What are the benefits of oatmeal baths? – we answer all there is to know about oatmeal, how it helps skin and even expert commentary on why oatmeal helps to relieve skin conditions.

What Are Oatmeal Baths?

Oatmeal has been used for skin care purposes since the Roman times. Today, oatmeal can be found in many organic skincare creams and bath soaps, including the world-famous Aveeno products.

It’s one of the best home remedies for irritated skin!

How Does Oatmeal Help Itchy Skin?

The benefits of oatmeal baths for skin conditions are quite amazing.

So, if you’re a sufferer of skin conditions such as eczema, dry skin or psoriasis. Then we are here to answer your skin care prayers!

There’s not many things in life that come close to the discomfort of itchy, sore skin that nothing can sooth or take the edge off. That is until we discovered the surprising effects of an Oatmeal bath.

What Are Oatmeal Baths Good For?

The top skin conditions that oatmeal baths have proven to relieve:

EczemaPsoriasisSunburnSevere Dry SkinDermatitisChicken PoxHivesInsect Bites

What Kind of Oatmeal Do You Use In An Oatmeal Bath?

The oats you put into an oatmeal bath are not the same oats you use in your morning porridge. Colloidal oats should be used in an oatmeal bath and can be found in your local supermarket, pharmacy, or health store.

How Does an Oatmeal Bath Help Itchy Skin?

So what are the benefits of an oatmeal bath? and how does it actually help itchy skin or other skin conditions?

Well, firstly colloidal oatmeal is used (as we mentioned above). Colloidal oatmeal will relieve irritated skin as it is made from natural oat grain or Avena sativa that is ground into fine powder and acts as a great anti-inflammatory.

Packed with vitamins (specifically vitamin E), minerals, fats and proteins that help heal the skin. Colloidal oatmeal works to bind the skin and create a protective skin barrier to help lock in moisture and reduce inflammation.

Now you understand how Colloidal oatmeal can help the skin and soothe itchiness, it’s time to find out how to make your own oatmeal concoction.

How to Make Your Own Oatmeal?

Make sure you are using uncooked, whole oats that don’t have additives (Don’t be emptying your Quaker-Oats golden syrup into your bath).

Grind the oats up with a blender, food processor or anything you can get your hands on that will turn the oats into a finely ground powder.

Once they have been ground to dust, your oats are ready to be popped into the bath!

What Oatmeal Should I Use For My Child/Baby?

If your child/ baby is suffering with itchy, inflamed skin and you would like to try an oatmeal bath, Itchy Baby Co have a natural baby bath soak that has fantastic reviews.

Younger skin tends to be more sensitive and irritable than adult skin, so using a product with all natural, organic ingredients is a great option.

So, you now have your oats, it’s time to prepare your bath!

Please note, if you have purchased oats from a pharmacy/ health store they should come with instructions, and we would recommend following the directions on the package.

Now, back to the rest of you who purchased oats without a set of instructions…

How To Prepare an Oatmeal Bath to Soothe Itchy Skin?

Firstly, fill your bathtub with warm water (not hot water), remember not to add any soaps or bubble bath as this could cause more irritation to your skin.Pour half a cup of ground oats into the bath.Get in and soak in the oatmeal for around 15 minutes. This will give the skin enough time to absorb the nutrients – don’t soak for too long as your skin will dry out and make itching worse.Rinse off with warm water.Now carefully pat down your body, try your best not to rub as they towel could irritate the sore itchy skin.Finally apply organic, rich in vitamin E moisturiser to lock all the moisture in.

After one oatmeal bath you might notice the benefits; softer, smoother skin. However, it might take a week or so to really notice a significant difference.

Azza Halim, MD explains ‘You can take oatmeal baths twice daily. The oatmeal acts as an emollient and protective moisturizer for dry skin.’

Oatmeal baths are a safe way to take the edge of sore skin conditions. It might seem a tad yucky at first but after reading all of the specialist advice on the benefits of an oatmeal bath, it’s definitely worth a go.

Please note – if your skin feels worse after one oatmeal bath, don’t try it again and and arrange an appointment with your GP.

Say goodbye to harsh, red skin!

The post What Are The Benefits Of Oatmeal Baths? written by Rikki Fothergill appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

Hot And Cold Shower Comparison

For many, the idea of a freezing cold shower first thing in the morning is enough to make you shudder, never mind the reality of actually taking one. A hot shower early doors provides the majority of people with the perfect means to kick off their day, and an ideal foundation from which to go about their daily business.

As much as we might love to invigorate our senses with a toasty warm shower, and be far from thrilled at the prospect of a cold shower though, there is plenty of evidence to suggest it is beneficial to mix up our shower routine as it pertains to temperature.

Even if you have horror memories of nipping in and quickly hopping in a cold shower, having been the last in a busy family household to use it, you might not so readily recall how you felt in the aftermath. Or be aware of the numerous health advantages cold showers can provide.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at the associated benefits of both hot and cold showers, exploring the best instances to brave the lower temperatures and much more.

What Are The Main Advantages Of Cold Showers?

There are several advantages to taking a cold shower, including the following…

Invigorating and refreshing to awaken your sensesHelpful in tackling acne, can assist with glowing hair and skinRelieves itchy skinBolsters blood circulationCan enhance weight lossAssists in alleviating muscle soreness after exercise

Cold Shower Wake Up Call

Whilst you may find the sensation unpleasant, a cold early morning shower can have positive physiological, psychological and neurological effects as the temperature ‘shock’ takes hold.

This cold water shock enhances the heart rate, oxygen intake and level of alertness of the shower user, all in all providing a real ‘livener’ to make them feel incredibly refreshed, switched on and ready to attack the day ahead.

Jump in your shower enclosure feeling groggy and unprepared, exit a brand new man or woman that can take on just about anything!

Help Hair And Skin To Shine

Whilst scant scientific evidence exists with regards to the positive effects cold water can have on hair and skin, anecdotal attestation is widely abound.

All sorts of wellness publications and expert sources have long been keen to extoll the virtues of cold water, with its propensity to constrict blood flow a certified consequence. This practice is explained well in this Camille Styles blog. In turn, the constriction of blood assists in giving a healthier tint to the cold showerer’s skin.

Furthermore, a Glamour magazine article suggests that cold water will strengthen your hair cuticles, and as a result, that taking regular cold showers will lead hair to be shinier and significantly less frizzy.

It is also worth noting that in contrast to hot water, cold water will not dry out the sebum layer, which is a naturally formed lubricated barrier which acts as a protective shield for hair and skin. Therefore, frequent exposure to cold water can see hair in particular build strength and general health over the course of time.

Shivering Over Scratching

Neither are exactly favourable sensations, of course. But cold showers can prove an excellent combative measure for those who suffer from itchy skin or related conditions that leave them feeling the urge to scratch.

Stacy Chimento, an American-based dermatology expert, has been quoted by The Healthy as saying, “cool water can help calm down the itchy sensation.” She continued, “cool water helps numb the itching sensations and pacify irritated skin, whereas a hot shower can make the skin even more sensitive.”

So, especially for sufferers of conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, cold showers could be monumentally beneficial.

Boosting Your Blood Flow

As far as health benefits associated with cold showers go, one of the very most poignant is enhanced blood circulation, regularly flagged up by expert health commentators.

The science behind this effect can be explained in how it influences the body at surface level. Basically, once the cold water makes contact with the body, noticeably concerning areas like arms and legs, it will compress blood circulation on the body’s surface.

In turn, the blood pumping throughout deeper tissues will circulate at a more rapid rate to deliver and maintain an optimal body temperature for cold shower users.

That considered, cold showers provide a contrasting reaction to hot showers for those who might be suffering from cardiovascular issues or hypertension. Because cold temperature exposure activates the circulatory system to alleviate inflammation and help to combat cardiovascular diseases.

Cold Shower Weight Loss Assistance

It might not make a massive amount of difference, but speaking from personal experience at least, every little helps when it comes to a bid for losing weight. So this makes for another excellent reason to work a cold shower into your regular routine.

The way that cold water can benefit you from a weight loss perspective lies in the properties of particular fat cells. The likes of brown fat, for instance, can generate heat in burning fat. This occurs when the body becomes exposed to colder temperatures, as it would in a cold shower.

What’s more, these brown fat cells are often found around the shoulders and neck area of the body. Absolutely ideal, especially if you have a modern shower with multiple outlets for targeted coverage.

On average, a 15-minute cold shower will burn 62 calories – that’s worth a full extra Jaffa Cake and then some to the calorie counting dieters!

Sore Muscle Relief

Tying in with the weight loss theme, cold showers can also aid sore muscle recovery in the aftermath of exercise – a perfect vice to remember after an especially tough session at the gym.

Cold water boasts regenerative properties, which allows it to enable your muscles to relax and repair on the back of strenuous activity.

re There Any Disadvantages To Cold Showers?

They are few and far between, certainly so when compared with the benefits, but cold showers can be disadvantageous in some instances.

Mostly, common sense will dictate when not to indulge in a cold shower. For example, if you are already cold, the cooler temperature won’t help you to warm up in any way. In fact, it can have a negative effect in making you become colder still, and ensuring you have a longer wait for your body to warm back up to its ideal temperature.

Similarly so, it is probably best to avoid taking a cold shower if you are feeling unwell. The initial shock of the cold water could have a further detrimental effect on your immune system.

It’s a better idea to ease into cooler showers when you’re in rude health.

Why Do We Tend To Prefer Hot Showers?

So, given the many benefits and scarce drawbacks associated with cold showers, they seem a no-brainer to introduce into a healthy regular schedule.

Why then, in general, do we prefer hot showers?

Well, for a start, the warm water tends to feel nicer and more relaxing as we come into contact with it, rather than causing the initial shock effect that comes to fruition when taking a cold shower.

For many, a hot shower is a key to relaxation, and enables the person to unwind and de-stress before heading to bed and preparing to do it all again tomorrow.

There’s a science behind that notion as well, as hot showers alert the parasympathetic nervous system which is linked to making us tired, making a warm shower an excellent evening practice before bed.

As well as assisting in the relaxation of muscles, hot showers can also help repair skin blemishes and aid in the relief of respiratory problems.

On the latter point, standing in a hot shower enclosure engulfed by steam represents a time-old natural combative effort against colds and coughs. The water’s heat and accompanying steam can help to clear nasal passages, open up airways and loosen phlegm.

And with regards to skin blemishes, hot showers can help to open up the pores of the skin, so you’re able to rid them of any lingering oil or trapped muck.

re There Any Disadvantages To Hot Showers?

Whilst cold showers have been proven to be beneficial from a cardiovascular perspective, hot showers can contrastingly worsen issues in this regard.

They have been known to further enhance the blood pressure of sufferers of high blood pressure, and those with any form of cardiovascular disease are also advised against taking showers that are too hot.

Also, hot showers can lead to irritable, dried out skin. Hot water can damage the keratin cells which reside on the outer-most skin layer – the epidermis. In turn, the disruption caused to these cells curtails them from confining the appropriate moisture required, which creates dry skin.

And particular skin conditions can worsen via excessively hot showers as well. Ailments like eczema and psoriasis can be exacerbated with high temperatures providing the perfect foundation for skin to dry out.

Itchy skin is another potential undesirable side effect of hot showers too, as the lofty temperatures can lead mast cells, featuring histamine, to deposit their matter in the skin to cause it to itch.

Should I Take Hot Or Cold Showers?

There’s numerous benefits and a few disadvantages to both hot and cold showers – so which type should you indulge in with regularity?

Well, whilst the advantages of cold showers seem to outweigh those of their counterparts, we wouldn’t want you to have to stand and suffer if you find a cold shower barely tolerable. Ideally then, you should try to take a lukewarm shower when possible, so you’re getting the best benefits of both whilst enjoying a comfortable showering experience.

Alternatively, you could adopt a ‘contrast shower’ approach, whereby you set the water temperature for as cold as possible for a set period of time, say a minute. Then, you can crank the temperature right up and take a hot shower for a minute, and repeat the process for as long as you wish (between three and five cycles each is recommended).

Contrast showers are advantageous in that the cold shower part of the process will constrict the blood vessels of the user, meaning all the blood will flood to the centre of the body.

Then, the hot shower portion will see the blood vessels open up and blood flood out again, distributed all throughout the organs and muscles of the ‘contrast showerer’. As such, it has an excellent detoxifying effect, and helps with regeneration too.

Some advanced digital showers will even have the facility to set the temperature to automatically shift after a set amount of time to make the contrast shower process more convenient. Our Buyer’s Guide To Modern Showers has more information on these tech-savvy shower systems.

Get In Touch With Big Bathroom Shop

Hopefully, this blog has helped you gain an understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of both hot and cold showers, and how best to work either type into your regular showering routine.

For any further help or information regarding showers, or any other bathroom-related query though, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the friendly team at Big Bathroom Shop.

You can do so by leaving your thoughts on the comments section below, or by contacting us on FacebookInstagram or Twitter.

The post Cold Shower vs Hot Shower – What Are The Benefits? written by John Klee appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

Walk In Shower Ideas For A Dream Bathroom Design

The bathroom is very rarely the largest room within a house, and with that considered, it’s understandable that many would consider a redesign process in such a space a touch daunting.

What might prove a simpler solution than you could imagine, however, could come in the implementation of walk in shower ideas. Some of which can actually help maximize space in a compact bathroom, rather than hinder it.

Taking into account colour schemes, tiling options, interior layout and all other design facets, this article will cover an impressive range of walk in shower ideas for bathrooms large and small. See if you stumble across a stunning walk in shower style that can completely transform your bathroom area…

1. Go For Glass Shower Doors

A simple but wholly effective means to create the illusion of extra space is to allow natural light to infiltrate. As such, glass shower doors provide an excellent option as it pertains to walk in showers, if they include any doors at all.

They provide a transparent barrier which has a minimal impact on visual space, and enables light to flood into the bathroom, illuminating the areas that most require it.

For a special aesthetic consideration, explore the possibility of tinted glass shower doors to frame the enclosure. Exuding effortless luxury, this typically more expensive nuanced style can act as a beautiful bathroom centrepiece, whilst still allowing light to flow freely throughout the space.

2. No Bathtub? No Problem

Now, if you are a ‘bath person’, please don’t be offended at such a blasphemous notion. But there really is an argument to be had, especially in more compact bathroom spaces, to proceed without a bathtub in bringing some stunning walk in shower ideas to life.

Most obviously, freestanding baths will tend to dominate the bathroom areas they are fitted within, in terms of both appearance and space.

In the absence of a bath, the scope exists to go whackier, wilder and wider in putting your walk in shower ideas into practice.

You could extend the shower area to span the full length of the rear wall, for instance, to create a bigger and better modern shower space. An idealistic spacious enclosure for a luxurious, spa-like showering experience with full coverage.

3. Select The Right Shower Tray

There’s plenty of variety when it comes to shower trays, so you’ll have lots of flexibility when bringing your perfect walk in shower enclosure to life.

A simple but useful hack is to opt for smaller and longer shower trays as opposed to chunky square designs in order to maximize room.

And shallow pan shower trays are the way to go as well. The lack of depth incorporated by such components allow for the walk in shower enclosure space to open up and remain airy and moveable within.

4. Tip-Top Wall Tile Inspiration

Though they might not be readily associated with smaller bathroom areas, eye-catching statement wall tiles really can work in such spaces. The best idea is to adopt a sparse approach with brightly coloured, adventurous patterns. In turn, you can draw immediate attention to pivotal parts of the bathroom.

Contrasting with a standout bathroom tiling backdrop, a stylish shower wall or splashback will enhance a sense of space, and open up a plethora of design possibilities throughout the area. The main one, of course, can prove to be the introduction of your ideal walk in shower.

5. Work In A Shower Partition Wall

Compact bathrooms will sometimes require a partition within a walk in shower space to prevent water from travelling to areas you don’t want it to – who wants to exit the shower to soaking wet towels draped across the nearby heated towel rail, for instance?

So, instead of a glass shower door, the prospect of a half-wall fitting acting as a walk in shower guard is an appealing alternative prospect.

The implementation of a shower partition wall such as this is beneficial from a privacy perspective, whilst ensuring the bathroom remains open and free. It also offers an ideal foundation component to add the likes of decorative ornaments, shower essentials, and stylish tiles.

6. Corner Showers For Compact Bathrooms

One of the simplest entries on the list, but the space-maximising effectiveness of corner showers cannot be underestimated within a compact bathroom.

The most striking advantages of corner shower enclosures is their minimalist design and practicality, allowing more than adequate room for other essential fittings and fixtures like bathroom vanity units or wall hung toilets in especially modernized settings.

Should you have any concerns that a corner shower won’t provide sufficient space, you could consider a neo-angled walk in shower layout as an alternative choice. This type of design will allow for a wider ‘wingspan’ and eliminate protruding corners that could be present elsewhere.

7. Stick To Size With Fixtures And Fittings

A common mistake that it is easy to make when transforming a bathroom (especially a smaller one) to feature a walk in shower space, is to go too big and bold with accentuating bathroom furniture.

Where room is restricted, you can easily overwhelm the space with the addition of oversized freestanding vanity units, for example. In order to ensure your walk in shower enclosure remains the star of the show, opt for more subtle, minimalist styles such as wall hung vanity units, which will be altogether far less intrusive.

For some layouts, bathroom combination units will be well suited. These incorporate a toilet, basin and vanity unit within a single component to maximise space and deliver streamlined style in the form of some essential fittings.

Our blog, A Buyer’s Guide To Vanity Units, shines the spotlight on a multitude of attractive bath vanities for smaller bathrooms.

8. Introduce Suitable Colours For Smaller Bathrooms

You can avoid hassle and stress by keeping it relatively simple and suitable in drawing up a bathroom colour scheme, again particularly in relation to more compact areas.

Fresh, light clean tones can work wonders in alluding to wider space, whilst a mish-mash of various louder hues can have the opposite effect, leading the bathroom to appear cramped and cluttered.

Standard white shades will give off a spacious, light and airy aura which can be tweaked and enhanced by accompanying complementary colours and textures. Or lighter pastel shades, all the rage in cottagecore bathrooms, are well worth considering as well. What’s more, the Big Bathroom Shop On Trend page can point you in direction of some of the most in-vogue colour options available.

9. Account For Alcove Dimensions

It can often be the case that compact bathrooms accommodate out-of-the-ordinary dimensions and overall shapes. However, it is possible to turn an unwanted alcove or eave into a dream design feature as opposed to an objectionable distraction in connection with walk in showers.

The most obvious solution, if space allows for it, is to install the walk in shower within the alcove area itself, or in a position where the walls can act as natural shower partitions (see point 5).

Also, if there are any roof windows present, these offer an excellent option to oversee a walk in shower, allowing natural light to flood the area and completely open up the bathroom.

10. Laying Down The Tiles

So it’s a touch less of an authoritative sentiment than ‘laying down the law’ might represent, but by following this similarly titled mantra, you can really set the tone for a beautiful walk in shower space to refresh your bathroom.

Imaginative floor tiling patterns within a walk in enclosure are an excellent way to create the illusion of added space. Using block patterns and solid contrasting colours and shapes will help to elasticate the room and make everything appear larger.

You have free reign to go big and bold with walk in shower floor tiles as well. Just because the room they are fitted in might be small doesn’t necessarily mean the tiles themselves has to be as well. Sizeable format tiles are a superb option for minimalist walk in shower bathrooms with subtle, low level grouting providing the neatest finish that will be barely visible.

11. Don’t Neglect The Shower Itself

When implementing a new walk in shower, your primary considerations, most likely, rest with the design of the enclosure itself. And whilst that is appropriate, you should strive not to neglect the actual shower system to fit.

Look to add a shower that lines up with the décor and overall theme of the bathroom area. So for retro or classic style bathrooms, look to traditional showers. Or, in contemporary bathrooms, add a modern shower with a finish reflective of the surrounding interior. There’s plenty of styles to consider in our dedicated blog, A Buyer’s Guide To Modern Showers.

12. Squeeze In Minimalist Storage Solutions

The size and structure of bathroom furniture and vanities can accidentally take up excessive room in a smaller bathroom on occasion, so it could be worth seeking out a nifty alternative storage option if possible.

In-built shelving or small mounted benches could be installed into small alcove areas, for example, to save on floor or wall space and prevent future storage issues for bathroom essentials like shower gels, shampoos, towels and toiletries.

Explore Big Bathroom Shop For Walk In Shower Inspiration

Big Bathroom Shop offer all sorts of walk in shower trays, doors, frames and full enclosure designs to suit any style or bathroom layout.

This guide will have hopefully whet your appetite with some supreme walk in shower ideas to transform a small bathroom, but if you would like any further help or advice, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team.

You can leave your queries in the comments section below, or reach out to us via FacebookInstagram or Twitter.

The post 12 Wonderful Walk In Shower Ideas To Transform A Small Bathroom written by John Klee appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

If you’ve landed on this page, it means you’re wondering whether it’s time to update your bathroom.

Bathroom updates aren’t something that happen all too often and can be a costly job. But as the years go by, things can start to rust, break or, you simply might just hate the décor of your bathroom as seasons change.

Key Signs Your Bathroom Needs an Update

If you’re thinking about selling your property, a nice bathroom will add to the value of your home.Most of your bathroom products have extreme wear and tear damage.Your bathroom is looking extremely outdated.

How Often Should You Update Your Bathroom?

Experts at LT Plumbing say you should update your bathroom every 7 -10 years. This is based on the general lifespan of bathroom products as they can become damaged through wear and tear. This is also based around trends, opting for neutral, timeless colours will avoid your bathroom looking dated or ‘out of fashion’ quick.

A great example of how you can keep the same bathroom design and just update features

@AudenzaHome

Of course, this is only a suggested estimate and bathroom products can last much longer.

Big Bathroom Shop has industry leading guarantees on all our products for long lasting durability – we do spoil you!

Continue reading this article to find out how often even the of bathroom products should be replaced such as bath mats and toothbrushes – it will shock you!

If It’s Falling Apart – It Needs An Update

If you’ve had the same bathroom for over 7 years, things can start to stop working, rusting, leaking and other annoying wear and tear. As we mentioned above, the lifetime span of a bathroom, on average, tends to be between 7-10 years.

An Example Of A Rusty Old Shower Head, In Need Of Replacing!

Of course, if looked after well and you’re happy with your décor. There’s no reason to say you can’t wait longer to update.

We all know, a new bathroom isn’t cheap. It’s a costly project, so we would always suggest keeping the bath and vanity unit as long as possible and spend less by only updating your fixtures and fittings.

For example, in the last few years black taps and showers have completely knocked chrome off the favourite finish shelf. So instead of ripping out your entire bathroom, why not just upgrade to a more fashionable finish and style?

If You Are Thinking About Selling Your Home, You May Need to Update Your Bathroom.

When selling your home, you want to get the most you can for it and believe it or not, a fresh, new bathroom will add more value for your home.

According to Property Market, ‘29% of homes sold in 2019 had a new bathroom fitted, so a full update might be the key to selling fast and earning more.’

Given that the Kitchen & Bathroom is one of the most important rooms, it should be the first space you want to tackle updating before putting your home on the market.

Resi, states ‘Typically, bathrooms have the potential to add between 4-5% onto your home’s value’.

We know what you’re thinking, ‘why would I spend thousands on a new bathroom, I won’t even be using’ and we understand your dismay.

But a new suite will be a huge selling point for selling your home and can even increase the price.

That being said, we will always provide you with some tips on how to keep the price down whilst making sure your bathroom is show stopping brilliant:

Keep your existing layout, moving sanitary ware such as baths or toilets would mean relocating pipes, which would add cost.If your bathroom furniture is in good condition, focus on only updating the walls/ floors. This could be adding a lick of paint (keep the colours muted/ neutral) or changing the floor tiles.If your bathroom is big enough, make sure you include a shower/bath. This will appeal to families with small children.

If You Don’t Like Your Bathroom, It’s Time to Update/ Renovate.

Perhaps you might have moved into your home some time ago and only just managed to get the money together to renovate the bathroom that never really fit your style.

Now, is the perfect time to start that bathroom renovation. Especially if this is a home you are planning to stay in for the next 30 years!

Before Image Photo Credit: @renovatingwaltonhouse

After Image of a bathroom that has utilised a small space and kept style
Photo Credit:@renovatingwaltonhouse

Depending on your budget there are a few products we would recommend you include in your bathroom. They are this season’s must haves!

Wall Hung Furniture are beautiful modern bathroom pieces that will help save space in your cloakroom, bathroom, or en-suite.

Black fixtures are everywhere at the minute and it’s no wonder when they look this good. The Big Bathroom Shop Nero collection is filled with silky, matt shower sets, taps and shower enclosures.

Inspired by urban living and statement décor, find a whole collection available to help you create a harmonised space.

@@buckinghamrenovation displaying how beautiful black bathroom features can look.

‘So, how often should we update other aspects of our bathroom?’, I hear you ask. Of course we have the answers for the smaller changes…

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

Changing your toothbrush is not something people do often enough. Resulting in your toothbrush becoming less effective and covered in bacteria.

A survey conducted by Carisbrook Dental, found that Woman change their toothbrush twice as often as men.

Experts from Oral B recommend changing your toothbrush every three months. Over time your toothbrush bristles will become frayed. Worn out bristles will be harsher on your gums and will not clean your teeth properly.

How Often Should You Update Your Shower Curtain or Bath Mat?

Depending on what your bath mat is made of, they generally they last up to 2 years. That is of course depending on how often you wash them.

As you can imagine they gather a lot of dirt and dust, so it’s important to wash them every week to keep them bacteria free.

The job of a bathmat is to catch the water from our bodies when we step out of the shower, so it’s inevitable they will get extremely wet. Therefore, it’s extremely important to always allow your bath mat to dry out after every use.

You can either pop them on your towel rail or radiator to keep them dry and toasty warm.

Shower curtains are notorious for collecting bacteria that can often turn into mould – we’ve all been there.

To avoid this from happening, make sure you scrub the curtain – this is a good option for plastic liner shower curtains, or pop it in the washing machine if made from fabric.

As soon as your shower curtain starts to look grubby or smelly, try to replace it every few months.

The post How Often Should You Update Your Bathroom? written by Rikki Fothergill appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.aboutbathroomdecor.com/?p=862

Modern Shower Styles For A Refreshing Bathroom Reset

When you really think about it, a shower system has to be considered one of the utmost important fixtures within a home – it provides the facility to kick off your day in a wholly revitalizing manner.

So, for the many people who count a refreshing showering experience as an integral part of their daily routine, we’ve decided to shine the spotlight on an immense variety of contemporary showers to ponder when upgrading your system.

Think premium performance, stunning aesthetics and ease of usability. All elements that will play a part in punctuating the profile of a perfect modern shower system addition, and enable the user to enjoy an efficiently invigorating shower with regularity for many years to come.

As such, the selection and buying of a modern shower really can prove to be one of the most integral decisions you make, certainly in terms of additions you make to your home, and more specifically, bathroom.

Don’t be daunted by the sheer wealth of modern shower ideas available, though. Allow Big Bathroom Shop to steer you through an ultra-stylish contemporary shower system landscape, dropping handy hints and tips along the way to ensure you ultimately arrive at the right modern shower choice.

What To Consider For Modern Showers

Before diving straight into shopping for modern showers, there’s a few things to take heed of, that might even help you to eliminate certain models from your thinking from the off.

Basically, you should consider which sort of domestic water system is in use at your home, in addition to the water pressure that is operational throughout the property.

The importance of these two simple factors cannot be underestimated – they can play a huge role in determining which types of contemporary showers represent suitable options for your bathroom specifically.

Essentially, the water pressure within your home will largely dictate how powerful the performance of any modern shower will be, and realistically which type you can install.

There’s a simple means to measure water pressure as detailed in our blog on How To Create An Amazing Showering Experience. However, if you aren’t totally confident in drawing up the correct calculations, you can enlist the services of a professional plumber for peace of mind.

With regards to the water system, you’ll typically find that UK properties tend to be built with one of three specific types. We’ll explain how to identify which sort your home incorporates below.

What Type Of Water System Do You Have?

Gravity Fed Water Systems

The most common type to be found within UK households, gravity fed water systems typically feature a cold water tank (often housed in an attic area), along with a water cylinder (usually stored in a closet or airing cupboard).

Such systems can be susceptible to providing low water pressure, however it is possible to enhance the pressure via the fitting of a shower pump.

A single pump has the facility to feed into multiple modern showers at the same time as well, making them a very worthy addition to larger properties with two or more working shower systems.

Combi Boiler Water Systems

Typically, combi boiler water systems will include a boiler in the absence of water cylinders or tanks. They are designed to heat up water as and when it is distributed via the connected shower, taps or other water outlets.

Generally speaking, combi boilers tend to offer the highest level of water pressure, and they can be teamed alongside a shower mixer to deliver hot water to order when required.

Unvented Water Systems

In the case of unvented water systems, a boiler or immersion heater raise the temperature of a water cylinder under high pressure.

This enables mass quantities of hot water to be supplied to modern showers and other water outlets within the home.

After you’ve identified which sort of water system is present in your home, and gauged an idea of the water pressure levels too, you’ll have formed a general idea regarding which sort of modern showers will be suited to your property specifically.

Furthermore, you’ll be aware of any sort of extra shower accessories you might need to guarantee your chosen component is working to its full capacity, such as shower pumps.

Essentially, determination of the correct water pressure and water system can help you narrow your modern shower system search down considerably, right from the off.

What Are The Main Types Of Modern Showers?

There’s a broad array of modern shower styles on the market, each offering their own unique advantages and in some instances, minor drawbacks as well.

We’ll dive deeper into the properties and features of each main type shortly, but first enjoy a brief overview of the various available models…

Thermostatic Mixer Showers

Thermostatic mixer showers boast a thermostatic shower valve, which allows the shower to deliver water which remains at a consistent set temperature.

They represent an especially prudent modern shower choice for family households in which elderly adults or young children make use of the shower facilities, given that they pose a much lower scalding risk.

Manual Mixer Showers

With manual mixer showers, both hot and cold water supplies are combined with manual functionality.

A fairly no-nonsense contemporary shower selection, manual mixer shower systems are simple to install and offer excellent ease of usability.

Digital Showers

Digital showers can essentially pertain to take the form of a new-age, ultra-modern thermostatic mixer shower. Basically, this shower style utilises digital technology to enable the user to program a set water temperature that will not fluctuate.

Depending on how advanced a model you potentially invest in, you could source a digital shower system with the capability to be regulated via a smartphone, remote control or alternate device.

Smart Showers

Another style to retain distinct possibilities with thermostatic mixer showers, smart shower systems do so in a yet more technologically savvy sense than even digital models do.

Smart showers seamlessly integrate with other smart home systems including the likes of Amazon Alexa and Google Nest, so you can control water settings like flow and temperature via voice activation settings.

Power Showers

Power showers are another type renowned for offering an efficient, hassle-free installation means.

They operate by taking water from both hot and cold water feeds, incorporating a key internal pump which bolsters water pressure to deliver an altogether more gratifying showering experience.

Electric Showers

Another modern shower style that is quick and easy to fit, electric showers are often confused for power showers due to their similar aesthetic. Such is the makeup of electric shower systems to include their own heating element, they are able to work with only a cold water supply intact.

Of course, the technical aspects of modern shower systems are a crucial consideration. However, you shouldn’t allow the ‘nuts and bolts’ elements completely dictate which type of shower you opt for.

Once you are satisfied you’re shopping in the right category of contemporary showers to suit your water system and pressure levels, you can go about selecting a style that meets your preferences from an appearance perspective.

Classic chrome, as well as brilliant bronze and black are amongst the most readily available modern shower finishes, so there’s versatility abound in terms of something to suit contemporary bathroom décor.

As earlier alluded to, there’s an immense variety of modern shower room ideas to wade through, so you can be confident of identifying the perfect combination of performance and aesthetics to enhance your specific bathroom space.

Thermostatic Mixer Showers

The mixer controls contained within these showers feature a thermostatic valve which will make sure water is maintained at a constant temperature. Exactly what the temperature is set to can be determined and altered by any users manually.

What results is a supreme choice with regards to family households, in which small children or elderly adults will regularly make use of the modern shower cubicles present. The increased reliability concerning temperature control makes them such a stellar pick from a safety perspective.

In order to successfully fit a working thermostatic mixer shower, you’ll need a hot and cold water supply with a water pressure of 0.1 bar or more.

You can also top up the water flow, if you would prefer, via the use of an electric pump.

Key advantages, as well advertised previously in the article, are the safety features of thermostatic mixer shower systems. They offer, on a basic level, a reduced scalding risk, with the water temperature completely unaffected by the use of other water outlets elsewhere in the home.

Manual Mixer Showers

Manual mixer showers are a perfect selection for settings that boast a strong hot water supply in cohesion with lofty water pressure.

This sort of modern shower combines both hot and cold water supplies so it can be set to the user’s ideal temperature any time they set foot within the shower enclosure. They are also very easy to initially install and simple to operate thereafter.

The same basic requirements exist for manual mixer showers as they do with thermostatic versions – both hot and cold water supplies must be present with a minimum water pressure gauge of 0.1 bar.

Usually providing a cheaper alternative to mixer showers with thermostatic properties, manual mixer shower systems are very much advantageous from an ease of installation and use perspective.

Given their inferior safety features in comparison however, manual mixer showers are perhaps better suited to adult-only households.

Digital Showers

As aforementioned, digital showers can largely be defined as a jazzed up, technologically enhanced version of thermostatic mixer models. They are able to provide meticulous water temperature control due to the presence of a standard processor.

Certain digital shower systems offer remote control functionality, allowing users to regulate water temperature and flow rate at the touch of a button via smartphone or an alternate device. An excellent generational innovation that enables you to get your shower up and running in prime condition ready for when you enter.

Both concealed and exposed shower valves can accompany digital showers as well, as well as specific digital valves, so you can be sure to find the right key fitting to enhance any modern shower room aesthetic.

To successfully fit a working digital shower, you’ll require hot and cold water supplies in addition to an electrical supply, plus a minimum 0.1 bar water pressure level. As with thermostatic showers, you can team electric pumps with digital systems to boost water flow, if you would prefer.

Ultimately, digital showers derive the utmost popularity for a combination of safety features, simple-to-use controls and cutting edge convenience elements such as remote control utility. Typically, they’ll boast ultra-contemporary looks as well, making for a seamless blend within a modern bathroom setting.

Smart Showers

Right at the very forefront of modern shower technology sit smart showers, which could loosely be referred to as a savvier, more modernised version of a digital shower system.

Smart showers can provide users with a truly tailored showering experience, with customisable features and settings applicable to water flow, temperature and timings in terms of when to switch on and off.

Many smart shower systems also offer touchless control, with in-built sensors constituting extremely easy usability. Plus, remote control functionality is again a regular feature amongst several smart shower models.

Hot and cold water supplies are again needed, with a minimum 1 bar water pressure level also required for smart showers to thrive. And an electric pump can be fitted to boost water flow, if a more immersive shower coverage better suits the preferences of the user.

Perfect for gadget lovers, smart showers’ main advantages stem from their capability to deliver a fully customised showering experience even without having to touch a single button. Most smart shower systems can be linked to voice activation devices such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa components.

Furthermore, you can create safety-specific shower programmes for any children or elderly relatives who might make use of your modern shower enclosure. All in all, they represent an excellent investment for the tech-savvy modern bathroom shopper, who loves to keep up to date with all the very latest home tech innovations.

Power Showers

The term ‘power showers’ is bandied about with great regularity, often times in reference to any sort of contemporary shower system that outputs a vigorous flow rate. But they are a modern shower type in and of themselves in actual fact.

Power showers incorporate an integrated shower pump, and are fed water from each of the hot and cold water supplies to provide an enhanced water flow.

Both thermostatic and manual versions of power showers exist, so you can select the style best reflective of your household needs. Generally, manual power showers will tend to be less expensive than thermostatic options.

Either type makes for an excellent addition to a home with low pressure water systems, especially those with gravity fed networks, though a consistently reliable water supply is a necessity. Again, hot and cold water supplies are required along with a minimum water pressure gauge of 0.1 bars.

Perhaps the biggest beneficial aspect of power showers as a modern shower selection is the fact that they can bolster water pressure even in the absence of an extra water pump.

Electric Showers

Often confused with power showers in several scenarios, electric showers actually represent one of the most common modern shower types available, due in no small part to their versatility. Essentially, they are suitable for fitting in almost any property.

Electric showers feature their own heating units, meaning they can operate irrespective of a connected hot water supply – a fact that makes them an especially prudent choice for the likes of bathroom en-suites or particularly small downstairs modern shower rooms.

Only a cold water supply is required with a minimum 0.1 bar water pressure gauge for a successful electric shower installation. However, the fitting must be completed by a qualified plumber and electrician. So be sure to factor in additional costs for these services when considering your modern shower budget.

Probably the biggest plus point with regards to electric showers is their suitability for any setting, along with their economical and efficient performance quality, and the fact that the temperature of the water they deliver is unaffected by any other outlets within the home.

Selecting The Right Modern Shower Head

Once you’ve zoned in on the perfect style of modern shower to add to your home, you can begin to think about which sort of shower head will best line up with your modern shower room ideas.

Contrasting shower head styles can have a massive influence not only on the aesthetics of the bathroom, but also on the way in which your modern shower system actually operates.

There’s four main styles of modern shower heads on the market, so we’ve put together a brief overview of each type below…

Ceiling Mounted Shower Heads

Arguably the most in-vogue option with regards to statement modern shower head style, ceiling mounted shower heads offer an entirely streamlined appearance, with the fixture failing to impact on any surrounding space.

Both square and rounded designs can be fit within the ceiling itself to create an ultra-contemporary look, and deliver a fully immersive shower experience with full coverage from above. They are an especially tempting option to team with modern shower systems that can provide a rainfall effect water flow.

Riser Kit Shower Heads

Riser kit shower heads are parked into a fixed bracket attached to the shower enclosure wall, and are adjustable depending on the height of the user for a more comfortable shower. Furthermore, they can be detached from their fixed or ‘resting’ position for targeted showering – homing in a specific area of the body or even for rinsing the modern shower cubicle.

An expansive array of riser kit shower head designs exist so you can be confident of finding a style to suit your tastes, and they’re certainly worth looking into as a fail-safe, simple shower head option.

Fixed Shower Heads

With fixed shower heads, which are amongst the very most popular available styles, the shower head can be wall mounted or ceiling mounted dependent upon personal preference, each providing a clean, luxurious aesthetic.

As such, fixed shower heads bore their main advantages from a looks perspective. They’re ideal for accentuating an elegant modern bathroom appearance, but are perhaps not the finest option for busy family bathroom areas, as they can’t be adjusted for more flexible usability.

Again, a wealth of fixed shower head designs exist, so if you do decide the style is right for you, there’ll be no trouble identifying attractive models for contemporary or traditional bathroom interiors.

Combination Shower Heads

There’s the best of both worlds, at least from a functionality point of view, with combination shower heads. In essence, this shower head type features both detachable and fixed shower heads to provide the utmost level of versatility.

Although you could fear multiple heads resulting in a cluttered look, the plethora of stylishly streamlined combination shower head sets available means such worries are unfounded.

You can create a classy appearance with the best aspects from both fixed shower heads and adjustable riser kits factored in with regards to usability.

Choosing The Right Modern Shower Valves

Another supporting element that has to be considered when investing in a new modern shower system is which sort of valves you opt for, as well. Two main types exist in the form of concealed and exposed shower valves, with single, double and sometimes triple versions available in each style. So you can select the ideal version in accordance with the number of outlets your modern shower features…

Concealed Shower Valves

Concealed shower valves are a particularly popular pick for modern shower room areas in which slick, streamlined designer flair is the order of the day.

As their moniker suggests, concealed valves are barely visible, with their working parts cleverly masked by the wall they are attached to. The only parts to be clearly seen tend to be the controls attached to a back plate which are connected directly to the wall.

When fitted in cohesion with fixed shower heads, concealed shower valves will feed straight into the ceiling or wall. If you install concealed valves to work with a riser kit or shower hose, by contrast, an extra outlet will usually be used to feed into the component.

The space-saving, sleek profile of concealed shower valves probably has the strongest claims with regards to reasoning for their immense popularity.

Exposed Shower Valves

They’ll typically take the eye instantly, with exposed shower valves visible on the exterior of shower walls.

Again, there’s a multitude of different exposed valve designs available to suit any bathroom layout or style. Shower bar valves are the most common type of model available.

In the case of exposed valves, riser kits, shower pipes or hoses will connect to the valve directly.

All in all, they’re an easy-to-install and comparatively inexpensive shower valve solution, if perhaps not providing the same level of aesthetic appeal for modern bathroom interiors as their concealed counterparts.

Combining Features For A Perfect Modern Shower

Once you understand the key features that combine to make the right modern shower system for you, you can work out whether all main components fall within your budget, and start putting together your dream setup.

Of course, a simpler and potentially more cost-effective way to do so can be to invest in modern shower bundles or shower panels, which will often incorporate all the elements you crave into a single component.

Indeed, sleek shower towers will typically incorporate a shower head, often offering rainfall flow functionality, as well as in-built valves and simple touch-button or touchless controls.

As alluded to, they can make for a simple but effortlessly stylish means to bring ideal modern shower aesthetics and practicality to your bathroom in one fell swoop.

Alternatively, you can put together your own bespoke perfect modern shower package by selecting a shower head in your ideal shape, along with the perfect accompanying valves and control panels.

Shop Modern Shower Systems With Big Bathroom Shop

No matter which sort of modern shower style you have your heart set on, there’s an excellent array of options available from Big Bathroom Shop, seamlessly combining outstanding aesthetics with premium quality functionality.

If you would like any further help or advice with regards to selecting the perfect modern shower system for your bathroom space, or have any other pressing bathroom concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.

You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below, or contact us via InstagramFacebook or Twitter.

The post A Buyer’s Guide To Modern Showers written by John Klee appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

If you’re looking for some mischievous elf on the shelf bathroom ideas, then you have come to the right place. Get ready for some brilliantly wicked ideas this holiday season.

Parents, it’s that time of year again to drag the naughty Elf on the shelf out of the attack and start to plan his mischievous shenanigans.

For some, thinking of ideas comes naturally but for most after a week or so, you may find yourself running out of ideas. Do not fear, we are here to help you devise the most brilliantly naughty elf on the shelf activities that your little ones will love.

Where Can I Get An Elf On A Shelf?

If you’re new to Elf on a shelf and are ready to take on the almighty challenge (and have some mega fun), you can purchase an elf from many UK retailers including John Lewis, Argos, Ebay or Smyth’s Toy Store’s, for as little as £16.99.

Choose between a girl or boy (or get both) and give them a great name. Buddy & Elfie are our personal favourites!

Top Tip For Parents

Being a parent means you’re extremely busy and I think it’s safe to say it’s easy to forget to move your Elf. Consider setting an alarm on your phone to remind yourself to move your Elf-just in case life gets busy.

Make sure you don’t label the alarm anything too obvious and spoil it for the children.

1. Starting with the classic, Elf Wraps the Toilet

Kicking off with a tame one, wrapping up your entire toilet seat and pop your Elf proudly on the cistern. This should only take around 5-10 mins (if that) and your children will love it in the morning!

2. Elf’s Toilet Tissue Turmoil

If you really want to shock the kids, purchase the cheapest loo roll you can find and let the tissue turmoil unfold. Cover as much as the room as you can, drape it from the lights, cover the floor and loo until no piece of furniture is left untouched.

Photo Credit: bollingwith5

3. Toothpaste Graffiti

Use toothpaste and leave a naughty or nice message on the bathroom mirror. Frame your Elf by leaving them sat on your basin holding the toothpaste tube. You can use this trick to encourage your little ones to brush their teeth, or just use it as an opportunity to make them laugh early in the morning.

Here are some message ideas

‘Hey ______ remember to brush your teeth! Love Elfie!’

‘Good morning ___ & ___!’

‘Sorry about the mess – I was bored, Love Elfie!’

‘Elves Rule!’

Photo Credit – Michelle Rowan

4. Buddy the Elf Goes Fishing

 Moving back to the tamer ideas, fill up your basin sink with water and makeshift a little fishing rod with a toothpick and a piece of string. Add in some plastic fish/ fish toys to make it look like he’s had a fun fishing trip during the night.

Photo credit: becoming-family.com

5. Elf Goes to The Toilet

We now go on to abhorrent territory with the ultimate shock factor… Elf uses the toilet! (DU DU DUUU!) Take your Elf and place him/her on the toilet seat. Use paper and chocolate chips to stage a graphic toilet incident.

Photo credit- onecrazyhouse.com

6. Elf Has a Shave

Use existing shaving foam or purchase a cheap one from your local supermarket and amuse the kids with a staged Buddy/Eflie attempting to shave. Cover Elf’s lower face with cream/foam and leave the razor in the hands of your naughty house Elf.  

Photo credit: Buzzfeed

7. Elf Takes a Balloon Bath

Hygiene is something Elf’s take very seriously. So why not run him a lovely, calm, and soothing balloon bath? Blow up as many balloons as you can and fill the entire tub. Leave buddy/Elfie with him arms behind his head, in the ultimate ‘chill’ position, laid on top of one of the balloons.

Not only will the kids love the idea, but they’ll also have plenty of fun playing with all the balloons!

Photo Credit -elfontheshelf.com

8. Elf Tries to Floss

This is an idea for the evenings when you can’t bring yourself to mess up the house.

Get some teeth floss, tangle It around your Elf and leave it on the basin sink for your children to discover!

Leave a little note from your Elf stating that he/she attempted to floss – simple but very effective!

Photo Credit – elfontheshelf.com

9. Tissue Flakes

You’ll need to leave this one until you have some spare time and the energy to be creative…

Use some cheap rolls of toilet tissue to create tissue flakes and leave them around the bathroom, you can create as many as you like. Go wild and cover the room or take the less messy approach and create a chain of them running from the toilet holder to the floor.

Place your Elf on the toilet roll holder with the scissors nearby, framing him/ her for the mess!

Photo Credit – Diana Duenwald

10. The Elf on Shelf Bathroom Swing Idea

Welcome your Elf back with a bang on the 1st of December by creating your own Elf swing. Create a swing in the doorway of your bathroom, with an empty loo roll as the seat. Place the Elf on the swing seat with a note saying, ‘I’m back!’

Photo Credit – wordtoyourmotherblog

There we have it! 10 mischievous Elf on the Shelf Ideas for the bathroom. We hope you enjoy the festive season and have a wonderful Christmas!

The post Top 10 Mischievous Elf on The Shelf Bathroom Ideas written by Rikki Fothergill appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

Luxury bathroom ideas can give way into Golden bathrooms, and those are certainly incredible spaces that one can truly fall in love with! From the lights that shimmer and shine to the floors that can irradiate the warmest of all feelings and the most intense moments of absolute paradise! How can one deny the appeal of a golden bathroom? The luxury, sophistication and elegance that are imbued in them! To help you figure out what the best bathroom for you could be, we have gathered some of the most incredible golden bathroom designs!

Continue reading Modern Luxury Bathroom Ideas and Golden Bathrooms: A List at Maison Valentina Blog.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.aboutbathroomdecor.com/?p=806

A shower pan will likely NOT be the most exciting feature of your bathroom remodel. However, when you think about it your shower pan is the foundation of your shower. It’s something you don’t think about …until it fails. Then its too late. Then ‘the fix’ is painful and expensive. Shower pans AREN’T sexy. Shower […]

The post The Pros and Cons of a Grout Free Low Profile Shower Pan appeared first on Innovate Building Solutions Blog – Home Remodeling, Design Ideas & Advice.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.aboutbathroomdecor.com/?p=803

Including Baths And Showers In Your Regular Routine

One of the overwhelming findings of our recent research into the showers vs baths debates is that there’s a multitude of benefits associated with both. It’s worth finding the time to fit either into your schedule therefore, but what is the best way to do so?

In this article, we’ll aim to offer key tips and advice with regards to the best timings to take a bath and the ideal spot to take a shower, explaining the when’s and why’s that will be most advantageous pertaining to physical and mental requirements.

Furthermore, we’ll take into account extenuating circumstances that might influence whether a bath or shower is preferable at a particular time for a person in a specific physical state.

And even sprinkle in a few hints alluding to creating the perfect bathing or showering experience for the very best effect…

The Pursuit Of Cleanliness: Showers Or Baths?

First things first, stripped down to a base level, showers are the clear outstanding option as it pertains to simply cleansing your body from head to toe.

If the goal is just to achieve a state of the utmost cleanliness, showers must be the selection. They will provide an even distribution of water for full body coverage, eliminating contaminated water during the process.

Whilst indulging in a shower, the water will combine efficiently with the likes of shower gels or soaps to shatter the sweat, oils and dirt attached to the skin. This used water is then disposed of with natural immediacy by running straight down the shower drain.

The Best Times To Take A Bath

So, though making use of shower systems represents a blatant choice when it comes to purely cleaning the body, that certainly doesn’t dismiss baths from the equation as a useful and enjoyable vice.

Baths have a multitude of purposes, stimulating the nervous system and aiding muscle relaxation, all the while providing gentle exfoliation of the skin. The regular use of baths has also been proven to have a positive effect on mental wellbeing, with stress, depression and fatigue less common amongst those who bathe frequently.

But when is the best time to take a bath in accordance with how you might be feeling? And how can a specific type of bath offer the perfect pick-me-up in correlation with your physical or mental state? Read on to find out…

Baths To Combat Cold And Flu

If you’re suffering from illness like a common cold or flu, a warm bath can help to alleviate some symptoms – the bath water pouring over your chest will be especially helpful.

Essentially, warm baths will help to relax aching muscles, break a fever, and deliver some relief from congestion within the sinuses and chest area in particular.

WHEN you’re feeling under the weather.

Home Healing With Sitz Baths

A sitz bath is essentially the process of sitting in a home bathtub engulfed by warm water which only reaches around the hips and lower buttocks.

This type of bath is a perfect means for the healing of the perineum in the aftermath of giving birth. They can also assist with lesser issues, soothing itching, skin irritation and hemorrhoids.

WHEN you’re suffering from skin irritation.

Soaking To Soothe Stress

As alluded to earlier, plenty of previous research has indicated that a bath is an extremely helpful stress reliever.

Even more so when the bath water is infused with some essential oils, muscle soak solution, bath bombs and the like. Eucalyptus and lavender are particularly enviable ingredients for relaxation, muscle repair and the calming of the mind in an aromatherapy bath.

WHEN you’re feeling stressed out mentally and worn out physically.

Special Skin Remedy Baths

Outside of bathing merely in warm water, there are other types of baths that can act as excellent remedies for sore or dry skin, and form an integral part of a cleansing routine for sufferers of specific skin conditions.

Namely, and most commonly, psoriasis and eczema can be treated with oatmeal baths, which will help to curtail inflammation and redness on the skin. More information surrounding special skin care baths can be found in our dedicated blog, What Are The Benefits Of An Oatmeal Bath?

WHEN you’re suffering from irritable skin conditions.

The Best Times To Take A Shower

As is the case with taking a bath, the refreshing deluge of water that encapsulates the body during a shower is accompanied by several health benefits.

Amongst these advantages is a propensity to release bodily toxins and soothe muscle aches, as well as helping to enhance the immune system and burn fat.

A look into the best times to take a shower, and which type of shower to take, in line with your physical and mental condition in general…

Showers To Make The Skin Glow

In a process known as vascoconstriction, the blood circulation beneath the skin is improved when taking a shower.

The result of this is a stimulation of the blood flow around the scalp area, which will encourage glowing hair and healthy, shiny skin.

WHEN your skin and hair feels greasy or unclean.

Increasing Immunity In The Shower

Most people’s ideas of a comfortable showering experience involves being engulfed in a warm, fulsome flow of water, perhaps in a rainfall effect. And whilst that’s all well and good, there’s also a multitude of advantages to taking a cold shower, as detailed in our dedicated blog on the subject – Cold Shower vs Hot Shower – What Are The Benefits?

One such key advantage presented by cold showers is their facility to bolster the immune system of the user, even within a shower that might start at a low temperature and gradually increase over time.

WHEN you’re feeling fine and healthy. Any time is realistically a good time to take a cold and/or hot shower to enhance your immune system in due course.

Potential To Assist With Depression

Another monumental plus point of colder showers is that they can potentially assist those struggling with depression.

Showers which begin at a lukewarm temperature, decreasing in stages, are brilliant for stimulating the nervous system and enabling endorphins to be released, thus helping to alleviate depression symptoms.

WHEN you are feeling downbeat or could be struggling mentally.

How To Decide Whether To Take A Bath Or Shower

In essence, your own priorities with regards to personal hygiene, and how you’re feeling at any particular time, should largely dictate whether you opt to take a bath or a shower.

To achieve a state of comfortable relaxation, tackle chronic pain and alleviate muscle fatigue, a bath is the right way to go.

By contrast, showers would be the preferred choice for those placing a greater emphasis on efficient daily cleansing. And also for anyone hoping to quell the effects of common illnesses, as regular showering can also help to bolster the immune system over time. Especially so when cold temperatures are intertwined with a warmer water flow during body washes.

We have a full dedicated guide on how to take the perfect shower for an enjoyable cleaning experience, but be sure to take into account the multiple positive effects derived from colder showers as well.

Get In Touch With Big Bathroom Shop

If you would like any further advice with regards to the best time to take a bath or shower, or want more information on the specific concerning items like freestanding bathtubs and modern showers, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below, or contact us via InstagramFacebook or Twitter.

The post When To Take A Bath And When To Have A Shower? written by John Klee appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

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In this article we explore the amazing benefits of milk baths, how to take one and more importantly, how they work!

Celebrated by beauty gurus for centuries, the first ever record of a milk bath dates right back to the Roman era.

So why have milk baths stood the test of time?…

What are Milk Baths?

A milk bath is simply a bath that you add milk to, in liquid or powder form to help ease a number of skin conditions that cause irritation.

Milk contains something called lactic acid, which helps gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it with a much smoother texture and easing the symptoms of dry, rough skin.

So, Where Did Milk Baths Come From?

As we mentioned above, the first records of introducing milk into a bath dates back to the Roman Empress, Poppaea. Some historians, say that this Empress put bathing on the map after the death of Cleopatra – Fun fact for you!

What Are the Benefits of A Milk Bath?

As far as scientific evidence goes, there isn’t much on the effectiveness of milk baths. However, the benefits have been passed down from generations for hundreds of years. So, that’s got to count for something, surely?

Despite a lack of scientific research, there are plenty of anecdotal evidence to show that they do help reduce, irritated, itchy, inflamed skin. Here’s how…

Milk Baths Help to Clear Dry Skin

Living with extreme dry skin can become as issue. As the skin dries out, other symptoms follow such as itching and irritation. Lying in milk can benefit the skin as it helps to restore lost moisture.

This is because milk contains five elements that our skin loves; proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and lactic acids.

Protein and fats help soften the skin, whilst vitamins and minerals help protect the skin and keep It safe from damage. The lactic acid acts as a gentle exfoliate and stimulates collagen.

Milk Baths Help Reduce Eczema

The main symptoms of Eczema are itchy, dry, rough, flakey, inflamed, and irritated skin. Similar to dry skin, there are benefits in milk that helps irritated skin. Once again, this hasn’t been scientifically proven to help Eczema but many people have sworn a milk bath dramatically helps the severity of their condition.

If you suffer bad with your Eczema we would recommend you mention this to your doctor, dermatologist, or pharmacy before trying a milk bath.

Milk Baths Can Help Ease Psoriasis

Around 1.1 million people in the UK suffer with the itchy skin condition, Psoriasis, according to research conducted by the University of Manchester. So, if you’re one of these people, milk baths might hold the key to helping ease the irritable symptoms Psoriasis can produce.

The vitamins in the bath may help soothe the itchy, flaky and patchy skin commonly caused by Psoriasis.

Milk Baths Are Said to Soothe Sunburn

Sunburn can cause a nasty sting, as well as permanently damaging your skin – so make sure you are slapping the suntan lotion on. If it’s too late and you’re already badly burnt, we would recommend this remedy to take away the burn.

The fats, acids and proteins found in milk will help soothe sunburnt skin. Soak for around 20 minutes and follow up with an aloe vera moisturiser to nourish the skin.  

How Are Milk Baths Good For the Skin?

A bath of milky goodness is brilliant for your skin as it acts in three ways:

ExfoliatesReduces InflammationHydrates

A Milk Bath Exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells. This happens because of the alpha hydroxy acid/ lactic acid in the milk. Exfoliators work against the top layers of your skin to remove dead or dull cells and helps to improve the overall texture of the skin. Therefore, any dry areas of the skin should be helped by bathing in milk.

Inflammation of the skin can be treated with a milk bath. As we mentioned above, milk contains proteins and vitamins that help reduce inflammation. Once you have soaked in milk, it’s very important to lock moisture back into the skin once burnt. Using aloe vera is a great way to retain as much moisture as possible.

Milk benefits the skin with how well it can hydrate and replenish. Through vitamins, minerals and fats, milk will restore lost hydration

What Type of Milk Do You Use In A Milk Bath?

When it comes to choosing the type of milk, anything goes. Thanks to our ever-evolving alternatives, there are a variety of milk options to choose from.

Cow’s milk is commonly used in a milk bath. This is because it is the most accessible form of milk. It’s low-costing and full fat cow’s milk is the most nourishing for your skin.

You can also use milk in powder form or milk bath bombs. A natural soothing milk bath bomb can be found at places such as The Body Shop.

If you’re looking for vegan options, soy milk or oat-milk will work just as well.

Milk bath milk options:

Whole milkCoconut milkGoat’s milkSoy milkPowdered milkRice milk

How to Make a Milk Bath?

Now you know what milk to use and the amazing benefits, it’s time to learn how to run the ultimate, soothing milk bath.

Depending on the form of milk you have chosen here are best ways to make a milk-bath.

How To Make a Liquid Milk Bath?

To make a milk bath at home:

Run warm water until the desired amount is reached.Pour 2 cups of your preferred milk.To create a wonderfully relaxing bath, add in the following – honey, essential oils, Epsom bath salts or sea salt.

Top Tip – avoid including any scented products or chemicals, such as bath soaps. To create the ultimate soothing bath experience, add rose petals – it sounds slightly extravagant but we promise you, you won’t regret it!

How To Make a Powdered Milk Bath?

If you rather use powdered milk or milk bath bombs. Here’s how:

Start to fill your bath with warm water.Add two cups of milk powder or alternatively, plop in your milk bath bomb.Again, feel free to include honey, bath salts or essential oils.Calmly swish the bath water around to mix all the ingredients.Soak for 20 minutes and moisturise thoroughly.

Milk Baths for Babies

We all know how important milk is for babies, especially breast milk. Giving your baby a milk bath has been a popular, gentle way to resolve any irritated skin issues your little one may be having, such as diaper rash, eczema, or even dry patches of skin.

Can Babies Have Milk Baths?

Yes, milk baths are a natural inflammatory for itchy or irritable skin conditions that babies commonly get. Add pumped breast milk (for best results) into some warm bath water until water looks cloudy. The milk is packed with soothing antibacterial properties that will relieve, nourish, and protect your baby from dry, itchy skin.

What Are The Benefits of Milk Baths For Babies?

Breast milk baths have been used to treat babies with:

Dry SkinNappy RashEczemaCradle capBaby AcneSkin Feel Soft

There isn’t much scientific evidence to back up the effectiveness. However, Dr’s from around the world have claimed that patients have used this method to hydrate their child’s skin.

So, there we have it. Everything you need to know about this aesthetically pleasing, skin rejuvenating bath remedy.

Read more about bath health benefits here

The post Milk Baths: What Are the Amazing Benefits? written by Rikki Fothergill appeared first on Big Bathroom Shop.

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