You end up standing in dirty water while you shower and have to clean a grimy bathtub. Use some of the following methods to clean out your drain. One of them or a combination of them work 90% of the time.

Get the Hair Out

Hot water, vinegar, and chemicals do not dissolve hair. You have to physically remove it for effective drain cleaning. Remove the stopper and strainer if there is one and use one of the following tools to pull out the hair.

Homemade Hair Pick

Cut a wire coat hanger at least 12” long to reach the bottom of the P-trap. (Any stiff 12 gauge wire works.) Bend a half-inch hook into one end of the wire. Make sure the hook is tight enough to move easily in the drain. It should hook any hair in the drain and pull it out.

Drain Stick

Drain sticks look like zip ties with barbs. They are flexible and long enough to pass through the P-trap and pull out the hair. They may not be stiff enough to push through large hard clogs. They are available in 5-packs and cost very little.

Drain Claw

Drain claws are flexible metal tubes that encase three or four metal claws. They are relatively inexpensive and available in lengths up to 5’. Push it down the drain until you feel resistance, then depress the plunger to extend the claws and grab the clog.

Dissolve the Clog

Once the hair is out of the drain, move on to getting rid of the rest of the clog and clean out the drain pipe using any of these methods. Or a combination of them. Any remaining hairs should pass through the pipes with the other material.

Plunger

Plungers are usually the first option you think of when water runs slow. Use yours properly for the best results.

• Remove the drain cover or stopper.
• Seal the tub or sink overflow with painter’s tape to prevent air from escaping.
• Position the plunger to create an airtight seal over the drain. Soft bell-shaped plungers work best.
• Run enough water into the tub or sink to cover the plunger.
• Plunge vigorously for 20 or 30 seconds without losing the seal.
• Remove the plunger to make sure water is draining well.
• Repeat if necessary.

Hot Water and Dish Detergent

Dish detergent and hot water remove caked-on material. Pour about a half cup of any liquid dish detergent into the drain. Make sure it runs down the entire circumference of the drain. Pour a gallon of hot water down the drain. Use boiling water in metal pipes and hot tap water on ABS plastic to prevent damage to the pipe.

Ensure the water is draining properly. Repeat the treatment to remove any remains of the clog. Hair and soap scum sticks easier to the remnants of old clogs and build up new clogs quicker.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

The foaming action of vinegar mixed with baking soda removes clogs and caked-on grime from drains. Pour a half cup of baking soda into the drain. Dry pipes allow it to slide down to the clog or P-trap. Pour a half cup of white vinegar into the drain. The mixture turns into a hot foam that eats away at the clog.

Cover the drain with a wet cloth and let the mixture work for an hour. Flush out the drain pipes with a gallon of hot water. Repeat if the water is not running freely.

Plumbing Snake

You may need a plumbing snake to get rid of stubborn clogs or clogs farther down the pipes. Hand-operated 25’ long snakes are available for under $50.00. Slide them into the drain and follow the instructions to cut through clogs and remove caked-on grime from the pipes.

Call a Plumber

If you can’t get the water running, it is a sign you need a plumber. The clog might be in the main drain pipe. It is probably caused by something more serious than hair and soap scum. Plumbers have the equipment and expertise to diagnose and repair the problem.

The post How To Unclog a Bathtub Drain Effectively appeared first on Homedit.

Tub Cleaning Tips You Should Know

Cleaning the tub every week or two usually prevents grime buildup. Wiping the tub dry and running the exhaust fan during and after every use prevents humidity and scum buildup.

Stop Using Bar Soap

Bar soaps cause most soap scum buildup in tubs and showers. Bar soap scum sticks to everything it touches. It is a food source for mildew, mold, and pink mold. Dirt and hair conditioner stick to soap scum and leave dark rings in tubs after they are drained. Replace bar soap with liquid body wash for cleaner tubs.

Dish Soap and Vinegar

Fill a spray bottle with equal amounts of vinegar and dish soap. Shake well to mix the ingredients. Spray the walls and floor of the tub or shower stall. Let it work for up to an hour, then wipe the tub clean with warm soapy water. Rinse with warm clear water. It works great to remove soap scum.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

Fill your tub with warm water to cover the dirt ring. Add about a half cup each of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Mix well and let sit for 15 or 20 minutes. The foaming mixture loosens grime and sticks to the sides of the tub. Drain the tub, rinse, and dry for a clean tub.

Bar Keepers Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a cleaner that has been around for over 100 years. Its main ingredient is oxalic acid–originally discovered in rhubarb–which removes soap scum, grime, rust stains, and limescale. The cleanser sticks to vertical surfaces and wipes off easily–taking scum and grime with it.

Magic Eraser

Magic Erasers remove soap scum, grease, and surface dirt. They contain bleach that gets rid of mold and cleans grout lines. Available in multiple combinations to clean tubs, showers, shower doors, and tiles. They are great for general bathroom cleaning.

Tub Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts

These suggestions make cleaning the tub quicker, easier, and safer.

Do’s:

• Power Brush – Buy a rechargeable electric cleaning brush–with a long handle–to save effort. They are inexpensive, efficient, and save time.
• Follow Instructions – Read and follow the instructions on commercial cleaning products for the best results and personal safety.
• Soft Tools – Use soft tools like sponges, microfiber cloths, and soft nylon brushes to prevent damage to the tub.
• Preventive Maintenance – Wipe the tub dry after every use. Spray it with vinegar once or twice a week to prevent soap scum and grime buildup.

Don’ts:

• Abrasive Cleaners – Abrasive cleaners like some powders, and tools like steel wool and stiff bristle brushes easily scratch and scar acrylic and fiberglass tubs. Damaged tubs are more difficult to clean.
• Mixing Cleaners – Mixing vinegar and bleach produces chlorine gas. Mixing bleach and ammonia produces chloramine gas. Both can be fatal–especially in small enclosed spaces like bathrooms. Read the list of ingredients and cautions on any commercial cleaner.

The post How To Clean a Grimy Bathtub appeared first on Homedit.

Few people look forward to cleaning bathrooms but using these tips makes the job go quicker and the results more successful.

Vinegar, Water, and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are popular inexpensive cleaners in most households. They have many uses in bathrooms.

• On the Shower Curtain – Use a 50/50 vinegar/water mixture to spray showers, doors, and curtains after every shower or every second shower to keep soap scum from building up.
• In the Toilet – Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl regularly before flushing. It is slightly abrasive and helps keep the bowl clean between scrubbings.
• In the Drains – Pour about six tablespoons of baking soda down bathroom drains if they are running slowly. Add the same amount of vinegar. Let sit for about 30 minutes, then rinse it away with warm water. Let the water run for at least five minutes for a good drain flush. This works on soap scum and other blockages. It does not work on hair.
• For the Shower Head – Remove the shower head and soak it in distilled white vinegar overnight to clean off built-up mineral deposits.
• Grout Cleaner – Make a paste with baking soda and water. Use a toothbrush to scrub the grout lines, then rinse clean.

Use Clean Tools

Clean your cleaning equipment after every use. Dirty mops, dusters, cloths, and brushes spread dirt around instead of removing it. Dried, crusty, and gritty dusters and cleaning cloths can scratch some surfaces.

Toothbrushes and Chopsticks

Don’t throw out old toothbrushes. They make great cleaning tools for tight hard-to-get-at places like faucets, vanity handles, grout lines, and more. The bristles remove grime and mold.

A microfiber cleaning cloth on the end of a chopstick also gets into tight spots when you don’t need the friction of a bristle brush.

Microfiber Cloth Cleaning

Buy and use microfiber cleaning cloths. They trap bacteria and dirt. They don’t leave lint or streaks and clean easily in the washing machine.

Courtesy: freepik.com – Cleaning with a microfiber cloth.

Use Hydrogen Peroxide For Mold and Mildew

Hydrogen peroxide kills mold and mildew just like bleach but without the odor or potential health problems. Spray it onto the affected area, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub the area clean.

Dust First, Then Clean

Get the dust out of the bathroom before cleaning. Dust clogs up cleaning tools and leaves streaks. You may just be moving it around and leaving it stuck in a different spot.

Electric Power Scrubbers and Toothbrushes

Battery-powered electric bathroom scrubbers make a quick and efficient job of cleaning tubs, toilets, sinks, and tile. There are many options with various attachments available for $50.00 or less. You can also get attachments for electric drills but drills are bulkier and heavier.

An electric toothbrush saves scrubbing effort in small tight spaces. Save the old brush heads for cleaning when you change to a new one.

Clean Family Toothbrushes

Toothbrushes remove the bacteria from your mouth, then they dry on the brush until the next use. Electric toothbrushes collect bacteria, saliva, and toothpaste between the brush head and motor.

Soak the bristle parts of toothbrushes in hydrogen peroxide overnight. Remove the brush head from electric toothbrushes and soak them and the motor end. Rinse clean in the morning. Soak toothbrushes in hydrogen peroxide weekly.

Use Shaving Cream As a Cleaner

Use shaving cream in the bathroom for more than just shaving.

• Jewelry. Gentle and effective. Rub jewelry for a couple of minutes in shaving cream, then rinse well to restore the shine.
• Mirrors. Spray bathroom mirrors and shower doors with a thin layer, then wipe it off to prevent fogging after a shower.
• Faucets. Polishes bathroom and kitchen faucets to a bright shine. Especially effective on stainless steel.
• Makeup Stains. Spot clean towels, facecloths, and other fabric. Let sit for 10 minutes. Blot off the shaving cream and wash normally.

Use Aspirin for Cleaning Pain

Two aspirins dissolved in water removes soap scum from faucets and sinks and showers. Aspirin works because it is slightly acidic and can substitute for regular cleaners if you run out.

Use Cooking Spray In the Bathroom

The oil in non-stick cooking spray breaks down and removes lime deposits. It is a safe and easy-to-use cleaner.

• Vanity Hinges. Lubricates and prevents squeaking.
• Faucets. Put a shine on sink and tub faucets by spraying with non-stick cooking spray and wiping clean.
• Soap Scum. Works on shower stalls and tiles. Rinse with hot water so the shower floor is not slippery.
• Shower Doors. Removes soap scum and lime deposits. Rinse with hot water to remove the oil film.

Keep It Dry

Use your hand towel or bath towel to dry faucets and fixtures every time you wash or shower. Removing drips and spray regularly keeps chrome shiny and makes regular cleaning easier. Make sure the floor is dry after showering. Wet dust sticks better to floors, countertops, and toilets. Dry floors are safer to walk on.

Use a Bleach Pen

Bleach pens make cleaning grout lines easy without bleaching the entire surface. Run the pen over the grout, leave it sit overnight, and wipe it clean with warm water.

Clorox bleach pens are difficult to get (discontinued?) and expensive. Similar products work well on fabric but may not clean grout as effectively.

Recycle Silica Gel Packets and Used Dryer Sheets

Silica gel packets absorb moisture. Save a few that come with your purchases and place them in the medicine cabinet. They reduce the humidity that rusts razor blades and affects medicines. The bath fan can’t remove humidity from an enclosed cabinet.

Used dryer sheets are slightly abrasive. They remove lime deposits from tubs, fixtures, and bathroom tile. Make the slightly damp and rub out the lime.

Toilet Brush Etiquette

Dirty wet toilet brushes put back in the holder grow mold and bacteria. After use, disinfect the brush with hydrogen peroxide. Trap the handle between the toilet seat and bowl so it can drip into the toilet. Make sure the brush holder is clean before putting the brush away.

Use Pumice Stone For Toilet Rings

Pumice stone is a soft abrasive that scrubs away limescale, rust, and hard water stains in toilets without damaging the porcelain surface. For best results, lower the toilet’s water level but keep the stained area wet while working on it.

Shower Squeegee

Wiping down showers and tubs after using them is a must to prevent soap scum buildup, streaks, and mold. A shower squeegee makes it easy to remove water drops and mineral deposits from shower doors, tiles, and tubs.

Dry the Shower Curtain

Spread out your shower curtain to get air to the whole thing. An open window or bathroom exhaust fan moves drier air around it. Wet curtains promote mold and mildew growth. They can stay damp between showers if pushed into a bunch.

The post Bathroom Cleaning Tips and Tricks You’ll Wish You Knew appeared first on Homedit.

Not Turning On the Fan

Bathroom exhaust fans are a big aid to shower cleaning. The humid air left in the bathroom during and after showers helps dirt, dust, soap particles, and aerosols adhere to the shower walls, tub, and curtain. Your fan should be able to move enough cubic feet per minute (CFM) to exhaust moist humid air quickly.

Run the fan during your shower and for an hour after to get the moisture out of the bathroom. Install a timer switch to prevent it from running continuously. Run the fan when you are cleaning the shower to exhaust chemical fumes and open the window if your bathroom has one.

Not Drying the Shower After Each Use

Leaving water drops in the shower invites dirt and dust to stick–especially on tile grout. Mold grows on wet dust. Eventually, it will start growing on tile grout, caulking, and shower curtains. Use a squeegee or rag to wipe down the walls, door or curtain, and shower floor after each shower.

Mold growth on caulking eventually separates it from the surfaces it is supposed to seal. Water getting onto drywall and framing members causes mold growth and eventually rot. Drying and cleaning the shower regularly saves expensive repairs.

Procrastinating

Ignoring cleaning the shower until it is really dirty only makes the job more difficult. You have to spend more time and work harder when you finally tackle it. Dirt and grime are more difficult to remove and you may have to deal with mold growth. Set a regular schedule and stick to it.

Using Abrasive Cleaners and Harsh Chemicals

It is tempting to use stronger chemicals and scrub harder to clean very dirty surfaces. Don’t. Abrasive cleaners and stiff brushes damage tile grout. Water can then seep behind the tiles and damage the drywall or loosen the adhesive holding the tile onto the wall.

Abrasive cleaners also scratch acrylic tub surrounds and shower doors. They can etch glass doors. Scratched surfaces hold more dirt and moisture-making future cleaning more difficult and less successful.

Breathing in harsh chemicals is a health risk. Only use them as a last resort. Start with vinegar and baking soda, dish detergent, or gentle non-VOC products. Do not use bar soap. It will only add soap scum to the mixture of dirt already there and encourage mold growth.

Ignoring the Small Stuff

When wiping down or cleaning the shower walls and doors don’t ignore faucets, shower heads, spouts, drains, soap shelves, and shampoo holders. These all have areas where dirt, mold, and limescale build-up are unseen. The longer it is left the more difficult to clean and the shorter lifespan they have.

Remove shower heads, tap handles, and spouts periodically. Soak them in vinegar to remove lime. Use a toothbrush to remove all grime.

Not Preventing Mold

Ignoring mold growth–pink, black, brown, or white–until the next cleaning is unhealthy. It can be controlled by spraying the shower with a weak bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) weekly. Spray and let sit for about 20 minutes, then rinse it off and dry the shower enclosure. It only takes a few minutes but saves a lot of cleaning time and mold removal.

The post Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Your Shower appeared first on Homedit.

This color resurgence is a variation on past colorful styles, allowing for a more personalized and dynamic aesthetic that allows for greater self-expression. The fact that bathrooms are typically quiet and out of the way makes them great places to go a little crazy with design.

Whether you choose a vibrant tile color, lush wallpaper, eye-catching accessories, or a combination of elements, creating a colorful bathroom is an exciting process that will allow your bathroom to truly reflect your style and personality.

Ideas for Creating a Colorful Bathroom

Here are some ideas to help you create the colorful bathroom you have always wanted. Feel free to take one or mix and match several to make the space as vibrant as possible. Take these ideas and make them uniquely your own—after all, the goal is to create a space that reflects your personal style.

Try Color Drenching

Color drenching is a technique that covers large areas with the same color. It is typically a painting technique that covers the walls, trim, and sometimes ceiling with the same colors. The result is a unified, immersive look that produces a striking visual impact.

Painting is one of the easiest ways to produce a color drenched room, but tile can be particularly effective for covering a bathroom in color. Tiling the walls from floor to ceiling in one color creates a design that is not just dramatic; it also helps to protect the walls from splashes and moisture that can deteriorate delicate drywall. Whether you choose a deep emerald green, a sunny yellow, or a dreamy blue, color drenching your bathroom with tile or paint will turn your bathroom into a standout feature of your home.

Incorporate Colorful Fixtures

Adding colorful bathroom fixtures such as bathtubs, sinks, and toilets is a fun way to bring unexpected color into your bathroom. Choose vibrant colors such as cobalt blue, bright red, or pastel pink fixtures to create a focal point that draws the eye. These vibrant fixtures can be combined with a neutral background to create a balanced look, or with a more colorful scheme for an eclectic vibe.

Layer in Vibrant Accessories

Adding colorful accessories, such as vibrant shower curtains and bath mats, is a low-cost and low-commitment way to brighten up your bathroom. Wall art, towels, soap dispensers, and window coverings are some other easy ways to add color to your bathroom. These accessories are not only functional; they can quickly transform an out-of-date and drab-looking bathroom into one that looks modern, fresh, and quirky.

Soft textile accessories like towels and bathmats are simple to change out seasonally or based on your mood. Use a variety of accessories with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a more complex and visually appealing bathroom design.

Try a Bold Wallpaper

Bold and vibrant wallpaper can quickly change the look of any bathroom by adding both color and pattern to the wall. Choose from a wide range of designs, including florals, geometrics, and abstract themes. Bold wallpaper creates an immediate visual effect that can make a bathroom more thoughtful and inviting.

Consider easy-to-install options such as peel-and-stick wallpaper, which is quicker to apply and much easier to remove than traditional wallpaper.

Choose Contrasting Colors

When you use contrasting colors in your bathroom design, you get both a balanced and visually appealing effect. A small space can gain depth and dynamic contrast by combining contrasting colors, such as green with pink or blue with coral. With this decision, each color is able to shine out and avoid becoming overpowering in the design. Even a small room can have more depth by using color contrast to draw attention to architectural fixtures and features.

Bring in Colorful Accent Furniture

https://www.houzz.com/photos/eclectic-bathroom-eclectic-bathroom-new-orleans-phvw-vp~166103472 (Houzz)

Tile and wallpaper additions are not always quick to complete, but a fresh coat of paint on a vanity cabinet or storage unit usually takes only one day. Colorful accent pieces, such as painted chairs, shelves, or stools, can add character and interest to a bathroom. These items not only provide an eye-catching feature to the room, they also provide practical storage for bathroom essentials.

Use a Bold Tile

A bold tile selection will significantly alter the appearance and feel of your bathroom, adding texture, color, and depth to the design. Consider using brightly colored tiles on the walls or floors to brighten the space while also protecting the walls. Herringbone, mosaic, and chevron patterns create an eye-catching and dynamic effect, especially when highlighted with grout.

Tile requires more long term commitment than many of the other colorful design ideas, so it will immediately make this bold move feel intentional and planned.

Highlight the Ceiling

Use the room’s unique architectural features, such as a sloped ceiling or distinctive molding, to make it appear more custom. Paint a high ceiling or decorate a vaulted room with wallpaper. These frequently overlooked areas can become focal points if you use a color or pattern that contrasts with the walls. Alternatively, using a color or pattern that complements the walls can make the space appear larger.

Incorporating the ceiling or other similar architectural features into the design introduces an unexpected element that makes the design feel more cohesive and thoughtfully curated.

Incorporate Statement Lighting

Statement lighting elements that combine color and dynamic shapes can enhance both functionality and style in your bathroom. Consider pendant lights, sconces, and chandeliers in vibrant colors like red, blue, green, and gold. These fixtures provide necessary lighting while also acting as a decorative element, adding a layer of sophistication to the design.

In order to add layers of light to your bathroom, consider using non-fixed lighting elements, such as lamps, in addition to the specific lighting elements that complement your unique bathroom design.

Mix Vibrant Patterns

Mixing vibrant patterns in tile, textiles, and wallpaper patterns is a fun way to add a more eclectic vibe to your bathroom. Textiles are easy to add and remove, so they are a great place to begin experimenting with colorful pattern mixes. Be bold with your choices, knowing that they are easy to replace. If you like the way this looks, you can begin adding other colors and patterns to the mix using more permanent design features like wallpaper, tiles, and wall paint colors.

Bring in Nature

There are few colors that strike a deeper chord with humans than those found in nature. Plants and fresh flowers in your bathroom not only add color to the space, but they also provide organic texture and non-regular shapes that soften the bathroom’s harsh lines. Choose plants with colorful flowers or foliage that thrive in humid bathrooms, such as orchids, ferns, and begonias. Plants not only enhance the room’s aesthetic appeal, but they also improve air quality and create a more relaxing environment.

Plants should be used throughout the design, including on windowsills, ceiling hooks, and the floor. This will add layers of interest to the bathroom, making it feel more alive and fresh.

The post Update Your House With a Colorful Bathroom: Tips and Tricks to Nail the Style appeared first on Homedit.

By focusing on key accessories such as hardware, soft textiles, and paint, you can achieve a fresh and modern look without a significant financial investment. Whether you want a quick refresh or a more substantial update, these simple and inexpensive ideas will keep your bathroom both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Updating an Outdated Bathroom

Updating an outdated bathroom can be a fun and creative process that results in a new look that better reflects your personal style.

Refresh Paint

A new coat of paint can completely transform the appearance of any bathroom. Choosing light neutral colors will brighten the room and make it appear larger, creating a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere. Dark colors are ideal for other bathrooms where you want to create an intimate, cozy, and dramatic style. Painting is a simple project that you can complete on your own over the weekend with a few tools.

Hardware Updates

A simple project that can enhance the appearance and usability of your bathroom is replacing outdated hardware. Consider replacing your door knobs and drawer pulls, faucets, and shower and bathtub accessories with updated metal options such as polished nickel or brass to instantly elevate and modernize the bathroom’s style.

When you choose specialty fixtures, such as rainfall showerheads or those that use smart technology options like remote controls and voice activation, you can give yourself a spa-like experience in your own bathroom.

Mirror Switch

The mirror is often a prominent focal point for a bathroom, so ensuring that the mirror is stylish and attractive goes a long way toward updating the look of the room. Often, bathrooms come with standard-grade, frameless mirrors that lack a distinctive form. Consider replacing these types of mirrors with ones that have a unique shape or distinctive frame. For the most cohesive look, be sure to coordinate the materials of the mirror and the metal hardware.

Upgrade Lighting

Changing the lighting in the bathroom is an excellent budget project because there are often a small and limited number of fixtures that you need to replace. Lighting is essential to the functionality and ambience of a space, so selecting the right ones is critical.

Consider replacing outdated fixtures with updated options that provide better lighting and are more visually appealing in the space. Wall sconces, pendant lights, chandeliers, and lamps are examples of fixtures that can add flair in addition to utility.

Swap Out Soft Textiles

Soft textiles provide exceptional value for money. You can quickly change the look of your bathroom by replacing old accessories, such as towels, bathmats, and shower curtains, with new ones in fun colors and patterns. To give your bathroom a more luxurious appearance and ensure that they lasts as long as possible, always purchase soft textiles made of high-quality materials such as linen and cotton.

Include Decorative Elements

Adding ornamental elements to your bathroom can give it a more lively and unique atmosphere. Wall art instantly elevates a bathroom, but it does not have to be expensive.

Shop at a secondhand store for quirky or distinctive pictures, or print and frame some of your favorite photos. You can even create your own or use your children’s artwork to decorate your walls. Trays, baskets, decorative jars, natural sponges, and candles are also useful for creating the perfect ambience in your bathroom.

Just Add Wallpaper

Wallpaper is a simple and quick way to add glamorous style and texture to your bathroom. New peel-and-stick options are preferable to traditional paste varieties because they are much easier to install.

Depending on your time and budget, you can use wallpaper to highlight a single wall or cover the entire space. Wallpaper comes in a wide variety of patterns, colors, and textures, so you are sure to find one that complements your bathroom style and preferences.

Renew Grout and Calk

Old grout and caulk can become discolored and cracked, giving your bathroom an out-of-date appearance. Removing and replacing old caulk and grout, or deep cleaning existing grout, can improve the appearance of your bathroom. This is a maintenance task that improves the appearance of the bathroom while also ensuring that the grout and caulk are water resistant, keeping the elements underneath dry.

Replace or Paint the Existing Cabinet

The cabinet is frequently the largest piece of furniture in the bathroom, so its appearance dictates the overall style of the room. Evaluate your existing cabinet and consider painting it or replacing it entirely. Painting and replacing the hardware on an existing cabinet is less expensive, but replacing it may be a better option if yours has an unappealing countertop and you can find one you like that is all-inclusive.

Install Wall Paneling

Wall paneling, such as shiplap or beadboard, not only adds depth and texture to a bathroom, but it also shields the wall from stray water splashes that could damage the surface. Consider a half-panel solution for your walls for the most cost-effective and functional solution.

You can use wood for the paneling, but it must be sealed with either paint or stain to stay protected. PVC molding is a durable and cost-effective option for bathrooms. Once painted, this will have a nearly identical appearance and feel to wood. Paint the wall molding a darker color than your walls to give your wall paneling a more modern appearance.

Repurpose and Upcycle

Look for items you already have in your home or low-cost second-hand items that you can repurpose for use in the bathroom. A wooden stool, for example, can be used as a decorative side table, while a wooden ladder can serve as a towel holder. A vintage saucer or bowl works well for storing decorative hand soap or shower essentials.

Most of these items only require a scrub and polish or a fresh coat of paint to become an indispensable part of your bathroom decor. These small details can make the difference between a bathroom with a distinct style and one that looks the same as everyone else’s.

Introduce Greenery

Plants and cut greenery are nature’s gift to us, and they make gorgeous displays in every room of the house. Live plants can be tricky in bathrooms because not all of them have light, so it is essential that you know your space.

Plants such as rex begonias, orchids, and ferns can make excellent additions to bathrooms with plenty of natural light; they will not only add a vibrant pop of green to the space, but will also benefit from the humidity. In bathrooms with little or no natural light, add some cut branches or faux greenery. Even if you have to replace the cut branches on a regular basis, the fresh color will immediately brighten your space.

Increase Your Storage

There are few places where storage is more vital than in a bathroom. Increasing bathroom storage is not only beneficial; it also makes your bathroom look cleaner and more appealing.

Adding shelves, baskets, and under-cabinet organizers allows you to store more efficiently in a smaller space. Floating shelves offer a stylish way to display toiletries, plants, and decorative items such as wall art. Over the toilet storage shelves, known as bathroom etegeres, fit over the toilet and provide ample storage without taking up much floor space. Baskets and bins under cabinets or on shelves can help keep items organized and easy to find.

Add New Window Treatments

Bathroom window treatments are more than just a way to add privacy and control over light; they can also change the appearance of a bathroom. Depending on the shape of your window and your privacy and light control requirements, you can choose from a variety of styles, such as full-length curtains, cafe-style curtains, roller shades, Roman shades, or blinds.

Above all, your window treatments should provide adequate privacy while also being simple to clean, use, and maintain. Layering different window coverings can help to add depth and texture to a room while also providing more privacy.

The post Easy Ideas for Updating an Outdated Bathroom Without Spending a Fortune appeared first on Homedit.

Tools and Supplies

• Crescent wrench or open-end wrench
• Vice grip
• Adjustable pliers (not essentials but nice to have)
• Plumber’s putty
• Teflon tape
• Bucket
• Towel to absorb drips or mop up water

Step One: Prep new faucet

We have chosen the Jaida faucet because it is a stylish upgrade. It is a single-hole faucet with a pop-up drain. Most faucets and drains are installed in a similar fashion. They all have installation instructions–in the package or online.

Remove everything from the box to ensure you have all the parts. If you are replacing a single-hole faucet you should have everything you need. Remove the mounting plate from the faucet.

If there are three holes in your vanity countertop, you need to install the decorative deck plate included in the package to cover the two extra holes. When using the deck plate, cover the bottom with a thin layer of plumber’s putty to prevent water from leaking under the plate and into the cabinet.

Before beginning your installation, ensure the countertop is clean. Remove any old caulking, plumber’s putty, dirt, and grime. The faucet and/or deck plate fit and seal better on smooth clean surfaces.

Step Two: Check pipes before installing the bathroom faucet

Identify the hot and cold water pipes in the faucet. They should be labeled and the longer one is for hot water. Make sure because finding you reversed them means you will have to change the supply lines or put up with the tap operating backward.

Step Three: Attach the O-ring under the bathroom faucet

The faucet is seated on a rubber O-ring on top of the counter. Before placing the ring on the countertop, fill the groove in the bottom with plumber’s putty to prevent water leaking into the cabinet. Don’t worry if you use too much. It will squeeze out and can be removed after the faucet is tightened in place. Plumber’s putty does not harden and comes off easily.

Step Four: Put in place before installing the bathroom faucet

Hold the O-ring in place on the countertop and thread the faucet pipes and mounting bolt through the hole. Position the faucet as straight as you can temporarily. Having someone to hold the faucet while you secure it prevents it from moving until you get it tightened.

Step Five: Attach fittings to install the bathroom faucet

Slide the mounting plate onto the threaded rod with the bumps facing up–towards the countertop. The mounting plate bumps provide a better grip on the countertop. Spin the nut onto the rod until it is snug against the mounting plate. Finger tighten only at this point to allow for final adjustments.

Gently separate the faucet water lines. Attach the adaptors to each one using the spring clips. Ensure that the threaded end points down. Wrap the adaptor threads with Teflon tape. Press the tape firmly onto the threads. Cover the entire threaded area. Teflon tape helps prevent leaks.

Step Six: Attach hoses to bathroom faucet

Screw the supply lines onto the faucet. Hot water lines are usually on the left. Cold on the right. If you have any doubts, put a supply line into a pail, open the shutoff valve, and run water until you are certain which line supplies hot water. This process will also flush out your supply lines.

If your supply lines are too long, put a loop in them to make them shorter and keep them from getting in the way.

Step Seven: Adding the Drain when Installing the Bathroom Faucet

The Jaida faucet comes with a pop-up drain because the faucet does not have a pull-rod stopper. Follow these steps to install the new one.

Remove the pop-up lever from the existing drain to enable it to slide through the sink hole. You may need pliers or a vice grip to loosen it–especially if it is corroded.

Loosen the nut holding the drain to the sink using pliers or a vice grip. Spin it down as far as it goes.

Push the drain up far enough to be able to grab the ring in the sink with pliers and pull it off.

Unscrew all of the parts down to the P-trap and remove them. You have the old drain and an extender pipe that connects the P-trap to the drain. Do not remove the P-trap.

Discard the old drain and clean the extender pipe, nuts, and plastic sealing rings.

In many instances, the extender pipe is glued onto the P-trap. Do not try to remove it. If there is no large nut between the P-trap and extender, they are glued and meant to stay together. You have to push the drain assembly up through the sink hole to remove it. The new drain fits into the extender and is clamped tight with the nut and sealing ring.

If you removed the extender pipe, wash it clean using dish detergent and water. Reinstall it in the P-trap.

Clean the sink hole thoroughly to remove any built-up dirt, grime, and the remaining plumber’s putty or caulking. Plumber’s putty comes off easily but cured caulking has to be scraped and cleaned with paint thinner or mineral spirits. Dirty drain holes prevent a positive seal and lead to leaks.

Step Eight: Place new drain

Remove the nut and two washers from the new drain. Leave one rubber washer on the drain and insert it into the sink hole. Do not use plumber’s putty on the seal. The putty may damage the seal–according to the manufacturer.

Replace the washers and nut on the drain tail pipe before pushing it into the P-trap extension. Ensure they go on in the same order they were removed. Have someone hold the drain in place from above while you work the large rubber washer tight to the sink bottom.

Screw the nut tight to the rubber washer while someone holds the drain in place from above. Hand tighten only. Using vice grips or pliers can over-compress both rubber seals and lead to leaks.

Tighten the P-trap extender nut to hold the drain securely. Hand tighten only.

Step Nine: Double-check the drain in your new bathroom faucet

Test the operation of the drain. Pushing it down closes the drain. Pushing and releasing pops the drain open. The metal part of the drain plug is not meant to touch the sink. The rubber gasket below the metal achieves sealing.

Step Ten: Final touches on installing the bathroom faucet

Have someone hold the faucet perfectly straight while you tighten everything underneath. Use a wrench to tighten the supply lines to the faucet and the mounting plate to the bottom of the countertop. Make sure everything is tight to prevent leaks and movement of the faucet.

Step Eleven: Test for leaks

Open the water line valves and check the supply line connections for leaks. Turn on the faucet and check for proper operation. Hot water when the lever is pushed left and cold when it is on the right.

Check under the sink for drain leaks–from the pipes and around the sink. Close the drain to ensure it holds water and pops up to drain.

Covering the vanity base with paper towel is a good way to spot leaks without spending too much time under the sink. If any leaks appear, tighten the nuts a bit more.

The post How To Install a Bathroom Faucet appeared first on Homedit.

Tools Required:

• Adjustable wrench, open-ended wrench, or vice grip wrench.
• Phillips screwdriver. At least 6” long to easily reach into tight locations.
• Bucket and towel.

Step One: Turn off water before you remove the bathroom faucet

Turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Many older homes do not have individual valves for each faucet. You have to close the main intake valve that supplies the entire house.

Step Two: Remove stopper from the bathroom faucet

There are several types of sink stoppers. The pop-up variety is operated by a rod passing through the rear of the faucet. It must be disconnected from the drain before faucet removal.

If your sink does not have a pop-up sink stopper, skip this step.

Remove the spring clip holding the extension rod to the pivot rod and slide the extension rod off the pivot rod. Detach the extension rod from the lift rod. (It may be too big to fit through the countertop hole.) Remove the lift rod from the faucet.

Step Three: Drain any water from the bathroom faucet

Turn on both taps to drain as much water as possible. Some water will remain in the supply lines because there is no pressure to force it out.

Step Four: Unscrew fittings

Disconnect the supply lines from the faucet. Use the proper-sized wrench or vice grips if possible. Improperly adjusted crescent wrenches can round off the nut.

Spread a towel on the base of the vanity and place a small bucket under the supply lines to catch any water that runs out of the lines.

If you have plastic connectors, unclip the plastic guard and squeeze the sides to pull them off.

Not all faucets and taps are secured to the countertop in the same manner. The following pictures illustrate two of the most common methods. Numbers 1, 2, and 3 show a rubber gasket, a large flat steel washer, and a lock nut held tight with screws.

Loosen the screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Spin off the lock nut and remove the flat washer and rubber gasket.

Figure # 4 shows a mounting plate and nut. These types of faucets have a threaded rod that passes through the countertop. The mounting plate is tightened to the underside of the countertop.

Remove the nut and mounting plate to free the faucet.

Step Five: Remove bathroom faucet

Once all lines, stopper rods, and hardware are disconnected and removed, the faucet and taps can be removed from above.

Step Five: Clean Up

If you are not replacing the countertop, clean off all accumulated dirt and mineral deposits to accept a new faucet. A good cleaner should remove most of the buildup. Use a scraper to remove old dried-on caulking. You may need paint thinner or steel wool to get rid of all of it.

Make sure the inside of the vanity cabinet is dry. Most cabinets are made from MDF which absorbs water and swells. Mold grows on wet MDF and will cause smells under your bathroom sink.

The post How To Remove a Bathroom Faucet appeared first on Homedit.

The cabinets, on the other hand, still looked great. Since I was working with a small budget, I just needed to freshen up the counters. So, I got creative, skimming one bathroom countertop with concrete and painting another. These cheap and easy options held me over until I could afford a more permanent replacement.

If you’re in a similar situation, fear not. These five bathroom countertop ideas are inexpensive and can completely change the look of your room.

DIY Concrete Counters

There are two ways to DIY your concrete countertops. First, you can make your own countertop forms and create solid concrete countertops. For an even easier and faster method, you can add coats of Ardex feather concrete over your existing counters.

I transformed my bathroom laminate countertops with white Ardex Feather concrete. One of our contributors used an earthy concrete color to transform his kitchen countertops and provided a step-by-step tutorial with pictures.

Laminate from a Big Box Store

Laminate countertops have come a long way. Replacing a laminate countertop from the 1980s or 90s with a more current version can refresh your space. I recently added this marble-look laminate countertop from Lowes to my master bathroom, and it looks great. Lowes also had a herringbone butcher block-style laminate countertop available.

The off-the-shelf laminate countertops at the big box stores are very inexpensive, can be cut to size, and are easily installed. Visit Lowes or The Home Depot to see what they have in store.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

Tile countertops can give a custom look at a fraction of the price of solid surface counters. While these countertops were most popular in the 1980s, a fresh, modern twist can make them the right choice for your kitchen or bathroom.

Ceramic, porcelain, and granite tiles are all durable countertop options. Epoxy grout is one of the best grout choices for tile countertops because it is water—and stain-resistant.

Countertop Painting Kit

Those interested in a long-lasting countertop option that will make it several years before needing to be replaced can consider a countertop painting or refinishing kit. These kits contain primer, paint, and sealants for a whole new look.

Some available options include simple coatings to turn countertops into solid colors, granite-look kits, marble-look kits, and more. Simple countertop paints cost less than $20 per can, while high-end refinishing kits cost about $65 to $200.

Removable Stick-On Film (Best for Renters)

Removable waterproof vinyl stick-on film is a top option for renters and those with a very low budget. It is available in numerous designs for as little as $0.50 per square foot.

If you’re renting, ensure that the film you pick is removable. If not, you’ll have to do a lot of scraping and cleaning to get the previous countertops back in good condition.

The post 5 Cheap Ways to Update Your Countertops (That Look REALLY Good!) appeared first on Homedit.

Keep It Clean

Clean the bathroom every week. Dust combined with moisture sticks everywhere–tubs, tiles, countertops, floors, walls, etc. Hairspray, perfume, and aftershave drip on vanities. Toothbrushes and faucet handles grow odor-causing bacteria and stuff adheres to toilets.

A more thorough cleaning every couple of months prevents hidden buildup. Wipe down the shower walls after every use helps to reduce moisture.

Do the Laundry

Wash all towels and facecloths weekly in hot water to eliminate bacteria and fungal growth. Between washings, hang towels on rods to dry quickly. Wet towels piled into a laundry basket rarely dry completely. Dropped in a clump on the floor or in the tub is no better.

Wash bath mats regularly. They are often just left on the floor–wet–with little air circulation. At the least, hang them up to dry after each use. For an extra-fresh smelling bathmat, sprinkle a layer of baking soda on it the night before washing to absorb odors. Let it sit overnight, shake off the soda, and wash normally.

If your bathroom floor is carpeted, replace it. Bathroom carpets are a bank account for dirt, moisture, bacteria, mold, and mildew. Any water they absorb migrates to the subfloor where mold growth can cause rot.

Empty the Garbage

Empty bathroom garbage every week. It often contains things with many different odors that mingle into something offensive–menstrual products, personal care products, wipes, wet hair, etc. Make sure the container is cleaned. Plastic can retain odors.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is one of the best ways to reduce bathroom odors. Not only does a bath fan exhaust odors, it also removes moisture quickly. Bath fans must be vented outside the house. Have the fan running during showers and for at least 20 minutes after. It is more efficient with the door and window open.

Moisture and condensation trap odors and smoke and adhere to walls, mirrors, and countertops. Moisture promotes mold and mildew growth. Bath fans should be cleaned twice yearly to remove dirt and bacteria that build up on the blades and housing.

Check For Leaks

Bathrooms are full of plumbing that may be leaking. Leaks under the sink, tub, or toilet cause mold growth. Anything stored under the sink that gets wet will eventually stink. Water around the toilet pedestal or under the vanity are signs you need to call a plumber.

Get Rid Of Mold

Mold spores grow anywhere there is moisture and an organic food source. They do not grow on tiles, plastic, or ceramics. They grow on the dirt, dust, and skin particles stuck on surfaces. Also on drywall, fabric, paper, etc.

Mold is often mistaken for dirt or grime buildup on tiles, backsplashes, under sinks, or black spots on ceilings and walls. Mold can be scrubbed off using pure vinegar or a vinegar/borax solution. Scrub the area, let it sit for an hour, then dry it off. Cleaning the bathroom every month or two using bleach helps prevent mold from reappearing.

Buy An Air Purifier

Small one-room air purifiers are available for under $50.00. Many of them claim to remove odors, bacteria, and smoke among other things while circulating air. They eliminate odors–instead of just masking them.

Helpful Hints

Here are a few more tips to eliminate bathroom smells.

• Odor Eliminators. Many people keep a spray can of air freshener in the bathroom to mask the leftover odor. It is often not helpful. Use products labeled “odor eliminator” instead. They work quicker and more effectively to neutralize odors.
• Natural Cleaners. Many commercial cleaners are harsh and can be toxic. Some leave a vile smell. Various combinations of vinegar, borax, baking soda, and lemon are just as effective. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to leave a pleasant smell after you are done.
• Drain Clogs. Drain clogs stink. They can drain the water out of P-traps and allow sewer gas into the house. Some things should never be put down the sink or toilet drain. Drains should be cleaned regularly to remove hair and soap buildup.
• Baking Soda. An open box of baking soda–even under the vanity–absorbs bathroom odors. Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda in the bottom of the garbage can.
• Candles. Burning scented or unscented candles reduces bathroom odors.

The post Figuring Out How to Remove That Bad Smell in My Bathroom appeared first on Homedit.