress that builds up throughout the day. Plus, you can light fragrant candles or drip essential oils into the bath for some at-home aromatherapy.
Baths Are Heart Healthy
Baths have been proven to lower blood pressure, which decreases stress on the heart and the cardiovascular system. According to a study published in The Journal of Physiology, a warm bath can improve cardiovascular health in a variety of ways, including lower blood pressure, increased blood vessel dilation, decreased arterial stiffness, and more. Just be sure to keep the temperature mild, because too much time soaking in very hot water can ramp up your heart rate.
How to: Add a Splash of Colour to Your Bathroom
Bathrooms may commonly be filled with lots of white sanitary ware, but the overall feel of your bathroom shouldn’t have to feel sanitised and cold. Bathroom brands and designers are including more and more colour in their designs with colourful vanity units, bold brassware and bright baths to bring a unique and fresh feel to that cold white bathroom scheme. Adding colour to your bathroom may seem scary and you’re probably unsure to add it because the colour might go off trend (just like the avocado bathroom suite craze), but adding colour to your bathroom doesn’t mean going overboard. Don’t think about bright and garish reds, neon greens and vibrant oranges, or complicated and overwhelming colour schemes. Think less is more and don't focus on trends, or colours of the year, unless you love them.Most of the time just a splash of colour combined with a few neutral colours will do the trick. Colour works wonders to bring your bathroom away from the cold feeling that sanitaryware gives and into that long awaited feeling of rejuvenation and warmth. Colour can be added to your bathroom in a variety of ways and it’s also the perfect way to stamp your bathroom with your own personal style. 
COLOUR THEORY
Colour is a key element in interior design. It offers spatial perception and can balance different elements of any room. If you want to make sure that you’re picking the right colours for your home, to enjoy for years to come, then take some time to collect and play with colour samples, or simply create a mood board on Pinterest for an easy way to gather colours options and interior design inspiration. Also, take a look at seasonal colour palettes and see which direction you want to go in setting a mood for your room. For example, does your bathroom often feel cold and uninviting because it’s so large? Or, does it feel dark and gloomy because there’s a lack of natural sunlight?Some colour palettes will always remain classical, and some will always be associated to certain symbols or feelings. Colour symbolism in art refers to the use of colour as a symbol in various cultures. For example, red is used to communicate danger on sign posts, but it’s used to communicate the language of love. Often the best colour palettes use timeless colours and normally involve one main colour and then a mixture, shades and tones. 
COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY
Colour is often used to create feelings of coziness or spaciousness within interior design, but it can also be used to influence our mood and even our hunger levels. Similar to how different rooms in the home can influence our moods, which will ultimately change our state-of-mind, colours and rooms are often paired together to enhance certain feelings or perceptions. An extreme example of how rooms and colours, when paired together, can influence behaviour is how the colour pink (specifically Baker-Miller pink) is used in prisons to calm down aggressive inmates. Project ‘Cool Down Pink’, implemented in Swedish prisons, uses the same design implementation in an attempt to calm down their inmates.A fun example of how colour positively affects our mood is how the colour red can cause hunger levels to rise. It’s often used in restaurants to stir customer apetities. Orange can also activate hunger sensations, as well as yellow, which activates our happy endorphins such as dopamine; high levels of dopamine = an increase to eat more. 
So which colours work best in a bathroom? Forget the prison Baker-Miller pink for now, unless you really like it...
- Lilac is soothing and can create a stress-free sanctuary, which is perfect if you enjoy winding down in a bubble bath.
- Blue is calming and soothing, it can open the mind to promote intellectual thought and can also make you feel protected. It’s great if you want ideas to flow when you’re taking a shower, or if you want to feel calm after a long and stressful day.
- Pink, though often avoided because it’s too ‘girlie’, is also a good choice because it can be used to promote feelings of peace, leaving you feeling rested and rejuvenated. It doesn’t need to be a hot pink or baby pink. Think muted pastel pink tiles, even the slightest hint of pink will do the trick.
- Yellow orange!, as mentioned above, activate our happy endorphins. Not the biggest morning person? Then yellow and orange could be the colours for you. They also look great in modern bathroom designs.
COLOUR IN THE BATHROOM
Bold Brassware Accents: Let the brassware do the talkingFor those of you with love for bold design, Crosswater’s Union range offers a striking red lever in the ranges exquisite knurled surface. This confident pop of colour complements all brassware finishes in the industrial looking collection and will add a touch of sophistication to any bathroom. The red lever is available with all of the Union collection so it’s entirely possible to match all your bathroom’s brassware with this confident pop of red!If you're looking for something more colourful check out Tres tapware for bathrooms where basin taps, shower heads, shower valves and shower handsets are available in the following Loft colour finishes: violet, amber, orange, red, fuchsia, green and black. Even their kitchen mixer taps are available in the same colours! 
Colour Match: Let your whole bathroom do the talkingUtopia bathrooms have some amazing co-ordinating furniture, fitted, wall mounted and freestanding, in a variety of sophisticated, classic and on trend, colours and shades. The Lustre range offers wall mounted units in sea green, powder grey, indigo and copper. The Star Range offers dramatic bursts of colour highlights. The Opula range offers sweeping lines and straight curves in three colour finishes; grey, sea green and indigo. The Symmetry range offers more colour with beautiful vibrant teal. The Roseberry range offers a more traditional style with a peacock blue or London grey finish. The Halo range offers a more contemporary feel with a wide choice of co-ordinating colours, such a denim blue and concrete grey.Bisque have a passion for colour and exciting finishes. They believe that customers should have the optimum variety of choice when it comes to their choice of radiator. In addition to their colour range some Bisque radiators are also available to be painted in international colour ranges such as RAL or NCS colours. Fancy a pastel lilac radiator? Bisque can do that! Bisque also offer iridescence finishes for their iconic ranges, such as the classic radiator, the classic towel radiator and their hot spring radiator. The 5 striking iridescence colour finishes have a two-tone effect when viewed in different light or seen from different angles.Doccia shower trays are also available in colours from the RAL color chart! Some you could match your shower tray to your Bisque radiator! 
Powderey Pinks & Pastels: Let pastels do the talkingIn modern homes and 2018 interior trends it’s becoming increasingly popular to see pastel colours. This visually calming, chromatic range balances the surrounding space to bring inner peace. The most popular pastel in 2018 is pink, a powdery pastel pink. It’s soft yet vibrant personality works really well in interior design as it can increase the light capacity in each space it’s used. It’s also highly versatile because it pairs well with various colours and finishes, such as black and gold, and even natural finishes to add a touch of warmth and emotional wellness.Bathroom Brands such as; Fiora, Villeroy & Boch, Dansani, Bisque, Vitra, Britton, Crosswater, GSI and catalano all feature pastels within their bathroom designs, some even offer furniture and sanitaryware in various pastel finishes.
Not as creative as you think? We don’t judge! There’s actually a lot to think about when you start to involve colour schemes in your home. Why not let us have a go for you? Visit an Island Bathrooms showroom when you're next free, or book a free 30 min consultation with one of our bathroom experts and let them know you want to add a splash of colour to your bathroom!
Black Bathroom Ideas
Black bathroom features are becoming more and more popular. Modern and a real statement maker, black features are perfect for anyone looking to branch out of traditional bathroom colours.
Black Bathroom Taps
Let's begin with black bathroom taps. A black tap really does compliment a traditional white basin, creating a beautiful monochrome effect. However it would also work perfectly with a dark basin if you wanted to go all out with the black bathroom design!Our best selling black taps are the MPRO range from Crosswater. MPRO delivers the very best in brassware engineering. Combining superb function and precision design.
Black Showers
How about adding a subtle accent of black by changing your shower head and valve? Whether your interior is industrial-inspired or simple and sleek, Crosswater's MPRO designs are the perfect choice for those looking to achieve a modern look, and are presented in a range of finishes, from Brushed Brass to Brushed Stainless Steel, and Matt Black.
Black Toilet
The Jet range from Burlington, has high intensity and a daring presence. The ceramic pieces create a striking contrast with high-shine chrome brassware. A black toilet is very daring so how about adding it to your downstairs cloakroom to add some wow factor!
Black Basin
For a versatile yet refined trend statement that refuses to go out of fashion, Burlington allows you to choose from basins available in 4 sizes across their distinctive Edwardian and Classic styles, you can select the perfect solution for your space.
Black Heated Towel Rail
Matt Black is back and stronger than ever. This bold colour is prefect for the grey interiors we see in design. It allows you to follow the trend while still adding a statement to your interior designer. Matt black has a luxury appeal about it and is certainly a head turner. Bisque are always staying on top of the latest trends and have a wide range of matt black radiators perfect for your bathroom space.
Black Bathroom Accessories
Too scared to take the plunge? Adding a few accessories such as a toilet roll holder, toilet bowl cleaner & floor stand, framed mirror and door handles can be the perfect start to creating a statement in your bathroom. Bathroom accessories really do complete your whole look, Crosswater have a huge range of black bathroom accessories available for you to shop through us today!
If we have got you feeling inspired to start designing your new black bathroom, get in touch today to see how we can help!
How to deep Clean Your Bathroom
Did you know that your bathroom is the most vulnerable place in your house where dirt, stains and bacteria can occur quickly. This means that we need to take this room seriously when cleaning. Especially at the moment! We know this may not seem like the most glamours of jobs, but we hope these little tips will help you become more organised.
Getting Your Bathroom Ready
De-clutterBefore the cleaning process can start it is important that you clear away all of your clutter which could get in your way. These things could include:
- Shampoo and other toiletry bottles
- Bath mats or towels
- Any decorative pieces that sit on your counter tops
This has now given you a totally clear space to start working on.Dust and SweepNext, you will need to dust the bathroom surfaces to remove any dirt that is sitting on top of your surfaces. Once you have done this you can vacuum or sweep the floor to remove any dirt from there. It is important that you dust the surfaces first so if this goes onto the floor you can sweep that up afterwards.Apply Cleaner To Tougher AreasMany branded bathroom products you may be aware of and bleach based products may be harmful and corrosive in your bathroom. However for limescale a great solution is half white wine vinegar and half part water. Avoid abrasive cleaning on brassware and other sensitive surfaces in your bathroom.
Cleaning The Bathroom
Wipe Down SurfacesNow that all of your products and other household items have been removed, you have taken care of the dust, it's time to tackle wiping down the surfaces! You will need to take a cloth and clean all surfaces with your cleaning spray. When cleaning your surfaces we'd always recommend you starting with your higher shelves, this means that if any dirt falls down you can clean this off your lower surfaces later. A different type of product will need to be used when cleaning your bathroom windows and shower panels.How To Clean Your Shower and BathNow it's time to clean your shower and or bath. Because we allowed the product to soak in at the beginning you should be able to wipe away all of the grime pretty easily. Use a soft cloth or sponge to do this, and work from the top of the bath downwards. If you've got a lot of limescale build up this will require some extra attention. If a lot of grime has built up in the grout between your bathroom tiles, you may need to focus on this. For this you can either use a purpose made grout cleaner and an old toothbrush or similar soft bristled brush. Spray your grout cleaner and allow this to soak in for about 10-15 minutes. You can then go in with your small brush to scrub all of the dirt out of your grout.Removing LimescaleThere are some areas in your bathroom that will require more attention that have a larger build up of limescale. When cleaning limescale we always suggest that you wear gloves and check whether your chosen cleaning product is suitable for this job. There are products on that market that you can buy however natural solutions that you can make have been proven to be just as or if not more effective.To create your own limescale cleaner; grab an empty spray bottle and fill half of the bottle with white wine vinegar and mix that with an equal amount of water. Lemon juice also works instead of white wine vinegar. take your spray and spray it all over your built up areas, you should let this soak in for at least 30 minutes. Once you have let this soak in you should then be able to scrub it away and the limescale should lift quiet easily.To remove limescale from a showerhead or tap spout it is a slightly different process. Fill a plastic bag with white wine vinegar and place it over the showerhead or tap spout. Secure it in place with elastic bands and allow this to sit overnight. In the morning give your shower head or tap a rinse with water and it should be beautifully clean.Clean Your ToiletThe worst job of them all... the toilet! When cleaning your toilet we recommend you having a second pair of gloves and a second set of sponges, maybe a different colour so you remember. You'll want to start on the bowl first. Grab some bleach and pour it around the entire bowl, then allow it to soak for a few minutes. Once the time is up take a toilet brush and start scrubbing!If there's a lot of limescale in your toilet bowl, you can use your white wine vinegar solution. Pour your solution around the entire bowl and leave to soak for 3-4 hours. Once you have allowed this to soak in, go in with your toilet brush and all of the limescale should disappear. Once you have finished, simply flush the toilet and your toilet bowl should be clean!Mop Your FloorNow that everything is looking beautifully clean, it is now time to tackle the floor! We have already swept the floor however if you can see any dust or dirt on the floor go back in a sweep that away before we start mopping. There are lot's of different floor cleaning products on the market, you can find one that will suit your exact floor type. Mix the detergent and boiling water in a bucket, grab your mop and we are ready to go.Dip the mop in the bucket and then wring it out. Start mopping the floor from the furthest point from the door, then work backwards.
How To Keep Your Bathroom Clean
Now you've got your bathroom nice and clean you'll want to try and keep it that way.Little & OftenThe best way to keep your bathroom clean and avoid harder work further down the line is to clean regularly. Whether its wiping the surfaces more often, mopping the floor weekly or a monthly clean of the shower glass, a small amount of work will keep your bathroom products looking great and avoid the hassle of more drastic cleaning later on.Clean Toothpaste Straight AwayOne of the most common sights in basins is the toothpaste stain. These will usually develop when toothpaste which has fallen into the basin is left to dry out. That's why it's important to clean toothpaste from your bathroom sink straight away. This can be one of the first signs in your bathroom looking dirty.Shower Cubby HoleShower cubby holes are a stylish way to keep your bathroom clutter free. However do not fill these with lot's of products as it can quite quickly look messy and cluttered. Pop your products away after each use.Shower SqueegeeGetting your shower glass back to its best can be a time consuming and frustrating process. That's why investing in a shower squeegee to quickly remove any excess water from the glass every time you shower is so important.We hope these little tips and tricks helped!
Why You Need Fitted Furniture
Fitted furniture seems to be the perfect match for a bathroom of today, especially if you're trying to achieve a designer look. There is a huge variety of styles, ranging from traditional to modern, as well as a range of colours and finishes to compliment any bathroom, cloakroom or en-suite.Fitted furniture has the ability to be attached to the wall and the floor which provides you with a great place to store toiletries, towels and your other bathroom essentials. Many come pre-assembled for ease or installation A clean and tidy room is the best way to create a relaxing space in which to relax and unwind in. Pipework can be covered within your chosen furniture this will reduce any visual clutter and provide you with plenty of space for keeping all of your toiletries out of sight.Tall and shallow options are available to ensure that you make the most out of your small rooms, and a choice of a left or right opening allows you to create a bespoke and original fit. We have a wide range of fitted furniture suitable for bathrooms small and large as well as a range of great looking designs and styles.
Some of our favourite fitted furniture pieces, available at Island Bathrooms
Contact us today to speak about your new bathroom transformation!
Matt White Collection
Introducing Matt White, the latest finish in the Crosswater MPRO range! This finish offers the same high-end luxury feel as the original collection however it is now available in a stunning new on-trend colourway. If you are searching for new brassware that is going to make a statement then look no further as this crisp monochrome collection is your answer. The colour has been applied by using powder coating. Powder coating is a proven method used to protect brassware against harsh conditions, making it the perfect finish in your home.
MPRO Basin 2 Hole Set.
To begin with we have this beautiful 2 Hole Basin Set. The MPRO range from Crosswater provides you with the very best in brassware engineering.
MPRO Basin Monoblanc.
This is a very popular design at Island Bathrooms for it's high-quality design and finish. And now available in Matt White we have something to offer our customers looking to create a statement.
MPRO Crossbox.
Available in a 1,2 and 3 outlet valve we have something available for all of our customers bathroom requirements. A white finish really can create a timeless statement in any bathroom.
MPRO Showerhead.
Available in a 200 and 300mm head. This stunning showerhead is guaranteed to create wow-factor. The sleek white shade will go with any colourful tiles to create that beautiful monochrome effect.
This striking new colour joins the five existing finishes to continue the evolution of this iconic product range, meeting the demands of today's modern day bathroom!
Top Bathroom Trends of 2020
Is your bathroom crying out for a refresh? We have found some of the best trends in 2020 that we believe will totally transform your bathroom. From subtle accessories to dramatic cloakrooms we've got you covered. Continue reading to discover the trends that you will love for years to come.
Brass Taps and Accessories.
Brass is a great way to bring a subtle accent of luxury into your bathroom. Not only does brass provide a refined finish but it is also very durable, making it long lasting which is a great choice for a bathroom of today. Click HERE to discover one of our favourite brushed brassware accessories from UNION, Crosswater.
Statement Showers.
Making a statement in your shower is a new trend for 2020 however it is definitely here to stay. How beautiful is this iridescent feature tile from Original Style's Mosaics collection featured below. With its popular scallop format, these tiles are perfect for creating a striking visual. With its popular scallop format, these tiles are perfect for creating a striking visual. If you like the look of this feature get in touch with us today and we can bring your bathroom designs to life!
Dark Accents.
Rich dark walls have been around for a while in the bedroom and living rooms however now it's the bathrooms turn to walk on the dark side. Scared to take the plunge? How about adding some luxurious navy tiles into your shower or if you are feeling braver you can fill the whole room with deep greens and blues. Dark colours also pair perfectly with our top trend of 2020 and that is brushed brass accessories. The image below demonstrates this perfectly.
Extra Large Tiles.
We're going big in 2020. These extra large tiles offer a striking and beautiful design that is guaranteed to turn heads. RAK have a wide and varied range of collections inspired by the elegance of marble to offer hundreds of designs. The marble and granite patterns displaying elegant veins create a sophisticated ambiance. RAK combines timeless beauty and the finest materials to create durable and beautiful tiles. If you like the look of RAK wall tiles get in touch with us today and we can design you new bathroom space.
Floating Vanity Unit.
Floating Vanity Units have become a firm favourite in 2020. Not only are they practical and provide you with great storage space, they also have an elegant and modern feel to them. A Floating Vanity Unit is also great for a smaller bathroom. By seeing the floor underneath it makes the area feel slightly more open. In a very small space such as a cloakroom under the stairs, having more room to put your feet can make a real big difference. Click HERE to find out how you can make your small bathroom feel and look bigger. This beautiful unit is from the Roper Rhodes Collection, available to purchase through our showrooms today!
Free Standing Bath Tubs.
Freestanding bath tubs elevate your space by giving your bathroom a more modern and luxurious feel. This freestanding tub is from Burlington. For a perfect traditional bathroom, combine soft tones of cream with elegant monochrome prints and our Burlington tub to create a luxury bathroom space.
Dramatic Cloakroom.
The cloakroom may be the smallest room in the house, however that means you can really use it to make a bold statement. Whether that's in your choice of pattern, colour or textures the choice is endless. So go wild with the wallpaper or embrace a decorative tile and bright paints. Original Style offer a huge collection of opulent tiles to suit any space.
Marble Wallpaper.
I know what your thinking, marble wallpaper? Why not marble tiles? Well marble tiles can become quite costly and although marble wallpaper may not have that gloss finish it does look great and keeps your costs down if you are on a budget.
We hope we have inspired you for your new bathroom design. If you want to bring your ideas to life you can click HERE to visit our online remote design service or make your appointment and come and visit our showroom today!
How To Make Your Small Bathroom Feel Bigger
Most of us dream of having a big spacious bathroom, with a separate bath and shower, two sinks and maybe even a decadent chaise to relax on in-between soaks. However we are aware that this may not be realistic for the average person of today. So we want to help you make your bathroom live up to it's full potential by using different techniques to give it a larger look. From carefully selecting your colour palette and focusing on essential fixtures you can use our tips to make your bathroom appear twice the size.
Install A Larger Mirror.
Mirrors not only create the illusion of more space in the bathroom, they also reflect more light back into the room. Assuming your bathroom already has a mirror, why don't you think about sizing up.
Increase Natural Light.
Good lighting is important to making any space look big and open. But in bathrooms, which often don't have much natural light available, it is especially important. Plus it is important to have good lighting in your bathroom so you are easily able to shave and apply makeup effectively. In a small cloakroom or bathroom where you can't add new electrical points for more lights, try changing your current ceiling light to one with multiple bulbs, this will result in you having light going in several directions.
Use A Floating Vanity Unit.
In a cramped bathroom space, it can be tricky to balance the need for storage and also the desire for space to move. A Floating Vanity Unit is the perfect answer. It gives you lot's of storage for the daily essentials, but by seeing the floor underneath it makes the area feel slightly more open. In a very small space such as a cloakroom under the stairs, having more room to put your feet can make a real big difference. However people who aren't tight for space often go for a wall-mounted vanity unit, this means that although you are trying to save space they are a popular furniture piece in today's bathrooms.
Less Is More.
Decorative accessories like artwork, plants and small rugs are fun and can make a small bathroom feel warm and inviting. However they can also lead to serious clutter. And also a pain to keep dusting! So if you are a collector we suggest that you take a step back and consider cutting down. Removing clutter is quick, easy and immediately effective.
Use A Wet Room Panel.
Another great way to expand the look of your space is to ditch the shower curtains and switch them out for a wet room panel. Shower curtains tend to create a visual wall even when they are drawn open. The entire room will appear bigger instantly, especially when you're in the shower. If you like the privacy that a shower curtain gives you then you can opt for a frosted or tinted glass panel, which will still allow a lot of light to filter through which will result in your shower experience feeling less claustrophobic.
Create Long Lines.
Whether your bathroom is a typical rectangle or more oddly shaped, there is usually a wall or area longer than the others. You should really utilise this space and use it to your advantage. Adding a shelf, a band of tiles or even a stripe of paint can really help emphasise the longest line in your bathroom and draw the eye to the widest point.
Visually Push The Walls Apart.
Last but by no means least, if your bathroom is already long and tunnel like, rather than emphasizing the length even more, consider working against the length and visually stretching the width instead. You can do this by using the direction of long elegant floor tiles, as well as a band of accent tile in the shower, to visually stretch the room for a more balanced look and a less tunnel like atmosphere.
2020 Bathroom Trends
As we head into 2020, the bathroom remains more than ever a place for some relaxing me-time.
Just as we might want to de-clutter our heads after a busy week, so the latest bathroom trends are leaning towards a clutter-free minimalism that makes optimum use of the space available.
However, a modern style does not mean garish, white sterility. And in an attempt to make the bathroom a truly relaxing place, warm tones and clever use of light have seen a surge in popularity.
Earthy tones, such as subtle greys, off-whites and beiges are a great way to bring some warmth to a modern bathroom. There are hundreds of ways to play a selection of earthy tones off against each other, with tiles, worktops and furniture all certain to add their own voice to the overall tone of the room.
If you’re fortunate enough to have a source of natural light in your bathroom, you have plenty of ways to use that light in a way that suits your bathroom. Airy, silken materials are in vogue, and for obvious reasons. Choose a fabric that will weather a steamy atmosphere without becoming damp.
Brass fittings – a popular choice for a while now – show no sign of losing their appeal. They can complement many different styles of bathroom and their reflective surfaces make great use of light.
Integrated lighting is also showing no sign of losing popularity. Lights can be built into pretty much anything these days. Popular choices are mirrors and cabinets, which provide the great benefits not only of lighting up a shave or a make-up session, but also let out a pleasant, ambient glow which can light a room with all warmth and no glare.
And integrated lighting isn’t where integrated potential ends. If you’re after a little relaxing music in the bath, all you need now is a Bluetooth mirror, putting an end to the hassle that used to come with music in the bath. If you need your phone charged, there are charging options, automated sensors and more.
And as the bathroom becomes more and more a room in itself, so the trends in decorating have begun to reflect that. Wall-hung art, once limited to small, indistinct picture that looked hung up almost as an afterthought, has become a powerful way to add a point of focus to your bathroom.
Plant life is still a very trendy choice, especially for more modern bathroom designs. Anything from a pot plant to something in a grounded vase will add a sense of air and life to any bathroom.
Mince Pie Recipe
What better way to enjoy the Christmas period than in the kitchen making mince pies? Follow our recipe below for what we think are the best mince pies going.
Makes Six Mince Pies Ingredients90g plain flour40g (3oz) icing sugar50g (3½oz) chilled, cubed butter1 medium egg yolk1 1/2 tbsp. cold water1 tsp. vanilla extractIcing sugar, to dust Mincemeat Recipe25 g (1oz) suet25g (2oz) dark brown sugar75g (5oz) mixed dried fruit (raisins & currants)25g (2oz) chopped glacé cherries½ apple½ large orange, finely grated zest and juice½ tsp ground mixed spice2 tbsp. ruby port DirectionsMix plain flour, icing sugar and butter.Add egg yolk. Save the white.Add water and vanilla extract. Mix again.Contain and chill for 30 mins.Grate apple and mix with all other mincemeat ingredients and set aside.Roll out pastry until about 3 – 4mm.Use a cutter to cut six circles and line a cupcake baking tin.Fill each one with the mincemeat.Roll up the pastry trimmings and use a different cutter – stars and Christmas trees are our favourite to cut six shapes.Place these shapes on top of each mince pie and glaze with egg white saved from earlier.Bake at 180 ºC for for 20 minutes.Remove from oven, allow to cool, and enjoy!
Good to Know: Bathroom Project Advice
Installing a new bathroom is a huge upheaval for a week or so, but with good planning, the right equipment and our expert advice, such as these 7 points which are intended to help you avoid any pitfalls, it shouldn't be an upheaval which will cause you any subsequent stress or give you any unnecessary costs.
Your new bathroom should be everything you've dreamed of, whether or not your going for impressive statement pieces or a simple yet classy upgrade. We always want to make sure that your new bathroom is delivered with ease and so we'll do all we can to help the project run as smoothly as possible.
Read below for some helpful advice on what to look out for before and during the installation of your new bathroom, and if you're still unsure of what to expect take a look at our 6 steps to your dream bathroom which will give you a short overview of what will happen once you've chosen us to design your new bathroom. If you're a super planner and what to check out the legal side of things, you can also read our terms and conditions.
1. Your Requirements
Seek advice from your installer at the beginning of your project to identify your water pressure & tiling requirements, soil outlet & any potential restrictions that may arise at point of installation.
2. Visit a Showroom
Visit us with a plan of your room, it is important to have the sizes of your room, doors, windows and soil location. For all we keep in stock some equipment can take up to 4-6 weeks at the worst. Please ensure you are taking this into account when considering your new bathroom.
3. Avoid Scheduling
We appreciate it is not always possible, however we encourage you to avoid scheduling an installation date with your installer before you receive your goods. Our delivery times are given in good faith and we endeavour to advise you of any delays but cannot be responsible for delays while a fitter is on site.
4. Collections & Deliveries
When collecting, or upon delivery; please ensure as the purchaser & not a 3rd party, you are able, with assistance from our warehouse team & drivers, to check all fragile items. This is to ensure we avoid any conflict if any future damage was identified.
5. Size Variations
Be aware that in the bathroom industry, baths, units, shower doors and trays can have quite a lot of size variants. For example, a 900mm shower door could have an adjustment from 865mm-885mm, this is to compensate for the use of using boarding, tiling or untrue walls. A 1700mm bath may could also be 1695mm or even 1705mm so if a product size is critical please talk to us.
6. Keep Items Safe
Keep all boxes safe until installation is complete. If you need to return anything. All items must be returned in re-sellable condition, within 28 days.
7. Special Order Items
Due to the nature of special order items, they cannot be returned. This would be discussed with you at the point of sale. This could include any item which is specially ordered for you. We will, when possible return items in the condition they were received. This may however incur a restocking fee. Items that we stock; returned in perfect condition would be refunded in full if returned within 28 days of receipt. Outside of this period we may accept returns in exchange for a credit note. 
Need some more advice from our experts? Send us a message or give us a call and we'll be happy to help!
How to: Take Care of Your Bathroom
We know a thing or two about bathrooms after almost 40 years in the business, so here's some advice on how to make the most out of your bathroom.
(so it lasts for years to come!)
1.
Our first recommendation is to make sure you install a suitable extractor fan to remove all condensation which will settle and cause mould and rust. A 5/10-minute shower can produce 2 pints of moisture in the air, so an open window is not enough to keep your bathroom dry! Early Autumn is the most popular time for condensation to form on your nice new chrome radiator, so make sure to keep it dry to stop rust from forming. You can also use PEEK CP polish or even Pledge furniture polish on the surface for extra protection.
2.
If you have drained your central heating system to install a new radiator make sure some relevant Fernox has been re-added to your system.
3.
If you have installed a wooden bath panel make sure you seal the gap between panel and bath with dow corning to avoid water ingress. Also, if you have cut the ends please varnish these too.
4.
A good acrylic bath should last for years. In the unlikely event that it gets scratched, you can remove scratches with fine grain wet and dry mixed with fairy liquid. A small amount of GT compound will then replenish the shine. Please ask for further advice if you're not sure.
5.
Bleach, Cillit Bang, Mr Muscle, Astonish, Limelite etc are all very acidic and can damage bathroom waste, taps, seat hinges etc. So, keep these well away from bathroom equipment!
6.
The new Isocast/polymarble or SMO basins have more flexible designs, they are better engineered than normal china-wear so they can be polished to remove scratches to keep them looking like new!
7.
Scale is the biggest problem in hard water areas, and as you probably know, will affect your taps or shower valve. To get rid of hard water scale, simply remove the cartridges and dip them in white vinegar and water mix for 20 minutes. Thermostatic shower valves can also be affected by scale, so use the same method to clean your wax cartridge, then re-insert and re-calibrate using the manufactures instructions (if you're not sure please call).
8.
Use a wiper to clean down shower glass every week or so, this will stop scale build up. You can also use Vaseline to lubricate door rollers.
9.
Tile grout can be protected after installation by coating with 2 coats of Lithium, you should ask your tiler about this! It's an easy process which will stop your grout from discolouring and going mouldy.
10.
Last, but no means least, your vanity unit or fitted furniture (which is usually made of MDF or wood) should always be kept dry. If water is left to lay on the surface then it could penetrate and deteriorate your furniture (which will not be covered by warranty). Make sure that you've also got appropriate sealant between basin and worktop to stop any internal water damage from occurring.
Need some more advice from our experts? Send us a message or give us a call and we'll be happy to help!
7 Tips & Tricks to Help You Keep Cool This Summer
Too Hot? Take a look at our tips and tricks to help you stay cool and refreshed this summer!
TAKE A WARM SHOWER
A cold shower to cool down after a long hot day will probably be your immediate choice, but did you know warm showers are more effective at keeping you cool in the summer heat?Contrary to popular belief, warm showers will lower your core body temperature because they increase blood flow to your skin, increasing heat loss from your body! Cold showers will drive your core temperature up because of the reduction of heat on your skin.
TAKE A WARM BATH
The same thing happens when you take a warm bath... Plus they’re the perfect way to wind down after a long hot day. If you’ve been drinking plenty of water throughout the day then there’s no harm in bringing along a chilled glass of wine too (just remember to stay under your daily alcohol limit)!
DRINK A WARM DRINK
Drinking warm drinks will help to lower your body's core temperature, the same way taking a warm shower or bath will help. If you’re a coffee lover, grab a hot cup of coffee instead of an iced one. If you’re looking to stay hydrated, as well as cool, drink a herbal tea. Coffee can dehydrate you because the caffeine part will make you go to the toilet more often! Hot countries with high humidity, such as Japan and Malaysia, will drink a warm cup of green tea to stay refreshed and cool throughout the day.
THE FAN AND ICE DUO
Grab a bowl, add some ice, and place it in front of your fan. Fans won’t make your room any cooler, but they will make you feel cooler by moving air over your skin. If you add some ice into the mix (which will act like a cool mist humidifier) this will make the room feel a little cooler because you’re adding cool moisture to the air.
CLOSE YOUR CURTAINS
Up to 30% of unwanted heat comes from your windows, so keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day! Blackout curtains will block sunlight from entering a room and neutral-colored curtains will deflect the sunlight from entering a room.
TURN ON YOUR FANS
Bathroom fans and cooker extractor fans both hep to extract hot and humid air. We’re not suggesting you leave them on all day, but they will help to remove hot air and moisture when you use the bathroom or cook inside.
COOK OUTSIDE
It’s an obvious one but, cooking inside will increase the temperature in your home. It’s also the last thing you want to do on a hot day. Some of us will already be taking every opportunity to use our BBQs now that summer has arrived, but for the rest of you, here’s your excuse to use your BBQ every single evening.
Good to Know: What's WRAS All About?
WHO?
— WRAS stands for the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme.— WRAS was incorporated in 2008.
WHAT?
— WRAS raise's awareness and understanding of the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Byelaws.— WRAS provide's an approval scheme, as well as processes and guidance, to enable organisations and individuals to demonstrate and show compliance with the UK Water Fittings Regulations.— WRAS approvals are given to bathroom products which meet the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Byelaws.
WHY?
— UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Byelaws safeguard against waste, misuse, undue consumption or contamination of the water supply. — Water companies have been working together for over 100 years to help individuals and organisations comply with byelaws and water fitting regulations.— WRAS contributes to the protection of public health by preventing contamination of public water supplies and it encourages the efficient use of water by promoting and facilitating compliance with the UK Water Supply Regulations or Scottish Byelaws— WRAS approval is the easiest way to validate compliance with the UK Water Regulations and Scottish Byelaws.— Having WRAS approval is like wearing a badge of honor for any bathroom product.
WHERE?
— UK Water Regulations and Scottish Byelaws apply to all premises receiving a public water supply and focus on the passing of water between the boundary of a property and the mains cold supply.— Any water fitting which (when installed) will carry or receive water from the public mains water supply will need to comply with the UK Water Regulations and Scottish Byelaws.— WRAS approval extends to any products which can be connected to a water supply.— WRAS approval is accepted by every water supplier in the UK.— Products which have WRAS approval are widely advertised by brands and retailers.— Products which have WRAS approval will have the 'WRAS Approved Product' logo advertised online or in their product brochures.
HOW?
— WRAS certified approval is issued after a product has undergone significant testing by independent labs and water suppliers (to meet the UK water regulations and bylaws).— Valves, boilers, taps and showers undergo mechanical and water quality testing.— Non-metallic materials & components undergo testing for their effects on water quality.
THE IMPORTANT STUFF
— WRAS approved products are not required when replacing bathroom products to an existing water supply. — If you’re planning on building an extension, which includes a new bathroom or kitchen, and there is an existing water supply then you do not need to install WRAS approved products.— WRAS approved products are required in new builds, building projects and extensions which need to be newly connected to the mains cold water supply. — WRAS approved products are required if you are upgrading a building intended for public use (shopping center facilities, leisure facilities and hotels) regardless of if there is an existing water supply. — If you are responsible for purchasing water fittings for new builds or extensions (which need to be newly connected to the mains cold water supply) or you are upgrading a building intended for public use then you will need to purchase WRAS approved products.— WRAS approved fittings need to be installed to WRAS standards, and by a qualified plumber, in order to uphold full WRAS compliance.— Each WRAS approved product will have a certification and approval letter.
THE IFS & THE BUTS
— There’s no legal obligation for manufacturers or brands to have their products WRAS approved. It’s a voluntary scheme.— Getting products WRAS approved can be costly so some brands and certain products will not have WRAS approval, as well as some product replacement parts.— It’s possible for your WRAS approved fittings to be inadequately installed, this would stop your WRAS approved product from being fully compliant with UK water regulations.— In theory, it’s possible for contractors to legally purchase and install non-WRAS approved products, but it is illegal to run water through them (plus your local water board wouldn't allow it!)— When your local water board comes to check and connect your new water supply, and there are not WRAS approved fittings to carry or receive water from the public mains water supply (or if the fittings are inadequately installed), then the water board will not be able to connect the water supply until there are WRAS approved products fitted to WRAS standards.
OUR ADVICE
If you want to inquire about or need to purchase WRAS approved products, speak to one of our bathroom experts in-store. If you are responsible for purchasing fittings for new builds, building projects and extensions (which need to be newly connected to the mains cold water supply), or you're purchasing fittings for buildings intended for public use, please tell our experts that you need WRAS approved products, they'll be happy to show you a number of available options.
FIND OUT MORE
Visit the WRAS Water Regulations Advisory Scheme website to read more about WRAS approval and water regulations.
How to: Choose the Perfect Shower for Your Bathroom
Showers are often chosen by design preference, but what type of shower you’d like is very different to what type of shower your home might need. The type of shower which will work best in your home is determined by the pressure of your water from whichever water system your home runs on. Do you have a hot water system, a combination boiler, or a gravity system? Water systems and the water pressure they provide will affect the type of shower you will need. There are showers for all types of homes and pressures, there's also solutions such as shower pumps to fix low pressure gravity systems. Once you know your water pressure, you’ll know which type of shower to choose, then you can choose from a variety of designs these types of showers offer.
Types of water systems
Gravity system - If you have a gravity system you’ll have a cold water tank in your loft and a hot water tank in your airing cupboard. This is a low pressure system so you may need a pump to increase water flow. If not, use a low pressure shower valve with both feeds coming from the storage tanks.Best type of shower to have: Install a shower pump to boost pressure or use a low pressure shower valve Combination boiler - If you have a combination boiler, which is very common in modern homes, you’ll have a wall hung boiler and no storage tanks. This is a high pressure system and it relies on mains pressure to deliver water around your home, giving you hot water on demand. Cold outlets are connected directly to the incoming water main and hot water is produced when cold water passes through equipment specifically designed for heating water at pressure.Best type of shower to have: Any thermostatic valve or kit for shower use & a manual valve which is ideal for exofil bath fillers Unvented water system- If you have a unvented water system you’ll have a cold mains water supply with a hot water storage tank, and wall hung boiler. The hot water storage tank is filled with cold water from the mains and heated within the tank. The tank then stores a quantity of hot water at mains pressure. Best type of shower to have: Any thermostatic valve & manual valves for bath filling
Types of showers
Thermostatic mixer - A thermostatic valve maintains your chosen water temperature, keeping it consistent, even when someone else uses a tap elsewhere in your home. It does this by regulating any possible temperature changes, to protect you against temperature fluctuations, which can cause scoulding. Thermostatic mixers require hot and cold water supplies. They’re great for family homes because they’re the safest way to shower. They’re becoming the standard shower to have in most modern homes.Suitable for homes with: Unvented water systems, combination boiler systems & gravity systems Electric shower - Suited to homes with low pressure, electric showers have their own heating element, producing heated water on demand from a cold mains supply. So you can have a warm shower at anytime of the day. Suitable for homes with: Combination boiler systems & gravity systems with poor pressure. Consider this type if you have poor pressure from your existing system Digital shower - Popular in modern bathrooms, digital showers offer state of the art technology. They sometimes allow you to control your shower via a remote control or even your smartphone. They also offer ease of installation in modern bathroom renovations. Digital showers allow you to set an exact water temperature much like a thermostatic mixer, but fancier, so the showers already at your prefered temperature for when you’re ready. Most digital showers offer touch control and can also change colour from blue through to red depending on the water temperature.
Suitable for homes with: Any system, plus digital showers can come with/or without a pump
Still unsure? Please visit a showroom to speak to one of our bathroom experts for full clarification.
Types of shower designs
Unsure of your water pressure? We can help with that! Why not contact us or visit us in-store?
Our bathroom experts will be able to show you a variety of showers suited for your water pressure and your bathroom!
How to: Ventilate & Protect Your Bathroom From Moisture
One of the most important things when it comes to bathrooms is ventilation, especially if you have a bathroom without windows. Windowless bathrooms are quite common in smaller terraced homes and flats, and can cause big issues with excess moisture in the air. But did you know that even if your bathroom has windows you can still get big issues with excessive moisture? You’ll know when you have excess moisture in the air by the sudden presence of mold in any location of the bathroom. Mould can cause health issues, ruin the appearance of your bathroom's aesthetics and decrease the life-span of your bathroom and its contents. Ventilation is therefore crucial in every home. Especially in wet rooms where high levels of moisture are created. But if you ventilate your bathroom properly then you'll never need to deal mould or excessive moisture ever again!
Did you know that just 1 shower can create up to 2 pints of moisture in the air and on the surfaces of your bathroom? Neither did we! An additional 20 pints of water can be also created in your home from drying clothes indoors, cooking, boiling the kettle and even breathing! You can’t see it, but it’s certainly there and it can cause issues in any room of your home.Air needs to circulate in order to stop the build-up of moisture (caused by baths, showers and even toilets) which can then lead to the presence of mould. But many of us have issues with this, even if we think we have the right products in-place which supposedly help to extract moisture in the bathroom. We’re now going to look at certain ventilation (and moisture protection) steps which will reduce the amount of moisture found in your bathroom and extend the life-span of your bathroom for years to come!
EXTRACTOR FANS
You’ll be asked if you have an extractor fan, or told to buy an extractor fan. Many of us have them and somehow they don’t always work. There are thousands on the market and the cheap ones won’t do a very good job, some don’t help at all. So the number one tip is (and it’s the most important tip) don’t cheap out on a good extractor fan, it will cost you in the long-run. It’s worth buying a super duper fan that’s going to look after your bathroom’s lifespan and not just sit there making loads of noise with little extraction effort. If you're buying an extractor fan online then watch out, loads of bathroom websites sell extractor fans at different price points, from the best fans to the worst fans. They'll be positive and informative about them all but that doesn't mean they're any good. Look for the facts and the specs, and go from there.Choose an extractor fan which can detect moisture in the air. The extractor will kick in as soon as it detects a higher level of moisture in the air which can then cause damp issues. Quality extractor fans do come at a higher cost price with all the bells and whistles (like timers, lights, moisture and humidity detectors, and silent motors) but they will look after your bathroom in the long-run, so they’re definitely worth investing in.If you’re installing the fan yourself remember to fit it the right way round, even if you’re not fitting it yourself make sure it’s been fitted the right way round (I had this issue in our flat where the builders; the supposed to be ‘experts’ installed the ventilation fan the wrong way round, so it ended up being useless). Check that the experts you’ve got in are actually experts and do know how to install common bathroom products.We highly recommend choosing an extractor fan such as Zehnders CV2 extractor fan. It’s a pretty amazing fan and it’s brand new to the wonderful world of bathrooms. This ultra low energy fan has a beautiful 100 mm diameter design, and it’s completely silent. I went to test one in our showroom and had to lean into the fan after taking off the external fascia off to able to hear anything, and even then I had to listen very carefully. It offers continuous low level ventilation, and has a smart humidity and timer control. But the best part is, it costs approximately £1.50 to run each year! The continuous low level ventilation will eliminate any issues with mould and condensation, while the smart humidity and timer controls help to eliminate nuisance running. This fantastic fan is available to buy from Island Bathrooms in-store and you can of course try it out in the showroom. We're really impressed with what it can do.
A Breakdown of the New Zehnder CV2 Fan:
— HumidiSMART Continuously monitors the environment and only reacts to man-made humidity increases, reducing energy waste, heat loss and eliminates nuisance night time running
— TimerSMART uses duration of occupancy to determine overrun period and control of ventillation, reducing energy waste, heat loss and eliminates nuisance night time running
— Boost mode activated sensor or light switch when required
— Ultra low energy and noise performance
— Annual running costs approx. £1.50
DEHUMIDIFIERS
Another solution is a dehumidifier, which is what I bought when our extractor fan was installed the wrong way and we got a build-up of excess moisture. Dehumidifiers can be really cheap (the throw away dehumidifiers) and you can place them in a hidden location (such as behind the toilet). You’ll be surprised how much water the throw away ones collect after a week or so. If you want something more permanent and extra effective you can go all out and buy a refrigerant bathroom dehumidifier. Refrigerant dehumidifiers extract humidity from moist and hot bathroom air. Get a silent one on a timer so it can run while you go out, or go to sleep. But seriously, just buy a really good extractor fan, then you won’t need to buy a dehumidifier!
WINDOWS
You’ll be told to leave your window open, or think that you should leave your window open more. We always hear ‘I have a window in my bathroom, so I don’t need an extractor fan’. Well this isn’t correct... You will still need an extractor fan regardless of if you have a window or not. Plus, it's not a practical solution to leave your window open day and night.If you need to, and if you haven’t got a great extractor fan, open the window when you take a shower or bath. If you don’t have a window (or a great extractor fan) then leave your bathroom door open when it’s not being used. Also, take out any damp towels and hang them elsewhere so they don’t add to the moisture already in the bathroom.
BATHROOM & SURFACE PROTECTION
We’re regularly asked how to protect bathroom furniture and surfaces from moisture. If you’ve got an issue with ventilation in your bathroom the chances are the furniture in your bathroom are being affected too. Even if you’ve not got ventilation issues, certain surfaces and products such as radiators and wooden units can be affected by everyday bathroom moisture and should be protected against the elements in-order to have a long lease of life. Surface protection: We recommend using furniture polish on wooden units and even on radiators to protect them against moisture and oxidation. Furniture polish provides a protective film coating to prevent the effects of moisture. It also works a treat on shower screens offering a protective coating to prevent moisture and grim build-up during future use, which will help to keep the glass clearer for longer, so you won't have to clean it as much. Another product you can use on your radiator to clean it and prevent it from rusting is Peek Polish. Peek polish cleans and protects metals, ceramics and fiberglass, helping to remove oxidation, tarnish, lime deposits, corrosion, crayon, grease and sale water stains. So if your ceramic sink needs some added shine and protection, peek polish should do the trick. Further protection from moisture: This may seem obvious but what many people don’t do is close the toilet lid before flushing. Ever seen a rusty toilet brush holder by the toilet? This often occurs when there’s too much moisture nearby, and yes you guessed it, nearby moisture which is produced from flushing the toilet... Not only does this cause extra moisture to sit in the air, it’s also quite a big health hazard, allowing bacteria from the toilet to sit in the air! 
If you're still having issues with excess moisture in your bathroom and need further advice just come and talk to us...We'll see how we can help to offer you personalised advice suited to your particular environment!
How to: Create a Tropical Bathroom with Houseplants
In this article, Ciara Sheridan, buyer for houseplants at Wyevale Garden Centres, looks at why more people are including plants in their tropical-style bathrooms, and how you can too! 
Bringing the outdoors in has been a growing fascination for homeowners in recent years. And in 2018 we're set to see this continue, as last year's tropical-inspired décor heads into our bathrooms. While the trend was previously all about vibrant colours and patterns, this time around there will be more focus on deep, luscious greens: more Amazon rainforest than Rio carnival. 
Why should I add houseplants to my bathroom?
One of the best ways of adding a splash of greenery to your bathroom is by working in some bold and beautiful houseplants! Not only is this a great option for those who've recently revamped their bathroom in the tropical style, but it's also a smart choice if you're not planning to remodel but want to enjoy the look of this trend.What's more, the benefits of having plants in your bathroom extend beyond just aesthetics. For one, they are very good at improving the air quality in your home, filtering out many particulates and outputting lovely, oxygen-rich air. Not only that, but they can absorb excess moisture and eliminate bacteria that can cause problems further down the line.Finally, if you are trying to create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom, plants can help there, too. Studies have shown that surrounding yourself with greenery can have a calming effect that can boost wellbeing and lower levels of anxiety, among other benefits (Psychology Today). So, what better way to turn your beautiful bathroom into a green haven? 
What types of houseplant will thrive in my bathroom?
Before you go ahead and rehome some houseplants, you need to think about what type of environment your bathroom provides, as this will affect the species you should choose. For instance, many bathrooms have smaller windows than the rest of a house, so levels of natural light can be lower. While plants that can live on just a little light will thrive, those that can't will struggle.You will also need to think about temperature and humidity in your bathroom. Though there will be lots of warmth and moisture when someone takes a bath or shower, your bathroom will likely get a lot colder when no-one is using it. Some plants don’t deal well with fluctuations in temperature and humidity, so you'll need to take this into account too. Finding the right plants to suit your bathroom can take a little effort to get right, but here are some suggestions below to help you get started:
Bamboo
This plant is a low-light specialist that can thrive in low-light bathrooms. Bamboo doesn't need much maintenance, either, as it's able to take root in a container with just some pebbles and water. The only thing to remember is to keep it well-hydrated, which shouldn't be an issue in a room with such a plentiful supply.
Orchid
Orchids are flowers that really take to humid environments, so a bathroom or wet room is an ideal choice. Their favoured lighting condition is bright but indirect sunlight, such as near a window that doesn’t get direct sun through the day. Orchids also like cooler temperatures at night, so unless you are a big fan of midnight showers, a bathroom should suit them well.
Asparagus fern
Do you have a window that gets a lot of sunlight in your bathroom? Then an asparagus fern is a great pick, due to its love of bright light. Asparagus ferns also thrive in humidity, so they won't suffer in a bathroom or wet room. You should aim to keep them moist but not overwatered for the best results.
Cast-iron plant
As its name suggests, the cast-iron plant is all but bomb-proof. It's a great low-maintenance choice for a bathroom as it will grow just as well in low or indirect light, and only needs to be watered intermittently — simply check for the soil going dry. This hardy plant will grow well in the humid conditions of a bathroom or wet room. 
If you are looking to incorporate some tropical style into your bathroom this year, you can't go wrong with a houseplant or two. Just be sure to choose the right species to suit your home. Looking for tropical bathroom inspiration? Take a look at our latest tropical bathrooms Pinterest board or our tropical inspired Houzz Ideabook!
How to: Incorporate Tiles in Your Bathroom
Tiles are an ideal way to finish your bathroom or kitchen. As well as completing the overall design of your bathroom or kitchen they’re also very practical because they protect your walls and floors from water damage or dirt. Tiles are easy to wipe clean so any mess created in the kitchen or any dirt left in the bathroom can be easily removed. But tiles don’t have to be limited to kitchens and bathrooms, they can be used to create a unique look in any room of your home. They’re also an easy way to update any room in your home without completely renovating the whole space. 
Tiles are often placed around or behind areas in the home which are prone to dirt or splashes. For example, around the bath, shower or sink areas to protect the walls from water damage, or in the kitchen on the walls behind the hob, sink and worktops. But if you can afford to incorporate more tiles into your design you’ll notice how much of a difference they make to the design and durability of any room. 
Deciding on what tiles to choose can be tricky because there’s so much choice out there! Often you’ll see a tile you like before you’ve decided on what design you want to achieve. Or You’ll see a design you like and then have to find the tiles to go with that design. However you start you should always take a look at interior design images online to gain inspiration from other homes. This way you’ll get a feel for the designs you’d like to achieve in your home and making decisions will become a lot easier. 
Looking to incorporate tiles in your home? Whether you’re looking to update the look of your bathroom or renovating your home consider these 6 tile factors:
1. Which room will the tiles go in: Bathroom, wet room, kitchen, living room, hallway, study?
2.Where will you tile in this room: Floor, walls, wall and floors, entire room, sections, borders, feature areas?
3.What type of style are you looking for: contemporary, traditional, feature, glamourous etc?
4.How many types of tiles do you want: only 1 type of tiles, 2 different types of tiles, a 3 tile combo (Will you be using the same tiles throughout, or 2 different contrasting tile designs etc)?
5.What tile material should you choose: Marble, stone, wood effect, concrete, glass, splashback, porcelain, ceramic?
6.What finishes & designs do you want: large, small, matt, gloss, pastel, vivid colours, single colour, multicolored, patterned, mosaic, neutrals, shapes?
Need some more inspiration? Take a look at the following tile design ideas:
2 tile combos (2 types of tile designs or finishes)
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3 tile combos (3 types of tile designs or finishes)
[gallery columns="6" link="file" ids="9801,9802,9800,9798,9799,9796,9797,9794,9795,9793"]
All in one rooms (1 type of tile throughout the whole room)
[gallery columns="6" link="file" ids="9809,9808,9807,9806,9805,9804,9803"]
Creative tiles (create your own design using however many types of tiles & finishes)
[gallery columns="6" link="file" ids="9810,9811,9812,9813,9814,9815,9816,9817,9818,9819,9820,9821"]
Feature walls & floors (one wall or section that’s tiled just the way you want it)
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Mix & match shapes (mix and match rectangular tiles with square tiles or hexagon tiles)
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Need more inspiration? View our tile board on Pinterest or our tile ideabook on Houzz!
Good to Know: The 5 Essentials of any Wetroom
Think of a wet room and it’s hard not to think about expensive and large, luxurious spaces... But wet rooms come in all shapes and sizes, and can be created in any environment, at any cost. Traditional English bathroom design is awkward and very space consuming. Picture large, chunky built-in baths and confining shower cubicles. Both offer little to no space to move or relax in. Most importantly, climbing in and out of tight spaces is a hassle and it's often a big difficulty for many people.
Before...
Though households around the world look to the wetroom to save and introduce space (and have done for many years), this type of bathroom style has only become popular in the UK over the recent years. Complete shower enclosures and traditional bath structures are now being eliminated completely because wet rooms offer so much more than your standard UK bathroom; accessibility, ease of use and design flexibility. Without common bathroom barriers you can create a soothing and flexible sanctuary, while every centimeter of space is utilised. This ultimately makes the everyday bathroom experience fuss-free, enjoyable and inviting.
After...
The 5 essentials of any wet room:
1. Create a zone for your wet room area. Think about where the shower head and valve should be located. You can also separate the wet zone with a dividing glass panel and additional flipper panel (see above).
2. The zone should be waterproofed. You can either install a wetroom try that can be tiled, or you can choose the latest shower trays which can be inserted into the floorboard space. Think about tiles to protect the walls, or opt for a simpler option such as nuance panels (100% waterproof wall panels which take way less time to fit than tiles).3. For safety you'll need waterproof lighting. Plus any heated towel rails should be kept out of the way of any splash zones.4. Create enough ventilation to keep the bathroom free from condensation and damp patches, and also make sure to buy an extractor fan even if the room has a window. Condensation free mirrors are a fantastic wet room feature, plus underfloor heating can create additional warmth and help to eliminate excess moisture.5. Consider additional comforts and safety features such as storage, shower seats, grab rails and non-slip areas. How about some recessed wall niches for easy access to toiletries (see below)? 
Practical, modern design provides bathrooms which function better for the users, instead of what you think you should be getting... The traditional notion of what a bathroom should be. Wetrooms are practical and easier to clean. They also become a beautiful feature in any home and can add value to your home if you decide to sell. Plus they're a welcoming fit for smaller guest bathrooms depending on their design. Your bathroom floor is also better protected than it would be in a standard bathroom. So no leaks or flooding will occur if they're fitted properly. Most importantly, wet rooms can be accessible to anyone in your family. Regardless of age and ability.While the initial idea of a wet room can be luxurious and costly, they are simple and affordable depending on the design you opt for. You can also be creative in designing a unique environment that's just right for you and your family. If you're looking to update your bathroom or guest bathroom then a wetroom should be considered! 
3 disadvantages to keep in-mind:
1. Everything can get wet, so you'll need to be careful to keep the area dry, wiping down the wet areas after use.
2. The temperature of a wetroom will stay the same temperature as the surrounding area (the warmth from the shower won't increase the heat in the room). If you prefer warm showers then choose a shower enclosure instead (the heat will increase around you as you're showering).
3. You may need a professional to do the job depending on the type of design or products you choose.
5 Important things to remember:
1. Depending on the wetroom tray you are using, you may need a professional's help
2. You will need a good extraction fan and waterproof lighting for safety
3. Be aware of where the shower valve and outlet should go
4. Choose a 25mm shower tray or tileable wetroom tray
5. Think about your individual needs (& your budget!); do you want a shower seat or do you need safety grab rails?
Wetrooms our customers had...
Need more inspiration? Check out our wet room inspired Pinterest board or take a look at our wet room Ideabook on Houzz!