Ceramic Hair Straighteners

Ceramic hair straighteners are the only way to achieve the perennially chic look of soft, straight hair. Ceramic is less damaging and heats more quickly than other materials, so hair can be straightened each day and still retain bounce and movement. As ceramic hair straighteners have become more popular, more and more models have been introduced to the market. They range in price from around $50 to over $200 depending on the manufacturer, the thickness and width of the ceramic plates, and the durability of their construction. There are a number of things to keep in mind when purchasing a ceramic hair straightener, so use the following tips as a guide for choosing the model that is right for you.

One of the first decisions to make when choosing the right straightener for your hair is the ideal width of the plate. Typically, straighteners are offered in widths from 1” to 3”, but there are some models that are slightly thinner or wider than those standard measurements. The length of the hair that will be straightened should be the determining factor in which width to choose. For short hair, thinner plates are easier to maneuver and will help the user retain some body even after straightening. Hair may be twisted around smaller irons to give it a slight curl at the end or a little extra movement. Those with long hair may wish to consider the wider, 3” barrel. This can be a great time saver and will allow the user to straighten even the longest hair in minutes. Some control is given up when using wide plates, so they should only be considered by those who want stick straight hair.


Some of the best ceramic hair straighteners are those used by professionals. They are also the most expensive, and can cost well over $100. Professional ceramic hair straighteners feature a very thick ceramic coating on their heated plates, ensuring that they will last through many years of use. When the ceramic wears, and the metal underneath shows through, the hair will come into damaging contact with a surface through which it cannot easily pass. This can lead to split ends, fly-aways, and a loss of moisture. In addition, the plates will no longer heat uniformly and its ability to straighten effectively will be compromised. To find the best straightener for your hair type, talk to your stylist about the brand that is used in your salon. Most professional quality ceramic hair straighteners are sold online and customers should always read online reviews before making an investment.

There are high quality ceramic hair straighteners available for less than $100. These models may have fewer heat settings, may heat more slowly, and have a thinner ceramic coating on the plates than their professional counterparts. Also keep in mind that 1” wide straighteners will be less expensive than those that are 3” or wider. If you will be opting for a lower cost model, be sure to monitor the wear of the plates carefully. If the (usually) gold color ceramic seems to be wearing off and the base is showing through, it is time to replace the iron before damage is done to your hair. Users should feel little to no resistance when pulling hair through a good ceramic hair straightener, so if it feels like your hair is getting caught; it is time to invest in a new model.

Ceramic hair straighteners are easy and quick to use, and will produce consistently beautiful hair every day. The high temperatures to which they heat ensure that hair will stay straight and smooth until the next time it is washed or gets wet, so there is no need for touchups throughout the day.

Bathroom Exhaust Fans: An Important Design Element for Modern Homes

Bathroom exhaust fans are an important addition to any bathroom. Not only do they help keep a bathroom fresh and odor-free, they also help to eliminate the moisture that can cause paint to peel and cupboards and doors to warp, as well as the formation of mold and mildew.

There are currently multiple makes and models of bathroom exhaust fans available on the market, facilitating the selection of a fan that will be unobtrusive and will match the decor of its intended bathroom, while providing a wide variety of additional features, if they are desired. You may wish to install a bathroom exhaust fan in a specific location. In order to facilitate this, there exist models specifically intended to be mounted on either the wall or the ceiling. In addition, designers have the option of installing bathroom exhaust fans with light fixtures either attached or built in, and/or with heaters and timers.

One reliable brand with a great variety of models to choose from is panasonic bathroom exhaust fans. Visit panasonic.com to view their multiple selections. They proudly advertise their line of WhisperGreen vent fans, which are part of Panasonic’s “worldwide green mission,” and which, according to Panasonic.com, are up to 621% more efficient than EnergyStar standards. Panasonic.com also offers an excellent tool for customers in the form of a questionnaire that helps to determine which bathroom exhaust fans will be best for specific situations. Upon completion of the questionnaire, individuals are directed to the link for the specific fans that Panasonic.com has determined will best satisfy their requirements.


Bathroom exhaust fans are most efficiently installed during the initial stages of construction, in order to ensure that the wiring and electronic connection will be effective within the larger construction plan. Because of the wiring and switches, installation can be complicated, particularly when involving multiple applications, such as a bathroom exhaust fan light, heater, or timer. It is still possible to do these installations without the help of a professional however, and there exist several online resources that can offer advice and step-by-step instructions for these and other similar maintenance procedures.

Some basic Do It Yourself guidelines for the installation of bathroom exhaust fans include ensuring that the power is switched off at the source when doing any work around electrical circuits or exposed wires, locking the circuit box, and testing the wires for electrical circuit to ensure that they are indeed turned off. One should also always be sure to wear necessary protective equipment, such as goggles to protect the eyes, and a dust mask. Be sure to conduct thorough research before embarking on such a project, and if you are unsure of how to proceed, it is best to consult an expert. Websites such as the above-mentioned Panasonic.com sometimes even suggest preferred vendors that offer installation services as well. For more detailed installation advice, some home improvement stores offer free online guides. Check out lowes.com for detailed instructions on how to install bathroom exhaust fans and other home improvement products.

There exist several additional features that can be sought out when shopping for bathroom exhaust fans. These include fans that are extra quiet, and fans that contain built-in moisture sensors, in order to turn on automatically when the moisture level in the room reaches a specific point. Additional considerations may include price (bathroom exhaust fan prices vary widely, depending on makes, models, and additional special features. Most of them range between $20.00 and $120.00 USD,) the type of support offered by the manufacturer or retailer, and whether or not there is a warranty included with the system.

Regardless of the model of bathroom exhaust fan that you eventually choose, you can be assured that the inclusion any such fan in your home will improve the quality of your bathroom, keeping it fresh and odor and moisture-free.

Bath Oil Benefits the Mind and Body

Whether you are looking for a way to relax after a long day, to prepare for an event, or just to take a little time for yourself, consider adding a touch of bath oil to your bath water. Bath oil is essentially a body care product that is added to regular bath water for a luxuriant experience that has multiple benefits, including moisturizing properties and aromatherapy.

Bath oils are made from a variety of ingredients. They may have one or a combination of the following oil extracts as their base: coconut, olive, sesame, nuts, jojoba, and vitamin E. Additional herbal ingredients that may be added for aromatheraputical purposes, or for a specific scent, may include Ylang Ylang, rose, citrus, lemon verbena, bergamot, or eucalyptus.

In addition to being an excellent means of softening and nourishing skin, and smoothing out rough dry patches, aromatherapy bath oil has the ability to either relax or energize you, and can even boost the immune system. These moisturizing aromatheraputical properties are heightened when used in a bath setting because the hot water helps to release the beneficial scents into the air, while simultaneously opening the skin’s pores and facilitating absorption of the beneficial oils.


Bath oil is available for purchase at most body care stores. It can also be purchased online. One popular and reliable online brand is Kneipp bath oil, which boasts that their products are like “a health spa treatment at home,” and provide “physiological and psychological benefits for mind and body.” Their herbal formulas are dermatologist tested, and include the following varieties: Eucalyptus, lavender, spruce, Melissa, Rosemary, Linden, orange, grape seed oil, almond oil, juniper, valerian and hops, evening primrose, and wildflower. Kneipp bath oil 3.4 ounce bottles are available individually for $19.00 USD each, but can also be purchased in combination and gift packs, like a ten-piece set of bath oils for $42.95 USD.

Bath oil beads are a variation on traditional bath oil. Instead of a bottle of liquid, bath oil beads enclose smaller, measured amounts of oil in a water-soluble capsule. When added to the bath as it fills with hot water, the capsule dissolves and disperses just enough bath oil for a single soak, preventing waste, and eliminating the possibility of spills.

If you are feeling creative, then consider looking into do-it-yourself bath oil recipes. There are multiple recipes available online, offered by individual bloggers as well as health care sites. Making your own homemade bath oil can be a fun way to save money, while ensuring that you know exactly what is going into your bath products. Homemade bath oil is an original idea that you could even share with your friends and family. Give away homemade bath gifts for birthdays, holidays, or as party favors, for a luxurious gift that comes straight from the heart.

Additional bath products that may complement the use of bath oils include bath salts or Epsom salts, to sooth aching muscles, foaming bath beads or liquid, which can also contain a bath oil and other herbal additives to gently moisturize and scent the skin. Some bath oil suppliers suggest following your soak with a gentle skin toner for the body, or with a cold water rinse, and then applying an all over body lotion to lock in moisture and keep skin soft.

Not only will bath oils offer the moisturizing and aromatheraputical benefits listed above, they are also just an opportunity to luxuriate and treat yourself to a sensual bathing experience. The added sense of luxury that a drop of bath oil can provide to regular bath water will do wonders for your well-being in and of itself.

Install An Apron Front Kitchen Sink

Among all of the sink options that are available when selecting a new bathroom, kitchen or laundry sink, one of the most impressive styles available is actually a traditional sink called an apron front sink. Often seen in a country kitchen or a farmhouse laundry the apron front sink makes a feature of one side of the sink itself, ensuring that a decorative rustic appearance is made in the most functional part of the room.

An apron front kitchen sink is more than simply an attractive rustic sink that will suit a farmhouse kitchen style. It also contains a design feature that makes using it a more comfortable experience than what you will get from other sink designs. The reason for this is in the fact that the front of the sink is much closer to the person using it than other sinks. As long as you choose a suitably deep sink you will alleviate the possibility of back ache while using the sink.

With standard sinks, there is a narrow expanse of counter between the edge of the sink and the person using it. This space means you have to bend over slightly when using the sink. With an apron front sink you are able to stand right up to the edge of the sink, saving you the trouble of bending to use it.


One of the great features of the majority of apron front sinks is the depth at which the bowls are designed. These sinks feature steep walls that plunge to a good sized bowl, the deepest you would want to go, by the way, would be 8 inches. The walls of the sink are also quite thin to maximize the capacity of the bowl. In effect you have a sink that doesn’t appear to be overly large, yet its capacity is deceptively large.

In some cases the front panel of the apron front kitchen sink features a decorative design turning what would otherwise be a plain metal finish into a work of art. A textured stone finish is particularly effective for creating an interesting façade, too. Your functional kitchen sink would suddenly become the centerpiece in the room.

You will find these types of sinks most commonly made out of metals such as cast iron, bronze or copper for a more traditional look. Alternatively they are also available made from fireclay, granite, marble or a more modern looking stainless steel.

Whatever the material you use in the construction of your apron front sink, you are going to make a definite statement in your kitchen when you install it.

Finding The Best Bathroom Vanity Prices

It’s important that you attack any home renovation project in a methodical manner, work out exactly how much you are able to spend, and then start compiling lists of prices for the items you need. A couple of decades ago, this was a formidable task, that would take a mountain of phone calls and visits to stores out of town. Now that we have the Internet, this task is a breeze, as all the information we need is right at our fingertips.

Here are some ideas of places you can look to find the best bargains for your bathroom…

You would be surprised at how many unwanted furniture items still are advertised in your local newspaper. Quite often the people who are advertising these items are tradespeople that have access to many other resources. Even if they don’t have exactly what you are after, it’s worth a quick phone call, because they may know of someone else that has what you are looking for. The modern day equivelant of the newspaper is craigslist, and this is another great resource to fid the best bathroom vanity prices.

There are many stores that provide second hand furniture and clothing of all types at a fraction of the price. For example, St Vincent De Pauls and the Salvation Army have stores all around the country that have items donated to them. These items are then sold off to the public, and the proifts are used in their charitable endeavours. Not only will you be getting a good price when shopping from goodwill stores, but you will also be helping others in need.

Furniture warehouses are another great place to look for cheap bathroom vanities. New models are constantly coming out and replacing the old ones, and every time this occurs, the stores need to hold sales to get rid of discontinued stock. By keeping an eye on the catalogs and advertisements on TV, radio and newspapers, you are more likely to catch these sales when they occur.

Don’t fall for the old “sale that isn’t a sale” trick, however. Many shops will claim they are having a sale and reducing everything in stock, when in reality they haven’t reduced anything, they’ve just put up some colorful signs and balloons to entice more customers. This is why it is important to have a good idea of what the prices should be before starting to shop.

After you’ve decided on the particular style and model that you want, take some time to look up that brand online, pay special attention to user reviews and the average price range you are after. People are more than happy to share their experience with a particular product online, so you should get a really good idea of what sort of reputation that brand has by doing a little research.

If you are having the vanity delivered to your door, make sure that the shipping is included in the price, and also ask about insurance. Unfortunately, there are still some businesses out there that will not cover any damage that occurs to your furniture during shipping, in which case you are in danger of receiving a ruined piece of bathroom furniture and still be out of pocket for its cost, and the transport to your home.

The Waterfall Faucet – Bringing Nature Into Your Bathroom

If you are looking at creating a unique look in your bathroom, one item that will definitely add a touch of class is the waterfall faucet. Anyone that has a love for nature tends to put a lot of time and effort into bringing the calming effects of natural surroundings into their home, and one of the most relaxing things that can be found in nature is a waterfall. The crystal clear water splashing over rocks is guaranteed to make even the most uptight person feel at ease, and the waterfall faucet is designed to mimic these qualities inside your bathroom.

For many years, the humble faucet has not changed in style or functionality. Most people don’t give a lot of thought to their faucets, other than making sure that the handles match the rest of the decor in the bathroom. You do not have to settle for a run of the mill faucet however, these waterfall faucets can create an amazing ambiance and can be a real talking point in your home. You are bound to impress your guests by having one of these installed in your bathroom.


There are a few different styles of waterfall faucets that are available to the homeowner. One of the most popular styles is the wall mounted variety. These faucets, instead of being attached to the bathroom sink, are actually inserted into the wall, with a long trench pointing out from the wall and sitting above the sink. The benefit of having it removed from the sink itself is that it gives you more space to wash your hands. For those of us cursed with large hands, it can be a real pain at times trying to manoeuvre around the faucet to get your hands clean. Having that extra space between the faucet and the sink can really alleviate this problem.

The main difference between a waterfall bath faucet and a normal one is the way the water is ejected from the faucet. With these styles, the water flows at a leisurely pace, as opposed to the harsh spurting of water that is usually found with traditional faucets. Some people prefer the high pressure water when washing your hands, but it can be harsh on your skin if used constantly, and certainly uses a lot more water.

Although a waterfall faucet can be quite easily installed into your existing bathroom sink, many people prefer to go the extra mile and get a new sink to match. One of the most popular styles of sinks in this case is the vessel sink, as it further enhances the natural look of the faucet. A glass vessel sink will accentuate the feeling of crystal clear running water, while a stone sink can make it seem as if your own little waterfall is running down over rocks. Whichever material you choose, you should make sure that you consider both the decor of your bathroom and your budget before deciding.

If you are contemplating getting a new sink as well, then I would recommend that you spend a bit of time researching your options online. Many retailers are offering combination sink and waterfall faucet packages that are tailor made. This way, not only will your faucet be a stunning addition to your bathroom, but it will also be an extension of your bathroom sink, rather than appearing to be something that was just tacked on as an afterthought. Companies such as Kohler and Pegasus Faucets have recognized a growing interest in this style of faucet, and have manufactured many different styles to suit your needs.

What is an Ionic Hair Dryer?

Any woman with long hair will tell you that a hair dryer is a necessary evil. For those that have not had the need to use one, this may sound like a strange statement to make, but the reality of hair dryers is that they do more damage than good. Traditional hair dryers, when used too often, will not only dry your hair out, but can also contribute to split ends. Unfortunately, up until recently, there has been no other alternative, particularly for the busy woman who needs to style their hair in a hurry. All that has changed, however, with the ionic hair dryer.

An ionic hair dryer is a very new technology that is becoming extremely popular for both women and men that need to keep their hair dry and styled, and are concerned about the long term health of their locks. The principle behind these hair dryers is hard to explain without becoming overly scientific about teh whole process, but basically it creates something call negative ions. After a shoer, your hair is charged with positive ions, and bringing the negative ions of the hair dryer into contact with the positive ions of your hair causes the water molecules to shrink, therefore drying your hair. This is not all though. Ionic hair dryers do not get rid of the moisture in your hair completely. They actually shrink to such a small size that they can be absorbed by your hair, thereby replenishing the moisture that is lost quite easily through excessive washing and bad weather conditions.


b30c228348a00c00bee41110.L._AA280_

Another benefit of this type of hair dryer is the sound, or rather, the lack of it. An ionic hair dryer makes barely any sound at all while in use, which means that you don’t have to worry about diturbing the famiky first thing in the morning while you are trying to do your hair for the day. Most of the hair dryers on the market use ceramic cylinders to create the negative ions as the air is passed trhough the disk. This whole process is done invisibly and silently, allowing you to get on with the business of grooming.

As their popularity increases, more and more hair care companies start to create their own versions of this technology in the hope that you will buy from them rather than their competitors. The great thing about this is that you get a lot more models and functions to choose from. As a consumer, any product competition is good, and if you are after one of these hair dryers, it would be well worth your while to do a little research and shopping around to find the dryer thats right for you. The prices vary greatly with these hair dryers, and paying a lot more does not always mean that the quality is that much better. As a matter of fact, Choice magazine compared two different models of Revlon ionic hair dryers, and found that the cheaper model (around $29 in the shops) actually outweighed the more expensive one (retailing at around $300). The moral of the story is, don’t fall for all the hype. The end result is simply to have healthy shiny hair, so try and concentrate on the functionality of the dryer you are considering, rather than it’s price tag and prettiness.

The only one I can truly recommend is the Revlon ionic hair dryer, mainly because it was the first one I bought, and has never failed me. Revlon has always been considered a leader in the market of hair care products, so it should come as no surprise that one of the most popular ionic hair dryers comes from this company. The Revlon RV484 Ion 1875-Watt Hair Dryer has a few different setting built in that allow you to personalise it’s functionality to suit your hairs needs. It has three different settings for heat, as well as two different speeds,allowing you total control. It also has a unique “cold shot” function that will release cool air to help your hairstyle set easier. For $29.99, you won’t find a better bargain than this model

An Ode to Pacquin Hand Cream

If you suffer from dry skin, and have asked others for recommendations to alleviate it, you have probably had someone tell you about the wonders of Pacquin Hand Cream. I was in the same boat, and when a friend of mine told me about their positive experience with this cream, I ran down to the chemist to pick up a jar of this magic ointment. Imagine my disappointment when the pharmacist told me that they no longer stock that product.

There are many people out there that suffer from dry skin, and to anyone who has not had this ailment, you may see it as being something trivial and not worth a lot of attention. After all, having your skin a bit dry and flaky is not the end of the world, right? In reality, chronic sufferers of dry skin truly do suffer with this condition. During the colder months, your skin can get so dry and chapped that it ends up cracking open like a wound, and it can be extremely painful to live with.

There is no known medical cure for this condition, and no real explanation as to why some people suffer from it so much, while others never have dry skin at all, other than the fact that it’s hereditary, and if your parents suffer from it, you probably will as well. The best protection against this condition is to apply hand cream on a regular basis, preferably nightly. The problem is, many of the hand creams available on the market are sticky, oily, and not all that effective against chronic dry skin conditions.


pacquin_17558_4_(big)_This is where Pacquins Hand Cream comes in. Pacquin has been alleviating sufferers of dry skin for many decades. Their unique formula means that the cream has a light consistency that is perfect for every day use, and does not leave your hands feeling like you’ve just dipped them into a jar of honey. This light fluffy cream consists of Glycerin and Lanolin and works in a matter of minutes, closing cracked skin, and leaving your hands feeling smooth and pain free.

Unfortunately, about a year ago, the company responsible for the production of Pacquin Hand Cream got bought out by the major players in the skin care industry – Johnson and Johnson, who promptly decided that Pacquins Hand Cream didn’t fit well into their line of products and promptly discontinued it. There has been speculation that the high quality of this cream, meant that the manufacturing costs were too high for J&J’s standards, or maybe that it was in direct competition with an existing Johnson and Johnson product of lesser value.

As soon as the public got wind of this corporate takeover, they began hoarding the cream as quickly as they could, stockpiling whatever they could get their hands on for future winters to come. Yes, the cream is that good. Nowadays, you would have to be extremely lucky to find a jar of this cream in your local chemist, and if you do, snatch it up while you can.

For the rest of us, we have to resort to keeping an eye on eBay for when one of these jars comes on sale. They are quite pricey because of the whole supply and demand thing, but its well worth watching any sales that pop up and taking advantage of anything that looks like it is being sold at an acceptable price. When it was available in stores, Pacquin Hand Cream sold for about $5 a jar. Nowadays, if you can find a jar for under $35 on eBay, you would be mad not to snatch it up before someone else does. I have listed the eBay search results for this product below, and it will update automatically, so if you’re interested in stockpiling some of this wonderful cream, check back here often.

Free Your Hands With A Hair Dryer Stand

Anyone who uses a hair dryer on a regular basis knows how incovenient it is to have one hand unavailable while trying to style your hair. It never occurs to many people that there may be a simpler solution, and there is; the hair dryer stand. This simple piece of equipment is an often overlooked accessory in the world of hair care products. There are quite a few different styles of hair dryer stands on the market, and more are being created all the time as their popularity grows. When it comes to marketing something as simple as a stand for your hair dryer, manufacturers have to use a little bit of creativity to grab your attention. After all, if your hair dryer fits in it and stands up by itself, what else is needed?

Well, for starters, you need to take into account that not all hair dryers are created equal, there are quite a few different sizes and shapes, even small battery operated ones that will fit in a ladies pruse. For this reason, one functionality that any good stand should have is adjustability. It should be able to expand and contract to accomodate your hair dryer snugly, ensuring that it stays in place as you use it. One of the easiest ways this is accomplished is to have adjustable ring holders. As you push your hair dryer into place, the rings will widen and keep a firm grip on the dryer.

Another big factor in the succesfull design of a hair dryer stand is the stand itself. The cheapest option is to get a small stand that sits on your bathroom vanity. Quite often, these are equipped with suction caps at the bottom so that they can placed on your vanity and will not topple as you style your hair. You can also get a stand up hair dryer that sits on the floor, but these take up a lot more room in your bathroom and while being a little bit more flexible, are also more pricey.

Speaking of flexibility, the best hands free hair dryers will have a neck that can be swivelled up, down and side to side so that you can point it at the right height in order to reach your head. If you have to bend over and move around the stand in order to get your hair dried, then your stand is really defeating its purpose. The most common design is one that is fashioned after the common desk lamp, with a metallic gooseneck that flexes to whichever angle you desire.

Another less common type of stand is one that is wall mounted. Although this is a great way of keeping your bathroom tidy and utilising an area that would not otherwise be used, A wall mounted hair dryer stand limits the usefulness of the product, as they are usually attached to the wall using brackets, and once they are there, that’s where they stay. At least with the free standing models you are able to move them around as desired with minimum fuss.

A hair dryer stand can be particularly useful for people with limited mobility, including the elderly sufferers of arthritis and others that have limited use of their limbs. This simple piece of equipment can provide a whole lot more freedom to these people and give them the dignity of being able to groom themselves without having to rely on others.

Body Scrubs – For Healthy Vibrant Skin

Using a body scrub is a great way of maintaining healthy skin, as it exfoliates by including coarse material within the scrub, quite often this material is sand or salt, but there are many other materials that can be introduced to body scrubs that give similar results. The other main ingredient is oil. Once again, there are many different oils that can be utilised, oils from nuts such as macadamias and almonds are especially popular. The third ingredient that you will find in any good scrub is an essence of some sort that will create a relaxing smell when the scrub is applied peppermint is a very popular smell that is used in body scrubs, but if that doesn’t suit, you could opt for something like lavender or rosemary.

By applying a good body scrub on a regular basis, your skin will be smooth, almost velvety in fact, and blemish free. It also helps to relax and calm your nerves after a hard day at work. The best way to put body scrub on is to have someone else do it for you. It can be difficult applying the scrub to some parts of your body that may need it the most. A qualified massage therapist will take the time to work the scrub into those areas, giving you the maximum effect.

The general perception of body scrubs is that they are all natural and therefore good for you. Unfortunately this is not always the case, and many brands that look natural with their fancy labelling are in fact mostly synthetic. It’s important that you look at the ingredients that go into the manufacture of your body scrub, so that you know exactly what you are rubbing into your skin.

You may be fooled into thinking that since a body scrub is so good for your skin, it would be great to apply it directly to your face as well. This is generally not a good idea, as the skin on your face is more sensitive than the rest of your body, and the exfoliating ingredients could cause more harm to your facial tissue than good. There are, however, facial scrubs that you can get specifically for this purpose, that are based around the same concept, but as harsh as your average exfoliating body scrub.

How To Make Your Own Body Scrub

If you want to use a body scrub on a regular basis, you may be put off by spending that amount of money every week, and rightly so, they can work out to be fairly expensive in the long term. There is a solution, however, and that is to make your own. At first glance, the thought of creating a homemade body scrub could seem daunting, but it is actually very simple, much simpler than some of the dinners you prepare for your family on a daily basis. In fact, you really only need four ingredients to make a decent body scrub; Sugar (or salt, depending on your preference, sugar gives a coarser finish), 1 cup of oil (as mentioned previously, this can be a nut oil like macadamia or even peanut oil), food coloring (obviously this is optional, and unnecessary if you couldn’t care less about how it looks) and a small amount of essential oil to bring out those lovely aromas. All you have to do is mix this all together and voila, your own body scrub. Every bit as good as the stuff you buy in the shops, with the added satisfaction of knowing exactly what is in it and where it came from.

One of the hardest decision you are going to have to make is which essential oil is best for your needs. There are literally thousands of different essential oils that you could use in your body scrub. Outlined below are the eight most popular essential oils and their aromatherapy properties…

peppermint essential oil Peppermint – This is by far the most popular oil used in body scrubs, and is excellent in treating muscle aches and pains and headaches.
eucalyptus esential oil Eucalyptus – If you have a cold or suffer from hay fever or other respiratory problems, Eucalyptus is the essential oil for you. As an added bonus, Eucalyptus oil will keep the mosquitoes away.
lavendar essential oil Lavender – The essence of lavender is much loved throughout the world and respected for it’s ability to calm and relax even the most savage of beasts. It also aids in the healing of wounds and burns.
teat tree essential oil Tea Tree – Tea Tree oil is well known for its treatment of fungal infections, and it is also used to boost a person’s immune system if they have been sick.
rosemary essential oil Rosemary – Not only useful to put on your lamb for a Sunday roast, rosemary is best known for it’s ability to stimulate the senses. Putting this oil in your body scrub will help to ease muscle aches and pains and make you feel vibrant and alive. Great to use before going out on the town.
geranium essential oil Geranium – The lovely geranium aka Pelargonium graveolens is not only a lovely flower, but is also extremely effective in curing skin conditions such as eczema, bruises and other skin problems, making it a perfect addition to your homemade body scrub.
jasmine essential oil Jasmine – Jasmine is a great choice for pregnant women, women suffering from hormonal changes or anyone that suffers from depression. It has a lovely sweet scent and is a great addition to the bathroom.
sandalwood essential oil Sandalwood – If you suffer from dry skin during the drier months of the year, sandalwood is a great choice. It also acts as a mild antiseptic and has a calming effect on your nerves.

Our Favorite Body Scrubs

If making your own body scrub seems like too much hard work, and you are after something that will do the job of soothing and cleansing your skin without causing damage, you will be spoilt for choice when shopping online. In fact, the huge variety of scrubs available can make it extremely difficult to choose just one. Below is a list of our favorites that we have found to do a fantastic job of exfoliating, relaxing and regenerating our skin and bodies…

tree hut brazilian If you suffer from dry hands during winter, then you may benefit from a body scrub with an exfoliant that gets rid of all that dead dry skin. This Brazilian Nut Body Scrub from Tree Hut utilises a sugar based exfoliant which is gentle on your sensitive skin, while still removing all those dry flakes. The scrub has a brazilian but oil base and includes safflower seed, evening primrose and avocado oils to soften your skin.
dead sea green tea The Dead Sea Body Salt Scrub is made from the natural salts found in the Dead Sea, and mixed with a number of aromatic essential oils. The scrub exfoliates the top layer of dead skin, and assists in circulation. After only one application you will notice a remarkable difference in the smoothness of your skin.
honey and almond scrib Another great product from Tree Hut is the Almond and Honey Scrub. The sweet aroma of honey is wonderfully soothing, but don’t let it’s delightfully innocent scent fool you, it packs a powerful punch on your dead skin with flakes of almond mixed through the scrub to assist in exfoliation

The Blanco Sink Range – Strong and Stylish

The story of the Blanco sink started over 80 years ago. In 1925, in a German town called Oberderdingen, Heinrich Blanc employed over 30 people and started to manufacture parts made from galvanized copper for the cookers of the day. 25 years later, when stainless steel was starting to become popular commercially, Blanco was one of the first companies to start manufacturing sinks using this material, and only 10 years after that they had created more than one million sinks.

In the 80′s Blanco expanded overseas, establishing a presence in New Jersey. Since then they have gone from strength to strength, and are considered leaders within the sink industry for theior constant innovations in production and design. Their newest range of Steelart sinks are particularly stunning, drawing strong inspiration from architectural elements, and designed with a passion that can only come from so many years within the industry, Blanco Steelart sinks are manufactured with a precise attention to details that has long been missing within the industry.

Although Blanco are more well known for their kitchen sinks, they do have a very impressive range of stainless steel bathroom sinks available as well. With so many years of experience in stainless steel, if this is the material that you desire for your bathroom, then Blanco is the one brand that offers consistently superior quality. One of the advantages of using this style of sink is that they are scratch resistant, and will not suffer from water stains or built up soap scum. Stainless steel is very easy to clean, and creates a clean polished look in both your bathroom and kitchen.


Blanco has long been a favorite choice within the hospitality industry, where it is imperitave that equipment used within their business is reliable, long lasting and able to withstand excessive use. These are qualities that you can also benefit from by having a Blanco kitchen sink, or bathroom sink, installed in your home.

To ensure that you get the best quality stainless steel for your sink, you want to check that the steel has chrome and nickel added to it. The addition of these materials insures that the sink has the best anti corrosive qualities and is as durable as possible. A good way to check the strength of your potential sink is to push on the drain. If the sink does not give under this pressure, then it is made from a good quality stainless steel.

The type of worktop you currently have will be a big deciding factor on what type of sink you purchase. If you have a worktop made from laminate or from wood, then you will want either an overmount sink or an inset. If you are trying to match an existing stainless steel worktop with a stainless steel sink, then you are going to want an inset sink. If, however, your worktop is made from granite, then either a Blanco undermount sink or an overmount sink will be fine.

If space is an issue in your kitchen or bathroom, then Blanco has you covered with their wide range of corner sinks. As you browse their range, you will notice that within their range of corner sinks there are quite a few different style options. Stainless steel does not have to be silver and metallic in look, you can benefit from the durability of stainless steel and still have a myriad of color choices available to you within the Blanco range.

Any sink specialist will tell you that there are 3 main characteristics that a good sink should have; durability, hygeine and heat resistance. Blanco stainless steel sinks have all 3 of these bases covered. Their high grade stainless steel is non porous, so it is one of the most hygeinic options available, the steel is premium quality 18/10 strength, meaning it will stand the test of time, and the technological design of their sinks makes them highly resistant to the heat that a sink is subjected to.

The Walk In Shower Enclosure

The majority of households have a standard shower set up in their bathroom. It usually consists of a bath and shower combined, typically with some sort of shower curtain blocking this area from the rest of the room. This is an issue for smaller bathrooms, as that area takes up a lot of space in the room, and since it is boxed in, can make your bathroom feel many times smaller than it actually is. Likewise, this closed in area can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew, as it traps in the moisture created from regular showering. There is an alternative out there, however, and that is to rip out that old bath and have it replaced with a walk in shower. You may be surprised at just how easy it is get a walk in shower enclosure installed in your bathroom, and the benefits of doing so are just incredible.

By installing a glass shower enclosure, you are opening up your bathroom tremendously; you will be astounded at just how much bigger your bathroom feels after installation. The crisp clean lines make it a very attractive option for modern style homes and certainly add to the comfort level of your bathroom. Aesthetics aside, a walk in shower also provides you with a safer showering environment. This is particularly true for elderly people, as the majority of accidents that happen in a shower happen while the person is scrambling in or out of the bath. Most shower enclosures are at the same level as the floor, meaning that there is no potentially nasty step up into your shower.

Once you’ve tried a walk in shower, it will be hard to go back to the more traditional bath and shower setup. You are afforded a lot more room in one of these showers, and you will find showering a more pleasurable experience as a result. Some people utilise this extra space by installing a second shower head, or even a shower bench, giving you the ultimate comfort while washing. There is nothing more relaxing after a hard day at work than to be able to enjoy a little peace and quiet in a shower that is designed to accommodate your needs.

One decision that you will have to make when deciding on a style of walk in shower enclosure is whether you want the drainage to be installed straight into the floor, or to utilise a shower tray. If your shower floor is level with the rest of the bathroom, this is commonly called a “wet room floor”. This type of floor is a little more expensive to install, but the benefits are that it is much easier to walk in and out of your shower, indeed your shower becomes an extension of the rest of your bathroom, rather than being something that is just tacked on like an afterthought. If money is an issue, then you will find that you can save a fair bit by opting for a shower tray instead. Shower trays will minimise the amount of water that is splashed out on your bathroom floor as well.

You may be used to having your showers drain hole in the middle of the floor, with the floor itself sloping down towards it. Another option that is becoming more and more popular is to have the drain installed in the far corner of your shower. This means that it is out of the way and that you are not constantly standing on it when showering. You may also want to consider a channel drain, which is long and narrow and runs along the length of the shower wall. Other accessories that will need to be considered when deciding on a walk in shower enclosure include lighting, grab rails to assist elderly people, and storage options. Some shower enclosures even provide heating underneath the floor, for those chilly winter nights when it’s difficult to get excited about stepping into a cold shower.

A shower enclosure is a great addition to any bathroom. There are many different materials that you can choose from, but by far the most popular choice is glass, quite often trimmed with chrome to give that neat polished look that is so attractive in the modern home. Glass shower panels open you bathroom up even more, however you need to keep in mind that you are sacrificing your privacy by utilising glass. If you share your bathroom with other members of the household, then modesty may prevent you from opting for this material. In this case, you could look at using glass blocks. These blocks will still give the benefit of light into your shower, but the frosted nature of these blocks guarantee that your privacy is kept intact.

The Teak Shower Bench, For Safety, Charm and Dignity

Unless you have been put in a situation where you have a need for a bench in the shower, you may not realise that there are some problems in acquiring the right type of furniture for this use. Shower benches are in important item for elderly people, or for people that have either a permanent or temporary disability that prevents them from standing up while having a shower. The obvious solution is to get a bench that can be used to sit on while washing. The problem is that the damp environment of a shower makes it difficult to find a bench that won’t end up being ruined from the moisture.

To alleviate this problem, most people use aluminum, as it is rust proof and will last a long time in these conditions. The problem is, aluminum benches are not at all comfortable, and are very unpleasant to sit on when it is cold. Another popular material for shower chairs and benches is polyethylene, however they tend to look very much like a piece of equipment that you would find in a hospital, and certainly do nothing to add to the homely charm of your bathroom.

There is a third option, however, and that is the teak shower bench. I know what you are thinking, wood and moisture don’t mix, right? That teak is going to end up warping, cracking, growing mold and looking absolutely terrible. This is not the case, however. Any person involved with boats will tell you that teak is an amazing type of wood, and perfect for moist environments. Most boats that utilise wood in their design will use teak, as it is able to withstand the majority of water, and dries out very quickly, before the water has a chance to get absorbed into the wood. It is this same reason that teak is a popular choice when designing outdoor furniture for the patio and garden.


If there is only one person using the bathroom, then your teak wood shower bench can be set up as a permanent fixture in the shower. If you are sharing your bathroom with other family members, however, that same piece of furniture that provides you with such assistance can actually be a real hindrance for them. In these cases, you will want to look at something that folds up when it is not in use. A folding teak shower bench is going to cost you a little bit more than the normal models, but the extra expense is well worth the versatility that it gives you.


The bench pictured to the left is on of the best folding shower bench options that I have seen. This bench is mounted to the wall, and when it is not in use can be folded up against the wall so that it is completely out of the way. There is a little bit of installation that will need to be done, and you will want to make sure that it is installed by a professional, so that you are sure that it will bear up under the weight of a person. This model will hold up to 160kg (or 350 pounds).

The one downfall of having a wall mounted teak shower bench is the fact that it is installed at a certain height and cannot be raised or lowered. If more than one person will be using the bench (which is particularly the case for nursing homes and hospitals), then you will probably want something that can be adjusted vertically to match the needs of the individual. The product pictured here is just such a bench. Although you do not benefit from the ability to fold it up when it is not in use, the four legs can be adjusted as high as 19 inches and as low as 13 inches. The legs come equipped with rubber tips to prevent slipping in the shower.

Another thing that you will need to consider before purchasing a shower bench is the amount of room that you have available in your shower. If the space is limited, and you don’t take that into account, you may receive the shower bench only to find that it doesn’t fit in the space, or takes up so much room that there is no room left for you to actually sit on it. If space is at a premium, your best option is a corner teak shower bench, as they will take up less room than the other two styles mentioned above. The bench pictured here also has adjustable legs, and is designed to tuck into the corner of your shower, giving you more room to stretch out.

Plumbing Training – A Great Career Choice

As a child turns into an adult, more and more pressure is put on them to make a decision on what sort of career they will undertake after leaving school. For some, this is an easy choice, as they are destined to carry on their family business, or have shown an excellent aptitude at a particular task or skill. For others, however, the decision is not so easy. One thing that you need to be aware of is that some jobs have a short lifespan. You need to be careful when choosing a career that it is one that is going to be sustainable in the long term, one that you are able to continue working at without worrying too much about keeping up with changes in the industry. One such career is plumbing. As long as houses have had taps, toilets, baths and showers, there has been a need for skilled people to install and maintain these items. Deciding to take part in plumbing training can be an excellent choice for someone who doesn’t mind doing some hard work, and is willing to put in the effort to learn the ropes to begin with.

There is always a huge demand for skilled labourers, and with the growing popularity of Information Technology, many of these positions are being left unfilled. As glamorous as a career in computers may seem to begin with, there is a constant battle to keep up with the many changes that happen in the world of technology on a monthly basis. Plumbing, on the other hand, is a skill that when learned once, can be applied for years to come. Sure, there are changes, as there are in any industry, but the basics of plumbing will always remain the same, and the demand will never go away.

Most people start their career in plumbing by taking on an apprenticeship and learning on the job. This is by far the best way to learn, and although there is still a lot of theory that needs to be learnt, a good mix of practice makes it a very rewarding experience. An apprenticeship in plumbing will generally last about four or five years, at which time you will have enough skills and knowledge behind you to take it on as a full time job, or even to start your own business. The most common conception of a plumber is what most people see, the person who comes in to install a dishwasher or fix a blocked drain, but there is a lot more to this job than just that. Any new structure that is built will need some form of plumbing work done to it, from the high rise apartment in the city, to a new water treatment plant, all of this work is undertaken by qualified plumbers.


glass nail filesWithin the role of plumbing as a whole, there are quite a few specialised areas that people can branch into once they have completed their initial plumber training. For example, with new homes, and new infrastructure, there is a need for pipe layers to dig the trenches and ensure that the pipes are laid properly. There are also plumbers that specialise in gas fittings and the installation of cooling and heating systems. Plumbers will also need to have a decent knowledge of chemicals used in the industry, for example, heavy duty cleaners, hot tub chemicals, and the like. All of these jobs will require particular plumbing training courses to become knowledgeable in that particular area. During your training, you will learn how to use and operate a wide range of specific tools that are used in the industry, and for some of these tools a specific type of accreditation is needed in order to use them.

It’s not all about getting your hands dirty, however. A good plumber needs excellent communication skills, as no matter what job they are in, they will need to relate to other people within the industry. This may include builders, architects and home owners, and it is extremely important that you are able to communicate with them in a professional manner and have an understanding of their role in the project. Additionally, as technologies change, a plumber will need to have a good grasp on computer systems and machine usage. If you undertake training to be a plumber, then you will want to make sure that all of these aspects are covered in your course.

Of course, not everyone has to have a desire to become a full time plumber in order to utilise a plumbing training course. Many training organisations are now tailor making courses that suit the average home owner. If you would like to take more control over the maintenance of your home, then there are trainers that offer courses that run over a few days or weeks that will provide you with enough information to do a lot of the plumbing maintenance around your home, saving you a lot of money and giving you a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Glass Nail Files – A Unique and Personalised Gift

For centuries women (and some men) have been putting a lot of effort into getting their fingernails and toenails looking perfect. A great industry has arisen out of this fashion, and many jobs have been created in the manicure industry. Many shpping centers now boast a specialised manicurist where people can go and get their nails spoiled and looking fantastic.

A weekly trip to the manicurist can become an expensive pasttime however, and many see it more as a luxury that they can only afford every so often when they feel like spoiling themselves. The thought of parting with so much money can cause a session of nail biting, which sort of defeats the purpose. The rest of the time, they will need to keep their nails looking great by themselves, and most people resort to an emery board or a metal nail file in order to keep their nails in shape at home.

There has been a new recent development in the world of manicure however – glass nail files. Glass nail files are becoming a trend throughout the world, as more and more people realise the benefits related to this material. These nail files can be used on both natural nails and on artificial ones, and in both cases they will provide you with a wonderful smooth finish, as good as you can get from a professional manicurist, if not even better.


glass nail filesNormal glass can be a little weak when put under the pressure that a nail file demands. If you are looking at purchasing one of these files for yourself, then you should, at the least, look for tempered glass nail files. When glass is tempered, it is put through the process of heating and then cooling again, which strengthens the consistency of the material, and makes it less likely to break under pressure. Even stronger than tempered glass is crystal glass, which will take even the toughest of uses. Keep in mind, however, that crystal glass nail files are a fair bit more expensive than the normal tempered glass.

One of the great benefits that is drawing more and more people to glass nail files over the traditional emery boards is their hygeinic value. Wooden emery boards, and even metal nail files, are porous, and this means that over time the files collect bacteria and fungus, which can be very bad for the health of your nails.Especially underneath your fingernails, it is important to try and keep dirt and bacteria to a mnimum, as it can be a perfect breeding ground for these nasties. Glass is non porous, and will not collect any bacteria. Even so, glass can be boiled in water to completely sterlize them. Try doing that with an emery board!

Another great benefit is their longevity. Cheap nail files can be used three or four times, at the most, and then they lose their abrasion and have to be replaced. If these are the type of nail files you rely on, then you will find that they become a regular item on your shopping list. Glass nail files will last literally forever, as long as you don’t lose them, or get the stolen by your best friend, you will never have to buy another nail file again.

When you start shopping for your glass nail file, you soon come to realise that there are a few different sizes that you can choose from. Most places that sell these files will offer a kit containing three sizes. The smallest is for fine nail work, when you are just touching up your nails before going out for example. The medium sized files are generally used the most, and the larger ones are especially abrasive. Large glass nail files are not only useful for tougher nails, such as toenails, they can also be used for dry skin areas, like your heels and even elbows. The soft abrasive quality of these files will smooth those areas out, without causing damage to your skin.

If you are looking for a unique gift for a loved one, or a special friend, a glass nail file kit could be the perfect solution, something that they not only are not expecting, but more than likely have never even seen before. Specialists in this style of file provide a couple of different ways that they can be decorated, making it a great gift idea. The first way is to paint the top of the file with patterns or images. Images of butterflies and flowers are very popular, but there is an unlimited number of things that you could paint on a glass or crystal glass nail file. Some shops will even allow you to create your own image or lettering that can be painted on the file. Make sure that the the glass has been fired after painting, otherwise the image will fade over time. The other option is to actually have the image etched into the glass, which, while more expensive, is a permanent decoration that will remain forever. To complete the gift, consider getting a leather pouch specifically designed for a nail file kit.

Whether you are looking for a unique Mothers Day present, a thank you gift for a friend, or you are just wanting to spoil yourself and treat your nails to some extra special attention, a glass nail file is a great option to consider.

Choosing Sinks and Taps for your Bathroom

Every house has a bathroom, it is one of the most important, practical rooms of the house, and we use it every day, for personal hygiene, grooming, and sometimes just relaxing. For this reason, it is important that your bathroom is set up to create an inviting atmosphere, and no bathroom is complete without the right sinks and taps. There is almost an infinite number of styles available for bathrooms, and while some will relish this large variety of choice, others will find it difficult to make a decision on exactly what they want.

One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is what style is your home, and what type of setting are you trying to create in your bathroom. If you have a contemporary or modern design throughout your home, then straight away you can narrow down your choice and exclude all those old style taps and sinks that are still so popular in country style homes. Another thing that’s worthwhile considering is what it is you don’t like about your existing set up. Pinpointing exactly what is missing, or seems out of place, in your existing bathroom will make it much easier to exclude these characteristics from your list.


sinks and tapsThe next decision you will be faced with is whether to get a single handled tap or a double handle. There are arguments for both, and ultimately it will come down to what your personal preference is. One of the major benefits of a single handled tap is that it can be operated more easily with one hand. This is great when you’ve got a hand full of soap and the water is too hot, a single handled tap can quite easily be nudged a little with your free hand to adjust the temperature. The great thing about double handled taps, however, is that they offer a whole lot more style choices. Usually, with a single handle, the handle is an arm that is positioned directly above the tap itself. Double handled taps have the handles sitting either side of the tap, giving your sink and taps a more uniform look, and allowing you to accessorise using knobs or cross handles to match your decor. Generally speaking, having a separate handle for hot and cold also gives you a lot more control over the temperature of the water.

When it comes to the sink itself, the two major decisions that need to be made are material and style. Ceramic sinks continue to be the most popular material, mainly because it is inexpensive, sturdy, and fairly easy to clean. Another great benefit of ceramic is that it is able to resist germs, which is a very important factor in the bathroom. If you would prefer something a little less traditional, you’ll find a great range of sinks made from stone. The great thing about stone is that every single sink is unique; no two are exactly the same. For most people, the attraction to stone is due to the natural organic look it can create in your bathroom. Most stone is natural porous, so it is important that you care for these sinks and keep their protective coating intact. The other material that has become extremely popular lately is glass. Glass sinks and taps are the perfect choice for the modern style bathroom, For something really special, there are manufacturers that offer hand-blown glass, once again making every piece a unique item, and a great addition to your bathroom.

When choosing a bathroom sink, you will also find that there are a few different styles available. Self rimming sinks are the most widely utilised style, more for their simplicity than anything else, but if you want to have something a bit fancier, you will find that vessel sinks or undermounts can create a wonderful look in the bathroom. If size is an issue, then you may want to consider a pedestal sink or one that slots in an unused corner.

As you can see, there is a huge variety hen you start considering all the mixing and matching that you can do. And that’s just for the bathroom, kitchen sinks and taps are a whole other subject, and you’ll find even more choice there. The main point to remember is, you don’t have to spend a fortune in order to get something that looks great and suits both your bathrooms decor and your own personality. There are plenty of places online that offer cheap sinks and taps that are still quality products, so it’s well worth your while to shop around before making any purchases.

Purchasing Small Bathroom Vanities And Sinks

The size of your bathroom vanity is determined, to a large extent, by the size of your actual bathroom. Obviously if you have a small bathroom, then you are very limited as to the size and type of vanity you can use. If you have a large bathroom, however, you would think that you have a much more varied choice, but this is not necessarily the case. Small bathroom vanities and sinks in a large bathroom can really look out of place, escpecially considering that the vanity is supposed to act as the center of your bathroom.

There is a huge range of bathroom vanities out there, even when you are only looking at one particular size, and it can be a little overwhelming if you’ve never had to shop for a small bathroom vanity before. This is why it’s recommended that you put in some time beforehand to familiarise yourself with the product, the different styles that are available, and the type of price range you will be looking at. This way, when you fall in love with a vanity purely based on its looks, you can back that up with some knowledge instead of jumping into a foolhardy purchase. Obviously, the Internet is the best place to be doing your research, but don’t forget magazines and books as well, there is wealth of knowledge out there to be had, if you take the time to look.

The size of your bathroom isn’t the only deciding factor though, style plays a big part as well. If you are remodeling you whole bathroom, then you have the luxury of being able to choose the type of style you would like, you are working with a blank canvas, so to speak. If, however, you are only replacing some items in your room, and still keeping the overall look, then you need to find a vanity that will match that style. This is by no means limiting though, there are still many options available, whatever style you need. Whether you have a sleek modern design with bright colors and defined edges, or your bathroom is more ornate and old fashioned, finding the right vanity to match should not be too difficult.

Vanity manufacturers understand that some people are limited in the size of vanity they can have, and they have kept this in mind in many of their designs, creating small vanities that are deceptivey spacious inside, allowing you to still have plenty of room to store your bathroom accessories. The corner vanity is the perfect example of this, as it can be tucked out of the way in an unused area of the room, while providing a lot of space underneath.

When deciding on the vanity you want, storage is a big consideration, but so too is the look of the trimmings. What sort of countertop would you prefer? Do you have a preference for a particular type of faucet? Would you rather have a separate hot and cold tap, or do you want them combined in the one handle? All of these questions need to be addressed before choosing a vanity.

If your are buying your vanity second hand, then make sure that you give it an overall inspection. It’s no use buying a cheap bathroom vanity if it only lasts you a few months. Pay particular attention to the out of the way corners underneath. Often a badly fitting pipe can cause water leakage, and while the vanity may look like it’s in tip top condition on the outside, it may be warped or rotted in those hidden away areas.

Salter Bathroom Scales

Salter has been around for over 250 years, and is the most recognised brand in the UK for scales of all sizes and purposes. They have since branched out globally and continue to be on the cutting edge of scale technology for household as well as business use. They are well known historically for inventing the very first bathroom scale in the United Kingdom.

The Salter black glass electronic bathroom scales are a favorite for home owners that are looking for a contemporary look in their bathroom. This scale is sleek in design and extremely lightweight, and the black glass is tempered, making it extremely strong. The large LCD display provided with these Salter bathroom scales means that you can be sure of a precise reading with every use, and the measurements can be adjusted to pounds, kilos or stones, whichever you are most comfortable with. The scales are powered using two lithium batteries, and they have an auto cut off function which will ensure the longevity of your batteries. All of this comes with a 15 year guarantee from the manufacturer.

For something a bit more professional, with an old school feel, you may want to consider the Salter 200 Academy Professional Mechanical Scale. These scales can handle weights of up to 150 kilograms (330 pounds), and are found in doctors surgeries throughout the country. The strong construction of this steel Salter bathroom scale makes it a long lasting and durable solution, while the large dial display allows you to view weights in both pounds and kilos at the same time.

Salter also manufactures a line of baby and toddler scales, specifically designed to weigh your little bundle of joy. The Salter 914 Electronic Baby and Toddler Scale will accurately measure your baby in half ounce increments up to a maximum of 44 pounds, and is equipped with a “hold” function, which means that even if your little one is jostling about, you will be able to get an accurate measurement. Once your baby grows out of these scales, the tray can be removed and you can continue using it as a toddler scale that looks playful and fun in the bathroom.

If you are after a bit more functionality than just a simple weighing mechanism, then the Salter Housewares 9108 Body Fat Analyzer Scale will not only tell you how much you weigh, but will calculate your body mass index (BMI) for you. This is the perfect solution for athletes that are trying to reach an ideal weight before a big event, as it will calculate your body fat at increments of 0.1%, giving you a much better idea of the amount of fat being lost while training. These Salter digital bathroom scales also have a built in memory and allow you to store data for up to 8 different people, making it a great solution for the entire household. It comes with a 10 year manufacturers warranty and runs on four triple A batteries.

If you like the idea of a body fat analyzer, but would prefer something a little less slimline, then the Salter “MaxView” is the perfect choice. These scales boast one of the largest readouts available anywhere, and it’s funky look will make an impact in anyones bathroom. The LCD display is a whopping 7.5 by 4.3 inches, and has a beeping mechanism that will let you know when it has corrcetly calculated your weight and body mass index. Once you step off the scales, the reading will remain on the display for 10 seconds, allowing you the time to get a good idea of all the data it gives you. It also will calculate your body fat and body water, and can handle weights up to 400 pounds.

As you can see, Salter bathroom scales come in a wide range to suit every purpose. Being such a reputable company makes them the perfect choice, as many thousands of consumers around the world know them to be a household name in the bathroom. Salter now has offices all through the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada and continues to grow stronger with every passing year.

Exploring the Copper Farm Sink

Copper is considered to be one of the oldest metals in the world, and has been used by humans for over 10,000 years. Its rustic properties make it a wonderful choice for households that are trying to create an old fashioned farmhouse style of decor, but it can be used just as effectively in a more modern setting as well. In the last couple of hundred years, before the surge in stainless steel use, copper was one of the most popular metals used in plumbing and also for kitchen utensils such as pots and pans. Although it is not used as much in these situations anymore, it has a growing fan base amongst home owners that want a copper farm sink or bathroom sink in their house.

The manufacture of copper farm sinks is performed all over the world, but the areas most famous for this art are Mexico and India, where they have been hand making copper sinks for many hundreds of years, and have been passing down this skill from one generation to the next. The traditional hand hammering of copper into the shapes of sinks means that every one is unique and has it’s own character. The mass manufacture of copper sinks in the US, while being of good quality, are all the same and do not provide that uniqueness. Because the copper that is manufactured in the US is smooth, you need to be extra careful with these products. The process of hammering the copper into shape actually makes it stronger, and the smooth designs will not be as robust.


copper farm sinkThe larger the copper farmhouse sink, the more attention needs to be payed to it when purchasing. Once a sink gets over a particular size, it becomes necessary to weld the pieces together, and the quality of the weld is of the utmost importance. It should be a copper weld, as any other type of weld will get discolored over time and stand out from the rest of the sink. A lower quality weld may even result in a leaking sink, which can be costly and difficult to repair.

Another thing that needs to be considered when purchasing a copper farm house sink is the quality of the actual copper. Ideally a sink should be manufactured using pure copper. As this style of sink becomes more and more popular, you will find cheaper brands out there that have been made from a copper alloy, and some of these alloys are known to contain traces of lead. Having lead in a place that is going to be in direct contact with food, eating utensils or personal hygiene is definitely not a good idea, and should be avoided at all costs. Some people will age the copper before making the sink, while other people prefer to have their copper age naturally over time.

A copper sink is a living item in your house, as it will constantly change colors as it naturally ages, and as the light shines on it in a certain way. Some people prefer to stop this colorisation process by having their sinks lacquered, however lacquering is not usually recommended for sinks that are used in food preparation, they are usually more popular in the bathroom. Some people will use harmful chemicals to create a patina finish, so this is another thing you should check with the retailer before purchasing.

A hand crafted copper sink from Mexico or India is going to cost you a pretty penny, but it is a grand home decoration, and well worth the price. Copper sinks are usually a fair bit more expensive than your more traditional porcelain or stainless steel sinks. One of the things that will affect the price of the sink is the thickness of the actual copper. The copper is measured in gauges, 16 gauge is the thinnest, and the better quality sinks can go up to 20 gauge. The higher the gauge, the more the sink is going to cost you, and the heavier it will be as well.

Of course, the farmhouse style of sink is not the only style that uses copper, just about any type of sink that you can think of will have a copper version. One trend that is becoming very popular in bathrooms is the copper vessel sink. For the kitchen a copper undermount sink can also be very effective, it all comes down to personal preference, and what goes best with your existing design. When purchasing your copper sink, you may want to enquire about matching copper faucets as well. Although copper and stainless steel can work quite effectively in some instances, a copper faucet will really enhance the traditional look you are trying to achieve with your sink.

One reason that copper is finding such favour in both the kitchen and bathroom is because it has natural anti bacterial properties. Scientific tests have proven that stainless steel can harbor bacteria for anywhere up to 40 days, while the natural healing properties of copper will eradicate those same bacteria in a matter of hours. This means that cleaning your sink does not have to be such a big issue. In fact, it is important that you are careful about the cleaning products that you use on a copper sink. Products and wipes that are too abrasive will end up damaging and discoloring the copper. Your best bet is to use a soft cloth and simply wipe it over with warm soapy water on a regular basis.

One of the best techniques to use before purchasing a copper sink is to give it the “penny test”. This involves placing a few pennies in the bottom of the sink to check that the color of the copper in the sink matches the color of the pennies. If the color of the sink is lighter, then you will have problems in the long term. As mentioned previously, copper will change color over time, and these blemishes will stand out like a sore thumb. If the pennies are difficult to see in the bottom of the sink (like in the video below), then it means that your sink has been aged, and will keep its natural color for many years to come.

Hand Wipes

Peoples focus has been on personal hygiene more than normal of late, primarily because of the media coverage that the recent outbreaks of swine flu have been getting. Medical practitioners have been constantly reminding us how important it is to keep your hands clean to avoid becoming a victim of this outbreak, but regardless of there being a flu outbreak or not, personal hygiene is always very important, and hand wipes play an important role in your fight against germs and diseases.

Of course, nothing can replace the regular ritual of washing your hands. It goes without saying that trips to the toilet, after eating, or when performing certain tasks, it is imperative that you have a good wash afterwards, preferably with warm water and soap. I trick I recently heard is that you should be washing your hands for at least ten seconds, which is about as long as it takes to sing happy birthday. Get into the habit of singing happy birthday every time you wash your hands and you will be secure in the knowledge that you are hygienically clean. You may get a few funny looks, but at least you’ll know what you’re doing.


hand wipesAll joking aside though, there are many times when you just can’t get access to running water and soap, and it is these times when it is important to have a packet of handi wipes handy so that you can ensure the cleanliness of your hands. Take for example long car trips with your family. Quite often you will need to eat while on the move, and before eating you should always make sure that you are not transferring germs from your hands to your food (or your family’s food for that matter. Another good example is while you are out shopping. Shopping centres are a real breeding ground for germs and bacteria, and you should always try and ensure that you have some hand wipes available. Just because you can’t see the germs doesn’t mean they are not there. People are sneezing and coughing in shopping centres all day, and it has been proven that many flus are caught by people while shopping,

Workplaces are another extremely important place to consider when it comes to hygiene. Studies have proven that your average office desk actually contains more bacteria than a toilet seat, so it is of utmost importance that you keep both your work area and your own hands as hygienically clean as possible. Every cubicle should have a packet of antibacterial hand wipes on the desk, for both workers and visitors. The office environment is usually an enclosed area as well, so anyone with a hint of the flu will unwittingly pass their germs around very quickly. This spread of germs is made even worse in an office environment by air conditioners.

Another place that will benefit from the use of hand cleaning wipes is in factories and industrial settings. Although bacteria is not such a big issue in these settings, a person working with heavy machinery will quickly build up a lot of grease, oil and chemicals on their skin. Not only are these substances hard to get off if left unchecked, they can also be quite damaging to your skin. In these environments, industrial hand wipes are usually recommended in order to combat these stubborn stains.

Hospitals are an obvious place where sanitizing hand wipes are extremely important. Doctors and nurses are on the front line of bacteria and disease, and come into contact with all sorts of nasty bugs every hour of their working day. The use of hospital grade hand wipes will ensure that these medical professionals are kept safe, as well as their patients. Many patients in hospitals have a heightened sensitivity to these germs, and it is the doctors duty to ensure they are kept bacteria free while in their care.

Finally, the food industry is another place that must utilise hand wipes on a regular basis. The preparation of food must follow very strict FDA guidelines, and one of those guidelines is that hands must be sanitized before food handling takes place. In many restaurants customers are also offered hand wipes of their own to use after eating. This is quite common practice in fast food restaurants such as KFC, where the food can be quite greasy.

Depending on which of the categories above you fall into, you will find a wide range of hand wipes that are specifically designed for your situation. If bacteria is your main concern, then you will be best off looking for wipes that are treated with antibacterial and germicidal substances. These will kill viruses and microbes on contact, and are especially popular during the flu season. If you find that the wipes you are using are causing an irritation or redness on your skin, then you may be having an allergic reaction to the alcohol that is contained in some brands. If this is the case, you will want to source some alcohol free hand wipes, as prolonged use will not be good for you.

If you suffer from dry or cracked skin, you may benefit from using hand wipes that are specifically designed to replenish moisture in your skin. Too much contact with water will cause this dryness, and if your job involves a lot of water, for example washing dishes or clothes, then it’s a good idea to have some moisturising wipes on hand that you can use on a regular basis. Quite often these types of hand wipes will be impregnated with essential oils such as lavender and other natural healing properties like Aloe Vera.

Recently there has been a growing trend away from traditional hand wipes and towards the liquid soaps and sprays. They are becoming more and more popular, and although they claim to have many benefits, the basic principle is the same as hand wipes. The problem with these sprays and bottles is that they can be cumbersome to carry around, and as a result they often get forgotten and left behind. A packet of hand wipes, on the other hand, will easily fit inside your pocket and are always on hand. They remain an inexpensive and versatile solution to the constant fight against germs and bacteria.