Tips on Choosing a New Bath Tub

Cast-Iron Bath Tubs

Some antique cast-iron bath tubs are very valuable. If you decide that you want to replace your old cast-iron bath, then be sure to get in touch with a dealer and get a quote - you don't want to be putting a very valuable bath in the skip for someone else to take it and profit from it!

However, antique cast-iron bath tubs are becoming very popular today, and many people are choosing to keep these baths and simply getting a company to come out and re-enamel them. Some companies like to do this work on their own premises, but some do come out to your home and spray them in your bathroom.

If you would like to purchase a reproduction of even a restored antique cast-iron bath tub, there are specialist supplers around. Be warned however, that even though they are reproduction, or second-hand they will still be likely to be expensive.

Also be warned that cast-iron baths are extremely heavy and they would take at least 2 people (ideally 3 people) to lift it up the stairs and into your bathroom. They also do need a bit of extra care to maintain, especially keeping it clean.

Man-Made Bath Tubs

Today, most baths are made from acrylic, gass-reinformed plastic or enamelled pressed steel. The acrylic and plastic baths could be carried by just one person, as they are very light, but yet obviously very solid and durable. However, the steel bath would probably have to be carried by two people.

You must be careful not to use some abrasive cleaners or bleach on your plastic or acrylic bathtubs as some may harm the surface of the bath.

Because these types of bathtubs are made with flexible materials such as plastic/acrylic, more unusual designs can be made. You also have the choice of matching bath panel, taps at the rear, front, corner or side, and probably a choice of every color you can think of. At this present day, white seems to be the trend.

Corner Bath Tubs

Corner bath tubs are quite popular. People want to be a little bit different from getting the standard rectangular bath. Also, many people think that corner bathtubs save on space. This is actually not true. A corner bath surprisingly occupies more floor area than a rectangular bath of the same capacity. It is because the tub is turned at an angle within the room that it would take up less wall space.

Therefore, because a corner bath tub takes up less wall space, you can then use this space to fit shelves, a radiator or a modern towel warmer. You could even use the extra space to have a stand-alone shower cubicle next to the tub.

Again, corner baths come in all sorts of colors and varieties of shapes and sizes. Choosing different styles of taps to complement the look of your room and tub are also very flexible, whether it be a victorian feel or a modern feel. You can customize the look of your bath simply by the taps you choose.

Rectangular Bath Tubs

Even though many people today opt for the corner bath design, a rectangular bath is still the most poopular as it has the most economical design and will fit into any style of bathroom. Rectangular baths can be bought in different lengths to suit your needs. Lengths vary from 1.5 to 1.8m in length, with widehts from 700 to 800mm.

Rounded Bath Tubs

If you have a very large bathroom, then a certain 'wow factor' would be to install a round bath. A round bath in the center of a large bathroom is an impressive feature of the overall interior design of the room. For obvious reasons, a round bath would be impossible/impractical in smaller bathrooms, but if you have the space - then go for it!

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub refinishing. Claire provides more information on her site about bathtub refinishing and designs.

How to Plumb a New Bath Tub

Before you fit the bath into your desired position, it is best to fit the overflow, taps and trap. The reason being is that once a bath is fitted against a wall, it is difficult to make the connections of the fittings in such a tight space. Put some adjustable feet on the bottom on the bath so you can raise the rim of the bath to your required height. Also, be sure to check it's level along the length and width of the bath tub.

Fitting the Taps

If you have separate taps for hot and cold, then you would just fit these as you would for a washbasin. If you have a mixer tap you may well have been supplied with a long sealing gasket. This long sealing gasket slips over both tails by lowering the tails through the holes in the rim. Place top-hat washers onto them and tighten both of the back-nuts to secure the mixer securely to the bath tub. Get approximately a 22mm flexible copper pipe and fit onto each of the tails.

These flexible pipes allow for the easy adjustment that will be necessary if the joints are slightly misaligned. Alternatively, attach short lengths of standard 22mm (3/4") copper or plastic pipe with tap connectors, in preparation for jointing to the pipe run.

Fitting Waste and Overflow

It is best to use a combined waste and overflow unit to your bath tub. If you use a flexible plastic hose, this takes water from the overflow outlet to the waste outlet. A flexible pipe of a compression-fitting unit connects to the trap itself, but if you use a banjo unit, you should fit the overflow before the trap.

Now spread a layer of silicone sealant under the rim of the waste outlet, or fit a circular rubber seal. Before inserting its tail into the hole in the bottom o the bath, seal the thread with PTFE tape. On the underside, add a plastic washer; then tighten the large back-nut, bedding the outlet down onto the sealant or the rubber seal. Wipe off excess sealant.

Connect the bath trap to the tail of the waste outlet with its own compression nut.

Pass the threaded boss over the over-flow hose through the hole at the foot of the bath. SLip a washer seal over the boss, then use a pair of pliers to screw the overflow outlet grille on.

If you're using a compression-fitting overflow, connect the nut located on the other end of the hose to the cleaning eye of the trap.

Claire Bowes runs a successful website on bathtub refinishing. For further articles and information, visit http://www.bathtub-refinishing-n-designs.com

Bathtub Inserts - How to Install Correctly

Bath tub inserts enable a user to have an easier time while taking a bath. This is especially useful for young children and the very old. It is very handy for disabled persons too. Tub inserts are usually easy to install with just a minimal number of bolts used and does not require any need to modify the tub.

What to look for in a bath tub insert

Choose bath tub inserts that are made from gel coat and is reinforced by fiberglass materials, can be installed by a single person without any fuss and without changing anything on the existing tub, exhibits a non-slip surface which is also soft and pliable for the user's comfort, and a reasonable warranty which normally lasts from a year up to three years.

Instructions on installing the tub insert

1. First, check the tub insert kit if all the necessary components are present. Look at the tub's bottom to ascertain that its drain gasket is in place.

2. Cleaned the whole bath tub assembly, including the shower unit with the use of a non-abrasive cleaning agent. After cleaning, make sure that the whole thing is dry before continuing the installation process. This is important since any moisture left may cause damage to the floor.

3. Fit the insert to find it if it fits properly. After testing if the insert fits, remove the insert. Apply silicone caulking to the shower drain's upper part as well as the tub bottom's gasket. Make sure that the bead of silicone which encircles the drain brass is at least half an inch.

Claire Bowes is a successful Webmaster and publisher of bathtub refinishing. Claire provides more information on her site about bathtub refinishing and designs.

Baby Hates Bath Time? - You May Be The Problem

If your baby hates bath time, there is a good chance it is entirely your fault!

“Say what?”, you ask. “How is it my fault if she kicks and screams, moans and groans and shouts and hollers at the mere sight of bath water?” Well, she may be going through all of those negative emotions because you have unknowingly turned bath time into another dreaded chore instead of a fun-filled experience that both you and your infant can enjoy.

Babies, big and small, thrive on routines and crave lots of fun. And while they may be having a great time in the baby bouncer, play pen or swing… you also need to let the good times roll during bath time as well.

When you gather up the hooded bath towel, bath soap and bath sponge, make sure you also grab some bath toys and plan your bath games. Don’t just focus on getting him clean. Keep your mind on making him happy. It’ll make all the difference in the world. And before you say you just don’t know how to make him happy in the tub; here are a few ideas to start you on your way.

If your baby hates bath time, toys should be your first course of action. Babies who are six-to-12 months old especially like little buckets that sink, duckies that squirt and balls that go “splat”. There are even a few bath puppets you can use to keep your little one smiling while you soap her down at the same time. Toddlers like animals that swirl, boats that sail and dolphins that swim. Throw in some flying bubbles and you will completely have it made.

There is a long list of bath time games for bath time fun. You can start by washing your baby’s hair and leaving the shampoo in for a while. Use your fingers to make his hair stick up in wacky styles. Have a mirror nearby and watch him giggle as he sees what he looks like with a foamy top. If your baby doesn’t have any hair, that’s okay. Try holding a cup of water way up high and gently pouring it out creating a waterfall onto your baby’s tummy. She will definitely get a real kick out of this. Overall, just use your imagination and try something new every day.

Now that you know how to create a good time; how about singing to your baby while you wipe him down? And how about putting on some baby bath music? Sesame Street has created an excellent CD called Splish Splash: Bath Time Fun. There are 15 bath related songs that will have your baby movin’ and groovin’ in the water in no time. With this CD, you will never again say your baby hates bath time.

Lastly, while you’re on your exciting new bath time adventure, always remember to keep it safe. There is no point in planning the big laughs and having all the great fun if you are not being careful. Keep safety first and everything else will just simply fall into place.

Danielle Bennett is an editor at http://www.BabyBathBasics.com. The site provides baby bath information and advice for new parents as well as product reviews and helpful online baby bath videos. You can also discover some baby bath games at http://www.BabyBathBasics.com/Baby-Games.html

Bath Salts – Some That You Can Make At Home

In this article we will provide you with a number of recipes that you can make at home for producing bath salts which will leave your skin looking and feeling radiant.

Firstly why not just take 5 tablespoons of baking soda and add to your bath as the water is running. The best thing about baking soda is that it leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Next is a recipe for basic bath salts and you will need for this salt (Epsom, Sea or Kosher Salt) the choice is yours, baking soda (as previously mentioned is good for softening the skin), essential oils (whatever you like) and if you want to add some colour then mix in some food colouring (but this is optional).

Once you have all these ingredients together firstly pour the salt of your choice, the essential oils and a few drops of food colouring (remember this is optional) into a bowl and stir well together then pour into a jar. Now when its next time to have a bath, use the bath salts by pouring the mixture into the bath as the warm water is running. Then give the water a stir to ensure that the bath salts have dissolved.

Now we will look at Kosher Bath Salts which is made up of equal amounts of Kosher Salt and Baking Soda along with some glycerin being added to them. Stir the mixture well and place in a decorative container. When ready for your next bath add some of this mixture to a hot bath but make sure you keep the mixture away from your eyes.

Why not go for something a little more simple just add 1 cup of Epsom Salts to your bath if you need to feel uplifted.

The final recipe we are going to provide for you is called Cleo’s Bath Salts and you will need 1 cup fine sea salt, ½ tsp liquid glycerin (great for moisturizing the skin) and is optional and ½ cup Epsom Salt. Mix all these ingredients together well and then sprinkle into bath water at any time when you need to feel rejuvenated. However it is important that you do not wash your hair whilst bathing in this mixture as it may well leave it feeling dry.

Finally just a little not concerning liquid glycerin which is ideal for using as a skin moisturizer and is a by product of the soap making process. You will find glycerin in health food stores, chemists (drug stores) and major department stores it really depends on where you actually live you can also readily purchase it over the internet as well. Well hope you find this article to be of use and that you enjoy a more relaxing bath by using some of the recipes that have been provided.

Kerris Samson a work from home mum who has carried out extensive research in all forms of alternative medicines, treatments and therapies over the last year. She has now set up a site dealing with all aspects of baths and if you would like to learn more please visit http://www.bath.letsgetpampered.com/Articles/Bath_Salt.php.

Relieve Eczema Skin Symptoms With An Epsom Salt Bath

It is hard not to go crazy with all that intense itching and scratching of your irritated eczema skin. Short of using strong steroids, there is one treatment that you can try to alleviate the itchy symptoms. You may wish to consider taking an Epsom salt bath.

An Epsom salt bath is not just any salt bath. There are actually different kinds of bath salts in the market today and you really need to choose the correct ones to treat your eczema. Solar salt, koshers salts are just like any rock salts that you use in your kitchen and offer no helpful benefits to your skin. Be careful not to use them as normal salts contain sodium chloride that can actually cause a drying out of your skin. A bath using normal salts is therefore not a good idea for an already dry skin prone to eczema outbreaks.

Epsom salts are basically made up of magnesium sulphate, a type of naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium is responsible in regulating the body enzymes. Since it is an electrolyte, magnesium sulphate can improve the function of the muscles and nerves. It also ensures the proper usage of calcium in our body's cells. As an eczema treatment, it helps to reduce skin inflammation and alleviate pain.

An Epsom salt bath is a great way to acquire magnesium in the body because the skin can easily absorb it. More importantly, an Epsom salt bath is becoming popular in treating eczema because it assists in removing unwanted acids out of your skin. Soaking yourself in the bath is therapeutic as it also helps reduce stress and muscular pains.

Here is a simple recipe on getting started with your own soothing Epsom bath salt:

• 450 grams Epsom salts
• 1 tsp. Calendula oil
• 5 drops patchouli oil
• 7-10 drops lavender oil

You can actually do without the oils if you are unable to find them. Simply add a cup of Epsom salts in to a tub with warm water. Avoid using soaps when taking an Epsom salt bath or else it would obstruct the healing action of the salts. You can soak in for about 15 minutes and gently give your skin a good gentle rub. (Take note: Gentle rub not scrub!) Try not to get chilled and over dried. A warning to people who are diagnosed with edema, heart problems or high blood pressure- soaking in a bath salt may prove to be harmful. Frail people, like aged people, are advised not to use salt baths at all.

Evelyn Lim has been suffering from eczema skin symptoms for several years. She now spends her time researching about her condition and reviewing natural skin care products as well as natural therapies. Find out how she recently got herself treated in her newsletter here at http://www.eczematreatmentsecrets.com

Pet Grooming Guide - How to Groom Your Pet

As like humans, pets also want to be clean and well groomed. Pet grooming involves different grooming services that you should perform on your pet. An important pet grooming service is to give bath to your pets regularly. Owners should give a great bathing experience to their lovely pets. They should collect all grooming bath supplies such as dog shampoo, bucket, towel and hair dryer at one place, before bringing pet into bathroom.

Give them comfort and warm temperature to bath. You can give them an easy bath in bathtub or splash water over their body. You can also use a hose with sprayer to wash your pets. Use your hand for a smooth rubbing. Pet grooming gloves are also helpful to scrub your dog. You can offer light-handed massage at the time of bath. Your pet will really enjoy this type of bathing practice.

You can choose the best shampoo for your pet. Several pet shampoos are available in the market like medicated shampoo, and scented shampoos etc. Owners should choose the best shampoo that actually suits their pet. Choice of shampoos mostly depends on the season.

Don’t use your soap or shampoo for your pet because it can cause skin irritation to them. You should ask a trained pet groomer to choose the best shampoo for your pet. Brush their teeth at the time of washing their body. After bath, rinse their ears and paws with a towel to remove extra moisture.

You can also use hair dryer for pet grooming but use medium settings only for your pet. You can use a hairbrush to make a style. Pet grooming is a time consuming process so have patience. It is an easy way to make a close bond with your pet.

About Author: The author owns the website on Pet Grooming. Website provides useful information about pet grooming, pet grooming products, and pet grooming supplies. You can also visit his site for pet grooming tips