Benefits of a Portable Toilet in Disaster Situation, Hurricanes and Floods

Disasters like hurricanes and floods can occur at anytime and cause havoc to life and property. The very first casualty of such a situation is outbreak of epidemics due to lack of adequate and clean sanitation facilities. Different deadly diseases like Cholera, Hepatitis A, and Cryptosporidiosis raise their ugly head. All these diseases occur due to contaminated water and contact with feces or vomit. The answer to all such concerns lies in a portable toilet.

What are Portable Toilets?

A Portable toilet is a modern and self-contained plastic outhouse. It is made of plastic and available in many different colors. It is normally three feet by seven feet long and has enough space for a single occupant. A portable toilet houses a seated toilet and a urinal.

Ventilation is through the top and has a stovepipe vent for the holding tank. You can lock the door. The weight of the disinfectant liquid at the bottom of the holding tank keeps the toilet in an upright position. Such portable toilets are in use at many social gatherings and construction sites too. Newer models sport additional facilities like antibacterial hand gel dispensers and toilet papers.

How does it function?

Portable sanitation industry is now a booming business with annual turnover of more than 1.5 million dollars. Presently there are more than 1,400,000 portable restrooms with a service fleet of more than 9,400 trucks.

You need toilet units, service personnel like salespeople, technicians, and drivers, service vehicles, and a central headquarters to coordinate all sanitation functions. Such sanitation headquarters need connection to a sanitary sewer system for easy disposal of the effluents. Normally, official disposal sites are in vicinity of such headquarters.

Service personnel normally service forty to fifty toilet units each day. The service truck has a pump and a large tank. There are two compartments in the tank. One of them receives the effluent disposal and the other has fresh substances for cleaning the toilet units. Service personnel scrub clean the interior of the portable toilet with brushes and then towel dry it. They also look into any minor repairs, as necessary. They also replenish all toilet tissue stocks.

Benefits of Portable Toilets

* Portable toilets pose their greatest benefit in their portability. Companies renting out portable toilets assure guarantee of their cleanliness. These companies conduct weekly cleaning sessions by draining, cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing the toilets. A pickup truck can haul a portable toilet.

* Such toilets do not clog or overflow, as they do not function with the plumbing feature. This helps develop good sanitation facilities at work sites or even in permanent settlement areas. Better sanitation obviously leads to better environment and therefore better living conditions too.

* Parks and recreational areas can house such portable toilets, as these places do not normally have sewer connected sanitation facilities.

* Portable toilets are best for providing temporary sanitation during natural disasters liker hurricanes, floods, fires, and earthquakes.

* Portable toilets at construction sites help keep toilets at nearby places. This saves time spent on going to far-off distances to attend to nature’s calls. You save time and labor costs. Besides, outdoor workers develop a higher morale too.

* Providing clean sanitation facilities makes you rank high among environmentalists, health authorities, OSHA inspectors, and garners overall support and goodwill from the public. It also promotes goodwill and organizes support from relevant quarters.

Tag : toilet,toilet repair,toilet paper

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Luckey

Is Your Cat Ready for Toilet Training? Here's 5 Ways You Can Tell

At the end of a long day, who wants to sift through a messy litter box? Certainly not me. Up until now, the litter-box has been a necessary evil, a small price to pay for our beloved companions. But not anymore. In fact, there's an underground alternative designed for those of us who are ready to kick the litter habit: toilet training your cat.

Sounds complicated, right? Not at all. Although far from mainstream, cat toilet training is gaining momentum and cat owners across the country are beginning to embrace the trend. But before you toss that box in the trash, there's a few ways to tell if your cat is ready to take the leap into a litter-free lifestyle. Think Fluffy has what it takes? Read on.

1. Your cat is already litter-box trained.

OK, I know what you're thinking: "Of course my cat knows how to use the litter-box" But the simple fact is, cats that already know how to use the litter-box can be reconditioned to use the toilet instead. That's because cat toilet training utilizes your cat's natural instincts to bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. During the training process your cat will learn to put its waste in water instead of in litter. Once your cat makes this transition toilet training becomes a breeze and - voila! Your cat is successfully potty trained!

2. Your cat is eager to please you.

Does your cat love making you happy? Whether she leaves the occasional "gift" on your doorstep or offers a warm nuzzle while you're reading, cats who are eager to please are the purr-fect candidates for toilet training. After she learns that using the toilet pleases you, she'll be happy to oblige!

3. You have trained your cat to do something in the past.

Does your cat come when you call them? Believe it or not, simple actions like responding to a voice command can help lay the groundwork for the toilet training process. After all, if your kitty already knows how to "follow the leader", toilet training will be a breeze.

4. Your cat is healthy.

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but healthy cats have a much easier time jumping up onto their new throne. Illnesses like arthritis or urinary tract infections can affect their ability to learn how to use the toilet, so sick kitties should stick to the box.

5. You know your cat.

Can you tell when your feline friend is having a rough day? If you're like many pet owners, you're probably very in tune with your cat's feelings. This unique bond works as a positive force during the toilet training process. How? Cats will use body language to tell you if they are comfortable with a particular training step. When you pick up on these signals, both of you can work together to achieve a relaxed training pace. You'll both feel satisfied when you work as a team!

Tag : toilet,toilet training,toilet repair,toilet seats

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Rescate

How to Train Your Cat to Use the Toilet

Teaching your cat to utilize the toilet is a idea that has been around for years. In the past couple of years, it has become more popular. People don't want cat litter stinking up their houses. There are a few people, such as women who are pregnant, who have health problems because of their cat's urine and feces and want an alternative. People like this could desire to offer their cats toilet training.

When you give your cats toilet training, you should train them slowly. Introduce the idea to your cat bit by bit. You can not throw your cat on the toilet and expect them to use the bathroom. This not only won't work, but could traumatize your kitty. It requires patience to prepare your kitty to do its business in the toilet.

You will need to buy a cat toilet seat when you decide you teach your cat to use the toilet. This will assist your cat in getting accustomed to doing its business in the toilet. You don't want to utilize this tool straight away. Your cat won't be accustomed to this tool and might begin doing its business in areas of your home that you don't want them to do their business in. If they are not comfortable using the toilet seat, they could begin using the bathroom in a corner or under a bed.

You want to let your cat get accustomed to the toilet seat before they will use it. You can't force your cat to do something that don't want to do. A good place to begin is by placing the litter box in the restroom that your cat will be using the bathroom. It is also a good idea to put the cat toilet seat on and show it to your cat.

The most essential part of giving your cats toilet training is this: When your cat becomes accustomed to using the cat toilet seat, you will need to take the litter box out. This way, your cat is forced to use the cat toilet seat.

Tag : toilet,toilet training,toilet repair,toilet paper

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Smith_S

Leaky Toilet Repair

A common issue is uncovered when you stand up and realize that your feet are wet. Water seeping out on your floor from the base of the toilet bowl is indicative of several potential problems. While it could indicate that the porcelain has been compromised, it's not generally likely that this could happen without you being aware. Some thing would have to hit the toilet very hard for this to have happened.

Generally, this leak is the result of a compromised wax ring. If a toilet is loosely bolted to the floor, it will rock ever so little while a person sits on the toilet. Over a duration, this gentle rocking motion can cause the wax ring to work loose. Don't worry, this is something you can definitely fix.

Turn off the supply of water to the toilet and then flush it one more time once more. This should deplete both the bowl and the tank. Disconnect the water supply and then loosen the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. Once it is loose, simply pull straight up on the toilet and lift it off of the drain pipe where it had been. The old wax ring should be left behind on the floor. Get a a scraper tool and remove the wax.

We're being hopeful you were thinking ahead and picked up a new ring prior to you pulling up the toilet. A brand new wax ring shouldn't set you back more than $3.00. Put the new ring in place and then replace the toilet back into place. Push downward onto the toilet with some authority to make sure that the new wax ring is completely seated, and then bolt the toilet back down to the floor, make sure that it is firm enough to keep the toilet from rocking. Be careful though, as you could crack the porcelain if you over tighten the bolts.

After you have figured out the basic operating principles of your toilet, it definitely is fairly easy and inexpensive to maintain. We have dealt with one of the more common issues here, and you could definitely fix most problems related with toilets at the same time for under than $15.00. However keep in mind that you are working with a toilet, and you'll most probably want to wear gloves while you relocate the toilet bowl from its flange on the floor.

Tag : toilet,toilet repair,toilet training,toilet cleaning

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S._Hupp

Top Tips For Quick Toilet Training

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and other experts, toddlers have profound and steadfast cravings to discover new information, observe their environments, and master new skills. And it's no surprise that when children are actively encouraged to seek out new information and their efforts and accomplishments are celebrated, they learn far more quickly.

Therefore, if your goal is to toilet train your son or daughter quickly, you must keep these fundamental truths in mind before beginning the process, because they serve as the basis for any good fast-forwarding system. In my experience, far too many well-meaning parents has less than stellar results because they assume that their little ones actually prefer peeing and pooping in their diapers! This couldn't be further from the truth! Rather, children continually strive to become more independent (and potty training is one of the biggest first steps towards this) and with proper instruction and support, they can - and will - learn to use the potty or toilet quickly and happily!

All you need is four things:

1. The right mindset - Commitment, focus, and follow-through are essential for successful, complete, and fast toilet training

2. An excellent accelerated toilet training system - one that combines positive behavioral modification techniques within a nurturing environment

3. Thorough preparation - You'll need to set aside the time and have the required equipment (which shouldn't be expensive or fancy!)

4. Careful attention to instructions and consistent follow-through - You must be prepared to follow the directions to the letter and

If you're missing any of the four, you can expect that toilet training your child will take much, much longer than is necessary, and it's best to prepare yourself for the long haul.

My advice? Avoid learning the hard way through trial and error - there simply is no need to do so. But here's a word of caution: The Internet is filled with "faster-than-light" toilet training methods and in my opinion, many are just plain terrible. Promoters of these methods will promise you instant results with little, or no, work.

Don't believe them! Yes, you can potty train your child quickly - even in 24 hours (I've personally done this many times) - but it will not happen by accident (no pun intended!). Like most things, your result will be directly related to your efforts. If you exert very little time and effort you can reasonably expect very little in the way of achievements, regardless of what you may have heard.

Here are four quick reference tips that will increase your chances of success:

1. Be certain that your child is physically and developmentally ready for toilet training. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that most children are ready to be toilet trained between the ages of 18 and 27 months. However, use this only as a guide, because experts also concur on this other very critical rule of thumb: Developmental age is much more important than chronological age for determining potty training readiness. (e.g. dressing and undressing themselves; imitating others; frequent "I can do it all by myself!" declarations, and the like). If you're still uncertain, check with your pediatrician or take one of the toilet training readiness assessments on the Internet.

2. Trust that you and your child can work together to accomplish this joyful rite of passage. As I indicated earlier, I have potty-trained toddlers of every "make and model" - younger, older, cooperative, resistant, talkative, and more. And although each was unique in many ways, they all had one thing in common: they wanted to learn to use the potty, even if they didn't seem to at first.

Quite frankly, I've witnessed only two main reasons for potty training "failures." They are:

* The child was not old enough and/or developmentally ready. (Refer back to #1)

* The "teacher" (most often a parent) didn't prepare properly, failed to follow directions carefully, lacked the necessary focus, and/or wasn't consistent. In other words, the teacher's efforts must surpass the student's - at least initially.

3. Choose your accelerated system carefully. Make sure you select a method that will get the job done quickly and joyfully and most importantly, one that is supported in practice and theory by pediatricians, child therapists, and other respected experts. And, please, don't fall for the hype! Following are some things to consider.

Your toilet training system should...

* Help you determine if your child is ready

* Offer all-inclusive, easy-to-follow instructions (from the planning stage through implementation) using plain language and simple formatting

* Support constructive behavioral modification procedures within a cheerful and supportive environment

* Call for one teacher only (usually a parent) until the initial process is completed

* Disallow punishment for accidents or non-compliance and highly discourage stressful "pushing" of any sort

* Contain a detailed list of necessary supplies and not require specialized (e.g. expensive, fancy, gimmicky) equipment or toys

* Prohibit the use of pull-ups (the worst toilet training aids of all time, in my humble opinion!)

4. Commit the necessary time (24-48 hours), focus, and stick-to-itiveness to the process - no matter how frustrating you may feel at times. In other words, preparation and dogged persistence win this one! Laid-back, "they'll-figure-it-out-for-themselves" won't cut it if you plan on toilet training your child quickly. Once again, if you're determined to approach it with this kind of attitude, you'll likely be potty training your little one for months.

Having said that, I want to be very clear on the following point. Although it's entirely possible - and even common - to potty train toddlers in 24 hours or less, you should still set aside two full days to complete it. This will provide plenty of wiggle room to reinforce your teachings for children who learn more quickly and allow you to continue your lessons if your child needs a bit more time. And remember, either is perfectly normal, and since you won't know how it will go until you're already well into the process, it's a good idea to plan for any eventuality.

I hope this advice has proven helpful to those of you who have already decided to - or are considering - toilet training fast. Remember, it can be achieved quickly, merrily, and entirely with a little bit of planning, the right attitude, and a whole lot of love!

Tag : toilet,toilet paper,toilet training,toilet repair,toilet seats

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Eule

How to Get Rid of Toilet Stains

Nothing is quite as nice as a clean, white, and sparkly toilet, as anyone who has ever used a public restroom can attest to. But what happens when that gleaming white porcelain gets stained, or worse, has an unsightly ring? Face it, everyone has had a toilet that was embarrassing because it was stained, scratched or unsightly. Save yourself the embarrassment and the frustration of a stained toilet by using some simple techniques to keep your toilet clean, attractive, and stain-free.

Whatever chemicals you use, please be sure to follow directions thoroughly before using any strong chemicals and follow them exactly. Most importantly, never mix chemicals together or you could unwittingly create a bomb in your toilet and hurt yourself. Lastly, make sure you have adequate ventilation, eye protection, and skin protection.

The tips below will help to get your commode in tip-top toilet shape!

Basic Toilet Stain Removal

While cleaning the bathroom may never be your favorite household chore, it is one of the most important and toilets, in particular, can cause a great deal of embarrassment if they are not visions of gleaming white porcelain. But with a few simple precautions and effective cleaning methods, you can have a gleaming bathroom you can be proud of.

* The first thing to do is to empty as much water from the bowl as possible; not only does this enable you to work directly on stains, it also means that there is less water to dilute the cleaning agents you are using.

You can lower the water level by first turning off the water source and then either pouring a large bucket of water into the bowl as a sort of "manual flush" or just flushing the toilet, in both cases driving as much water down the pipes as possible.

* Next, give the inside of the bowl a general clean, using liberal amounts of cleaning agent or disinfectant and a bowl brush. If the toilet is still stained after cleaning, use some stronger cleaning agents or stain removers to tackle the marks.

Whatever chemicals you use, remember to respect the directions given and follow them exactly; in particular; never mix chemicals as this can be extremely hazardous. Make sure there is sufficient ventilation while you are working and ideally, wear eye and skin protection.

* In addition, always use an all-plastic scrubbing brush; avoid the toilet brushes with metal wires as these can scratch and permanently damage a toilet. Pumice stones have sometimes been recommended for tackling hard water or mineral deposits and while they can be very effective (although physically, they're hard work!), there is a risk they could scratch the porcelain, so be careful if you decide to use this method.

Toilet Stain Removal Agents

There are alternative methods using chemicals that run less risk of scratching the porcelain.

* Vinegar is a great all-purpose stain remover and cleaning agent. Vinegar works well on toilet stains, particularly hard water deposits or lime scale. Simply pour a large amount into the toilet bowl and leave it overnight, then clean again as usual in the morning, flushing thoroughly.

* Borrowed from your laundry cupboard, bleach is stronger than vinegar and so works on tougher stains and rings. Again, simply add to the toilet bowl (half a cup should be sufficient) and then leave for as long as possible before cleaning and flushing away.

Tag : toilet,toilet stains,toilet training,toilet repair,

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erika_Makainag

Need a New Toilet? What Type Should You Choose?

With today's growing concerns regarding saving water and cutting down on utility costs, more people are directing their attention to their toilet. The toilet accounts for as much as 30% of total household water usage and as such, should be a primary concern to cut down on your water wastage. However, the toilet isn't exactly most people area of expertise when it comes to choosing the right design for your needs. Here is a breakdown of the most common types of toilets, and their functions.

1. Gravity - The vast majority, as much as 99% of household toilets are of the gravity type. Since the inception of 6-litre toilets, gravity type flushing action has been vastly improved. A gravity bowl works on siphoning action, pulling water from the bowl and with today's design technology, 6-litre gravity toilets actually outperform old large volume toilets.
2. Vacuum-assist - Unlike gravity toilets, vacuum-assist toilets have a mechanism that creates a small vacuum in the trap to aid in the flushing water from the bowl. The fill valve and early closing flappers are identical to gravity type toilets.
3. Pressure-assist - This toilet design doesn't use a traditional flapper mechanism, instead there is a vessel inside the toilet tank that traps air. The tank fills with water and uses the pressure from the water line to compress the trapped air. This compressed air is released and instead of a siphoning action sucking water from the bowl, you have a pressurized "push", clearing waste from the bowl. These toilets are much louder than gravity type and vacuum-assist toilets, they are also more expensive and can usually be found in commercial buildings and institutions.
4. Tip Bucket - This zany toilet utilizes a bucket located at the top of the toilet tank. The bucket, rather than the tank is filled with water, and when the lever is depressed, the bucket tips over into the tank and drains into the bowl. The basic idea is the same as a gravity type toilet, but the difference is with the water stored in the bucket, you don't need to have a flapper in the tank, so you have no chance of leaks and no internal components to replace. There is also the possibility of an adjustable tank making the toilet adaptable to both 10-inch and 12-inch gaps between the bottom of the base and the wall.
5. Dual Flush Toilets - Dual Flush Toilets are unique in that they have two handles or buttons. One handle typically flushes a 1 gallon or 4 liter flush while the other handle delivers a full tank. This allows for a reduced flush for liquid wastes and a full flush for solid wastes. Dual flush technology has been mandated in Australia for many years and is very common in Europe as well, however the technology is just starting to catch on in North America. This toilet type can actually use up to 26% less water than any other 1.6 gallon toilet.

When choosing a toilet design for your home, be aware of the possibility of leakage and the toilet tank volume. Older toilets can be retrofitted or replaced and the initial cost will pay itself off in spades when you start counting the gallons of water a day that can be saved. With only a little awareness, you can drastically cut down your family's water footprint and reduce your utility bills.

Tag : toilet,toilet paper,toilet training,toilet repair,toilet seats

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Edwin

Toilet Train Cat - Are You Kidding Me?

There has been a lot of discussion over the years about whether you can toilet train cat, dog or any other animal. The fact of the matter is, it is a relatively simple thing to do if you want to toilet train your cat. As far as getting your dog or other animal to go to the bathroom in the toilet, good luck with that. If you want your feline, however, to begin using the porcelain litter box then you need to start moving it in that direction slowly. Here's how you do it.

The first thing that you need to do is to move the litter box next to the toilet itself. This will get the cat used to its new area that will be going to the bathroom from now on. You also need to make sure that the seat is constantly down but the lid is always up on the toilet. If you have a man in the house that likes to leave the toilet seat up, he needs to be trained as well. If the seat is up, your cat will not be comfortable walking around on the porcelain rim and it's not very sanitary, anyway.

Every day, begin lifting the litter box up a little bit closer to the level of the toilet seat. You could probably add one or 2 inches to the height every day, just make sure that it is always stable as your cat will sometimes jump up into the box and the last thing you want to do is knock it over. It may take a couple of weeks, but eventually the box will be up as high as the toilet seat itself. Now it's time to move your cat over to the toilet.

You're either going to have to use a metal bowl that is the same size as the toilet bowl or fabricate a wooden box that will neatly fit down into the toilet area. Fill this box with litter and your cat will begin using it, just like it uses the litter box. Begin training the cat to keep its paws up on the seat and eventually, you will be able to remove the litter box from the toilet altogether. Your cat is now toilet trained and you can begin enjoying a litter box free house from this point forward.

Tag : toilet,toilet training,toilet repair,toilet paper

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marie_Reynolds

Tall Toilets - A Big Idea

When the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act required the manufacture of what many call tall toilets or raised or elevated toilets a cheer went up from groups everywhere.

From those who are disabled or wheelchair bound, to those who are elderly and finally to those people who are just extremely tall, these models have made life better for several groups. We'll look at these versions and if you are looking to remodel your bathroom or build a new home, help you decide if these types of toilets are right for you.

Just exactly what is a tall toilet? Is it more than just the height? Are some models better than others? Are these hard to install? These questions are the most common and today we'll take them one at a time and try to give you basic information on tall toilets and how they might fit into your home.

Let's start with what these toilets are. As the name implies these models sit higher than a normal toilet. The ADA required these heights to make it easier for people to get up and down and for those bound to wheelchairs to be able to slide in and out. And as we mentioned above for those whose only challenge is the fact that they are extremely tall these models have been very helpful.

Are some models better than others? To answer this question we'll use data from regular toilets sales since we have more sales to go by at this point in time. Toilets from major manufacturers will do the job and while some might be slightly better than others for the most part you will be safe with your choice. These taller versions are the same in every way except for their height.

The inner workings and plumbing are identical to a normal size toilet so there are no worries there. Are they hard to install? Since they are the same except for the height the answer is no. But do make sure you have enough space for the extra height. For instance if you have a cabinet that is above the toilet, it might need to be removed or simply moved higher.

We hope we have shed some light on these helpful alternatives to the standard toilets. Models today are better than ever, are made to last and in some instances use less water too. No matter if you are remodeling or building a new home, we hope our tips help you make the best choice .

Tag : toilet,toilet paper,tall toilets,toilet repair

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Smitts

Toilet Brands - More Choices Than Ever

Toilets have been around since the last 1800's with many manufacturers being involved in their making since those very early days. Four of the major toilet brands including American Standard, Briggs, Kohler and Toto USA.

Let's look at those brands along with others, the manufacturers who make them and the history behind them. If you are getting ready to install a new model in your house we'll try to give you a little information about the choices you have today, hopefully making your selection a little easier.

Although American Standard, Briggs, Kohler and Toto USA make up the bulk of the market there are a few other brands as well. Let's take a look first at the four dominant brands for manufacturers of some of the top toilets. American Standard like most of these companies began in the 1800's are credited with several innovations including the one piece bowl.

Briggs which is another very well known brand began in 1908 and started off as a company that sold car parts believe it or not. It was not until the 1940's they ventured into toilets and they have been a mainstay ever since.

Kohler began in Germany and founded by Michael Kohler is also one of the originals. They invented the process of covering toilets and sinks and bathtubs in enamel. And finally Toto USA is a Japanese company that began making toilets in America in 1989 although they have been in the business in Japan since the early 1900's,

Barclay is another major player that we should include. Prices on this brand run from the $400's to the $500's and they have many models available. Other brands are Caroma and Laufen. Caroma is one of the toilet brands known for water conservation and is great for areas where you need a smaller or shorter toilet simply because you do not have room for a standard size.

They are also famous for their dual flushing motion a large exit pipe (trap way) which greatly helps prevent clogging. Next we profile Laufen which looks different than most other toilets and might not be for everyone in style but they are unique. Laufen's collection includes toilets that can be hung on a wall to help conserve space. They are also height adjustable which can put them into the category of tall toilets.

Tag : toilet,toilet brands,toilet repair,toilet cleaning

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Smitts

A Unique Toilet Seat Makes a Fine Gift Idea

Got someone to buy a great gift for, but they've already got everything? Have you considered a unique toilet seat?

A toilet seat isn't the first thing you'd think of if you're looking for a great gift idea. Let alone a unique toilet seat that is different from anything else they've ever seen. But an unusual toilet seat can be quite a different, and interesting, gift.

There are stacks of unique gift ideas for the home. All sorts of unusual items that make a home look different. That differentiate your home, or someone else's home, from all those others out there. A gift idea that says look at me, I'll be you've never seen one of these before.

And if you're looking for a gift that's outrageous, different, startling and quite out of the ordinary, then you've got your work cut out to come up with something really - unique. After all, just about everything in the way of outrageous and different gift ideas have really been done, haven't they?

But not a unique and outrageous toilet seat. There's stacks of novelty toilet seats that you'd never believe existed. Ideas so outrageous and fun that when you see them you just have to laugh. Toilet seats that just stand out and say wow, look at me.

And what are you giving a unique or funny gift for other than to get someone to see it and say wow, look at that? To give people a good laugh, to make them smile and stop in their tracks just because the object is so - unique.

And it's not just the recipient of the gift that gets to sit back and go wow either. Because of course they might do that the first few times they see it, but after a few times it's lost a little of it's impact.

However give someone an outrageous toilet seat for a gift and it's a gift for everyone who comes to visit them too. Every time there's a new guest in the house the owner can just wait with baited breath for the first time they go to the toilet and see the reaction when they come out. And a gift that makes people laugh like that will make guests laugh for years to come.

So if you're looking for a fine gift idea, an outrageous funny gift that will make everyone go wow and laugh out loud, then consider a unique toilet seat. It's fun, it's outrageous, it's unique. It'll make their toilet a fun place to visit.

Tag : toilet,unique toilet,toilet seat,toilet water,gifts idea

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Clark

How To Toilet Train Your Toddler

Potty training time can be very difficult for parents and their toddlers alike. While different children will always have different reactions to potty training, your child can experience apprehension, fear, and even anger at potty training time. There are many different studies on the subject of potty training. In this article you will learn the facts about potty training-the facts that are backed up by experts and researchers that have studied potty training methods and progress.

When you're ready to start potty training your toddler, you need all the tools and resources you can get. Not having the proper resources can leave you lost and wondering.

In fact, that's what happened to Sherry Clark. Sherry felt pressured by her in-laws to toilet train her daughter Cheyenne before she turned three years old. The problem was that Cheyenne didn't display any signs of being ready to toilet train, and Sherry's family sort of left her to make her own decisions. "I really felt like I was doing a terrible job as a parent, because Cheyenne didn't want anything to do with potty training. In fact, I probably prolonged the process because I pushed her into training when she clearly wasn't ready," says Sherry. According to child specialist Theresa Cornwell, Sherry may be exactly right. "Toilet training depends on the parent and the child. Both have to be ready and prepared for the changes. Forcing a child to use the toilet may only stunt her progress."

Sherry decided to simply wait and let Cheyenne come to terms with using the toilet before she tried to train her again. In just a few months, Sherry tried again and was successful. In fact, the actual training time went very quickly and with very few incidents.

Here are some of the best-known ways to toilet train your toddler.

Do Not Panic

Often, parents can think there is something wrong with their child because he or she is 3 or 4 years old and they aren't potty trained. Children develop differently, and some children may simply be late bloomers. This is most definitely not a reason to believe there is something wrong with your child. The child's gender may even have something to do with it. In fact, researchers have found that girls are easier to toilet train than boys are. There are many reasons that this is true, including the fact that girls comprehend language earlier than boys and may therefore understand your teachings more quickly than a boy would.

One of the biggest messages that experts try to get parents to understand is that you shouldn't panic. If your child is a late bloomer, it doesn't mean there is something wrong with him or her at all.

Use Consistency

One of the most important things a parent can do when toilet training their toddler is to be consistent. This is the fastest way to teach your child how to use the toilet. For example, as soon as your child wakes up in the morning, take them to the bathroom.

Offer a small prize for using the potty. One thing that many parents do is to place a clear jar in the bathroom with small treats and cheap toys. The child sees this and knows that if he or she successfully uses the toilet, they will get one. Continue this every morning without fail so that your child becomes accustomed to and familiar with the process.

Another way that you can use consistency is to inform other caretakers of the potty-training plan. If your child just loves spending time with Grandma and Grandpa, and does so frequently, let Grandma and Grandpa in on the plan. This way, even if you're not there, the same process will be followed, which should put the child at ease. If each different caretaker uses different methods to help your child use the toilet, it can get very confusing. By simply discussing the methods you're using with any other caretakers, you can speed up the training time and keep things consistent.

When is Your Child Ready?

Although each child develops differently, experts agree there are a few things to look for that will signal your child is ready to begin toilet training. Since they will not be able to learn how to use the toilet until the muscles of their bladder and bottom are fully developed, you will want to look for the following:

* Your child can go several hours without emptying his or her bladder.

* Your child goes all night without wetting his or her diaper.

* Your child is mature enough to listen and understand what you say, as well as to communicate with you. This way, they can communicate the fact that they need to use the bathroom.

* Your child is starting to notice that when he or she eliminates in his or her diaper, it is dirty. They may not like the fact that they are dirty.

Any or all of these signs may tell you that your child is ready to begin potty training, and there are a few other things you will want to keep in mind when you are toilet training your toddler. Praise is the best method, and experts agree that a child should never be scolded for accidents. This could make them develop a complex about using the potty.

In fact, a study was done in which the researchers asked parents to praise their children and speak of defecation in a positive way to them. This study was published in the Archives of Pediatric Adolescent Medicine. The researchers found that when parents spoke positively about defecation, the child was less likely to want to hide during the process and responded better to toilet training. It can be difficult to potty train your child, but with consistency and praise, you can soon say goodbye to diapers!

Tag : toilet,toilet train,toilet seats,toilet paper

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffrey_Dunbar

Three Easy Steps to Repair a Leaky Wax Seal on Your Toilet

Symptom: There is water on the floor around the base of my toilet or water leaks from under the base of my toilet when I flush.

Usually this happens when the wax ring looses it's seal. Replacing the wax ring under the toilet bowl should repair this problem.

The first step in making this repair is to turn off the water source and remove all the water from your toilet tank and bowl. A good maintenance tip is to have a stop valve installed before the water supply line to the toilet tank. This is very common in most residences. If there is no stop valve the water will have to be turned off outside to make this repair. Many times an inline shut off valve will be installed where the water enters the home. The water can be turned off here, or at the street where the water meter is installed. A good maintenance procedure is to install a shut off valve right outside the house where the water enters from the street. It is also very convenient for making other plumbing repairs.

Next, once all the water is out of the toilet tank and bowl and the water is turned off, disconnect the water supply line to the toilet tank. Next Remove the nuts from the bolts that hold the toilet bowl to the floor so you can lift the bowl off the floor and away from the toilet flange(top of the sewer pipe). Inspect the flange for deterioration or damage. Cast iron pipe flanges rust over time and may need to be repaired or replaced. There are several options for repairing a cast iron flange. Putting a new steel ring over the top of the cast iron flange, chipping off the rusted flange and replacing with a new cast iron flange, or inserting a PVC (plastic) flange with an expansion joint are some of the options for repairing a damaged or deteriorated cast iron flange. Repair techniques for PVC flanges include using a "half moon" metal part, or a PVC spacer. All these parts can be purchased at your local home improvement store.

The last step, once you have inspected and/or repaired the toilet flange is to install the wax ring that you purchased at the local home improvement store. The wax ring is applied to the bottom of the toilet bowl. Set the bolts in the toilet flange and carefully set the toilet bowl over the bolts onto the wax ring. Install the nuts onto the bolts being careful not to over tighten. Reattach the water supply line and open the valve. Check for leaks. Once the tank is full, do a test flush to be sure you have a good seal at the flange. Your repair is complete!

Tag : toilet,toilet repair,toilet paper,american standard toilet

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Fasnacht

Potty Training Methods - Potty Seats vs Toilet Trainers

Potty training is a huge milestone for your child, and probably a welcome relief to parents and their pocketbooks. It would be nice and maybe easier if there was one, set method to potty train your child. But, like most other things having to do with your child - you have a few options as far as potty training goes.

One of the decisions you get to make about potty training is whether to potty train using a potty seat, or a toilet trainer. There are a few differences between the two and both methods have their pluses and minuses.

A potty seat is a miniature potty built just for your little one. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some are simple, just the pot, while some have whistles and bells included - literally. Some potties are programmed to play music or light up or do something fun when your toddler goes potty in them. Here's a good assortment of potty seats you can check out.

A toilet trainer is a little different from a potty seat in that it fits over the family toilet. Most toilet trainers consist of a seat, built to fit your little one's smaller fanny (so they don't fall in!) and they can be attached to or placed on a regular toilet seat. But, like potty seats, toilet trainers have a number of different options as well - colors, size, cushioning, etc.

The good thing about potty seats is that they are built specifically for tiny tots. They are easy for them to use, and the toddler doesn't have the risk of falling off the potty seat (unless they fall asleep on the pot!). A lot of kids enjoy having their own pint sized potty, it makes them feel important to have one specifically for themselves.

One of the problems with potty training on a potty seat is that your child may only want to use their potty. There might be times when you're out at a friend's house and don't have their potty with you. They might be afraid to use the big toilet when their potty isn't around. Not only that - there's also the clean up involved. You're probably used to it by now having spent two years working with diapers - but then again, you've spent two years cleaning up poo!

Toilet trainers are good because they allow for the child to become used to using a regular sized toilet. There is no transition period involved after you've potty trained your child. They already know how to use it. Plus - it flushes! And that's the moment we've all been waiting for.

On the other hand, you need to be extra careful when using a toilet trainer as the child is going to be higher up than if they were on their own potty seat. Many children are going to need some sort of stool as well to get up to the big toilet. And don't forget to lift it up when you want to use the toilet!

There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a potty seat or toilet trainer - as you can see at the Potty Training Store. There are also many advantages and disadvantages to both. But - parents have been successful with both - so don't worry. What you need to do, is decide which of the two is going to work best for your toddler and you.

Tag : toilet,toilet trainers,toilet paper,toilet repair,toilet seats

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Williams

Practical Toilet Cleaning Tips

This may not be exactly your most favorite house chore but unless you are willing to pay for some professionals to do it for you, you will need to know how to REALLY clean your toilet. Besides, it is considered to be one of the most important parts of your daily house maintenance.

During the cleaning process, you have to focus on really dark surfaces, both in the inner and outer parts of the toilet. Emptying the toilet bowl with water first usually works well as this gives you more space and lesser hurdles to work with.

This begins by removing the connection between the main pump and the toilet. After which, the toilet bowl must be flushed several times until all reserve water is emptied. Then, you can begin the work.

Remove the stains using several cleaning agents such as muriatic acid and specialized toilet cleaning agents, depending on your preference. Treat all surfaces while brushing, wiping or spraying the cleaning agent. Once the entire surface of the toilet is done, you can now start reloading the water reserve. Don't forget to place toilet bowl disinfectant so as to help extend the cleaning process.

If you have children in the house, however, and you are very cautious of using toxic substances, you can find great alternatives that work great as well. Here are some of them:

To help keep the odors and clogs, it is advisable that you pour one cup of baking powder on your bowl every week. Also, make use of citric acid to remove the stains in the toilet.

Orange juice helps a lot as a toilet cleaning agent. Use two teaspoons a day, put these in the toilet swish, and then let it sit for a while. For finale, scrub the toilet vigorously while adding more orange juice powder.

Plain cola works well too! Try pouring a bottle of cola on your bowl, let it settle for an hour then flush. You will see how wonderful carbonated beverages work.

You can try leaving vitamin C capsules in your bowl too. Since it is an acid-based substances, impurities in the bowl and stains will likely react to it and thus, loosen their hold on the bowl.

As you can see, even ordinary things in the house could make good toilet cleaning agents.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Lee

The Toilet - Victim of a "Definite" Lack of Recognition

Yes the toilet has had a definite lack of recognition. In the world of today, our bathrooms boast the utmost in amenities, not only the typical bathtub or shower, but steam shower, massage shower, multi-jet showers, jet tubs and whirlpool tubs, heated floors and towel warmers just to name a few.

But what about the toilet? A very necessary fixture in our homes. As a matter of fact, one of the more polite terms for the bathroom at one time was "the necessary room". Bathrooms were looked at with distaste, and even today the toilet is often thought of as a necessary evil, and looked upon with a certain amount of disdain.

But just stop for a moment and think about your home without a toilet! Not a pretty thought at all. Toilets have gotten a bum rap.

Although codes in most municipalities by the 1920's required an indoor flushing toilet in new construction, many of the old outhouses were in existence adjacent to existing homes for many years thereafter.

The house I grew up in was just such a house. It was probably 70 years old when my parents took ownership and it had no indoor plumbing. I remember outhouses vividly. It was some years later that remodeling took place, and we had an indoor flushing toilet. Ah, the sweet smell of success!

Toilets are not a new invention

We, in the 21st century think we are so smart, but the toilet is not a new or recent invention. Rather, the toilet is a newly accepted invention that has been improved upon and that finally gained popular usage over the last 85 years or so.

The toilet dates back at least as far as the fifteen hundreds and Queen Elizabeth I. Other primitive attempts were made at improving the toilet through the centuries until they became widely accepted in England just prior to World War I.

The word toilet is derived from the French and was first used to define various articles used in grooming from coverings worn while dressing the hair to items found on the dressing table, and finally to the act of dressing itself. If you've read many novels set in the 16th to the 20th century you've probably come across the term toilet in regards to grooming or dressing.

Today the toilet has been refined, we have modern sewage systems and running water and should praise the convenience and improved hygiene this adds to our daily lives and at such little cost from us.

Toilets cost us little in either expense or time for the service they provide. The new toilets use much less water, so our water bills are significantly decreased, and if we have the good sense to choose a model with sleek lines and few crevices they are easy to keep clean looking and sanitary. A toilet will provide many years of reliable use with only a minimum of maintenance. The toilet is a truly ingenious yet simple, and indispensable luxury!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Illa_Maden

Toilet Paper: Some Trivia and History for a Fun Party Accessory

If you stop for a moment and consider that the average American uses over 21,000 sheets of toilet paper each year, it is very hard to imagine what may have been used before toilet paper’s invention. That’s over 100 single rolls per person! The answers are mind bogling, really. Items like sticks, leaves, paper, rocks, grasses were all used. Now, even when camping in the most remote parts of the wilderness, most people pack some form or another of toilet paper. Some people use toilet paper for more purposes than simply cleaning oneself after using the toilet. Many people us it to wipe their nose, remove makeup, and to bandage shaving cuts. In fact, people use toilet paper for a lot of different reasons.

Toilet paper was first developed around 1880 by the British Perforated Paper company. It was sold in boxes of individual squares, not the rolls we are so accustomed to today. Scott Paper Company, an American company, began putting toilet paper in rolls around 1880. The first rolls were not perforated so the toilet paper dispenser had serrated edges with teeth that cut the paper to the size needed.

The basics of toilet paper have not changed much since its 1880 debut, it is still generally made from virgin paper that is created from a combination of hardwood and softwood trees. The most significant change is probably the fact that the rolls are now perforated, although other modifications such as fragrance, embossing, and colored dyes have also been added to the production process. Ironically, it is the softwood characteristics that give the toilet paper its strength, while the hard wood fibers add a softer texture to the composition. Generally speaking, toilet paper is made of a combination that consists of 70% hardwood and 30% softwood fibers.

Toilet paper can be made in one or two-ply thicknesses which are considered to be more absorbent. Some brands come in colors to match personal decorating tastes. In addition, suppliers of party and holiday goods, generally sell holiday specific toilet papers which are great subtle additions to any holiday get-together or party. From the bathroom to use in the games of the evening, a fun holiday-themed toilet paper can really give your guests something to talk about.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gail_Leino

10 Celebrity Toilet Stories

1. Lenny Kravitz: Music sensation Lenny Kravitz's toilet causes almost one million dollars in damages. Starting in October 2004 Lenny Kravitz has accumulated various lawsuits from neighbors living below the rock star. These lawsuits totaling close to 800,00 dollars worth of damage were caused by Kravitz's blocked toilet, which leaked into the dwellers apartments below the rock star.

2. Leonardo DiCaprio: Eco-friendly Leo went on a spending spree and splurged on a ... no not a Prius, a toilet. Leo spent over 3,000 dollars on the eco friendly Neorest toilet. The Neorest toilet is tankless, and features front and rear warm water washing, automatic air dryer, deodorizer, and a sensor activated lid. This throne is also equipped with a remote that controls water temperature, and other options. Very cool purchase. The flush is only 1.6 gpf. You would think that Leo would be a bit more green and go with a lower flush toilet.

3. George Michael: George Michael has been up to no good, twice in the bathroom. He was caught the first time in 1998 in Beverly Hills for lewd conduct. Eleven years later George was caught with drugs in a London public bathroom.

4. Miley Cyrus and Barbra Walters: Miley is gifted at everything including gift giving. In March 2008 Miley sent talk show host Barbra Walters a golden toilet. Unfortunately the toilet was not life sized, but it was inscribed: "Barbra, So you will always remember the Cyrus family."

5. Dave Matthews Band: In 2004 while driving on a bridge over the Chicago River a tour bus allegedly belonging to the Dave Matthews Band dumped its septic tank waste. Unfortunately the waste landed all over the sightseers on a boat below. The Dave Matthews band is being sued by the city of Chicago for polluting the river.

6. Larry Craig: The Idaho Senator, Larry Craig was caught by an undercover cop in the summer of 2007 tapping his foot in a way that is commonly known to signal a desire to engage sexual conduct in a public restroom. When the cop confronted the Senator he claimed that he had a, "wide stance." Craig ended up pleading guilty to a disorderly conduct charge.

7. Enrique Iglesias: Enrique admits to stage fright. No, he doesn't get scared on stage in front of millions of adoring fans. He gets bladder shy when he is in a public restroom. He claims that he avoids crowded toilets. He later admits to joking about this subject... I don't know, where there is smoke, there is fire.

8. Miley Cyrus: It's Miley again. Before becoming an amazing singer and actress. Miley revealed that her previous job was with a cleaning service. One of her duties with this company was scrubbing toilets. She claimed on the Tyra Banks Show, that she can scrub a toilet. What can't Miley do?

9. Cameron Diaz: In a May 19 2009 interview on the Jay Leno show, Cameron Diaz shares her green bathroom habits with the world. She lives by the credo, "If it's yellow leave it mellow, if it's brown flush it down." Nice

10. Lily Allen: In April 2008 British singer Lily Allen joined her male friends in the men's room at the Royal Albert Hall in London. She was quickly kicked out by the bathroom attendant who had alerted security. I guess the lines were shorter.... waiting lines.

By: FrankHumus

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The History Of The Modern Toilet

It is hard to imagine that once upon a time people used to do their 'business' in public places, or throw their 'business' out of the window or the front door. The invention of the modern toilet truly has transformed the world we live in.

When people think of the invention of the toilet, they think of Sir Thomas Crapper. It is not hard to fathom why as his surname is 'Crapper'. However, although he can be credited for many of the improvements made in the system, him being behind the invention is largely a myth. The Victorians were largely baffled as to how to build a flushing water closet that would efficiently remove waste in the most sanitary way possible.

Sir John Harrington already had a flushing water closet designed for Queen Elizabeth 1st in 1596, however it did not catch on with the rest of society simply due to the fact that it was seen more as a novelty rather than something of real practical use. The main issue of waste disposal remained. Some people threw the waste out on the street. When millions of people died as a result of widespread cholera in 1832, people then became increasingly aware that it was the unsanitary conditions they were living in that was causing and spreading the disease.

Alexander Cummings was responsible for designing a toilet in 1775, in which the water supply was brought low into the bowl, and some water remained after each flush. This water closet was an improvement to Sir John Harrington's design. His new design had it's benefits. For instance, the excess water stopped the house from smelling of sewage, and also cleaned the bowl after use. On the other hand there were some serious flaws in the system. For example, the seal at the bottom of the toilet leaked and this was continually emitting sewer gases into the home. People largely underestimated how toxic these gases could be.

Sir Thomas Crapper did his part in renovating the toilet system. As a plumber he opened up his shop in 1861 and named it ''The Marlboro Works of Thomas Crapper & Company'. Crapper continuously began testing toilets so that his experience increased and he was able to detect flaws more easily. He had a 250-gallon water tank installed on the roof of his building. Some of the improvements he is known for include inventing a pull-chain system for powerful flushing, and an air tight seal between the toilet and the floor. In addition, he patented several venting systems for venting the sewer gas by way of a pipe through the roof.

So there is an important lesson to be learned here. Next time you feel the need to go to the toilet, do take a few moments to marvel at its invention, and the many hurdles and obstacles it's inventors and plumbers had to go through in order for us to have our lives made much easier.

By: Tal Potishman

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Hard Water Stains - Cheap Ways to Remove Them From Sinks, Bath Tubs and Toilets!

There are some simple ways to remove hard water stains quickly and easily that will remove even the most stubborn stains and make your fixtures and fittings literally sparkle like new!

One of the most overlooked factors when dealing with hard water stains is realizing that they contain either calcium or magnesium. Therefore, they can be tackled by using a completely natural acid such as vinegar that is found all around the home and is totally safe to use and will save you hundreds of dollars on expensive cleaning products!

Some of the most common household items that tend to accumulate limescale are sinks,bath tubs and toilet bowls. However, knowing the simple ways to get rid of these ugly stains and restore them to their former sparkling glory is something that has been achieved with simple natural products by people who know without the need for potentially harmful chemicals that could poison your children or pets.

Natural Formula to Use:

Pure white vinegar

Method to Use:

1. Fill a clean spray bottle with pure vinegar

2. Spray the vinegar freely over the sink or bath tub and wait for a few minutes

3. If stains are stubborn spray more vinegar and wait a while longer

4. Simply wipe away with a clean cloth to reveal the shine

Tips:

For toilet bowls add 1 liter of vinegar to the bowl itself and scrub with a toilet brush to dissolve away hard water stains that has built up over time. Also, by adding 1 liter of pure vinegar to the cistern (tank at back of toilet) this not only removes any stains from there but also removes any from underneath the rim on the next flush!

Sometimes stains are extra stubborn, for this make a paste of white vinegar and baking soda and scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge. Never use an abrasive cleaner like scouring pads, powders or steel wool as this will scratch the surface.

Warm Regards,

Patrick Henry

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/hard-water-stains-cheap-ways-to-remove-them-from-sinks-bath-tubs-and-toilets-990332.html

We're Out of Toilet Paper....Again

By Samantha Parker

Living with so many people in one house will almost always guarantee a few things, like running out of juice or bottled water, constantly cleaning up after children and dogs, and trying to come up with new and exciting meal ideas that everyone will enjoy.

The most frustrating thing however is running out of toilet paper before the next scheduled shopping trip, especially when you’re the one in the bathroom and in desperate need of the paper. That is when the call goes out to anyone who is home for some paper napkins from the dining room as a substitute. You hope that someone can hear you or you’re reduced to drip dry or a quick shower in lieu of a bidet. Sometimes I’ll check the garbage can for scraps of toilet paper as there always seems to be an abundance of rolled up, unused paper in the bathroom trash. The question always remains…who should buy the paper when it runs out mid week? And more importantly, with so many people in the house, how do you delegate who is responsible for what?

Most times we really don’t think about who does what. Whatever needs tending to, gets taken care of by whom ever notices first. There will be days when I go shopping for mid week necessities, and other times when my sister in law will do that. Sometimes we’ll both forget.

The question was posed by people who are not in this situation. People who do fight over who has to do what in their household. A few friends have mentioned that their partner or significant other never does the dishes, or the grocery shopping, or the laundry, the list goes on. My thought is, just do what needs to get done, but ask for help when you need it. Nobody should be overburdened with taking care of every single task by themselves.

Don’t expect the other person to just know that you want something taken care of. If I need my father’s clothes laundered while I’m at work, I’ll ask my sister in law to do it. Truth is if she sees the clothes in the laundry room, she’ll take it upon herself to do it anyway. Another example is pasta sauce. We eat pasta daily and we prefer homemade sauce. If I notice that we’ve run out, I’ll take some meat out the night before and ask if she can make it if she’s home and not scheduled to work. If she does have to work, then we figure out who will make it either in the morning or at night. No arguments, no fighting about who does what. It makes for a better living environment that way.

Nobody really wants to live in a house where they constantly need to take care of everyone, especially if other healthy adults are in the household. A friend recently complained to me that her husband refuses to buy toilet paper and will be happy to “hold it in” while she runs to the store to pick some up. Now toilet paper isn’t something that isn’t a necessity. We have become accustom to using toilet paper and there really is no substitute for it. My brother has on occasion used the “quicker picker upper”. Trying to flush this is like trying to flush a towel – it’s impossible. I’ve spent many days fishing that paper out of the toilet or trying to plunge it through the pipes. Maybe there’s an embarrassment that comes from purchasing this one particular item. Whatever the reason, don’t hold it in, pitch in and help buy the paper even if you’ve run out of it on a Wednesday. We all share the same household and we all want to live in a peaceful environment where we can use the bathroom in peace and without fear of the drip dry.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/were-out-of-toilet-paperagain-942382.html

Top Tips For Picking The Perfect Toilet

The toilet is known by many names. Everything from "loo", "john" and even "throne" the toilet is, for many reasons, often the centerpiece of most bathrooms today. Regardless of what style of bathroom you have you'll want a toilet that completely compliments your overall design plan for that room. You definitely don't want a pokey looking, cheap toilet anywhere in the bathroom - it would totally take away from the look of the room itself. An important point is to never simply assume that all toilets are created equal. This couldn't be further from the truth.

For many years 5.5 litre and 3.5 litre flush toilets were the standard in most homes. Now, however, there's a move towards what are referred to as "low flow" toilets. They do this by only using 1.6 litres of water to achieve the same flushing performance as the other high water usage toilets. This reduced water usage will obviously save you money on both your waste and water bills each year. An additional, and obvious, benefit is that you're also helping the environment by reducing the amount of waste water being produced. Everybody can win in this case!

There is one single issue with the new style of water conserving toilets and that is that you really do get what you pay for. If you buy an unbranded "low flow" toilet then you'll probably spend more time having it fixed than you ever saved on the initial cost price. DO NOT skimp on the cost of installing a high quality low flow toilet - you'll regret it for longer than you can imagine. There's nothing worse in any family home than the toilet packing up and causing unnecessary stress.

Here's a checklist for buying your new toilet. Try to stick to as many of these points as you can afford to.

1. The toilet must conform to any local standards.

2. Only ever buy a brand name toilet. For example Kohler and Toto.

3. Decide in advance if you want a 1-piece or 2-piece toilet.

4. Do you want a gravity flush or assisted flush toilet?

5. Do you want a round or elongated toilet bowl?

6. Make absolutely sure the toilet fits with your decorating theme.

7. Most toilets need to be mounted 12 - 14 inches away from the wall. Take these measurements into account when you decide to buy.

Bet you never thought there was quite so much to a toilet did you? Now at least you're armed with the information you need to make an informed and worthwhile purchase that will do wonders for your bathroom.

Does your bathroom need a makeover? Are you looking for the best flushing toilets? Check out BathroomCentral for tips on finding these and even more bathroom layout ideas for the DIY decorator.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niall_Roche

Toilet Paper Holder - Don't Forget It In Your Bathroom Remodel

It's the little things that get forgotten when you're in the middle of a big project like a bathroom remodel and yet some of the little things can turn out to be very important. Who gives any thought to where the toilet roll holder is going to go when they start out on their redesign project?

I'm writing this article because I don't want you to make the same mistake that I did when I remodeled my own bathroom. I had designed the whole thing so that everything fitted perfectly into my tiny bathroom including a new shower cubicle feature that I didn't have before. I watched the workers rip out the old stuff and replace with the new but it wasn't until the whole thing was pretty much completed that I realised my mistake.

There was nowhere to put a toilet roll holder! My worst nightmare had come true and I came out in a cold sweat for a moment until I calmed down and started to think calmly about the problem.

There was no room on the wall behind the toilet because the new shower cubicle was too close on one side and there was some boxed in pipe work on the other side. The opposite wall was out of the question for the toilet roll holder because of the washbasin situated opposite the toilet.

This was terrible, what was I going to do? I could have mounted the tissue roll holder on the side of the bathtub, which was within reach of the toilet, but it wasn't very convenient being so low down and it would have ruined the nice bathtub side that I had picked out.

I could have just given in and kept a toilet roll on the cistern or on the floor but that doesn't have much style to it and it would have looked like I had forgotten about the toilet roll holder in the bathroom remodel, which I had.

Then I saw it, it was the perfect solution and I couldn't work out why I had never seen such a thing before. It was a floor standing toilet roll holder. It was made of shiny brass with a wooden shaft and it looked nicer than many toilet roll holders that fix to the wall.

The free standing toilet roll holder turned out to be a very versatile and useful solution to the problem of providing a toilet tissue holder when there is no convenient wall space to screw one to. It's just the right height and it's always in the right place because you can pick it up and place it anywhere you want.

There is a picture of my bathroom toilet roll holder on my website at Bathroom Remodeling Accessories You will see that it's is a simple device but it looks nice, performs well and fits in very nicely with the rest of the room.

My advice to you when you remodel your own bathroom is to make sure that you give some thought to the accessories early on in your project. It isn't the end of the world if you have to use a free standing toilet roll holder but it would be very comforting to know that you had actually decided on that solution right from the start.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Gee

The Mundane Toilet Brush! - Making the Right Choice

We all have at least one toilet in our house or apartment and many of us have two or more. What should we find close to these toilets? A toilet brush. It is rare to find a toilet in a domestic setting that does not have one nearby. Why do we put so much value in a toilet brush?

A toilet brush is a useful accessory and in fact an absolute necessity when it comes to the cleaning of the interior surfaces of the toilet bowl. There we have it, it is a simle, straightforward cleaning accessory, not a decorative item. It is a brush because it is required to scrub away at those resistant stubborn stains. However we live in times where individuals require that all their accessories fit in with each other and look aesthetically pleasing. Toilet brushes and their holders are no exception to this. Consequently they can be found in all manner of shapes, sizes, colours, and materials and the same applies to the holders. You can have wooden, plastic or metal handles. You can find holders that attach to the wall or are free standing. They can be found as scrubbing brushes with long handles to humorous celebrity look-alikes. Novelty toilet brushes abound in the market place.

When deciding what toilet brush/holder you should get for your toilet consider its function and relate that to its design. It has a specific function and you have to decide if its design is best suited to carry out that function efficiently. Do not buy on impulse or because it looks good and would fit in decoratively.

Let us take a closer look at its function. It is used to scrub away at the dirt and accumulated faecal debris, and when used with the correct cleaning chemical will stop lime scale built up. Lime scale, especially in those areas not so visible will allow dirt to built up because of its roughened surface. Where does all of this collect? Well it can e found any where on the inner surface of the bowl. Faecal matter tends to accumulate on the sides towards the base and below the water line on the whole of the curved inner surface disappearing finally around the bend. This area in particular can become very badly stained. The second and important site for dirt and debris accumulation is under the rim, from where the flush water appears.

The brush should have its bristles orientated in such a way that it makes scrubbing under this rim easy. The handle should be firm but not completely rigid. If it is not firm then little pressure can be exerted in the brushing process because the handle simply bends. If it is completely rigid then you will not be able to get to all the surfaces at the base of the bowl. Avoid handles that are screwed on. Invariably in the brushing action these can unscrew and you will be continually screwing them back together. Metal handled ones are frequent offenders here. Do not purchase brushes that have guards on them that also act as lids to the holders. This attachment just gets in the way of correct brushing and will not allow the brush to reach all the parts that are necessary. Do not be unduly swayed by advertising, which indicates that toilet brushes are unhygienic and hot beds of disease causing organisms. If they are used in conjunction with a good toilet cleaner then anything harmful will be killed despite what the brush may look like. Unless of course it has been used to unblock the toilet in which case it becomes caked in large pieces of faecal matter. In these circumstances it is advisable to get rid of the brush and purchase a new one. As they are subjected to daily use their useful life is often short. So why pay a lot of money for a designer brush that you will soon be throwing out anyway. Some of the best brushes are the cheapest at no more than one pound each. At those prices you can afford to chuck them out at the first sign of wear or staining. At £20 you are going to be a little more reluctant to seek a replacement. The cheap simple brushes and holders do nothing to enhance the aesthetics of your toilet but invariably they do not detract from it either.

Always think function before looks when buying toilet brushes!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Andrew_Smith

The Health Benefits of Using a Bidet Toilet Seat

Who would ever think that using a bidet Toilet Seat or a Washlet (made by Toto) would result in health benefits! This is the big secret that Americans and others have been missing out on for a long time and need to know about. But before I tell you the health benefit of using a Bidet Toilet Seat, let me briefly explain the how.

Simply put, how a Bidet Toilet Seat works is by extending a nozzle spraying warm water on your private parts until you're clean. The first thing you will discover about bidets is that they get you really clean and far superior to what toilet paper could ever do for you. To make my point, imagine that you only clean your hands with paper towels... As you can imagine, your hands will not be clean at all and bacteria will start growing at an accelerated rate, yuck! I think you get my point.

Now let's get to the why! Water is a very effective way to get your rear and front side (women) clean and is not an old idea. Over time people who only use toilet paper will start experiencing health issues because of lack of hygiene. By using a Bidet Toilet Seat, you will obtain health benefits. Let me tell you in what areas they are very helpful.

Hemorrhoids are not fun and are very painful when using toilet paper (almost like sand paper). Constipation is one of the main reasons we get hemorrhoids because of excess straining, using a bidet will help to stimulate you to get things moving again. Keeping your rectal area clean will also help with other problems associated with having hemorrhoids, such as bleeding, itching and tenderness to name a few. Listen, I should know because I used to have them until I started using a bidet toilet seat. For me it was like magic, life changing! So simply stated, using a Bidet Toilet Seat will help you with problems related to hemorrhoids just by using water to keep yourself hygienic and clean.

Feminine hygiene has always been a challenge and by using a bidet, you will dramatically reduce vaginal discharge, urinary and yeast infections, and also very helpful during and after pregnancy. The bidet toilet seat will make your life a lot easier and will keep you feeling fresh and clean. It will also be very helpful before and after intercourse.

Diarrhea can be a real problem if you don't keep yourself clean. After several trips to the bathroom, toilet paper becomes "the necessary evil." A Bidet Toilet Seat will be soothing, hygienic and keep you more comfortable until you get better.

If you have any kind of surgery, this will make your healing process improve much faster and eliminate the risk of damaging your tender wounds in your private area until they heal. I'm certain that most doctors would recommend using a bidet toilet seat as a measure for hygiene and to help the healing process.

Becoming physically challenged or taking care of someone who is can be difficult. A Bidet Toilet Seat will bring back dignity and independence to that person's life and will be a real help to the elderly. I would say overall that if you are not using a Bidet Toilet Seat you should consider one for yourself. Over the long run, you will receive health benefits by keeping yourself clean and free of bad bacteria. Feeling fresh and clean is definitely a bonus that you will really learn to appreciate. You can learn more about how a bidet toilet seat works at this website. Bidet Toilet Seat

http://www.bidet-toilet-seat.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Farris