Bathrooms can be pretty basic and function well. All you really need is a working shower or tub, a sink and a commode, along with some towels and perhaps a mirror. Such a spartan bathroom might be found in a dormitory or similar communal setting; because most of us like to decorate our homes in a way that reflects our personal style, you rarely encounter a basic bathroom in a private residence.
Nonetheless, the basics are critically important in any bathroom – the shower should be robust, the drains should clear quickly; faucets should not leak and the toilet should not run. Water leaks not only waste precious resources; they can cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage if left unchecked.
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Bathroom mirrors and lighting both help to facilitate good grooming. Most bathrooms feature an overhead light but that alone is usually not adequate; vanity lighting is one solution but you may also wish to consider a lighted makeup mirror or a magnifying mirror as well. There are also shower lights and fogless shower mirrors which can add functionality to any bath or shower.
To make the most of your bath or shower you may wish to install a handheld showerhead. This may seem like a luxury item but a handheld showerhead is an incredibly useful addition to any bathroom. Use it to shampoo hair, bathe children, wash pets, water plants or clean the tub or shower enclosure. Most models can be installed without the assistance of a plumber. A handheld showerhead lets you direct the water spray precisely where you want it.