What is World Environment Day?

World Environment Day was established by the United Nations as an annual event aimed to promote and bring global awareness to the environment and encourage political attention and action.

When the negative effects of climate change and environmental degradation can be clearly observed, it is easy to blame governments and corporations for not doing their part in improving the environment.  World Environment Day is a day to set aside differences and instead celebrate the achievements made towards protecting the environment.

Food Waste

This year, the World Environment Day theme is Think.Eat.Save.  The aim is to encourage reducing humanity’s carbon footprint by becoming more aware of the environmental impact of food waste.

Food waste leads to wasteful use of chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticide, fossil fuels for transportation, and rotting food which creates methane gas (a harmful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change). The vast amount of food going into landfills makes a significant contribution to global warming.

Sustainable Consumption

The growing human population on Earth puts immense pressure on the environment, causing resources to dwindle dramatically.  In fact, in developed and developing countries, humans are acquiring more than they actually need and are therefore producing enormous amounts of waste.

The way we use and dispose of non-renewable resources is dramatically altering the Earth’s ecosystems.  The planet’s renewable resources such as water, timber, and fish are rapidly being exhausted. The planet has reached the tipping point of where the quality of air and water needs to be greatly improved.

Sustainable consumption is about improving what we already have while lowering our consumption through reducing resource use, degradation and pollution while increasing the quality of life for all of Earth’s inhabitants.

The massive consumption of renewable and nonrenewable resources contributes to a massive loss of biodiversity.  The current extinction rates of birds, mammals, and amphibians have dramatically increased by at least 100 times higher than pre-industrial rates. The smallest populations of these animals are most affected by fishing, small-scale agriculture, or forestry because of their reliance on natural resources.

Pollution and over-exploitation of the world’s resources are increasingly compromising humanity’s ability to survive in the long-term. Transitioning towards a more sustainable lifestyle is critical in order to ensure survival of future generations.

There are many possibilities on how to improve our quality of life without damaging the planet’s resources.  Adopting innovative and creative solutions will encourage the transition to more sustainable lifestyles while also protecting the Earth’s natural resources.

How The World is Celebrating World Environment Day

To celebrate WED, people from all over the world are holding special events to help promote environmental awareness.

In Africa, representatives have organized a two-week campaign aimed at encouraging food waste reduction within the UN Economic Commission of Africa (UNECA) compound. 

Kabul University in Afghanistan is holding a workshop to address topics such as waste management, sanitation, CO2 reduction, and recycling.

In Lebanon, the UN Information Centre in Beirut and UNEP- Regional Office of West Asia are raising awareness in the Arab region by focusing on eliminating hunger and reducing food waste.

In China, the UN Sustainable Consumption Forum will work with government officials, academia, businesses, communities, and the media on sustainable consumption issues.  The group’s focus will be to promote energy-efficient transportation modes and better eating habits.

The 4th environmental film festival, “H2O,” which takes place in Moscow, will present environmental documentaries from all over the world. This year’s festival is devoted entirely to water.  Enthusiasts from across the world are hoping to bring rivers that have been underground developing cities back up to the surface.

The City of Portland will host this year’s North American WED celebrations.  Portland hosted the International Children’s Painting Competition on June 5th, along with an interactive environmental workshop for high school students led by Dr. Mae C. Jemison, the United States’ first female African-American astronaut.

There are many reasons why it is better for the elderly to stay at home for as long as possible. To begin with, cost can be a factor. Nursing homes and assisted living homes cost twice as much as home care, and the cost may not be fully covered by Medicaid or Medicare. This kind of expense can certainly be a burden on the elderly or their family.

Additionally, living at home is just better for the elderly individual in the long-run. There are studies that show individuals living in a nursing home are more likely to become depressed, more at risk for illness, and much less likely to live longer. According to Growing Old Options, “When polled, most people say that they want to continue to stay in their own homes as they age, as opposed to senior living facilities or living with their children.” (Pacchiana, 2011)

If you have an elderly loved one, you can help ensure they are able to enjoy aging in place through different home care products that you can easily purchase and install. Two of the major reasons why the elderly aren’t able to take care of themselves as normal are risk of injury and loss of mobility. They do need help with various day-to-day tasks. You can easily choose from home care products that will make a big difference and ensure your elderly loved one is able to take care of themselves.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is the biggest danger for elderly individuals because there are so many chances of injury. You will need to make several modifications. The easiest thing to do is look for ADA approved options, such as:

• - Walk-in showers with handrails.
• - ADA approved bidet toilet seats for easier hygiene care.
• - Sinks with push button or sensor controlled faucets.
• - Doors that are easier to open.
• - Show seats for the elderly who cannot stand up for extended periods of time.

The Kitchen

In the kitchen, you will need to make sure that everything is easy to reach for elderly individuals. You could choose to install pull-down cabinets so that the elderly loved one doesn’t have to stand on a step-stool and take a risk of a fall.

Additionally, there are plates and utensils that have been adapted specifically for elderly individuals who may suffer from such conditions as arthritis and may not be able to hold or use traditional items.

The Bedroom

Elderly individuals may find it much harder to dress themselves, but that doesn’t mean they should constantly have to depend on other people. You can find a variety of home care items to help, such as:

• - Special tools for fastening buttons or using zippers
• - Tools for slipping into shoes and socks
• - Steps or stoops to help the individual reach the bed
• - Rails for the bed to help with sitting up or lying down

If the home has stairs, then the elderly individual doesn’t need to constantly climb them. There are stair lifts that will work in almost any home and they should definitely be considered a must for safety. If they are not an option, then the elderly should have everything they need on the first floor.

Aging at home is certainly the best option for elderly loved ones. They will be happier and more comfortable. There are plenty of homecare tools that can make this option a reality too. All you need to do is determine how their home can be adapted properly so that they may maintain more of their independence.

Works Cited
Pacchiana, M. (2011, June 14). Aging in Place: New Tools to Facilitate an Old Idea. Retrieved October 25, 2013, from Aging in Place: http://growingoptions.wordpress.com/2011/06/14/aging-in-place-new-tools-facilitate-an-old-idea-2/

Patients who are elderly or ill may not be able to take care of themselves in several different ways. One of them is good hygiene.  Mobility is a serious concern for the elderly, and since they may not be able to manage their own good hygiene, they often must depend on a caregiver. If you have a loved one who is receiving home care, then that caregiver may not always be available. Choosing to install bidet toilets can be extremely helpful for the elderly individuals who do have mobility problems. It will certainly aid in helping them maintain good hygiene and cleanliness.

“In theory, the use of bidets could prevent urinary tract infections…that’s no small thing, particularly for women. Hormonal changes after menopause, plus difficulties with keeping clean, (compounded by incontinence), allow bacteria to colonize. Urinary infections are commonplace in nursing homes and a prime reason that older adults get sent to the hospital.” (Span, 2012) It’s obvious that in any homecare situation, a bidet could be an effective way to maintain better health, help with hygiene, and even help to prevent injuries in the bathroom.

When installing a bidet toilet seat in the bathroom for elderly homecare, there are a few things to consider in order to ensure safety.

ADA Compliance

ADA compliance will be very important in choosing the bidet toilet seats. They need to be made sturdy, elongated, and comfortable. They should be easy for anyone with mobility problems to use. If you are designing a bathroom for an elderly individual, make sure everything you choose has been named compliant by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This way, you will be able to ensure the loved one is safe from possible injuries.

Grab Bars

There should be grab bars included on each side of the bidet toilet seat to ensure the elderly individual will be able to stand up, sit down and maintain their balance. Often, these individuals will not have the strength or mobility to get up from the seat. If they need to use the toilet when they are at home alone, they could slip and fall, which could result in injury.

Creating the ADA Compliant Bathroom

When you are providing homecare for an elderly individual, the bathroom will be one room that you must make the most changes to. That’s because it has the greatest chance of injury for the elderly. You need to ensure each part of the space is ADA compliant, and that means making several changes, including:

• Installing grab bars at the toilet and in the bath to ensure the elderly will be able to stand up, sit down, or keep their balance.
• Installing a walk-in tub so that the elderly doesn’t have to step over the edge of the tub and potentially trip and fall.
• Shower seats so that the elderly individual doesn’t have to stand the whole time they are bathing.
• Sinks that have knee clearance and a high enough mounting so that the elderly patient may wash their hands while sitting in a wheelchair.
• Faucets that have push buttons or levers instead of standard knobs that can be hard to use for patients with disabilities.
• A door that is easy to open without using much force.

Works Cited

Span, P. (2012, March 27). Begin the Bidet. Retrieved October 25, 2013, from New York Times: http://newoldage.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/27/begin-the-bidet/?_r=0

“Many homeowners around the world want to reduce the energy consumption of their homes. The desire makes sense; reduced energy demands at home mean lower demand for nonrenewable, CO2-producing fossil fuels that run modern power plants” (Cunningham). If you want to make your home more environmentally friendly, then you need to consider options that will allow you to conserve water. People don’t realize how much energy it costs just to get water to their homes. By conserving this resource, you can do something good for the environment and you can save money on a regular utility bill.  There are simple ways you can conserve water and you can teach them to your family as well.

Repair all Leaky Faucets

Did you know that if you have one faucet that leaks, it could be using up as much as twenty gallons of water each day? When you start adding up for weeks or months, you can see how this is a big problem. Usually, the problem is as simple as a worn out washer, and it’s easy to replace.

Use Water Efficient Shower Heads and Faucets

Taking a shower uses up gallons and gallons of water. When you choose low-flow models, they will use less than 2.5 gallons a minute, which is a big savings. Energy efficient showerheads and water faucets still provide plenty of water for showers and hand-washing, but they can save extensive amounts of water.

Be Careful How Often You Flush

Every time you flush the toilet, it uses about seven gallons of water. That’s a lot, especially if you are flushing for basically no reason. Don’t use the toilet as a place to dispose of trash. Instead, use the trash can and save water.

Always Turn the Water off when Brushing Teeth

It can be tempting to just leave the water running when you are brushing your teeth since you will be using it to rinse very soon. However, this is simply a waste and you could be using up a couple of gallons of water. Make sure you turn it off while you brush and then back on to rinse.

Always Wait Until the Dishwasher Is Full

If you run the dishwasher with partial loads, you could be wasting quite a bit of water. Instead, only run it when the machine is full. This way, you will be working the most efficiently. The same rule applies to the clothes washing machine. If your washing machine has different water level settings, remember to change this if you must wash a partial load.

Limit Shower Lengths

For every four minutes spent in the shower, you or your family will be using up 20 to 40 gallons of water. That means just spending time under the water for half an hour is wasting gallons and gallons. You need to set a time limit for anyone in the household. All showers should be limited to no more than fifteen minutes and preferably less than ten.

Insulate All Pipes

When your pipes aren’t properly insulated, then you may have to spend time running the faucet just waiting on the water to heat up. This is a big waste. All that you need to do to properly insulate pipes is buy foam insulation that is already cut with a slit running down the side. Then, you can simply fit it over exposed pipes inside and outside of your home.

There are easy steps you can take to conserve water in your home. This can make a big difference for the environment. Additionally, it will help you save money on your monthly utility bills.

Works Cited

Cunningham, M. (n.d.). Can You make Your Home More Eco-Friendly on a Budget? Retrieved October 25, 2013, from How Stuff Works at Home: http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/construction/green/home-eco-friendly-budget.htm

“If there is a decline in cognitive abilities as a result of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, or a shift in a medical condition that requires increased care, there is clear cause to be concerned about your parent’s welfare. It may be time to consider a move to a safer environment” (Home Away from Home: Relocating Your Parents, 2012). You may wish to consider moving your elder loved one into your home. For some people, this is an ideal alternative to moving them into a nursing home.

If this is a decision you make, then it will be important to make changes in your house to ensure it is safe and comfortable for your loved one. Some rooms, like the kitchen and bathroom, can be especially dangerous, especially or elderly individuals with disabilities or who have mobility problems. Here are a few of the changes you should consider making:

Properly Equip the Bathroom

In the bathroom, you do need to make quite a few alterations. It may be feasible to allow your elderly loved one to have their own private bathroom that is properly equipped with mobility tools and ADA compliant options. A few things you should consider doing include the following:

• Change the shower. You can install a walk-in model that will be much safer. You could also install a shower seat, and hand-rails are an absolute must.
• Change the toilet. You can find specialty ADA approved toilet seats that are easier to use. Additionally, consider a bidet toilet seat that will help the elderly loved one maintain good hygiene. Hand rails on each side of the toilet can be helpful as well.
• Make sure the sink is easy to use. Preferably, the faucet should be equipped with push-buttons or levers instead or turn knobs for easier control. If your loved one is confined to a wheelchair, consider adding knee space under the sink.

The bathroom can be very dangerous for a loved one, so unless you will have a full-time caregiver with them, you do need to make these changes.

Deal with Stairs

You may have stairs in your home, and this could be a big issue for your elderly loved ones. If at all possible, allow them to stay on the first floor even if that means converting a den or extra space into a bedroom. If this is not an option, you will have to make provisions so that your loved one can get up the stairs without risking injury. Consider a stair lift, which will work even if your stairs have turns or landings.

Change Up the Kitchen

You need to ensure everything that your elderly loved one may need in the kitchen is within easy reach. If your cabinets are very high, you could convert them to pull-down models or you could move essential items to a lower level. Avoid slippery floors and throw rugs that could get tangled around the elderly person’s feet as well.

The most important thing to do when you move an elderly loved one into your home is to ensure they are as comfortable and as at ease as possible. Ideally, you will keep as many of their routines as possible the same. Remember that losing independence and having to leave their home can be very stressful, so do everything you can to make the transition easy.

There are times when an elderly loved one can no longer live alone in their home. Moving them into your home could be the best option and more ideal than moving them into a nursing home. Just make sure you convert your home properly for their safety and comfort.

Works Cited

Home Away from Home: Relocating Your Parents. (2012). Retrieved October 25, 2013, from Family Caregiver Alliance: http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=849

If you aren’t happy with your current bathroom, then you may decide to renovate it. Small changes can make a big difference. Additionally, this is one of the most important rooms to renovate should you decide to sell your home. If you are interested in redesigning the bathroom, there are quite a few different things you could choose to do. “An effective bathroom should address all your needs, physical and spiritual.” (Consider Some Important Points Before Updating the Look of Your Bathroom) To accomplish this, you should choose from the following tips to style the perfect bathroom.

Consider Technology

Thanks to high-tech advances, you have numerous different options to upgrade your bathroom significantly. You definitely should consider some of the following options because they will make your home more comfortable and luxurious. Additionally, they will certainly appeal to potential buyers if you put your home on the market.

• - A digital shower
• - Sensor based faucets
• - Bidet toilet seats
• - LED lighting

These options will ensure that your bathroom offers the full spa experience and will create a more luxurious feel each time you step in through the doors. Additionally, an option like a bidet toilet seat will be healthier for you as well since many believe a bidet will help avoid urinary tract infections and can help ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids.

Think about Style

Modern-styled bathrooms aren’t busy or brightly colored. Instead, they include rich earth tones, deep blues and shades that promote relaxation. Designer tiles will certainly create a more spa-like environment. You can choose from natural stone tiles and countertops that will create a more organic and naturally feeling space.

Look for Modern Comfort

There are technological ways you can make your bathroom more comfortable as well. For example, you could install heated tile floors. These floors work by radiating heat from underneath. Just imagine walking barefoot in the bathroom during the winter to find the floors comfortably warm. Another option is a towel warmer. These devices install on the wall and look very much like tiered towel bars. They keep your towels comfortable and cozy, which can be very refreshing when you have just stepped out of the shower. They will certainly create a more spa-like experience.

Look for Upgraded Showers and Tubs

These days, when you upgrade a bathroom, you have to move beyond just the basics if you want a true spa-like experience. Tubs should be upgraded to include jets. They should be large and comfortable enough so that you can easily kick back and relax. Showers should include multiple heads and should have other comforts like a seat, detachable main shower head, and various shower water patterns.

Add Something Cutting Edge

If you want the very best in your bathroom, you could consider some of the most cutting-egdge options. For example, you could install a medicine cabinet that has a television built right into the mirror. This way, you can watch the weather forecast while you shave in the morning or enjoy a sappy movie while you relax in the bath. These cutting-edge styles use top quality technology, and when the television is off, it disappears so that the mirror can be used as normal.

If you are planning on renovating your bathroom, then there are quite a few different things you should consider. You need to think about what will create the perfect, most comfortable space for you and your family. Additionally, you should think about what will add the most value to your home should you ever decide to sell. Adding upgrades and renovations to your bathroom will be a great way to appeal to homebuyers.

Works Cited

Consider Some Important Points Before Updating the Look of Your Bathroom. (n.d.). Retrieved October 25, 2013, from Style at Home: http://www.styleathome.com/kitchen-and-bath/bathroom/top-10-bathroom-renovation-tips/a/558

More and more households are attempting to go green, and that’s a good thing because the planet certainly needs help. The more we can make our own carbon footprint (the impact we have on the world) smaller, the better. “We have a limited amount of resources available and more and more people using them up. If we want future generations to enjoy the same standard of living we have experienced, we need to take action.” (Why Go Green) Take a look at your bathroom. It probably isn’t very green right now, but quick and simple changes can make quite a difference.

Start with Reducing Water Usage

We often use so much water in the bathroom without ever realizing it. However, between the sink, toilet, and shower, you are sending away gallons of water every day. A good way to start going green is to reduce the amount of water used in the bathroom with the following tips:

• Purchase a low-flow toilet and install it. If you don’t want to spend this much money, fill a plastic bottle with sand and place it in the toilet tank. This will lessen the amount of water needed to fill it.
• Purchase and install a low-flow, water-efficient shower head. If you don’t want to make this big change, limit how long each person in the household can spend in the shower.
• Change the faucet to an automatic sensor model or limit certain uses in the household. For example, make sure everyone turns off the faucet while they are brushing their teeth.

Change the Paper Products Use as Well

There are a few different things you can do with paper products to go green as well. Try the following tips in the bathroom:

• Implement paper-saving rules for toilet tissue in the household. Make sure people are only using what they actually need.
• Purchase recycled paper products.
• Purchase biodegradable trash bags.
• Recycle paper products.

Many people use much more paper products than needed in the bathroom without even realizing it. Make sure you teach the whole household to be eco-friendly and explain they only really need three or four squares of toilet paper each time they visit.

Cleaning Products and Other Materials

You can go green in how you maintain the bathroom as well. All you need to do is change the type of supplies you use and switch to the following:

• Purchase non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products for the bathroom.
• Look for natural and biodegradable hand soaps.
• Choose LED or compact fluorescent light bulbs for the bathroom. 
• When renovating, use low-VOC paint.
• Purchase a rug made from recycled materials or bamboo. This will make the bathroom more comfortable and could reduce heating bills.

Another important thing you can do is make a decorative and attractive reminder sign so that people will remember to be a little more conscious of how much paper and water they are using. You could even purchase one handmade that will work well with your décor. If you are creative, you could make your own. Sometimes, people are wasteful simply because they do not realize what they are doing. A simple reminder could make a very big difference.

Going green in your home means doing much more than just recycling. The bathroom could be one room in which people of the household are being the most wasteful. Make sure you take the above tips to heart and change your bathroom for more environmental friendliness. It doesn’t even take that much work and you can reduce your carbon footprint drastically in this room of your home. Just make sure everyone in the household is on board for the best results.

Works Cited

Why Go Green. (n.d.). Retrieved October 25, 2013, from Green Resource Council: http://www.greenresourcecouncil.org/green-resources/why-go-green

Everyone is trying to make more environmentally conscious decisions these days; however, very few people consider how much paper waste they are literally flushing down the toilet every single day. It’s easy to let toilet paper use get out of control, and whether you are trying to save money or save the environment, you will definitely want to implement a few tips that can help you and the whole household reduce how much is used.

“Because the history of toilet paper is rarely thought about, it is easy to see how a person can become wasteful with it and take it for granted.” (Imani) Consider the tips below. They can help you reduce the toilet paper use in your own household.

High Quality Toilet Paper

You should begin by making sure you are choosing high-quality toilet paper. It should be at least two-ply and preferably close to four-ply. That’s because it will last longer and will be much more absorbent. While it may seem cheaper to buy the low-quality rolls, they just won’t last as long and you will spend much more money replenishing than you actually realize.

Always Fold

Make sure everyone in your household understands they should always fold the toilet tissue when they use it. Many people tend to wad it up, but this provides less surface area and requires more paper. By folding, you are given more surface area for actual use and you will be able to get by without using so much.

Don’t Leave Out Extra Rolls

Many people leave several rolls of toilet paper in their bathroom as backups, however, this is not as good of an idea as it seems. This could be encouraging you and other members of the household to be more wasteful since so much toilet paper is readily available. Instead, keep the extra rolls stored away in a closet and do not leave them out within sight in the bathroom. If you feel you must leave a backup, limit to only one roll.

Create a Replenishment Schedule

Depending on the number of people in your household, decide how often you will be replacing the toilet paper in the bathroom. Ideally, you should be able to limit it to twice a week. Let everyone in your household know that the paper will only be replaced on certain days. This will force them to use the toilet paper more sparingly.

You can even take this concept to a higher level by charging per sheet for any extra toilet paper used. This method could work if you take money out of a child’s allowance or require any adult to put money in a toilet paper fund bank.

Consider a Control Mechanism

If worse comes to worst, you can also purchase devices that actually control how much toilet paper you can get in one grab. The machine will have a break of sorts that keeps the user from unrolling more than needed. Of course, if you absolutely need more paper, you will be able to get it. However, this simple mechanism can go a long way toward helping to control toilet paper use.

Learn Discipline

Finally, you need to learn how to be disciplined and teach the other members of the household to be disciplined as well. Usually, three or four squares of paper, if you have purchased high quality types, will suffice. There is no need for more than that. You may have to explain this to smaller children.

Limiting toilet paper use will help to control your costs and will also be a good thing for the environment. Since there are several different actions you can take, one of them will surely work well in your bathroom.

Works Cited

Imani, F. (n.d.). How to Control Toilet Paper Usage. Retrieved October 25, 2013, from eHow: http://www.ehow.com/how_6107332_control-toilet-tissue-usage.html

This morning, Gizmodo posted an article on some futuristic toilets and bidet seats.  The Kohler Numi and the INAX Regio are definitely two of the sexiest bidet toilets out on the market today.  However, they are extremely expensive at $6,400 for the Kohler Numi and $6,903 for the white INAX Regio ($8,599.50 for the black).

A much more economical option would be the Brondell Swash 1000 bidet seat at $599.  It offers a warm air dryer, adjustable nozzle positions, and heated seats.  The Brondell Swash 1000 will also fit most existing residential toilets, so no need to buy a completely new fixture!

For more on Gizmodo’s post, click here. 

“As bathrooms overtake kitchens as the nation’s top remodeling priority, more consumers are going high-tech: steams showers with built-in speakers, medicine cabinets with integrated TVs, and toilets with MP3/phone docking stations.” (Koch, 2012) The bathroom is a very important space for renovation for a few different reasons. This is one of the best rooms to upgrade if you plan on selling your home. It will offer the best returns. Additionally, since there are so many upgrades, you can make it more comfortable and easier to use for you and your family.

While you may not have the funds to add a television integrated into the mirror for your own bathroom, that doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy a few high-tech upgrades. Consider the following:

Digital Showers

A digital shower will give you much more control over the temperatures, water flow and more. If you have ever stepped into the shower expecting a nice steamy flow of water only to be greeted by an icy burst, then you know how important it is for better temperature regulation. Digital showers will allow you to control spray patterns and water temperatures. Some models even have integrated music players. This will allow you to enjoy a more luxurious, comfortable bath or shower.

Bidet Seats

There are studies that show how bidets will actually be better for your health. They can help avoid urinary tract infections, which are painful, costly, and could be dangerous. Additionally, bidets help you maintain better hygiene and can be especially useful if anyone in your house is elderly or disabled.

Towel Warmers

If you have ever been to a spa, you know how luxurious it can be to enjoy a nice, warm towel. It certainly is a different experience from grabbing that room temperature one off the rack in your home. Now, you can upgrade your bathroom with a towel warmer. The warmers usually mount right on the wall and look like standard racks. However, they can keep your towels at a toasty temperature so that you can enjoy a spa experience each time you step out of the shower.

Heated Floors

Bathroom floors get so cold, and you can hike up the thermostat all you want to no avail. That tile or laminate will just be chilly, especially when you get up to use the facilities in the middle of the night. You can purchase specialty flooring that actually includes built-in heating elements. That means your bathroom floors will always maintain a comfortable temperature. This can be nice anytime of the year, especially during the winter. It can also help to lower your heat bill since you won’t constantly be turning the heat up to try and compensate for chilly feet.

Sensor Faucets

Sensor faucets are easier to use, more hygienic, and money saving. They only turn on when your hands are under them. This way, dirty hands won’t be touching faucet knobs right before clean ones. Additionally, they won’t use as much water since they turn themselves off automatically. This saves money and is a better choice for the environment.

The bathroom is a great space to upgrade. That’s because it will offer the most returns should you decide to sell your home and it will make for a more comfortable and luxurious living space for everyone in your household. There are numerous different high-tech options you could choose for your own bathroom upgrades. All you need to do is determine which of the choices would suit your household the most and then get started making the upgrades. You may just be surprised how you can turn your bathroom into a veritable spa.

Works Cited

Koch, W. (2012, May 29). Stay Connected While You Go: Bathrooms Go High Tech. Retrieved October 25, 2013, from USA Today: http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/tech/news/story/2012-05-29/ibathroom-high-tech-bathrooms/55270584/1

Do you have that same, old standard shower in your bathroom? It probably does a decent job and you may not even have any complaints about it. However, there are still very good reasons to consider a high-tech upgrade. You may be surprised at the options you could include in your own shower. Why should you even consider spending the money to make your own shower high-tech?

To begin with, it will create a better experience for you. Just imagine coming home after a hard day at work or a long session at the gym and stepping into a perfectly controlled spa experience. That sounds luxurious doesn’t it? Your own comfort is a good reason to upgrade your shower, but that isn’t all. If you think you may ever consider selling your home, it is absolutely vital that you upgrade the bathroom. This will offer you the best returns on your expenses and will make your home more appealing to possible buyers.

The Digital Experience

One of the best upgrades you could make to your shower is to choose a digital model. These options create a spa-like experience that you will love from the very first moment you use it. The digital shower will include a variety of different features that allow you to create a perfect setting for each user in your home. Some of them are even remote controlled.

Temperature Settings

The digital shower will allow you to control temperature to a precise degree. This is a big improvement. Have you ever struggled with the hot and cold water handles attempting to reach that right temperature only to be scalded one moment and then frozen the next? It can be so hard to get just the right setting in a traditional shower. A digital model will let you choose a temperature specifically.

Water Patterns

Sometimes, you may wish to change water patterns. For example, massaging or pulsating options can be perfect if you have tired and sore muscles. Rainfall showers can be relaxing and comforting. You shouldn’t have to lean under the shower water and get your head drenched just trying to make the changes though. Digital showers solve this since they are controlled with a simple touchpad on the wall or with a remote.

User Settings

One of the best parts of upgrading to a digital shower will be specific user settings. Some models will allow you to actually program them to your preferred settings. This way, you won’t find yourself guessing every time you step in. Instead, you can simply press one button and enjoy the perfect shower for your preference. Everyone in the household will be able to enjoy their own personal settings as well.

Illumination

An illuminated shower can be relaxing as well and will “turn your shower into a dazzling focal point.” (High Tech Bathroom Features) Often, they can be equipped with LED lights in various colors for a more immersive experience. This will take the final step to switch your bathroom from the same old same old to a true spa experience. You certainly will enjoy the big difference that a digital shower has to offer.

There are so many different reasons to consider upgrades in your bathroom. A digital shower will certainly be one of the first things you should add. Not only will you and your whole household enjoy the new experience, but also this will add so much value to your home. If you ever intend to sell your house, then you have to think of things that will appeal to a potential buyer. They will certainly look at the bathroom and high-tech options like a digital shower will certainly appeal to a wide variety of people.

Works Cited

High Tech Bathroom Features. (n.d.). Retrieved October 25, 2013, from HGTV Remodels: http://www.hgtvremodels.com/bathrooms/high-tech-bathroom-features/pictures/index.html

When a senior loved one can no longer live alone, you may ask them to move in to your home. Many people do this for their parents or grandparents. This way, the elderly loved one doesn’t have to move to a nursing home and you will be able to keep an eye on them and hopefully avoid accidents or injury.

However, there are changes you will need to make in your home to ensure they can get around easily and they can use facilities without risk. Here are four different rooms and what you will need to change in them for your senior loved one.

The Front Door

If you can, convert your door threshold to one that lies flush to the floor. If there is a small step, it could work as a stumbling block for the elder who could easily trip and fall. If you cannot do this, then replace with a threshold that has a rounded shape so that catching shoes will be more difficult.

Remove any throw rugs from the main entryway. These rugs, especially when on hard flooring, are a definite hazard. It could be very easy for a senior loved one to trip and fall or slip on the rugs.

The Bedroom

Even if your elderly loved one isn’t in a wheelchair at this time, they may be one day in the future. They may also need to use canes or walkers. Makes sure there is plenty of space in the bedroom for them to maneuver around with ease. It’s a good idea to remove any small obstacles that could trip them up as well.

In the closets, make sure to put storage shelves and clothes bars at a lower height so that elderly people can more easily reach them. Change light switches to rocker style models because they are much easier to use compared to standard flip models.

The Kitchen

Make sure everything is within reach of the senior loved one. If you have very high cabinets, put the more useful items on lower shelves or on the counter. The elderly could injure themselves if they are trying to reach something on a high cabinet. Other changes you could consider making in the kitchen include:

• Making sure countertops are low enough to reach;
• Put the microwave at a low enough height to reach;
• Consider adding knee clearance at the sink and work areas for seniors in wheelchairs, and
• Always make sure there is enough clearance to maneuver around the kitchen.

Some of these changes will require fairly drastic renovations, so be sure you are prepared for the investment.

The Bathroom

“Space doesn’t get more personal than the bathroom. You use it countless times every day. It should be comfortable, attractive, and safe.” (Making Your Home Senior Friendly) The bathroom could be especially hazardous for seniors who don’t have good balance or strength. Changes to make include:

• Install grab bars around the toilet and in the shower;
• Lower the bathroom sink especially if the senior is in a wheelchair;
• Make sure there is room to maneuver in the bathroom;
• Avoid throw rugs on the floor, and
• Install a bidet toilet seat, which will be easier to use and more hygienic.

It is fairly simple to make changes in the bathroom so that it can be safe for your loved one.

When your senior loved one is moving in with you, then you will need to make changes throughout your home. This way, they will be safe and you can ensure they are not at risk of injury. Little changes can make a big difference.

Works Cited

Making Your Home Senior Friendly. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2014, from Age in Place: http://www.ageinplace.org/Practical-Advice/Housing/article/Making-Your-Home-Senior-Friendly

The bathroom is a haven for all types of bacteria for a few different reasons. The fact that it is warm and humid just creates a breeding ground for all types of nasty things that can make you or members of your family sick. If you want to ensure your home is safe, then you will need to know how to keep the bathroom squeaky clean. Additionally, you will need to know basic tips that will help keep the space hygienic.

Did you know that the bathroom is full of bacterial like E. Coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa? You may not know what all of those are, but you probably realize they sound quite dangerous (How to Keep the House Hygienic). That’s because they are. 

Follow these tips in addition to regular basic cleaning to keep your bathroom hygienic and safe for your family.

Use Vinegar

Vinegar is one of the most important tools you could use in the bathroom. It will kill bacteria that already exists and then prevent more from forming. Additionally, vinegar will help to remove soap scum and mold.

All you need to do is fill a spray bottle with vinegar and then spritz down everything in the bathroom once a week. You can also pour it down the drain to clear any bacteria there. For solid surfaces, soak a cloth in vinegar and then wipe down everything regularly. The sink and vanity will harbor the most bacteria, so make sure you clean here often.

Towels

Each member of the family should use their own hand towels, and those towels should only be used for the hands, not the body or feet. Towels should always be kept hung up and dry. If they aren’t dry, then they will be the perfect place for bacteria to thrive.

Change out the hand towels regularly. You should never leave them up for more than a few days at a time.

Washing Hands and Toilet Use

Any time you use the toilet, you need to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap. Always flush the toilet and close the lid before you wash your hands and not afterward. Choose soap in a push pump or hands-free dispenser to avoid bacteria and germs growing on bars that tend to sit in wet trays.

Additionally, always close the toilet lid before flushing. This keeps soiled water from splashing onto the floor and spreading bacteria.

Toothbrushes

Don’t wait until toothbrushes are frayed to replace them. If you do, then you are allowing them to grow bacteria between brushing. Just imagine putting all that bacteria right in your mouth! Be sure to replace every toothbrush every three months. Additionally, keep them in a dry, clean place. Never leave the toothbrushes out on the sink because they will be exposed to more bacteria.

Ventilation

You need to make sure your ventilation system is working properly in the bathroom. If it isn’t, humidity will become trapped, and this will allow bacteria to grow much faster. Always make sure you allow the bathroom to air out, especially after hot showers or baths.

Overall, even if you clean the bathroom regularly, it isn’t exactly a hygienic space. You do need to take extra steps to ensure the whole room is safe from bacteria and germs. Be sure to go over these steps with your family as well so that everyone in the household will be able to practice good bathroom hygiene. Additionally, remember to choose environmentally friendly products when you clean so that you don’t expose anyone to harmful chemicals in the bathroom either.

Works Cited

How to Keep the House Hygienic. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2014, from So Feminine: http://www.sofeminine.co.uk/personal-life/keep-house-hygienic-d39052c480954.html

For elderly adults, proper hygiene is a daily struggle simply because of mobility issues. They may not be able to take proper care of themselves, and this could result in very unhygienic situations, especially if they live alone. It’s important to consider options that will make proper bathroom hygiene easier on seniors so that they can maintain their dignity and health.

Most people have used toilet paper their whole lives. The idea of anything different for bathroom hygiene sounds so foreign to them that they have never considered anything else. However, there is a very good case for the bidet and it certainly offers numerous advantages, especially when compared to the old stand-by of toilet paper.

The General Advantages

Let’s begin by discussing the general advantages for anyone who chooses to use a bidet over toilet paper. You may be surprised at how much it has to offer.

A bidet reduces the use of toilet paper. Did you know that “America approximately uses 26 billion rolls of toilet paper per year – about 23.6 rolls per person? Roughly ten million trees have been pulped to accommodate this much toilet paper.” (Toilet Paper Vs. Bidet: Bathroom Facts, 2011)

There is already an environmental crisis on hand, and the more we can do to reduce our consumption and waste, the better. Bidets require the use of significantly less toilet paper, which is certainly a good thing for the planet.

A bidet also helps you save money. In fact when calculating toilet paper use for the average family, the bidet will more than pay for itself in about a year. After this, you will do nothing but save money.

These are some of the many general advantages to choosing a bidet over toilet paper. You are likely already seeing how this is the best option. Now, let’s go into detail on why a bidet is the best option for seniors.

Since most older adults already have mobility problems, without use of options like a bidet, they may have to depend on other people for their toilet hygiene. This takes away from their dignity immensely, especially when toilet matters are considered discreet and private in today’s society. A bidet will allow seniors to remain hygienic without the help from others. There are many advantages too, including:

- Reduction of risk in bladder and vaginal infections;
- Reduction in discomfort from use of toilet paper, and
- Better hygiene after physiological changes associated with aging.

Because bidets are so easy even for seniors to use, they take away any hygiene issues that could be associated with poor hand-eye coordination or other disabilities. The chance of infections is greatly reduced, and the senior will be able to maintain their independence since they may visit the bathroom and deal with their hygiene issues without assistance from a family member or aid. Bidets simply offer the best option for older adults since they are so much more hygienic and simple to use.

If you care for an older adult who does have mobility problems, then you can ensure they are able to maintain their dignity while keeping properly hygienic in the bathroom. Toilet activities can be extremely difficult for someone who does have mobility issues, and it is clear that a bidet can be very helpful. When compared to toilet paper, the bidet offers numerous different advantages for the aging adult.

Additionally, it is the advantageous option for anyone no matter their age since the bidet is so much more environmentally friendly and cost effective. Seniors can benefit from the use of the bidet and so too could anyone else.

Works Cited

Toilet Paper Vs. Bidet: Bathroom Facts. (2011, July 7). Retrieved January 9, 2014, from Toilet Paper World: http://blog.toiletpaperworld.com/toilet-paper-vs-the-bidet-bathroom-facts/

There are thousands of people throughout the United States who have different levels of disability. Those people may find it very hard to practice bathroom hygiene on their own, but they shouldn’t have to get help every time they need to use the toilet. After all, this process is very private, and needing help is a serious loss in dignity. For these people, who have conditions like ALS, bidets can be extremely helpful.

Because bidets haven’t gained popularity in America like they have in Europe, you may not know much about them and how they can be so useful for people with disabilities. “Bidets are bathroom fixtures designed for cleaning one’s private parts, and they come in three basic varieties: free-standing, sit-down fixtures, and two-in-one bidet/toilet combination fixtures; or seat-like attachments that fit on top of an existing toilet.” (Davidson, 2011)

The Difference

Because bidets use streams of water, they eliminate the need for wiping with toilet paper. People with disabilities may not be able to wipe by themselves or they may not be able to get clean enough. They may either be left unhygienic or requiring the help of someone else.

Bidets are hands-free. Once the jets are turned on, the bidet will do all the work. This is much, much easier for anyone who has a disability.

The Advantages

The advantages of a bidet over a standard toilet for people with disabilities include the following:

• They are more hygienic than using toilet paper, which doesn’t get anyone thoroughly clean. Additionally, bidets can prevent different infections.
• Because the user will not be wiping with toilet paper, they will not be in contact with bacteria and germs.
• Bidets can be operated without help for most people with disabilities. They will be able to get back their privacy and dignity.
• Bidets are much friendlier to the environment since they eliminate or drastically reduce the use of toilet paper.

As you can see, there are very good reasons for anyone to use a bidet, even if they don’t have disabilities. However, for those who do, a bidet should be considered an absolute must.

The Options

If you determine you would like to add a bidet for a family member or for yourself, then you do have different options. Of course, installing a free standing bidet will be the most expensive and could require bathroom renovations to make more space. However, this is an option if you would like.

A bidet seat will connect directly to your standard toilet. It is a low-cost choice that will ensure you are able to enjoy the functionality of a bidet without having to spend too much money. You won’t even have to change anything in your bathroom to install one of these.

You will need to determine which of these options will work best for your home and for your loved ones. Bidets also offer a variety of different features, so you will need to determine which options you would prefer.

If you have a loved one with disabilities, then they likely have trouble with toilet hygiene. If they depend on someone to come help, then they likely have no dignity or sense of privacy. They can get those things back thanks to a bidet seat.

These hygienic alternatives to a standard toilet are much easier to use and much healthier. The majority of disabled people could use a bidet on their own when they cannot manage their toilet hygiene traditionally. A bidet has many benefits, so it may be that the whole household decides to switch over to this hygienic alternative.

Works Cited

Davidson, M. (2011, March 31). Bidets: A Disability Friendly Way to Go. Retrieved January 9, 2014, from MDA Quest: http://quest.mda.org/article/bidets-disability-friendly-way-go

Bariatric Bidet Toilet Seats

Bidet toilet seats are great tools for anybody in need of assistance with hygiene in the restroom.  Bariatric and heavy users can also use them effectively, but there are certain models that work better than others.  While all bidet seats on the market today are rated at about 320lbs, experience has taught us that some models work better for larger users even up to 400-500lbs. Some bidet seat features that are more important for heavy / bariatric users are strong water pressure, a wireless remote control, a sturdy seat and a larger seating area. Based on our experience, the best bidet seats for heavy users include: Bio Bidet BB-2000, Bio Bidet BB-1000, and INAX Luscence.

High Wash Pressure

For larger users, it’s paramount for a bidet toilet seat to offer high wash pressure for effective cleaning.  When larger bottomed users sit on a toilet seat, their cheeks tend to get pressed together more than folks with average sized bottoms.  With the cheeks pressed together, a stronger water stream is necessary to effectively clean the rectal area.  Softer sprays would only be able to clean the outer cheek area and leave the user still in need of washing. 

The bidet toilet seats that offer the best water pressure are the Bio Bidet BB-2000 and Bio Bidet BB-1000.  These two units have superior wash pressure compared to any other seat on the market available today.  In addition to their strong cleansing spray, these two Bio Bidet models also have an even stronger enema spray if needed.  The INAX Luscence has decently strong spray with very good water volume.

Wireless Remote Control

Bidet seat users have two choices for control – either a side mounted control panel, or a wireless remote control.  The wireless remote control (often wall mounted) is important for large / bariatric users because side panels are obtrusive for a large bottomed user when sitting.  The panel itself will be either “in the way” when trying to sit, or difficult to reach when seated. 

With a wireless remote control, the buttons are much easier to press because users can either use it in their hand, or mounted on a nearby wall.  The buttons would then be eye-level and easily reached regardless of the user’s mobility or size.

Strong Seat with Large Seating Area

Perhaps the most obvious feature that’s necessary for heavy / bariatric users is a strong seat with a larger seating area. In the bidet world, not all seats are created equally.  Some are made with a stronger material like polypropylene and some offer slightly larger seating areas.  For a heavy user, a sturdy, durable seat is a no-brainer. 

The bidet toilet seat that has the strongest seat is the INAX Luscence.  Next, would be the Bio Bidet BB-2000 and finally the Bio Bidet BB-1000.  The INAX seats are the strongest, but very costly to replace down the road – Bio Bidet seats are much more affordable to replace in the event of cracking. While the Brondell Swash series offers very strong seats – we would not recommend them for users over 300lbs due to their softer water spray.

We would also not recommend any bidet seats in the smaller, round size for larger users as the seating area will be smaller than a regular toilet seat.  If at all possible we would suggest swapping out the round toilet for an ADA height model with an elongated bowl.  The elongated seat will be much more comfortable. 

Conclusion:

1) Bio Bidet BB-2000

2) Bio Bidet BB-1000

3) INAX Luscence

The Kohler Rialto is a low-boy style one piece toilet that has a “French curve” tank and a round bowl.  The “French curve” describes the front of the water tank which has a concave design and slopes down into the bowl as pictured.  While beautiful, the Kohler Rialto is very problematic for bidet seats.  The only bidet toilet seat that will fit the Kohler Rialto well is the INAX Luscence CW-W130.

Kohler Rialto Shape and Size

The combination of its French curve tank and short round bowl makes the Kohler Rialto a difficult toilet for bidet seats.  If you try to install a regular bidet seat, the first issue you will run into is the curved tank.  The Rialto’s French curve will not allow you to push the bidet seat all the way back against the tank.  As a result, bidet toilet seats cannot be mounted properly on their mounting brackets which require a flat bowl surface for installation.

If you somehow manage to get a bidet seat mounted in the back, you’ll then find that the front of the seat hangs well over the front edge of the toilet bowl.  Due to its short round bowl, the Kohler Rialto simply does not offer enough surface area for regular bidet toilet seats to fit properly. 

INAX Luscence

The INAX Luscence CW-W130 is the only bidet toilet seat on the market that is specially designed to fit the Kohler Rialto and other French curve toilets with a round bowl.  The Luscence’s user manual even has a special section for installation on these types of toilets.  So what sets the INAX Luscence apart from other bidet seats?  Two things: 1) A compact design with a sloped rear that can accommodate French curves and 2) a specially designed mounting bracket.

The rear of the INAX Luscence is different from most bidet seats you’ll come across in that it is sloped at a decline.  This slope is perfectly designed to allow the seat to slide farther back on the Kohler Rialto than regular bidet seats.  The steel mounting bracket is both heavy duty and uniquely shaped to accommodate French curve toilets.  When installing, make sure to follow the correct set of instructions in the user manual.

Other Options and Advice

Have a Kohler Rialto but don’t want to spend $869 on an INAX Luscence?  Unfortunately, there aren’t any other bidet seats that will fit properly.  However, it can often be more cost effective to replace the toilet altogether.  A new 2 piece elongated toilet can often be bought for less than $200.  With a plumber spending an hour to replace it, total costs would be around $250-300.  At this point, one could then buy any bidet seat on the market with all the desired features – instead of being limited to the Luscence and still spend less than $869 total. 

If you have any questions about your particular toilet, check out our fitment guide and other helpful resources below.

Fitment Guide: Is My Toilet Compatible?

What Bidet Seats Fit a Kohler San Raphael Toilet?

Bidet Seat Installation Video

What is a Bidet Seat?

The Kohler San Raphael is a one piece toilet with a French curve tank design and an elongated bowl.  The San Raphael is the elongated version of the popular Kohler Rialto toilet.  The “French curve” describes the concave shaped tank that slopes down into the bowl.  Due to this design, the San Raphael is not compatible with the majority of bidet toilet seats on the market today.  However, there are two bidet seat models that will fit the Kohler San Raphael well:  the Blooming NB-R1063 and INAX Luscence CW-W131.

Kohler San Raphael Shape

Similar to other low-boy style toilets, the 1 piece curved design of the San Raphael prevents most bidet toilet seats from fitting properly.  If you try to mount a normal bidet seat onto this toilet, the bidet will not be able to slide all the way back against the tank.  The sloping curve of the tank will prevent either the bidet seat from being able to sit flat, or the sides of the curve will hinder the water supply input.

The one saving grace of the Kohler San Raphael is that it does have an elongated bowl so there’s more room to work with.  Unlike the Kohler Rialto’s short round bowl, the San Raphael’s elongated bowl allows two bidet seat models to fit.

Blooming NB-R1063

The Blooming NB-R1063 is a luxury class bidet toilet seat with a very slim, low-profile design.  Because the rear of the bidet is fairly narrow, it able to mount onto 1 piece elongated toilets with a French curve like the San Raphael.  The Blooming may hang over the front edge of the toilet bowl by about 1/2", but this is normal and will not affect its functionality.

The Blooming NB-R1063 comes fully loaded with a tankless water heating system, aluminum nozzles, a warm air dryer, fully adjustable nozzle positions and a unique LED night light.  The NB-R1063 sets itself apart by being one of the quietest bidet seats on the market today.  It also begins spraying very soon after pressing the cleansing button – unlike other models which have a 5-10 second lag.

INAX Luscence CW-W131

The INAX Luscence is probably the most universally accommodating bidet toilet seat available.  The round version (CW-W130) can even fit the troublesome Kohler Rialto so it’s a no brainer that the elongated version (CW-W131) fits the San Raphael perfectly.  So what sets the INAX Luscence apart from other bidet seats?  Two things: 1) A compact design with a sloped rear that can accommodate French curves and 2) a specially designed mounting bracket.

The sloped design of the INAX allows it to fit the concave shape of the toilet tank and offer the best possible fit for these 1 piece French curve toilets.  The INAX is known for supreme quality and reliability.  Their seats are the strongest on the market and the INAX company is known for its expertise in Japan.  The only drawbacks with this model are its dated technology and high price tag of $869.

If you have any questions about your particular toilet, check out our fitment guide and other helpful resources below.

Fitment Guide: Is My Toilet Compatible?

What Bidet Seats Fit a Kohler Rialto Toilet?

Bidet Seat Installation Video

What is a Bidet Seat?

The short answer to this question – not really.  The actual seat of a bidet toilet seat is only ½” – 1” thicker than a regular toilet seat.  So when a user sits down on a bidet seat equipped toilet, there will not be much added height over a regular toilet seat. 

Height of the Seat vs Height of the Entire Bidet Unit

A common confusion among bidet seat shoppers is the height specification.  When one studies the dimensions for a given bidet toilet seat, the height may be listed anywhere from 4”-6.5”.  Does this mean that the user will be seated 4”-6.5” higher on the toilet? Not at all.  The height specification is actually measuring the entire bidet unit’s highest point, which is located at the very rear of the unit. 

The rear of the unit houses the bidet’s wiring, circuit boards, mechanical components, etc.  It is where most of the bidet toilet seat’s bulk is located and this area is certainly taller than a normal toilet seat.  However, the rear is not where the user actually sits when using the bidet.  The user only sits on the actual seat of the bidet and the seat itself is only slightly thicker than a regular toilet seat.

The Seat of the Bidet

Like mentioned earlier, the actual seat of an electronic bidet is about ½” – 1” thicker than a normal toilet seat.  Why the difference?  First, virtually all bidet seats come standard with a heated seat option.  To accomplish this, there is a heating element that runs the length of the seat that can be programmed to a user’s preference.  Next, bidet seats also utilize seat sensors that prevent the wash functions from working unless someone is seated.  You don’t want guests accidentally spraying themselves in the eye. Lastly, below the seats you will find pads or spacers that are designed to the keep the seat stable across your toilet bowl.  Given the bulk of the rear, it’s important that the bidet seats are able to sit flat on your toilet bowl.

Combining the heating element, seat sensor, and spacers results in a slightly taller toilet seat, but not the 4"+ inches that the dimensions may portray. 

The Clean Sense dib-1500R and Brondell Swash 900 are two of the best bidet toilet seats you can buy for under $400.  Both offer great value for the money and feature energy efficient tankless water heating systems for unlimited warm water.  So which one’s better? Well, as usual it depends on the user’s needs, but if we had to choose one – it would be the Clean Sense dib-1500R.  Here’s why.

Feature Comparison

Both the dib-1500R and Swash 900 bidet seats offer a tankless water heating system, front and rear wash, adjustable nozzle position, heated seat, slow close seat and lid, and wireless remote controls. 

The Clean Sense dib-1500R is much more of a fully featured bidet toilet seat.  This model has a warm air dryer, deodorizer, enema function, an aluminum wash nozzle, LED night light, child mode, nozzle oscillation and pulse, and user presets.  The remote control is larger and has an LCD screen with clock.  It comes with a 1 year full warranty from the manufacturer.

The Brondell Swash 900 has a sturdy sittable lid, stainless steel nozzles and a wide spray option. It is much more of a basic bidet toilet seat.   It comes with a 1 year full warranty from the manufacturer.

Why should I choose the Clean Sense dib-1500R?

As one of BidetKing.com’s best selling bidet toilet seats for 5 years straight, the Clean Sense dib-1500R’s popularity is undeniable.  At $379.95, you won’t find a more robust bidet seat with all of the features and functions of the dib-1500R.  It has strong water pressure including a dedicated enema function for users that suffer from constipation.  The blue LED night light on the top of the seat is handy for those night time bathroom trips and it even turns red to signify a warmed seat.  The remote control is on the larger side and it saves the last user’s settings—this is ideal for users like the elderly so they don’t need to input their settings each time they use the seat.  All around, the Clean Sense dib-1500R offers one of the best values on the market today.

Why should I choose the Brondell Swash 900?

The Brondell Swash 900 is cut from the same mold as the popular Swash 1000 model, but with some of the functionality stripped out.  However, the build quality of the seat and overall construction are the best you will find for under $400.  Its sittable lid can support up to 320lbs and is perfect for users used to using the lid as a seat in the bathroom.  Dual stainless steel nozzles perform the wash functions and provide a softer spray than some other models.  Hemorrhoid sufferers will love the wide spray option combined with a low pressure wash for soothing action.  The Brondell Swash 900 is a great fit for users looking for a basic bidet toilet seat without bells and whistles, but don’t want to compromise on high quality construction.

Conclusion

The Clean Sense dib-1500R and Brondell Swash 900 are both great bidet seats that won’t break the bank at price points under $400.  The dib-1500R would be best for users looking for the full bidet seat experience with strong water pressure and a multitude of functions.  The Swash 900 would be a better fit for users seeking a simple yet superior quality toilet seat bidet.   While both are great, BidetKing.com experts would pick the Clean Sense dib-1500R as their #1 choice for bidet seats under $400.