Bathroom Ideas: How to Choose Vanity Cabinets, Faucets, Mirrors

Before you start your remodel project, you want to develop a plan that includes a detailed layout with measurements. This is needed to ensure all of your fixtures will fit as planned.

If you are working with a small budget, then you might want to use your existing plumbing layout. If moving the plumbing will create more useable space, then think about it, though keep in mind it can be expensive.

Bathroom Vanity Cabinets

The simplest way to update a bathroom on a budget is by replacing the vanity. There are many one-of-a-kind vanities to select from, including contemporary styles with flat panel doors and drawers and stylish chrome faucets, to traditional furniture style pieces that can add character to any remodel project.

Make a list of your storage needs; this includes cosmetics, dental care, grooming, small appliances (hairdryers, etc), & cleaning products. Before you buy a vanity, take precise measurements. If installing a pre-built vanity, it is important to measure the maximum granted space and find a vanity that is a few inches smaller. Most vanity measurements include the counter top, which can in most cases be the largest point on the overall cabinet. If the top is made from a solid stone, such as granite or marble, it is very difficult and sometimes impossible to alter the top, even if it is too massive for your space.

Faucets

Faucets can vary widely in price, and this is directly related to the quality. Going with the lowest price isn’t always the ideal option for faucets. The finish on the faucet also determines its price (ie chrome is the least costly and oil rubbed bronze is the most expensive). Also be certain that the faucet comes with ceramic disk vales, which have a longer life cycle.

Mirrors

Size and style are the two factors to think about when purchasing vanity mirrors. You need to have mirrors that are positioned in relationship to the lighting and huge enough to reflect back at you. It is also important that the style and finish compliment your overall design.

Flooring

You want floor material to be resistant to moisture, a hard surface that is easy to clean, and also has some texture so that it is not slippery when wet. Many materials are used now in bathrooms; think about concrete, tile or wood.

Heated flooring is a great element to think about if you are replacing the floor. The ideal place for heated flooring is in the bathroom.

Lighting

This is the most critical component to think about when completing the layout of your bathroom remodel. Things to think about include:

Is there any natural light in the bathroom? Adding windows or skylights can be expensive.

Ceiling Lights: the most cost effective and efficient light source is recessed can lights; adding a chandelier or pendant lights can add elegance to your design. Ceiling lights are most commonly complemented by vanity lights.

Vanity Lights: these are the two to four bulb fixtures you install above the mirror.

Decorative Lighting: such as sconce lights, generally these are installed on the side of the mirror.

Bathroom Ideas: How to Select Vanity Cabinets, Faucets, Mirrors

Julia from Uniquevanities.com shares some easy affordable bathroom design ideas for the do it yourselfer (DIY). Maybe you cant afford a major bathroom remodel, but these ideas will definitely make your bathroom a more enjoyable space in your home.
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Common Sense Fire Safety

This will come as no great surprise, but did you know that the majority of home fires are the result of cooking? In fact, studies show that cooking results in approximately 400,000 fires each year in single family homes and multiple family dwellings. Add to that the number of fires that go unreported and the total is more like 3.5 million residential fires.

Here are some tips from the Orange County (Calif) Fire Authority to help prevent most of these fires:

*Never leave cooking unattended – This is probably the most common cause of kitchen fires. This includes all appliances including toaster ovens, coffee pots and other small appliances. They can overheat and cause a fire if left alone. Be sure to unplug them when not in use.

*Wear close-fitting clothes while cooking – loose, long sleeves can catch fire when supporting near hot burners. Wear close fitting sleeves and refrain storing things over the stove and having to reach over hot burners to retrieve items.

*Avoid overloading outlets – plugging too many appliances into an outlet could result in an electrical fire. Also be aware of cracked or frayed cords.

*Heat oil slowly – Fires can begin easily if the setting is too high and the pan is unattended.

*Smother a grease fire – don’t use water on a cooking fire as this will spread the fire and make the it worse. Slide a lid or other non combustible item over the fire and remove the heat source. With oven fires, close the door and turn off the oven.

*Do not grant kids to play around the range and other appliances.

*Don’t hesitate to call 911.

These are just some of the common-sense reminders that can help to prevent a fire and send your dream home up in flames. Or, worse, cause severe injury or death. A small amount of caution can make a world of difference. Remember what your mom said: don’t play with fire!