One my first attempt using the steam cleaner I went after the backsplash tiles in the kitchen, the stove and the fridge. The cleaner worked great on the stove and the fridge. It really got the grime out of the corners and crevices on both appliances.

The backsplash tiles in the kitchen were another matter. I used the scrubbing attachment on the steamer to try to clean the grout area between the tiles and while the grout did look cleaner where I worked at it they didn’t look anywhere near as clean as I’d hoped.

I guess I was hoping that using the steamer once on the tiles would remove years of grime that had built up on the grout. I guess I’m going to have to get some kind of grout cleaner to clean the grout between the backsplash tiles and then I can use the Shark Steamer to maintain the clean look.

One my next attempt to use the Shark steamer I’m going to tackle the bathroom. The grout in the bathroom isn’t that bad, but it could use a good cleaning. What I really want to clean in there is the silicone seal between the tub and the shower wall tiles. It looks like it has mildew in some areas and the steamer should at least help kill the mildew … and hopefully remove it too.

Actually almost all of our upstairs bathroom is tile of some kind or another. The tub/shower area is tiles up to the ceiling and then the walls have tile that goes from the ground up to about 4.5 feet in height. (our Kitchen is like that too .. I guess the former home owners really liked tile?). The bathroom floor has those tiny square floor tiles and yes, the grout between those tiles could use a very good cleaning too.

Hopefully I’ll find the time this weekend to get the steam cleaner out and try it out in the bathroom. It’s a shame that I’ve only used it once since I bought it.

Do you have a general purpose steamer that you use to clean the bathroom, tiles, appliance and perhaps even the floor? If so, what kind do you have and are you happy with it’s performance?

Current Space Or Add To It?

When you are planning out your new bathroom layout, think about whether or not you’ll have enough room in the existing space. If, for example, you don’t have the space to put in that large sized shower you’re looking forward to installing, you might need to add a little space. If you are thinking of expanding and knocking out some walls, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the room to expand. Be sure to figure in the expansion when you’re getting bids and planning your budget. When figuring out your space, you’re also going to want to know if you have the room to add on. If you have a big yard, it’s not going to be a problem. If you don’t have the room you need, you’ll probably have to go back to the drawing board with your bathroom planning.

Components

Now that you know what kind of space you have to work with, you’re going to want to fill it with the various components, such as sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, and whatever else you want to put in there. When you pick out the bathroom components, think about the style you want to go with like modern, classic, or country. The main thing to keep in mind when bathroom planning is that you want to remain consistent. Keep everything looking clean and professional by sticking with one look. Just have fun with it, as bathroom planning is a blast. The best part comes, though, when you’re all done and you can finally look at your finished product and know that you planned it all by yourself.

Bathroom Remodeling Thought – The Fairmont Design Bath Vanity Collage Collection is one of our favorite lines of bathroom vanities. We continually recommend this series of products and our clients are never dissappointed.

By: Chet Lystrom

What to Check Before You Start the Bathroom Remodel

Check with your contractor if you need to add more space for your spa style bathroom remodeling. Assuming all that you want to do can be accomplished in the current space, go ahead and get started. If you are planning to increase space by breaking a wall, you better get a permit to avoid hassles. You will need to check with your city hall to determine the type of permits you’ll need. Believe it or not, not have the proper permit can cause you lots of trouble down the road. Also, you can concentrate on your spa bathroom without any hindrances.

Funding
There are various methods to accommodate your spa style bathroom remodeling. Those of you with good credit shouldn’t have any problem taking the plans to your local bank for a loan. You can try mortgage or reverse mortgage of your home. Alternatively, you can work out with your contractor and come up with a mutually agreeable payment plan. Check out all your options and be prepared before starting your spa style bathroom remodeling.

Planning
A good plan needs to be in place for the first nail is pounded to ensure a successful spa style bathroom remodeling project. You must first decide on how you want your bathroom to be. Take tips from magazines or remodeling books. Another good source for research is the internet. Check out with your friends if they have a spa style bathroom and know the facts which will not only help remodel your bathroom, but also in planning additional costs involved in maintenance. The success of your spa style bathroom remodeling project hinges on taking your time during the research and planning phase.

Bathroom Remodeling Idea – The Fairmont Designs Bathroom Collage Collection is one of our favorite lines of bathroom vanities. We continually recommend this series of products and our clients are never dissappointed.

By: Chet Lystrom

Mirrors Reflect Light – This Can Be Used To Your Advantage

Everyone knows the major, most important, role of a bathroom mirror – to see your reflection while going about your ablutions – but most people forget another important role of mirrors that can be used to great effect when doing renovations or redecorating. Mirrors that are correctly positioned reflect light to create the illusion of more space. Mirrors reflect light, both natural and artificial, which can add a certain sparkle or vibrancy to any bathroom. Be sure to arrange your mirrors in such a way that they reflect the major sources of light entering or emanating from your bathroom, i.e. natural light from outside and artificial light from the bathroom light fixtures.

Shape And Size Can Make A Big Difference

To design the bathroom of your dreams, you need to take the shape and size of the mirrors into consideration. Different shapes and sizes create different effects.

For example, if you are going for a soft, gentle tone for your bathroom, it is best to use oval mirrors. On the other hand, a square mirror can give your bathroom a more solid look. If you wish to create the illusion of more space in a small bathroom, use large rectangular bathroom wall mirrors.

Design Elements Must Not Clash

Do not buy your mirrors without ensuring that they match the overall design of your bathroom. The mirror design should obviously not clash with the rest of your bathroom decor.

If a contractor or interior designer redesigned your bathroom, it is best to consult him or her before buying your bathroom mirrors. He or she will be able to provide you with expert advice regarding the correct, or most appropriate, shape and size of the mirrors that will round off or complete your bathroom design.

If you did a DIY job on your bathroom, make sure that you examine your plans carefully to ascertain which mirrors best complement your design.

There Are No Boundaries – Be Creative

There are no limits as to the shapes, sizes, and colors of bathroom mirrors that can be used. Try out various ideas. The market is full of exciting options and possibilities that can be used to good effect. Let your mind wander! Find the bathroom mirror design that best suits your personality.

The first thing you will note on entering the  room will be the color scheme which ultimately sets the overall tone. Ideally, use a warm color on the walls and choose tiles and accessories that add bright accents. The cool look that white fixtures offer can be offset with the use of warm colored flooring, tiling and tile backsplash. Deep colored walls combined with a dynamic flooring pattern can also make a big difference. For bathroom tiling designs, remember to look beyond color to consider texture and tile sizes.To produce a relaxing ambience as well as highlighting the tiling, you should go for soft lighting on both the vanity and ceiling.

Refashioning the sink is one of the simplest ways to upgrade the look of your bathroom. A modern stylish bathroom sink with faucet will provide a piece that is not only practical but ornamental as well. Instead of a uninteresting white chinaware sink, have a look at glass, granite or ceramic. When paired with modern and well designed spigots, you will end up with a sink that is both sturdy and beautiful to look at. For a savvy design choice, consider a pre matched sink and countertops which are a smart way to reduce cost. In a small bathroom where lack of space is an issue, you can always go for a pedestal sink instead.

Besides being practical, a truly stunning bathroom is all about creating a relaxing escape. Consequently, deciding on the ideal bathtub is paramount. There are different types of luxury bath choices including a claw foot, whirlpool or soaking tub. They do not come cheap but if you love your baths, then the investment is well worth it. However, you have to consider if walls will need to be moved to fit that corner Jacuzzi tub and whether there will be any issues with drainage.

Shopping for a small bathroom toilet should be next on your agenda. The vintage pull-chain water closet is back in fashion so if you are going for functionality and panache, these are well worth considering. Most toilets are available in colors to match your interior decoration and sport features from built in fans to automatic bidets.

Small bathroom remodeling does comprise of more than just changing the fixtures. The right cabinetry together with accessories will put the perfect final additions to your new bathroom, so feel free to be creative. If you are not sure of doing the job yourself, employ somebody to construct custom-made cabinets that are a perfect match to everything else in the room. In addition, spend a bit of money on interesting accessories like soap decanters, toothbrush holders and bathroom wall mirrors.

When all is said and done, you should go for pieces that you like together with colors that instill a restful feeling. A stunning bathroom stocked and decorated with items that appeal to you will definitely leave you feeling rejuvenated.